Top 5 European Christmastime Destinations

Christmastime is a magical time to explore Europe, with its festive markets, snow-capped landscapes, and holiday celebrations. Whether you’re looking for a winter wonderland, cultural experiences, or a warm getaway, Europe has it all. Here are our top 5 destinations in Europe to travel around Christmas:

1. Central Europe via River Cruise 

​A river cruise through Central Europe offers a unique way to experience the holiday season, visiting some of the most charming Christmas markets and historic cities along the way.

Visit Vienna, Austria whose Christmas markets are legendary, with the Rathausplatz market being a highlight. Enjoy classical concerts, festive lights, and delicious treats like Sachertorte and Glühwein. You can visit Prague, Czech Republic whose Old Town Square is transformed into a winter wonderland with its famous Christmas market, offering traditional Czech crafts, food, and the stunning backdrop of the Gothic Týn Church. Of course, heading to Germany the birthplace of the Christmas markets is always a great option. Visit cities like Nuremberg, known for its Christkindlesmarkt, and Dresden, with its Striezelmarkt, which are must-visits for their historical markets, festive ambiance, and delicious holiday specialties like Lebkuchen and Stollen.

The best parts of River Cruising in Central Europe are that you can see many areas in one trip, seamlessly! You only have to unpack once and your cruise ship is your transportation!

2. Scandinavia 

​Scandinavia is perfect for those seeking a true winter wonderland experience, with the chance to see the Northern Lights, visit Santa’s Village, and enjoy winter activities such as husky dog sledding, skiing, and more!

Have you dreamed of going to Norway? Tromsø is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights. Enjoy dog sledding, snowshoeing, and exploring the charming city’s Christmas markets. Maybe you'd like to visit Stockholm, Sweden's Gamla Stan (Old Town) which hosts a delightful Christmas market, and the city is beautifully decorated with lights and festive displays. One of our favorites is to visit Lapland, the official home of Santa Claus. Rovaniemi is where you can meet Santa, ride reindeer sleighs, and cross the Arctic Circle into the "North Pole". 

3. The Alps

For skiing and other winter activities, the Alps offer some of the best resorts and breathtaking landscapes across several countries. Many people know about the Swiss Alps, and maybe Germany and Austria. But did you know that the Alps region extends to Italy, Slovenia and France as well? Each region has fantastic places to stay for any kind of visitor - those who ski, those who don't ski, specific hotels geared for families, and more!

4. Major Cities of Europe

Europe’s major cities come alive during December, with festive lights, markets, and a vibrant holiday spirit.

These are some of our favorites at Christmas time: 

• London, UK: Enjoy the dazzling Christmas lights on Oxford Street, Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, and the charming Southbank Centre Winter Market.
• Paris, France: The City of Lights lives up to its name with spectacular holiday decorations, the Christmas market at Champs-Élysées, and ice skating at Hôtel de Ville.
• Brussels, Belgium: The Winter Wonders festival features a large Christmas market, a festive Ferris wheel, and beautiful light shows.
• Amsterdam, Netherlands: Amsterdam’s canals are illuminated with festive lights, and the Ice Village at Museumplein is a must-visit.
• Munich, Germany: Munich’s Marienplatz hosts one of the oldest and most beautiful Christmas markets in Germany, with traditional Bavarian crafts and foods.

​5. The Mediterranean

For those looking to escape the cold, the Mediterranean offers warmer temperatures and a different holiday vibe, combining festive cheer with a more relaxed atmosphere. 
Countries like Spain, Portugal, Italy, Malta, and Turkey should be high on your list to visit if you want the warmer escapes. The Spanish Canary Island's temperatures remain the same year round and are perfect for a Spanish getaway. Also, did you know you can combine Sicily, Italy and Malta for a perfect combination of delicious food, culture, and beauty? There are so many opportunities in this region.

​Europe at Christmastime is a diverse and magical destination, offering something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re cruising through Central Europe’s Christmas markets, chasing the Northern Lights in Scandinavia, skiing in the Alps, exploring festive cities, or enjoying a warm Mediterranean holiday, these top 5 destinations provide unforgettable experiences during the holiday season. Start planning your Christmastime getaway now and make the most of Europe’s enchanting winter charm!

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