Europe offers a multitude of enchanting destinations to explore during the Christmas season. In Vienna, Austria, you can immerse yourself in the magic of Christmas markets like the one at Rathausplatz, renowned for its twinkling lights and aromatic delicacies. Prague’s Old Town Square transforms into a fairy-tale setting, with its impressive Christmas tree and festive stalls. Meanwhile, Strasbourg, France, earns its title as the “Capital of Christmas” with its charming markets, stunning illuminations, and Alsatian treats.
Paris dazzles with holiday lights along the Champs-Élysées, and London’s streets come alive with festive decorations and bustling Christmas markets. Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens offers a fairy-tale escape, adorned with thousands of twinkling lights and a festive atmosphere.
For an Arctic adventure, Lapland, Finland, is the ultimate destination, where you can visit Santa Claus at his village and witness the northern lights. European Christmas markets, each with its unique traditions, offer an array of seasonal delights, from mulled wine and gingerbread to handcrafted gifts.
In Europe, the holiday season is a time of enchantment and togetherness, making it a captivating place to experience the festive spirit. I love the Christmas holidays period: the shops windows are so well decorated, the smell of hot wine, the melted cheese, the happy children awaiting for their incoming gifts, decorated christmas tree, christmas market, the parfum of ginger bread…
You will find below some great places you should visit during Christmas holidays period.
- Christmas trees
- Strasbourg and Colmar in Alsace – France
- Disneyland Paris – France
- Troyes – France
- Budapest – Hungary
- Prague – Praha – Czech Republic
- Castle Vaux-le-Vicomte – France
- Barcares – France
- Pessebre Vivent Christmas human crib at Bascara – Spain
- Galeries Lafayette in Paris – France
- Vienna – Austria
- London – United-Kingdom
- Iceland
- Copenhagen – Denmark
- Lapland – Finland
Christmas trees
A Christmas tree is a cherished symbol of the holiday season. Typically, it’s an evergreen conifer adorned with lights, ornaments, and tinsel. The tradition of decorating trees dates back centuries and is associated with various cultures. In modern times, people usually set up their Christmas trees in their homes, often in the living room.
The tree’s vibrant green foliage represents life even in the midst of winter’s cold, symbolizing hope and renewal. Stringing lights on the branches creates a warm and cozy atmosphere, while ornaments hold sentimental value, often passed down through generations. The star or angel atop the tree symbolizes the guiding light of the Bethlehem star, leading the way to the birthplace of Jesus, the central figure of Christmas for Christians.
As families gather around the Christmas tree, it becomes a focal point for sharing gifts, stories, and love, making it a cherished tradition that brings joy and togetherness during the holiday season
Pinterest on Christmas tree: https://www.pinterest.com/thiluutips/christmas-tree/
Strasbourg and Colmar in Alsace – France
Strasbourg, France, is known for its enchanting Christmas market, which usually runs from late November to December. During this period, the city is beautifully decorated with festive lights, and you can explore various Christmas markets offering local crafts, delicious food, and holiday treats.
The Strasbourg Christmas market is one of the oldest and most famous in Europe, creating a magical atmosphere perfect for getting into the holiday spirit. Be sure to try some traditional Alsatian specialties like mulled wine and bredele cookies while enjoying the festive ambiance. Keep in mind that event details and dates may vary from year to year, so it’s a good idea to check for the latest information closer to your visit.
Colmar, also located in the Alsace region of France, is another charming destination to visit during the Christmas period. The city transforms into a winter wonderland with its festive decorations, twinkling lights, and multiple Christmas markets. Some of the notable Christmas markets in Colmar include the Old Town Market, Little Venice Market, and the Koïfhus Market.
You can expect to find beautifully crafted ornaments, local crafts, delicious Alsatian cuisine, and mulled wine. Colmar’s unique half-timbered houses and canals add to the picturesque atmosphere, making it a great place to stroll, shop, and soak up the holiday spirit. Just like with Strasbourg, it’s advisable to check the specific dates and details for Christmas events in Colmar as they may vary from year to year.
Link to my post dedicated to Christmas in Strasbourg: https://thiluutips.com/index.php/a-journey-through-strasbourgs-christmas-magic/
Those French cities are very famous in France for their Christmas markets and shops windows.
Pinterest board on Christmas in Strasbourg: https://www.pinterest.com/thiluutips/christmas-in-strasbourg/
Disneyland Paris
Visiting Disneyland Paris during Christmas is a magical experience. The park is adorned with festive decorations, including elaborate Christmas trees and dazzling lights. Special holiday parades and nightly Disney Illuminations captivate visitors with beloved Disney characters in holiday attire. Santa Claus makes appearances for meet-and-greets. Some rides receive holiday-themed overlays, adding to the enchantment.
