21 best Christmas cities in Europe
Last updated on November 6th, 2026.
Christmas in Europe means markets, lights and a break from routine.
If you're deciding where to spend it, start here. These 21 Christmas cities and towns run from Lapland in the north to Jijona on Spain's east coast.
Each entry gives 2026 dates, what to see and where to stay.
I checked the dates on November 6th, 2026, but confirm them on the official market site before you book.
Which European city should you pick for Christmas? Choose Nuremberg, Strasbourg or Prague for a classic market, or Vigo, Gothenburg or London for lights. Choose Rothenburg, St. Wolfgang or Bolzano for a small-town, alpine feel, and Jijona for milder weather. About half the markets close by December 24, so check dates if you travel on Christmas Day.
Christmas markets in Europe at a glance: 2026 dates
Dates last checked: November 3rd 2026
| City | Country | 2026 dates | Known for | |
| 1 | Lapland (Rovaniemi) | Finland | Check Santa Claus Village opening hours | Santa Claus, igloos |
| 2 | Rothenburg ob der Tauber | Germany | Nov 20 to Dec 23 | Medieval town market |
| 3 | Nuremburg | Germany | Nov 27 to Dec 24 | Christkindlesmarkt, bratwurst |
| 4 | Vienna | Austria | Nov 13 to Dec 26 | Three markets: City Hall, Schönbrunn and Belvedere. Rathausplatz: Nov 13 to Dec 26, Schönbrunn: Nov 6 to Jan 6, Belvedere: Nov 20 to Dec 31 |
| 5 | Linz | Austria | Nov 21 to Dec 24 | Two markets, Linzer torte |
| 6 | St. Wolfgang | Austria | Nov 20 to Dec 20 | Lakeside Advent market |
| 7 | Prague | Czech Republic | Nov 28 to Jan 6 (Old Town Square) | Old Town Square tree, food |
| 8 | St. Gallen | Switzerland | Nov 26 to Dec 24 | More than 600 stars over the old town |
| 9 | Gdańsk | Poland | Nov 20 to Dec 23 | Award-winning market |
| 10 | Warsaw | Poland | Nov 20 to Jan 6 | Smaller, cheaper market |
| 11 | Strasbourg | France | Nov 27 to Dec 24 | More than 300 chalets |
| 12 | Reims | France | Nov 25 to Dec 27 | Champagne, 45 minutes from Paris |
| 13 | Bolzano | Italy | Nov 26 to Jan 6 (stalls open Nov 27) | White tree, Dolomites |
| 14 | Merano | Italy | Nov 26 to Jan 6 | Spa-garden market by the Passer |
| 15 | Vigo | Spain | November (date TBC) to early Jan | More than 12 million LED lights |
| 16 | Jijona (Xixona) | Spain | Dec 4 to 8 | Turrón fair, milder weather |
| 17 | London | UK | Winter Wonderland Nov 19 to Jan 3 | Lights, Hyde Park |
| 18 | Manchester | UK | Nov 6 to Dec 22 (Albert Square to early Jan) | 10 market sites |
| 19 | Tallinn | Estonia | Nov 20 to Jan 6 | Town Hall Square market |
| 20 | Gothenburg | Sweden | Liseburg Nov 14 to Dec 30 | Lights, ice rink, julbord |
| 21 | Copenhagen | Denmark | Tivoli Nov 13 to Jan 3 (closed Dec 24) | Tivoli Gardens |
| Extra | Gubbio | Italy | Tree lit Dec 7 | Mountain light display |
Map of the 21 Christmas cities in Europe
This map shows all 21 cities and towns in this guide, grouped by region.
Click a pin for the 2026 market dates and a one-line summary. Use the layers to compare markets in one country or region, and to plan a route that links two or three of them.
Jump to:
Christmas cities in Europe to visit in 2026
1. Lapland — Finland
Lapland is the home of Santa Claus in Finnish tradition, and it works for adults as well as children.
Rovaniemi, the region's main town, is where most visits begin. Visit the wintry Santa Claus village that has several attractions and activities that will easily fill a day.
