18 Incredible Places to Spend Christmas in Europe

Whichever country you choose for your European visit, one thing is for sure – an utterly magical Christmas experience that will not be forgotten in a hurry (unless you indulge in too much delicious mulled wine that is)! 

Pack your socks, scarves, and your most garish Christmas jumper (maybe a bikini too, if you’re feeling brave) and get ready for Christmas in Europe.

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Germany is in many ways the ancestor of the modern Christmas that many of us have grown up with.

In truth, the entire country is jam-packed with everything that makes Christmas such a wonderful time of year. Jovial, bustling Christmas markets overflowing with ‘Glühwein” and Bratwurst are sure to keep you warm on a snowy German evening. 

For those who love a good Christmas market, Nuremberg is a must-visit. It’s home to the largest and most popular Christmas market in the country.

The twinkling lights of the sprawling stalls are spread around the glorious Old Town. Their customary red and white roofs offer endless festive fun for both families and couples alike. 

The market is set against the stunning backdrop of the famous Nuremberg cathedral, which is open to the public on Christmas Eve for atmospheric live choir performances.

Alternatively, visit Berlin, the capital city. Berlin is world-famous for some of the world’s best Christmas markets. The markets offer a variety of different experiences and ambiences across the city, catering to everyone.

There are buzzing fairground rides, family-focused events, and artisan arrangements all illuminated by hundreds of sparkling fairy lights. Ice skating is available to really help you get into the holiday spirit. This is one of the top destinations for a merry ol’ Christmas!

Where to Stay in Germany for Christmas: Park Plaza Nuremberg

Park Plaza is conveniently located in front of Nuremberg Main Station, connecting you to all the city’s festivities. It is a modern hotel that offers guests a well-equipped fitness centre (so you can indulge guilt-free in all the Christmassy treats).

The hotel also has its own bar and a restaurant offering traditional German dishes.

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If you’re not a fan of the cold, you might think Europe isn’t the place to head for Christmas. Well, think again.

Head for the warm Mediterranean sunshine instead! Christmas in Spain offers something completely different to the traditional idea of a European Christmas. Pack up your festive spirit and leave your winter warmers at home.

Bon Nadal as the Catalans say! Visiting Barcelona during the Christmas season offers all the festivities without the accompanying frostbite.

Barca has its own take on Christmas Markets with chorizo and paella sitting alongside the famous oddity of the “Caga Tió” or the shitting log! If you think you’ve missed the boat after Christmas Day, never fear; here the King’s procession on the 5th and 6th of January is the biggest celebration of the season. 

Head to Madrid for a classic Christmas destination that promises family fun in abundance. The city’s busy streets and squares twinkle with lights under which locals still enjoy a sip of sangria and a plate of tapas even in the winter months. There are also many magical free live performances and shows dotted around the city and even an ice rink! 

Where to Stay in Spain for Christmas: Corral d’en Romagosa

This cute accommodation provides an outdoor swimming pool where you can take a relaxing swim and be the envy of all your friends freezing back home. There are many areas to hang out such as the lounge, garden, and terrace, perfect for a few festive drinks.

From the end of November until the beginning of December, Christmas is in full swing in France. The majority of towns and cities are adorned in Christmas decorations and fairy lights for as far as the eye can see.

Joyeux Noël! How about spending a day at the biggest European Christmas markets in Strasbourg? The Alsatian city sits on the border with Germany and combines French flair with cosy German traditions.

Sticking with the theme, Strasbourg is also home to the tallest decorated Christmas tree across the continent with baubles as big as a human head and covered in festive lights! 

Of course, if you’re looking for romanticism at Christmas, then there’s nowhere that can beat Paris for a winter getaway, especially in the snow. Marvel at the Eiffel Tower twinkling with thousands of fairy lights as you drink hot chocolate topped with decadent cream at the distinctly Parisian Christmas markets. Be sure to call by the massive department stores each decorated with impressive window displays too.

Where to Stay in France for Christmas: Midpoint Studios by Life Renaissance

Is there anything better than crashing in a comfy bed after an exciting day of Christmas shopping? I think not!

Well, that’s what you can expect from MIDPOINT STUD?OS by Life Renaissance, one of the best places to stay in Strasbourg.

Located 650 yards from St Paul’s church, this beautiful apartment comes with parquet floors, a fully equipped kitchen and a private bathroom. A particular favourite with couples for the perfect Christmas destination.

If you’re looking to experience some interesting and alternative Christmas traditions than you might have before, then Naples is an ideal place to visit.