Disney Village hosts Christmas markets with crafts and seasonal treats, while restaurants offer holiday menus. New Year’s Eve is celebrated with fireworks. Specific details may vary yearly, so it’s best to check the official website for current information. Disneyland Paris during Christmas combines Disney magic with festive cheer.
Link on post on Christmas in Disneyland Paris: https://thiluutips.com/index.php/pictures-of-amusement-park-disneyland-paris-in-christmas-period/
It is very amazing to spend Christmas in the park Disneyland Paris. The atmosphere is very magic.
Pinterest board on Christmas in Disneyland Paris: https://www.pinterest.com/thiluutips/christmas-in-disneyland/
Troyes – France
Troyes, a picturesque town in the Champagne region of France, is a charming destination to visit during the Christmas season. The city is cute during Christmas period. Troyes is known for his former industrial textile and brand factories. Here’s what you can expect in Troyes during this festive time:
- Christmas Market: Troyes hosts a delightful Christmas market with wooden chalets lining the streets, offering a wide range of holiday goods, crafts, gifts, and local products. It’s a great place to shop for unique presents and soak in the holiday spirit.
- Decorations and Lights: The town is beautifully decorated with Christmas lights, garlands, and ornaments, creating a cozy and festive ambiance throughout the historic center
- Christmas Trees: The town squares and landmarks are adorned with Christmas trees, making for great photo opportunities.
- Local Cuisine: Savor traditional French holiday treats and cuisine at local restaurants, including festive dishes like foie gras, duck, and yule log cakes.
- Cathedral Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul: Troyes’ stunning cathedral is even more majestic during the Christmas season when it’s often illuminated beautifully at night
- Nativity Scenes: Some churches and public spaces in Troyes set up nativity scenes that add to the spiritual aspect of the holiday.
Pinterest board on Christmas in Troyes: https://www.pinterest.com/thiluutips/christmas-in-troyes/
Budapest – Hungary
Budapest, Hungary, is a beautiful and festive destination during the Christmas season. Here’s what you can expect when visiting Budapest during this magical time of year:
- Christmas Markets: Budapest boasts several enchanting Christmas markets throughout the city. The most famous one is the Christmas Fair at Vörösmarty Square, where you can find traditional Hungarian crafts, holiday gifts, and mouthwatering Hungarian dishes like chimney cake and mulled wine.
- Decorations and Lights: The city is adorned with dazzling Christmas lights and decorations, with iconic landmarks like St. Stephen’s Basilica and the Hungarian Parliament Building beautifully illuminated.
- Advent Events: Budapest celebrates the Advent season with a variety of cultural events, concerts, and performances taking place in churches, concert halls, and theaters.
- Thermal Baths: Warm up during the winter chill by visiting one of Budapest’s famous thermal baths, like the Széchenyi Thermal Bath, which can be a unique and relaxing experience in colder weather.
- New Year’s Eve Celebrations: If you’re in Budapest for New Year’s Eve, you can enjoy a grand celebration with fireworks and festivities along the Danube River.
- Nutcracker Ballet: Watching Tchaikovsky’s “The Nutcracker” ballet is a cherished Christmas tradition in Budapest, with performances held at the Hungarian State Opera House and other venues.
- Holiday Shopping: Budapest’s downtown area offers plenty of opportunities for holiday shopping, from fashion boutiques to traditional Hungarian markets.
- Christmas Trams: Keep an eye out for the Christmas-themed trams that run through the city, decorated with festive lights and decorations.
Budapest’s Christmas markets and festivities typically run from late November to early January, making it a great destination to experience the warmth and charm of the holiday season. The christmas trees in Budapest are beautiful and original.
Pinterest board on Christmas in Budapest: https://www.pinterest.com/thiluutips/christmas-in-budapest/
Prague – Praha – Czech Republic
The Christmas markets are nice and the fireworks during New Year’s Eve are really splendid. Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, is a magical destination during the Christmas period. The city’s historic architecture and cobblestone streets become even more enchanting when adorned with festive decorations and lights.
Some highlights of Prague during Christmas include:
- Christmas Markets: The main Christmas markets in Prague are typically held in the Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square. Here, you can shop for traditional Czech crafts, ornaments, and enjoy delicious local treats like trdelník (a sweet pastry) and hot mulled wine.