Stop by Santa Claus' office, then browse the gift house for presents to take home.
Where to stay in Rovaniemi
Continue your experience in Rovaniemi by checking into the iconic Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort. It’s located near Saariselkä, about 250km (155mi) north of Rovaniemi. Ivalo Airport is about 40km (25mi) away.
Cozy igloos and chalets give you a chance to sleep beneath a blanket of stars.
2. Rothenburg ob der Tauber — Germany
Germany has several towns that suit a storybook Christmas.
One of them is Rothenburg ob der Tauber, a medieval town in northern Bavaria.
If snow falls, the half-timbered streets look even more like a postcard.
Take a private tour of Rothenburg ob der Tauber to see its houses up close with a knowledgeable local.
The Christmas market is called the Reiterlesmarkt, whose roots go back to around the 15th century. The stalls fill the Marktplatz, the Grüner Markt and the Kirchplatz.
In 2026 the market runs from November 20 to December 23.
Not much has changed since the tradition began about 500 years ago. If you want an authentic Christmas market, this is a good fit.
Where to stay in Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Hotel Herrnschloesschen occupies one of the oldest buildings in town.
The boutique hotel has French-country style rooms and suites, a sauna and rental bikes.
3. Nuremberg, Germany
Nuremburg is the second-largest city in Bavaria, and its Christkindlesmarkt is among the better-known Christmas markets in Germany.
The market suits the whole family. Browse the stalls for Christmas gifts, then try a classic Nuremburg bratwurst in a bun.
Dates for the Nuremberg Christmas market
The main Christmas market usually takes place on the Hauptmarkt, the central square of the old town.
It opens on the Friday before the first Sunday of Advent, so typically the end of November. In 2026 it runs from November 27 to December 24.
The Christkind opens at 5:30pm on opening night.
Check the official website for the latest information.
Where to stay in Nuremberg
Melter Hotel & Apartments – a Neighborhood Hotel is central, boutique-style and affordable.
The Christmas market is just 500m (0.3mi) from the property and the old town is 400m away.
4. Vienna — Austria
Vienna has several Christmas markets.
The one in front of City Hall (Rathausplatz) runs November 13 to December 26, 2026. Schönbrunn Palace hosts another from November 6 to January 6, 2027, and the Belvedere market runs November 20 to December 31.
I’ve visited Vienna outside the Christmas season, so I can't tell you how the markets feel in person. We stayed at the iconic Hotel Sacher and walked to nearly everything from there. The one exception was Schönbrunn, where we took a taxi.
It’s a wonderful city to visit year-round with plenty of things to do. See my guides to things to do in Vienna for more planning ideas.
5. Linz — Austria
Linz sits between Vienna and Salzburg in Upper Austria.
The city gave its name to the Linzer torte, a jam-filled nut pastry, so expect freshly baked gingerbread and Linzer torte at the stalls.
Baroque buildings and the old town hall form the backdrop, so a visit doubles as a sightseeing trip.
Two markets anchor the season. The larger is the Christkindlmarkt on the Hauptplatz, the main square.
The Weihnachtsmarkt in the Volksgarten, near the main train station, is aimed at families. Browse the wooden stalls, jump on the rides and enjoy the nativity scenes.
Both markets run from November 21 to December 24, 2026.
6. St. Wolfgang — Austria
Christmas cheer reaches the smaller towns of Upper Austria too.
St. Wolfgang, on Lake Wolfgang, feels like it was made for this season.
Lantern-lit roads, Christmas trees and a floating Advent lantern on the lake, which at 16m (52ft) high, welcome you.
Try local specialties at the Advent Christmas market or watch craftspeople make traditional handicrafts.
The Wolfgangsee Advent also takes place in neighboring St. Gilgen and Strobl.
In 2026, the Wolfgangsee Advent runs from November 20 to December 20. Opening hours vary by day, so check the website before you go.
If an Austrian Christmas sounds appealing, consider visiting Vorarlberg in the west. Bregenz, Feldkirch and Dornbirn celebrate with plenty of sparkle.
