As Christmas approaches, Europe transforms into a magical wonderland, with its numerous markets, twinkling lights, and festive events. Each country has its unique traditions, foods, and activities that make it an ideal destination for spending the holiday season. In this guide, I will take you through the best places to spend Christmas in Europe, including the top winter wonderlands, cities, festive events, and unique traditions.
Best Christmas Markets in Europe
Christmas markets are a staple of the holiday season in Europe, and each country has its own unique markets. Germany’s Christkindlmarkt, which originated in the Middle Ages, is the most famous Christmas market in Europe. The market features over 200 stalls, selling everything from handmade crafts to traditional German foods and drinks such as Glühwein (mulled wine) and Lebkuchen (gingerbread).
Austria’s Christkindlmarkt in Vienna is another popular market, with over 150 stalls, selling traditional handicrafts, decorations, and food. The market also features a skating rink, a carousel, and a nativity scene. In France, the Christmas market in Strasbourg, known as the Capital of Christmas, is a must-visit. The market features over 300 stalls, selling traditional Alsatian delicacies and crafts.
Traditional Christmas Foods and Drinks to Try in Europe
Europe is known for its delicious Christmas foods and drinks, which vary from country to country. In Germany, Christmas Eve is celebrated with a festive meal featuring roasted goose, red cabbage, and potato dumplings. Traditional Christmas sweets include Stollen, a sweet bread with dried fruit and Marzipan, and Lebkuchen, a gingerbread cookie.
In Italy, the traditional Christmas Eve meal features a seafood feast called La Vigilia, which includes dishes such as baccalà (salted cod), calamari, and clams. In France, the traditional Christmas meal is a decadent affair featuring foie gras, oysters, and roasted meats.
Drinks are also an essential part of Christmas in Europe, with mulled wine, hot chocolate, and eggnog being popular choices. In Germany, mulled wine, or Glühwein, is a staple at Christmas markets, while in Belgium, it’s traditional to drink hot chocolate with whipped cream.
Festive Events and Activities in Europe
Europe offers a wide range of festive events and activities during the holiday season. In Denmark, the Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen transform into a winter wonderland, complete with Christmas lights, decorations, and a skating rink. The gardens also host a nightly light show, and visitors can enjoy traditional Danish Christmas foods and drinks.
In Austria, the Salzburg Advent Market is a popular event, featuring over 100 stalls selling traditional crafts, foods, and drinks. The market also features a live nativity scene and daily performances by local choirs and musicians. In Switzerland, visitors can enjoy a magical train ride on the Glacier Express, which takes them through snow-covered mountains and past charming villages.
Top Winter Wonderlands to Visit in Europe
Europe boasts some of the most beautiful winter wonderlands, from the snow-capped mountains of Switzerland to the charming villages of Germany. In Switzerland, the town of Zermatt is a popular destination, with its stunning views of the Matterhorn, a range of winter sports activities, and luxurious accommodations.
In Austria, the town of Innsbruck is a winter wonderland, with its charming old town, snow-covered mountains, and world-class ski resorts. In Germany, the Bavarian town of Garmisch-Partenkirchen is a popular destination, with its ski slopes, ice-skating rinks, and charming Christmas markets.
Best Cities to Spend Christmas in Europe
Europe’s cities come alive during the holiday season, with their festive decorations, markets, and activities. In Germany, the city of Nuremberg is a must-visit, with its famous Christkindlmarkt, the largest in the country. Visitors can also enjoy a stroll through the city’s charming old town, which features Gothic churches and medieval walls.
Paris is another popular destination during the holiday season, with its dazzling Christmas lights, ice-skating rinks, and festive markets. Visitors can also enjoy a stroll down the Champs-Elysées, which is lined with Christmas trees and lights. In Prague, visitors can enjoy the famous Christmas markets in the Old Town Square, which features traditional Czech crafts and foods.
Unique Christmas Traditions in Europe
Each country in Europe has its unique Christmas traditions, which make the holiday season even more special. In Spain, it’s traditional to celebrate the holiday season with the Feast of the Three Kings on January 6th, where children receive gifts from the three wise men.
In Iceland, the holiday season is celebrated with the Yule Lads, 13 mischievous trolls who visit homes in the 13 days leading up to Christmas. In Italy, the Christmas witch, La Befana, brings gifts to children on January 6th, riding on a broomstick.
Tips for Traveling During the Christmas Season
Traveling during the Christmas season can be challenging, with crowded airports, busy roads, and expensive accommodations. However, with some planning and preparation, you can enjoy a stress-free holiday vacation.
It’s essential to book your flights and accommodations well in advance, as prices tend to go up closer to the holiday season. It’s also a good idea to pack light and avoid traveling with wrapped gifts, as they may need to be unwrapped at security checkpoints.
Accommodation Options for Christmas in Europe
Europe offers a wide range of accommodation options during the holiday season, from luxurious hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts. Many hotels offer special Christmas packages, which include festive meals, decorations, and events.
Renting a holiday home or apartment is also a popular option, as they offer more space and privacy than hotels. Additionally, many holiday homes come equipped with a kitchen, allowing you to cook your own festive meals.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Europe is the perfect destination for spending the holiday season, with its magical Christmas markets, traditional foods and drinks, and festive events and activities. Whether you’re looking for a winter wonderland, a charming village, or a bustling city, Europe has something for everyone. With some planning and preparation, you can enjoy a stress-free holiday vacation and create unforgettable memories.
Unwrap the joy of Christmas by planning your next holiday vacation to Europe. Book your flights and accommodations early, and get ready to experience the magic of the holiday season.