On Christmas Eve the Napolese celebrate with a veritable feast called “the feast of the seven fishes”. It’s a multi-course feast mostly made up of seafood since the strict Catholics aren’t allowed meat on this day. 

If you’re looking for somewhere a little warmer this festive season, then how about Southern Italy for a destination to spend Christmas?

In beautiful Sicily, the winter is pleasantly temperate and offers a great escape from frosty Northern Europe. The island is transformed into a magical twinkling display embracing the Christmas spirit with its famous nativity scenes dotted around every corner of the island.

Where to Stay in Italy for Christmas: Casetta Pizziddu

Spend your Christmas in Europe in a cabin in this beautiful wooden hut. It’s perfect for couples looking for some quiet time and has a real homely feel.

Outside there is a lovely terrace with gorgeous garden views to enjoy. A traditional Italian breakfast is also available at the chalet every morning.

Listen up. I am instructing you to travel to Switzerland this season. It’s a magical experience and in December the place is often covered in a blanket of powdery snow. 

Head first to St Moritz for a traditional festive experience with Christmas markets, live music events, and plenty of regional food, including Äpfelchucheli (thick slices of apple deep fried in batter) and Heisse Marroni (hot chestnuts). 

If you’re interested in a unique Christmas experience (and who isn’t?!) visit the Olympic bobsleigh track, the oldest in the world, and fly around its corners in 75 seconds! 

You could also visit Zurich, which boasts the largest indoor Christmas market in the whole of Europe!

This is ideal if you’re looking to get indoors away from the freezing cold winter weather and indulge in some fantastic food and drink. Zurich’s main attraction is its show-stopping Christmas tree decorated with over 10,000 Swarovski crystals.

Where to Stay in Switzerland for Christmas: Trip Inn Zurich Hotel

The Trip Inn Zurich Hotel is in the ideal location for Christmas fun in the city. It’s only 1km away from the Swiss National Museum, for the history lovers out there, and a 10-minute walk from the train station.

A continental breakfast is on offer every morning so you can fill up before a big day of exploring the beautiful Christmas market.

When visiting London you’ll find that it is vibey all year round. But, it is absolutely off the scale in the Christmas season.

There are the ice skating rinks at Hyde Park, The Nutcracker Ballet, shopping at the legendary Harrods store, and the giant Christmas tree in Trafalgar Square. With all the decorations, lights, and decked-out trees, you’ll be filled with festive cheer! 

One of the best things to do during Christmas in London is to take a magical stroll along the Thames. What’s an English Christmas without a visit to the West End for a festive show? Of course, you can’t forget about Christmas shopping on mesmerizing Oxford Street, where not one spot is left undecorated.

Another enchanting city at Christmas is the Scottish capital of Edinburgh. Here Christmas is more quaint, quirky, and rooted in Scottish tradition. Set against the backdrop of the imposing Edinburgh Cathedral the magnificent Christmas Markets have a special aura. 

Walk the cute cobbled streets lined with fairy lights and market stalls as the bagpipes play in the background. Why not stay a while longer for the famous Hogmanay celebrations over New Year, too? 

Where to Stay in the UK for Christmas: Private Kensington Studio

This Airbnb is situated just minutes away from Hyde Park and its epic ice rink. Prices for Hotels in London these days are nothing short of ridiculous. But, this Airbnb with parking and a garden (rarities in London) is great value for money considering its bomb-ass location.

If you’re visiting Greece for Christmas then where better than Athens?

It is awash with Christmas cheer and the heart of it all is Syntagma square. Here you’ll find festive chalets filled with unique souvenirs, hundreds of sparkling lights, and a giant Christmas tree.

You’ll come across plenty of musicians embracing the festive cheer by playing live Christmas music at the markets and on street corners too. 

To visit the most popular Christmas destinations in Greece, you will need to head North to a place called Agios Athanasios. Agios Athanasios is a traditional village that sits nestled in the mountains that border Greece and North Macedonia.

With historical architecture and centuries-old traditions, it’s a lovely place to spend the Christmas holidays and it’s also close to some great ski slopes too.

Where to Stay in Greece for Christmas: Wooden House

This little wooden house is perfect if you’re looking for a unique place to stay in Athens with a Christmassy feel.

It is a great place to relax, unwind and get warm by the fire with some mulled wine.

In Sweden, the Christmas holidays don’t end until the 13th of January, making it one of the longest Christmas celebrations in Europe! So why not head here and carry on the celebrations just that little while longer and stave off those January blues? 

