Christmas is just around the corner, and we’re trying every minute to contain the excitement for it. We cannot help, but picture the trees decorated with red lights, windows with Santa figurines hanging, and of course, snow laden landscapes.
Fortunately, almost every country in Europe dresses in the finest decorations for the holidays. Christmas lights illuminating the streets, the markets selling Christmas goodies and Santa greeting the children in the friendliest manner are familiar sights in European countries. From the nations and cities, we’ve rounded up 20 of the best Christmas destinations in Europe. Check them out below!
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Prague, Czechoslovakia:
Tourists from all over the world throng to Prague to witness the wonders this place offers during Christmas. The streets appear no less than a winter wonderland during Christmas. The wooden stalls on the streets sell wooden toys and yummy food to the masses. And you can even pet hungry llamas here. If you want to experience the best this city offers, take a boat tour around the city.
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Amsterdam, Netherlands:
Do you know what the best part of visiting Amsterdam during the holidays is? It’s the museums that remain open to sharing the Dutch history and culture with you. You must also visit the Amsterdam Light Festival and Classical Music performances.
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Salzburg, Austria:
This place comes alive and how during the holidays. The streets and squares are all cheery with the sounds of Christmas carols and music. At every Residence Square, you’ll find stalls selling Christmas gifts and of course, street performers.
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Rovaniemi, Finland:
How can Christmas be complete without Santa, right? And where else do you think you can find our jolly friend, if not in his own residence? Yes, we’re talking about Santa’s hometown in Rovaniemi. Contrary to what most of the people perceive, Lapland isn’t just for children. To get the best taste of adventure, stay in one of the igloo hotels. Or take a husky safari.
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Rome, Italy:
Rome would be an interesting, if not a typical destination for you to spend your holidays. The city puts up several stalls, from where you can purchase souvenirs for your loved ones. And do not miss to visit Campo de Fiori and Piazza Navona here.
Related: 10 Most Beautiful Attractions To See In Rome
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Athens, Greece:
Surprisingly, Athens isn’t very crowded during winter. So if you are planning a trip to Greece, make sure you visit it during Christmas. And not just the people, even the heat, tourist pricing, pollution and stress reduce.
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Copenhagen, Denmark:
If you want a fairytale winter, head to Denmark. The must visit place here if you’re traveling with children, would the Tivoli Amusement Park. At just a small fee, you can experience a classic Christmas market experience combined with live entertainment. And have a meal at Noma, which is considered by most of the people the best restaurant in the world. If not anything, visit the cafes and bars to see the snow flurrying outside.
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Venice, Italy:
Some find it beautiful and some find it weird. We’re talking about the Venice’s Carnevale, which is one of the highlights of Europe. People wear elaborate costumes and masks that In a way, brings out the colorful history of the city to life.
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Vienna, Austria:
This place is for people who wish to witness an old-fashioned, but delightful Christmas. The twinkling holiday decorations, the smell of gluhwein in the air and the Christkindlmarkts will transform you to the 18th century. Do not miss the Vienna Boys’ Choir concerts during the holidays.
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Budapest, Hungary:
If you’re traveling Budapest with your partner, we’d suggest you visit Budapest. You can go couple skating hand in hand in Városligeti Műjégpálya, Budapest’s central park. Or concerts and laser shows held especially during Christmas. And if the shopping is leaving you chilly, you can visit one of its ornate thermal baths.
Related: Top Ten Places To Visit In Mount Abu
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Cologne, Germany:
While the entire country looks beautiful during Christmas, it’s the Christmas market that takes the cake here. The market, located within the Old Town Hall attracts over 2 million visitors annually. The market has 160 wooden stalls that sell wares like children’s toy, wooden decoration and plenty of snacks and wine.
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Berlin, Germany:
Berlin is one of the most famous Christmas spots. It’s popular for the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church Christmas market, where visitors can feast on grilled sausages, glazed fruits, and cider. You won’t fall short of gifting options here. The 170 stalls offer endless ornaments, decoration, and accessories to take care of your souvenir needs.
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Brussels, Belgium:
Out of all the places, the Winter Wonders market of Brussels, Belgium is something you shouldn’t miss. The market specializes in over a 100 stalls, selling local crafts, products, and delicacies. Besides, there are also rides and ice-skating to help you get into the festive spirit. Do not forget to watch the light and sound show at night.
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Strasbourg, France:
One of the prime reasons for recommending Strasbourg during Christmas is the numerous Christmas-themed villages that transform the city into a wonderland. One of the highlights here is the Village of Alsace Farmhouse, where visitors can taste fresh winter fruits like prunes and apricots. The city also organizes concerts and other cultural events.
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Stockholm, Sweden:
Whether you wish for a traditional or contemporary Christmas, Stockholm has everything covered for you. If you want classic fun, check out the red stalls at Stortget Square that sells smoked sausages, Christmas sweets, and Glogg. Or head to the ice skating rink in Kungsträdgården for a lovely photo session.
Related: 10 Gorgeous Places To Visit In Scotland
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Lille, France:
If you want to visit a quaint place for your Christmas celebration, head to Lille, which is a small city in Northern France, located at just 2-hour journey from Paris. The city may be small, but it has a functionality of a metropolitan. Christmas here is a family affair, with people visiting the Christmas markets almost daily. If you’re done shopping at the market, do not forget to hop on the Ferris wheel.
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London, England:
A trip to London is great at any time of the year, but it turns a lot prettier during Christmas. Particularly in the Hyde Park, which transforms into a winter wonderland for Christmas. Or take a stroll at the Knightsbridge to see beautiful window display.
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Madrid, Spain:
The people of Madrid stay in the mood for a fiesta during the Christmas season. You can see their happy spirit in the Christmas market held at the Plaza Mayor. Christmas in Madrid begins in Spain from 15th December. So come here early to see the Plaza de Oriente show.
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Switzerland:
With the world-class sea resorts and snow-covered hills, Switzerland is a place made for Christmas vacation. World famous Christmas markets are held in Vevey, Lausanne, and Geneva, the most famous being Mt. Pilatus Christmas Market. Or visit Basel to check out the longest street of Christmas illumination. When in Zurich, do not miss to munch on the Nidelzältli toffees.
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Reykjavik, Iceland:
This place is just out of the world. You’ll see figuring of the Yule Lads peering out from every house and window. And if you’re lucky, you can even witness aurora borealis, or northern lights, as it’s better known as.
Related: Top 10 Attractions To Check Out In Lyon
We hope our list helps you plan your best Christmas vacation. Let us know where you went by commenting below!