Where to stay in St Wolfgang
Hotel Seevilla Wolfgangsee has views of the clear blue lake. It has a small spa center, a 10m infinity pool and a restaurant with a lakeside terrace.
7. Prague — Czech Republic
Prague needs little introduction.
Its Christmas markets draw large crowds every year, and towards the end of November, the Czech capital fills with lights, stalls and the smell of mulled wine.
The main market is on Old Town Square, where a 19m tall tree is put up for the start of the season.
The Wenceslas Square market is a short walk away, and you'll also find smaller markets at St. George’s Basilica at Prague Castle and also at Republic Square.
For 2026, the Old Town Square market runs from November 28 to January 6. The Wenceslas market usually runs the same dates.
Combine the markets with a visit to Prague Castle, which you can tour with a small group.
Eat well, drink well
Comfort food is big at the Prague Christmas markets.
Try Czech specialties like spit-roasted ham, barbecued sausages and cheese-topped flatbreads.
Wash everything down with svařák, steaming mulled wine, or a cold Czech beer. The Czech Republic has among the highest beer consumption per person in the world, so expect plenty of options.
Where to stay in Prague in winter
Prague has a wide range of accommodation for all budgets. If you want a central base, look around Old Town Square or Wenceslas Square.
Mosaic House Design Hotel is a boutique choice with 94 rooms, and is about 1.3km (0.8mi) from the old town.
Alternatively, you can rent an apartment. These modern apartments are located in the Old Town, and Charles Bridge is a 6-minute walk away.
8. St. Gallen — Switzerland
St. Gallen, in northeast Switzerland, is lesser known than other cities on this list.
During Advent, more than 600 stars light up the old town. It's why the city calls itself the Sternenstadt, or Star City.
The markets stalls stand on Gallusplatz and in the old town lanes. A decorated tree stands on Klosterplatz, in the UNESCO-listed Abbey District.
Traditional and charming, the market sells locally made Christmas presents and food. Try Raclette or an authentic St. Gallen bratwurst.
In 2026 the Christmas market and the stars run from November 26 to December 24.
The Swiss Santa Claus
Switzerland has its own Christmas figure, the Christkind, tied to a hamlet near St. Gallen called Wienacht-Tobel.
Children from around the world write to the Christkind at Weinacht.
Willi Würzer, the former postmaster, answered letters for years. Switzerland Tourism puts the number at around 200 letters each Christmas season.
Where to stay in St. Gallen
One of my favorite hotels sits beside the UNESCO monastery area: Einstein St. Gallen.
A leading hotel in town, the rooms are upscale yet affordable for this part of Switzerland.
9. Gdańsk — Poland
Gdańsk, a port city on Poland's Baltic coast, has plenty of charm, especially in the run-up to Christmas. Some of its historic buildings date to the 14th century, and many were rebuilt after World War II.
The old buildings make a perfect festive backdrop.
The Christmas market centers on Targ Węglowy, the coal market, in the old town. Browse the stalls and watch the cultural events during the season.
In 2026 the market runs from November 20 to December 23.
In a vote held in 2024, Gdańsk won the European Best Destinations Christmas market award for 2025.
Where to stay in Gdańsk
Gotyk House stands on one of the prettiest streets in Gdańsk, in a building from 1453.
The hotel has a terrace, a library and a small museum.
10. Warsaw — Poland
Warsaw is better known for museums and history than for its Christmas markets.
However, I'd say to give it a chance as the Warsaw Christmas market makes for a less touristy option.
We visited Warsaw in winter, and although it was bitterly cold, it was an enjoyable time to travel.
The main market is near the Royal Castle and is much smaller than others I’ve been to. On the plus side, it was far less crowded and gifts, food and drink cost much less.
The 2026 market starts on November 20 until January 6.
More than one market in Warsaw
Alongside the main market, the city usually holds smaller ones nearby. A courtyard market near a Catholic church sits by the entrance to Castle Square. Another is on the Old Town Market Place, where you can try Polish kielbasa.
Warsaw makes up for its small market with plenty of festive spirit.