The city that is best known for its lavish Christmas festivities is Gothenburg. The whole place is adorned with beautiful decorations and glowing lights, and there are Christmas activities all across the city.

The amazing Christmas market in Liseberg amusement park, with winter carousels, handmade gifts, and the chance to visit Santa himself are magical experiences not to be missed. 

Another Christmas treat is a visit to Stockholm where the famous Santa run is a sight to behold! Whether you’re a runner or not, everyone gets together, throws on a Santa costume, and goes for a merry run. The festive drinks afterward will make it all worthwhile and it’s a great way to stay warm!

Where to Stay in Sweden for Christmas: Cottage with Jacuzzi and Steam Sauna

This cottage is absolute heaven. Sit out in the cold air and sip on champagne in the outdoor jacuzzi. If you need to heat up even more on a Swedish winter evening, sit by the open fire or relax in the steam sauna!

If you’ve always wanted a white Christmas, then Iceland is the place to come as you are almost guaranteed to wake up to a festive winter wonderland.

In Iceland Christmas last for 13 days, from the 11th of December to the 6th of January, which is why the country actually has 13 Santa Clauses or “Yule Lads” – one for each day! There are also some festivals that happen at this time.

December in Iceland brings long dark days, but don’t let that get you down. It’s the best time of year to take in the dazzling green, purple and yellow streaks. Almost every building in Reykjavik is covered in a blanket of twinkling lights; the city is utterly enchanting at this time of year.

When exploring the quaint festival stalls at the Christmas markets, be sure to try the sweet locals’ treat “Sara”. This is a biscuit-based, almond macaroon filled with cream and dipped in chocolate.

I don’t know about you but this sounds like it’s worth the calories! Head over to the ice rink at Ingolfstorg Square afterwards to burn some of them off! 

Where to Stay in Iceland for Christmas: Couple’s Getaway | Cosy n Cute

This little apartment is hidden away in a private backyard and is the ideal cosy winter getaway for couples. It comes fully equipped with everything you need and is only a 15-20 minutes walk away from the centre of Reykjavik.

Another place where you’re almost always guaranteed a white Christmas is the beautiful Scandinavian country, Norway. As Christmas destinations go, this is perfect for those wanting to combine the unique Christmas culture of the region with an action-packed getaway 

The city of Oslo itself has many charming Christmas markets and stalls. What really makes it stand out though is the fun-filled Korketrekkeren toboggan run just 20 minutes from the city centre.

Closeby is an ice rink too for those wanting some slower-paced winter fun. Make sure and warm up with a glass of gløgg – Norwegian mulled wine afterwards. 

Take a trip up to Stavanger, the home of the breathtaking Norwegian Fjords, for a true winter wonderland where you can still take regular cruises. The charming Old Town makes for the most magical location for a much more local-feeling Christmas market and you can even visit some Christmas-themed workshops to help the big man in red out at this busy time of year! Perfect for keeping the kids in line!

Where to Stay in Norway for Christmas: Renovated Apartment 5 Min from City Center

This stunning newly renovated apartment is in a picturesque part of town close to the city centre. Everything you need is on your doorstep, including shops, restaurants, and bars. It also has good public transport links and a lovely terrace overlooking the nearby park.

What better place to spend Christmas than in the home of real Santa Claus himself?

The village of Rovaniemi, located in the Arctic Circle, is Santa’s official North Pole residence, where kids and adults can visit for a private chat. Just make sure you’ve behaved yourself for the rest of the year! 

This enchanting Christmas adventure is one of those bucket list experiences you just have to tick off at least once. It also makes this one of the most wonderful Christmas holiday destinations in Europe for families. 

After your once-in-a-lifetime visit to the real Santa Claus, there’s so much else to do in Lapland. The Arctic Circle Snowmobile Park offers never-ending fun from visiting the Siberian Huskies, skiing, reindeer sleigh rides, snowmobile rides, ice fishing, and snowshoe hikes. There’s also plenty for the kids too at the wildlife park. 

‘Finnish’ your amazing experience in the proper local way by heading to the sauna to warm up after a long day in the snow. The sauna is a traditional ritual that the Finns hold dear.

Where to Stay in Finland for Christmas: Apartment B in Suomutunturi

Suomutunturi is located in Kemijärvi. It is half of a semi-detached house on its own plot on the edge of an enchanting forest. It is 2 km to the nearby ski slopes and the lake is 1.5 km away.

There are plenty of walking routes in the forest that run along the reindeer sledge routes. Who knows, maybe you’ll spot Rudolph?