- Christmas Trees and Decorations: The city features large, beautifully decorated Christmas trees in prominent locations, such as in front of Prague Castle and at the Old Town Square. These trees are usually illuminated in grand ceremonies.
- Caroling and Entertainment: Christmas carolers and musicians often perform in various parts of the city, adding to the festive atmosphere. You may also find live nativity scenes.
- Prague Castle: The Prague Castle complex is illuminated beautifully at night during the holiday season, providing a stunning backdrop for a winter walk.
- Charles Bridge: The iconic Charles Bridge is adorned with decorative lights and offers breathtaking views of the city. It’s especially enchanting in the evening.
- Church Services: If you’re interested in attending Christmas Eve or Christmas Day church services, there are many historic churches in Prague that host them.
Castle Vaux-le-Vicomte – France
Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte, located in Maincy, France, is a stunning 17th-century castle known for its architectural beauty and magnificent gardens. During the Christmas season, this historic château often hosts special holiday events and decorations, making it an even more enchanting destination. Here’s what you might expect:
- Christmas Decorations: The château and its gardens are typically adorned with festive decorations, including Christmas lights, wreaths, and holiday-themed displays, creating a magical atmosphere.
- Christmas Trees: Expect to see beautifully decorated Christmas trees throughout the estate, both inside the château and in the gardens.
- Candlelit Evenings: Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte is famous for its candlelit evenings, where the entire estate is illuminated by thousands of candles, creating a romantic and enchanting ambiance. These candlelit evenings are often a highlight during the Christmas season
It well decorated and you can dress up and rent ancient clothes.
Barcares – France
Port Barcarès, a coastal town in southern France, offers a different kind of Christmas experience compared to traditional European cities. Here’s what you might find in Port Barcarès during the Christmas season:
- Christmas Markets: Port Barcarès often hosts Christmas markets where you can shop for local crafts, holiday gifts, and regional specialties. These markets can be smaller in scale compared to those in larger cities but offer a unique charm.
- Illuminations: Like many towns in France, Port Barcarès decorates its streets with Christmas lights and decorations, creating a festive atmosphere in the town center.
- Outdoor Activities: Due to its coastal location, Port Barcarès may offer outdoor activities during the winter season, such as beachside walks or water sports, weather permitting.
- Holiday Dining: Restaurants in the area may feature special holiday menus with regional cuisine and seasonal dishes.
- Local Traditions: Explore local traditions and customs related to Christmas in the region, which may include events like carol singing or nativity scenes.
- Mild Weather: Port Barcarès enjoys a relatively mild Mediterranean climate during the winter, making it a comfortable destination for those who prefer a milder winter experience
Beautiful lights and Christmas markets
Pessebre Vivent Christmas human crib at Bascara – Spain
The “Pessebre Vivent,” which translates to “Living Nativity Scene” in Catalan, is a popular Christmas tradition in Catalonia, including in towns like Bàscara. This tradition involves the reenactment of the Nativity story with live actors and animals, creating an immersive and theatrical representation of the birth of Jesus.
In Bàscara, the “Pessebre Vivent” typically takes place during the Christmas season. Here’s what you might expect when attending this event:
- Live Actors: Local residents often participate as actors, portraying characters from the Nativity story, including Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, the Three Wise Men, and angels.
- Animals: Real animals, such as sheep, donkeys, and sometimes even camels, are a part of the living nativity, adding authenticity to the scene.
- Scenic Settings: The event usually unfolds in various scenes or stages set up throughout the town, recreating key moments from the Nativity story.
- Traditional Dress: Participants often wear traditional clothing of the time period to immerse visitors in the historical setting.
- Narration: The Nativity story is typically narrated or acted out as visitors walk from scene to scene, allowing them to follow the entire story.
- Caroling and Music: Christmas carolers and musicians may be present, providing a festive musical backdrop to the event.
- Local Crafts and Food: Some “Pessebre Vivent” events also feature stalls with local crafts, food, and traditional Catalan holiday treats for visitors to enjoy.
- This tradition is a unique and cultural way to experience the Christmas story and immerse yourself in Catalan holiday traditions.
The inhabitants of city Bascara played for the Christmas human crib in the town, very nice show.
Galeries Lafayette in Paris – France
Galeries Lafayette is a renowned department store in Paris, and visiting it during the Christmas season is a truly magical experience. Here’s what you can expect to find at Galeries Lafayette Paris during Christmas:
- Dazzling Decorations: The store’s exterior and interior are lavishly decorated with Christmas lights, ornaments, and festive displays, creating a spectacular holiday atmosphere.