Christmas lights and a large tree on Castle Square brighten the city. Warm up with a glass of mulled wine (grzane wino in Polish) in one of the small Old Town bars.
My guide on what to pack for Poland in winter explains how to dress right for the biting Polish weather.
Where to stay in Warsaw
My favorite boutique hotel in Warsaw is H15 Boutique Hotel.
It's central, but quiet, and within walking distance of the main attractions.
The walk to the Old Town takes about 15 minutes, or about 5 minutes by taxi.
11. Strasbourg — France
Strasbourg calls itself the Capital of Christmas (Capitale de Noël). It's the capital of the Grand Est region in northeast France, and in December it fills with more than 300 market chalets.
Fairy lights cover the streets, houses, churches and balconies. The markets are spread across the Grande Île, the historic center of the city.
In 2026 the Strasbourg Christmas markets run from November 27 to December 24.
Dating to 1570
The Christkindelsmärik on Place Broglie dates to 1570, and has been welcoming visitors for more than 450 years.
Another star attraction is the grand tree on Place Kléber. The luminous fir overlooks the festivities and sets the mood.
Strasbourg sits near the German border, and its mix of French and German culture shows in the architecture. In brief, it's worth more than a day trip.
Where to stay in Strasbourg
Le Moon is just 350m (about 0.2mi) from the Christmas market.
The 19th-century building has colorful, contemporary rooms and everything you need for a comfortable stay.
12. Reims — France
Reims is another city in the Grand Est region of northeast France. It's best known for the Cathédrale Notre-Dame, where French kings were crowned.
The 'unofficial capital' of the Champagne region also draws visitors for its Christmas festivities.
The market stands on the Hautes Promenades Jean-Louis Schneiter, close to the train station. Around 150 chalets sell gifts, crafts, and food. Expect a Ferris wheel, a free little train and a Santa Claus chalet.
In 2026 the market runs from November 25 to December 27. Reims is 45 minutes by train from Paris, so there’s no excuse not to visit.
Where to stay in Reims
The stylish Continental Hotel is a good base. It occupies a 19th century building, has modern rooms and sits close to sights like the Cathédrale Notre-Dame.
13. Bolzano — Italy
When the holiday season arrives in Italy, one destination instantly puts me in the holiday mood: the Dolomites.
⏩️ Read: the Dolomites in winter travel guide
As much as I enjoy being in Sicily and feasting on Sicilian Christmas food, a wintry landscape suits me better.
The mountain region spans the north of Italy and borders Austria, and is ideal for an Italian winter getaway.
One city in particular, Bolzano, turns into a Christmas spectacle. Located in the region of Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol, the market is one of the best things to do in Bolzano come winter.
We usually drive from our home in northeastern Italy, Vicenza, which takes around 2 hours.
A change from the norm
A large white Christmas tree replaces the standard green one, shedding a dazzling array of light and color over the town.
Bolzano's Christkindlmarkt has run since 1991 and is among the larger Christmas markets in Italy.
The stalls focus on regional crafts and food, from slippers and hats to cakes and scented candles.
In 2026 the opening ceremony takes places on November 26, and the market runs until January 6 2027. Stalls open daily from November 27.
Complete your Bolzano Christmas experience with the region’s food and drink. Try a freshly made apple fritter and wash it down with spiced mulled wine.
For weather and closures, see my guide to Italy in December. My guide to places to spend Christmas in Italy covers more Italian markets.
Where to stay in Bolzano
Goldenstern Townhouse is 500m (0.3mi) from the Christmas market and 800m from the Bolzano Victory Monument.
This rustic design boutique has just 11 rooms and luxurious furnishings throughout.
14. Merano — Italy
Merano is another South Tyrol town with a Christmas market.
It's one of the five original South Tyrol Christmas markets, along with Bolzano, Bressanone, Vipiteno and Brunico.
The Meraner Weihnacht runs along the Passer River, with an ice rink next to the stalls.
In 2026 the market runs from November 26 to January 6.
Merano is a short train ride from Bolzano.
⏩️ Read: Beautiful places to visit in South Tyrol
Extra Italy Christmas stop: Gubbio
If a Christmas tree that covers a mountainside is on your bucket list, visit Gubbio in Umbria.