If you’re a solo traveller looking for a great place to spend the Christmas period, then you can’t beat Dublin. The sociable hostels, festive pub crawls and Christmas-themed walking tours are great ways to meet people. You also might have heard, but the Irish love a roaring night out with great music, strong drinks, and good craic! 

Pack your Christmas jumpers because Ireland can be chilly in winter, but if you’re looking to escape the weather then thankfully there are both indoor and outdoor Christmas markets. You could also get on the Irish Whiskey too, or order a hot toddy or two! 

Dublin is also perfect for those wanting to experience the religious side of the holidays with many beautiful churches hosting festive events throughout the season. 

A quieter and more picturesque location for a Christmas vacation is the lovely city of York; a highlight is the grand opening of the Cork Christmas lights at Bishop Lucey Park.

If you visit with children, get them involved in the age-old Cork tradition of visiting the magical General Post Office so they can post their letters to Santa.

Where to Stay in Ireland for Christmas: Temple Bar Inn

Temple Bar Inn is THE place to be this Xmas. Located in the heart of lively Dublin, this place boasts an impressive 9.6 location rating on Booking.com. In a location this good, you can drink as much mulled wine and Guinness in the nearby Irish Bars as humanely possible. A proper Irish Christmas.

Christmas in the Austrian capital, Vienna is a charming and sophisticated affair that highlights the elegant beauty of the city. Be sure to indulge in local treats such as Raclette (bread with warm cheese) at one of the many sprawling Christmas markets. 

St. Stephen’s Cathedral hosts an annual advent concert with a mixture of carols and classical music… a very Viennese affair! For those looking for something a bit more relaxed, the city has a huge booming ice rink in the museum’s quarter that hosts DJs, light shows, and even a remote-controlled car race over the frozen pond. 

Salzburg is a wonderful city to spend the Christmas period too. The huge Christmas markets here dominate the Old Town and make the perfect place to stuff your face with festive treats such as mulled wine and gingerbread! 

For something a little bit more unique you should visit the Hohensalzburg fortress and take one of their magical horse and carriage rides. You will feel like you’re in a Christmas fairy tale.

Where to Stay in Austria for Christmas: Fantastic Old Town Apartment

This Salzburg Airbnb is located in the heart of Salzburg Old Town. More importantly, it’s close to Cathedral Square. This is home to the BEST CHRISTMAS MARKET I’ve ever seen.

This Airbnb is fully equipped and has a bunch of stunning reviews – check it out for yourself!

Amsterdam is one of the most exciting cities in the world. It’s well worth a visit if you plan on spending Christmas in the Netherlands. The glitz of the twinking lights only adds more charm to the city’s beautiful network of canals.

To explore the city, hop on a bike and cycle around as the locals do. When visiting Amsterdam you’ll find the city is flat and full of bicycle paths, so cycling around is easy and fun. Just pack a pair of gloves! 

A must-see is the Amsterdam Light Festival. This international event invites artists from all over the world to contribute to this fantastic, awe-inspiring light exhibition with installations all over the city. 

If you want something a little more cute and quaint for your Christmas vacation in Europe, visit Dordrecht. It’s a beautiful city with street parades full of colourful musicians and dancers, plenty of street theatre, and hundreds of wooden chalets full of tasty treats, gifts, and souvenirs.

Where to Stay in the Netherlands for Christmas: Park Inn by Radisson Amsterdam City West

Park Inn by Radisson in Amsterdam City West is a luxurious hotel with many rooms on offer.

The building was designed by acclaimed designer Karim Rashid, known for his bold use of colour which is enhanced at Christmas time with all of the beautiful decorations. Here you’ll find a gym, restaurants, retail spaces and a casino.

If you’re spending Christmas in Denmark, Copenhagen is the top destination for me.

A visit to the famous Tivoli Gardens (the epicentre of all things Christmas in Copenhagen) is a must as it’s transformed into a spectacular winter wonderland. Meander around the romantic stalls with a glass of hot gløgg as thousands of lights leave a warm glow against the cold winter’s evening. If you’re feeling a bit more lively, you can even hop on one of the many theme park rides.

Ice skating is a big deal in Copenhagen so pay a visit to the ice rink near Frederiksberg Gardens. Or take a trip to Broens Skøjtebane to go skating with its incredible views of the harbour for the ultimate way to spend Christmas in Europe.

Another popular place amongst tourists and locals is the gorgeous medieval town of Nyborg, which hosts the largest Christmas markets Denmark has to offer which are ideal to get you into the Christmas spirit.