- Giant Christmas Tree: Galeries Lafayette is famous for its enormous Christmas tree, which is usually placed under the store’s magnificent stained-glass dome. The tree is beautifully decorated and often features a specific theme each year.
- Window Displays: The store’s windows are transformed into enchanting Christmas scenes, attracting crowds of spectators who come to admire the creative displays.
- Holiday Shopping: Galeries Lafayette is a prime destination for holiday shopping. You can find a wide range of luxury and designer goods, as well as a selection of unique gifts, cosmetics, and fashion items.
- Gourmet Food: Explore the gourmet food section with its delectable holiday treats, chocolates, pastries, and other festive delicacies.
- Fashion Shows: Galeries Lafayette occasionally hosts fashion shows and events, showcasing the latest trends and collections, which can be especially exciting during the holiday season
This shop area is often beautiful and have animations on shop windows. This place is famous for the brands. You can go for free on the rooftop of the galeries to have a great overview on the city Paris.
Vienna – Austria
Vienna during Christmas is a picturesque wonderland that captures the essence of the holiday season. The Austrian capital transforms into a fairy-tale city with its historic architecture adorned in twinkling lights and festive decorations. The heart of the celebration is the magnificent Christmas markets that dot the cityscape. The Rathausplatz market, in front of Vienna’s City Hall, is a highlight, featuring a giant Christmas tree and an array of charming stalls selling handmade crafts, seasonal treats, and mulled wine.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the melodious strains of classical music with Vienna’s renowned concert halls hosting special Christmas performances. The city’s grand palaces, including Schönbrunn and Belvedere, are illuminated, offering a regal backdrop for evening strolls.
Don’t miss the traditional Austrian Christmas dishes like schnitzel and gingerbread cookies. And if you’re lucky enough to experience a snowy Vienna, the city’s parks and gardens become a winter wonderland, perfect for a romantic carriage ride or a magical walk.
Vienna in Christmas radiates warmth, tradition, and a deep appreciation for the festive spirit, making it a truly enchanting destination for holiday travelers.
Link on post on Vienna: https://thiluutips.com/index.php/vienna-explore-the-best-of-austrias-capital/
London – United-Kingdom
London during Christmas is a captivating blend of tradition and modernity, offering a magical experience that enchants visitors of all ages. The city is adorned with sparkling lights, festive decorations, and a palpable sense of holiday cheer.
One of the iconic Christmas attractions in London is the Trafalgar Square Christmas Tree, a gift from Norway as a symbol of gratitude for Britain’s support during World War II. Carolers often gather here to sing traditional songs, adding to the festive atmosphere.
The Christmas markets in London are a must-visit, with Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park being a highlight. Here, you can explore a Christmas market, enjoy ice skating, and sample a wide array of seasonal treats.
London’s department stores, such as Harrods and Selfridges, go all out with their window displays, creating enchanting scenes that draw crowds of spectators. And speaking of crowds, don’t forget to catch a glimpse of the dazzling Christmas lights on Oxford Street and Regent Street.
For a touch of tradition, attend a Christmas carol concert at St. Paul’s Cathedral or Westminster Abbey, or enjoy a performance of “The Nutcracker” at the Royal Opera House.
London’s diverse culinary scene comes alive during the festive season with special Christmas menus and treats, including mince pies, roast dinners, and mulled wine.
In essence, London at Christmas is a mesmerizing blend of historic charm and contemporary festivities, making it a delightful destination for anyone seeking a memorable holiday experience.
Iceland
Christmas in Iceland is a unique and magical experience, blending Icelandic traditions, winter festivities, and breathtaking natural surroundings. Here’s an overview of what Christmas in Iceland looks like:
- Duration of Celebrations: In Iceland, Christmas celebrations, known as “Jól,” last longer than in many other countries. Festivities typically begin in mid-December and continue until Epiphany in January.
- The Dark Period: During this time of the year, Iceland experiences very short daylight hours. However, this adds to the cozy and festive atmosphere as homes, streets, and public buildings are beautifully illuminated.
- The Tradition of the 13 Yule Lads: The “Jólasveinar” or Yule Lads are Icelandic Christmas characters, somewhat akin to Iceland’s version of Santa Claus. There are 13 of them, and each night from December 12th to the 24th, one of them brings gifts or pranks to children.
- Christmas Markets: Christmas markets, called “jólamarkaðurinn,” are an important tradition in Iceland. You’ll find a variety of handmade goods, traditional dishes, and unique gifts.
