The Most “Christmassy” Cities in Europe

Christmas in Europe is inextricably linked with snow, the traditions of each country, Gothic churches, and wonderful medieval squares that come alive with Christmas markets, ice rinks, and colourful decorations.

Some cities celebrate Christmas with unparalleled style and grandeur, others with peculiar, nostalgic customs, and finally, some cities are at their best during this particular time of year, with spectacular New Year's celebrations and incredible events throughout the holidays!

If you combine the idyllic atmosphere, beautiful architecture, wonderful markets, and unique scents that remind us of our childhood, a trip to one of these European cities is the best choice for this year's atmospheric Christmas!

Prague, Czech Republic

Prague, the most Gothic of European cities, celebrates Christmas with grandeur, creating a unique – and somewhat dramatic – backdrop, perfect for getting lost in the Christmas spirit.

Winter in the Czech capital is quite cold, but the city's beautiful narrow streets with stunning buildings covered in snow, looking like a Christmas card brought to life, will make you want to wander through them all.

Prague's Christmas markets are among the most beautiful and renowned in Europe. They offer a unique opportunity to discover the traditions, culture, and cuisine of this country with its rich history.

The largest market is located in the main square of the Old Town, in front of the Church of Our Lady before Týn. Other equally charming markets can be found in Wenceslas Square and Náměstí Míru.

Vienna, Austria

It's very difficult to find a city that celebrates Christmas with such grace and elegance as Vienna. Its Christmas markets and decorations, combined with its imperial architecture, create a wonderful setting for a thoroughly enjoyable trip!

Indulge in warm mulled wine, sausages, and freshly baked flatbreads at Vienna's renowned markets. Go ice skating at Rathausplatz and visit the Snow Globe Museum in the 17^th District.

One of the most important things to do in Vienna at Christmas is to attend at least one of the concerts organised in the city at this time.

The performance 'Christmas in Vienna' with the Vienna Boys Choir at the Konzerthaus is particularly popular, but there are many other classical events to choose from.

[ Read our detailed guide for the most magical Christmas in Vienna! ]

Cologne, Germany

Cologne is known for its spectacular cathedral that dominates the city in so many ways.

From late November until New Year's Eve, the largest city on the Rhine – and birthplace of mulled wine – hosts seven Christmas markets, some of which have a very specific theme.

They are considered some of the most spectacular open-air markets in Germany, attracting both locals and tourists, scattered throughout the city.

It's a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere of Christmas and familiarise yourself with German customs and traditions.

Strasbourg, France

In Strasbourg, you'll find the oldest Christmas market in France and a magnificent Gothic cathedral nestled within the Old Town. This city, located near the German border, is a fantastic destination for your winter trip.

You can't help but adore the 'Marchés de Noël' – the Christmas markets, that is – set up in Strasbourg's historic squares.

In front of the beautiful cathedral, you'll find approximately 300 stalls filled with tree ornaments, sparkling figures, and many seasonal specialities like roasted chestnuts, biscuits, and mulled wine.

The atmosphere comes alive with carols and wonderful ice rinks that beckon you to visit them.

Wrocław, Poland

 

During the Christmas holidays in Wrocław, Poland's 4^th largest city, a beautiful market dating back to the 16^th century is organised.

The streets are adorned with many bright decorations, while carols can be heard everywhere in Reynek – a beautiful square with Hungarian, Italian, and German influences.

Wrocław was the European Capital of Culture in 2016, which boosted its cultural life.

You won't see many tourists in the city, and its prices are significantly more affordable than other destinations on our list.

This makes it a very attractive destination for Christmas holidays in European cities.

Tallinn, Estonia

With its medieval Old Town that looks like it's straight out of a children's book, Tallinn is captivating throughout the year, but Christmas gives it an even more unique character.

The square in front of the Town Hall, Raekoja Plats, creates a magical setting with its tall Christmas tree, which was the first ever to be erected in a public square in 1441.

Tallinn's Christmas market is one of the most charming and authentic in Europe, full of stalls with lanterns, handmade wooden ornaments, and rich Estonian food.

You can enjoy Christmas in Tallinn with very cheap flights through Travelo! Flight prices to Tallinn are among the most economical, even during the Christmas period!

Copenhagen, Denmark

Christmas finds Copenhagen in a festive spirit with many bright lights and cosy cafes that harmoniously combine to offer you a Danish feel and add a touch of uniqueness to your experience.

The special atmosphere is enhanced by the tasteful decorations and outdoor Christmas markets.

However, no other part of the city can compare to the Tivoli Gardens, which best reflect the magic of Christmas. Every year, it transforms into a winter wonderland with spectacular Christmas light displays, thrilling rides, and stalls selling various gifts and traditional products.

Rovaniemi, Lapland

With its beautiful frozen landscapes, trees twinkling with lights, and intricate ice sculptures, there's no doubt that Rovaniemi is one of the best European cities to spend your Christmas.

Of course, the fact that Father Christmas lives just 8 km away adds a little extra magic to this city.

Santa Claus Village is, of course, the city's biggest draw, something you absolutely must visit!

Beyond that, however, there's a wide variety of activities you can do in Rovaniemi, such as snowmobiling and spectacular tours in search of the Northern Lights.

Nuremberg, Germany

There's no better time of year to visit Nuremberg than during the Christmas period, when it transforms into a true winter fairy tale.

This picturesque medieval city in Bavaria welcomes its visitors with a plethora of Christmas traditions and activities.

In the city's squares, you'll find 'lebkuchen' – a type of local gingerbread – traditional wooden Ferris wheels, and many handmade ornaments with candles and angels.

Besides the Christkindlesmarkt Christmas market, Nuremberg has a rich history in toy making. You can discover all about it at the city's Toy Museum!

Bruges, Belgium

Bruges is an adorable city with fairytale canals, wonderful buildings, and elegant carriages adorning its cobbled streets.

Around Christmas, the city's main square, Grote Markt, transforms into a magical landscape, decorated with many dazzling lights, a wonderful ice rink, and numerous wooden chalets filled with souvenirs, ornaments, and, of course, delicious Belgian chocolate.

In December, the city hosts an ice sculpture festival – one of the best winter events in Europe. The event takes place annually in the square in front of the railway station and showcases amazing works by many artists.