Where to Stay in Denmark for Christmas: Brand new cosy apartment on the waterfront

If you’re hoping to be by the sea this Christmas stay at this waterfront apartment. The space is vast and the bedroom offers a king-sized bed and it boasts a balcony. The apartment comes fully equipped with kitchen, dining and laundry facilities.

Christmas in Bruges is nothing short of magical. This medieval town in the Flemish region of Belgium is jam-packed with phenomenal historic architecture and Gothic churches. The city is aglow with fairy lights throughout the festive period as you take a wintery stroll along the old cobbled streets. 

Don’t forget to pack your winter mittens, Bruges gets very cold in December, but the festive Christmas markets, with their delicious food and drink, are sure to warm your spirits and put you in a festive mood. To make the most of the charm of the old town, explore the narrow streets in style by taking a charming ride on a horse-drawn carriage!

You’ve got to indulge in local delicacies when in Bruges, and you can’t miss the famous Belgian chocolate but be sure to also try some crisp ‘kroketten’ made with oozing cheese or shrimp.

Where to Stay in Belgium for Christmas: Hotel Dukes’ Palace Brugge

This 15th-century hotel is located just 280m away from the Christmas Market. It offers elegant rooms and a spa that features a steam bath, sauna and gym.

This is a great option for those looking for somewhere luxurious to stay. It has its own bar and a beautiful terrace overlooking a huge garden.

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‘Vesela Koleda!’ How about spending Christmas in Europe travelling in Bulgaria?

Make sure to spend some time in the charming capital of Sofia. The streets are bathed in Christmas lights and here, the Christmas markets are a much smaller but cosier, and more local affair.

Be sure to try the local delicacies, including bean soup and stuffed cabbage leaves. The city is also home to the largest open-air ice skating rink in the Balkans, located in Borisova Garden. 

If capital cities aren’t your thing and you’re in search of something a bit quieter, try visiting Plovdiv. The Plovdiv Christmas markets look magical against the backdrop of the unique Ottoman architecture mixed with its gritty alternative art scene. 

The city is also surrounded by some wonderful mountains that are often covered in snow throughout the winter, making the place a dreamy winter wonderland for all to enjoy.

Where to Stay in Bulgaria for Christmas: Foothills of Old Town

This Plovdiv Airbnb is CRAZY cheap. It’s close to the Christmas Markets and is super clean and comes with insane value for money. It has great views of the Christmassy snowy mountains and is an elite quiet vacation spot.

Christmas in Hungary is magical, especially in the capital city – Budapest. The city is covered in a blanket of glistening fairy lights that make the already stunning city that much more charming and one of the most ideal of all our Christmas destinations. Plus, there are so many epic hostels in Budapest.

Take a trip to the Christmas Fair in Vörösmarty Square to get you feeling those festive vibes. Here you’ll find Christmas stalls selling handmade gifts and decorations, traditional Hungarian delicacies (such as chimney cake or poppy seed strudel), and festive drinks including forralt bor (mulled wine) and warm apple cider.

From December through to January, there’s a winter tram in operation. Hop on and take a merry tour of the city in all of its festive glory. If you’re looking for something a little more active, try ice skating at Varosliget Ice Rink – one of the oldest ice skating rinks still in operation in central Europe! Staying in Budapest over Christmas is a very special experience.

Where to Stay in Hungary for Christmas: Silver Crown Hotel & Residence, Palace Quarter

This property is in an ideal location just 1.2km away from Market Hall (home to the famous Christmas market). It’s also close to other major attractions such as Dohany Street Synagogue, the Hungarian National Museum and the State Opera House.

Wherever You Head This Christmas – Get Insurance

Christmas is a time for relaxing! Don’t stress about not being insured, just sort it.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Whether you’re looking for an escape to the winter sun, a snow-blanketed landscape, cosy Christmas markets, or outdoor adventure activities, Europe has a myriad of experiences on offer for everyone. 

You can keep it traditional with sparkling lights, the real Santa Claus, decked-out Christmas trees, nativities, and Christmas carols. Or, you can seek out unique local traditions such as saunas, strudel, cheesy shrimp pastries, and modern artistic light shows, or even go for a swim in the med! 

Whether you’re travelling as a family, with a group of friends, as a couple, or as a solo traveller, there’s something special for everyone. Make it a trip of a lifetime by enjoying Christmas in Europe.

And remember, you don’t have to limit yourself to just one European city; you can try out a few with transport around the continent being convenient and reasonably priced and visit all the best Christmas markets Europe has to offer.

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