- Christmas Cuisine: Icelandic Christmas dishes are unique and delicious. “Hangikjöt” (smoked lamb), “laufabrauð” (decorative flatbread), and “kleina” (a type of doughnut) are some of the traditional foods you can enjoy.
- Christmas Eve: The main evening of celebration in Iceland is Christmas Eve, known as “Aðfangadagur.” Families gather for a Christmas feast and open their presents after the meal. It’s also a night when many visit churches for the midnight mass.
- The Northern Lights: Due to its high latitude, Iceland often offers incredible opportunities to witness the Northern Lights during the Christmas period. It’s a magical experience to see the lights dancing in the nighttime sky.
In summary, Christmas in Iceland is a unique celebration that blends local traditions, delicious cuisine, and an enchanting winter ambiance. It’s an ideal time to explore Icelandic culture and enjoy the island’s natural beauty, all in a festive setting.
Link on post on Iceland: https://thiluutips.com/index.php/top-things-to-do-in-iceland/
Copenhagen – Denmark
Copenhagen during Christmas is a fairy-tale destination that exudes festive charm and coziness. The Danish capital is known for its enchanting holiday markets, sparkling lights, and rich traditions that make it a perfect place to experience the magic of the season. Here’s what you can expect when visiting Copenhagen during Christmas:
- Tivoli Gardens: Tivoli Gardens, one of the world’s oldest amusement parks, transforms into a winter wonderland during the Christmas season. Thousands of twinkling lights, festive decorations, and a Christmas market create a magical atmosphere. You can enjoy ice skating, traditional Danish treats, and thrilling rides.
- Christmas Markets: Copenhagen hosts several Christmas markets throughout the city. The most famous is the Christmas Market at Nyhavn, where you can shop for unique gifts, enjoy mulled wine, and savor Danish holiday delicacies. Other markets, like the one at Kongens Nytorv, offer handmade crafts and seasonal goodies.
- Hygge Atmosphere: Copenhagen is famous for its concept of “hygge,” which represents coziness and contentment. During Christmas, this feeling is everywhere, from the cozy cafes serving hot chocolate to the warm and inviting atmosphere of the city’s restaurants.
- Traditional Danish Food: Try traditional Danish Christmas dishes like “æbleskiver” (round pancakes), “risengrød” (rice pudding), and “gløgg” (mulled wine). Many restaurants offer special Christmas menus featuring these delectable treats.
- Light Displays: Copenhagen’s streets and landmarks are beautifully illuminated during the holiday season. Stroll through Strøget, the city’s main shopping street, to admire the festive decorations and shop for gifts.
- Christmas Concerts: Copenhagen offers a variety of Christmas concerts, including performances at historic churches and concert halls. The music ranges from classical to modern, providing something for every taste.
- Danish Traditions: Experience Danish Christmas traditions like the lighting of advent candles, dancing around the Christmas tree, and celebrating on December 24th, the main Christmas Eve, with a festive dinner and gift-giving.
- The Little Mermaid: Pay a visit to the iconic Little Mermaid statue, which is often dressed up with a Santa hat during the Christmas season.
Lapland – Finland
Lapland, located in the northernmost region of Finland, is often hailed as the ultimate Christmas destination, and for good reason. It’s the mythical home of Santa Claus, and visiting Lapland during the Christmas season is like stepping into a winter wonderland.
The star attraction is Santa Claus Village, just outside the capital city of Rovaniemi. Here, you can meet the jolly man himself, Santa Claus, in his official Arctic Circle residence. Children and adults alike can enjoy sleigh rides, reindeer encounters, and even spend the night in cozy, snow-covered cabins.
Lapland’s pristine landscapes, covered in a thick blanket of snow, offer opportunities for thrilling activities like husky sledding and snowmobiling through enchanting forests. You might even catch a glimpse of the mesmerizing Northern Lights, adding a touch of magic to your Christmas experience.
Traditional Lappish cuisine, featuring dishes like reindeer stew and smoked salmon, is a treat for your taste buds. And warming up with a cup of hot berry juice around a crackling open fire is an essential part of Lapland’s winter charm.
Lapland’s pristine landscapes, covered in a thick blanket of snow, offer opportunities for thrilling activities like husky sledding and snowmobiling through enchanting forests. You might even catch a glimpse of the mesmerizing Northern Lights, adding a touch of magic to your Christmas experience.
Traditional Lappish cuisine, featuring dishes like reindeer stew and smoked salmon, is a treat for your taste buds. And warming up with a cup of hot berry juice around a crackling open fire is an essential part of Lapland’s winter charm.
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