Its luminous tree lights up the slope of Mount Ingino, and it holds a Guinness World Record.
The tree isn’t technically a tree. It's a pattern of more than 700 lights strung up the mountain. The lights are switched on every year on December 7, which falls on a Monday in 2026. The tree usually stays lit until early or mid-January.
⏩️ Read: what Italy is really like in December, from the Alps to Sicily
15. Vigo — Spain
Lights, lights and more lights define Christmas in Vigo, a city in Galicia in northwest Spain.
The city plans more than 12 million LED lights this season. In 2025, the lights covered about 460 streets and squares.
A giant tree stands on Porta do Sol, where the switch-on takes place.
The council hasn't yet announced the 2026 switch-on date, only that it will be in November.
In 2025, the lights went on November 15 and stayed on until January 11. They come on at 6pm each day.
Where to stay in Vigo
Unwind on the rooftop sun terrace at Agua de Mar Hotel boutique after a long day of exploring. The elegant rooms have plenty of natural light.
16. Jijona (Xixona) — Spain
What if you love Christmas but dislike cold weather?
Jijona, also spelled Xixona, offers a European Christmas with milder weather.
The town sits in the province of Alicante on Spain's east coast, which is known for sandy beaches and sunny weather.
Jijona is famous for turrón, a soft nougat sold at Christmas.
Its Christmas fair, the Feria de Navidad de Jijona, runs from December 4 to 8 2026 along Constitution Avenue.
Stalls sell turrón, Christmas decorations, sweets and local products. The 2025 edition drew more than 150,000 visitors.
Jijona offers a different kind of European Christmas from the colder destinations in the north. For another warm Christmas alternative, see my guide to Christmas in Sicily. It's my second home in Italy and the holidays here are unique to say the least.
17. London — United Kingdom
London’s Christmas lights displays are some of the best in the world, with crowds gathering to photograph them.
Plan your trip around the zone 1 tube map to see the city's main sights.
The capital has several Christmas markets and festive events. Southbank, Hyde Park Winter Wonderland and Somerset House host some of them.
My personal favorites are the light displays on Carnaby Street and around Covent Garden. The colors and decorations will instantly put you into the holiday mood.
In 2026, Winter Wonderland runs from November 19 to January 3. It's closed on Christmas Day.
Where to stay in London
Choosing where to stay in London can be tough, simply because it’s a big city. The Soho Hotel, Firmdale Hotels, is one of many boutique choices.
It's central and within walking distance of top attractions. We stayed at its sister hotel in New York City, the Crosby Street Hotel, and weren't disappointed.
18. Manchester — United Kingdom
When November arrives in Manchester, its world-famous football team isn’t the only draw.
The Christmas markets usually start in early November, and spread across 10 locations in the city center, with more than 210 stalls. The main market is in Albert Square.
In 2026, the markets run from November 6 to December 22. Albert Square and Cathedral Gardens stay open into early January.
Where to stay in Manchester
Sleek and stylish, Dakota Manchester is a central choice. Its 137 rooms have rainforest showers and en-suite bathrooms.
Market Street is a 5-minute walk away, while Manchester Piccadilly Station is just 3 minutes away.
19. Tallinn — Estonia
Tallinn is charming all year, and Christmas only adds to its atmosphere.
When you're visiting Tallinn in winter, expect cold weather and a good chance of snow.
The Christmas market usually takes place in Town Hall Square (Raekoja plats) in the heart of the old town. It's close to the medieval restaurant, Olde Hansa; one of several highlights to see in Tallinn.
In 2026, the market runs from November 20 to January 6.
The Estonian Open-Air Museum is a 15-minute drive from the center, and usually hosts a winter program. Activities include a Christmas village, with demonstrations on historic bread baking and handicrafts.
Where to stay in Tallinn
Two central, boutique, hotels stand out in the old town: Hotel Schlössle and St. Petersbourg Hotel.
Hotel Schlössle has a more rustic feel, while St. Petersbourg Hotel is modern and edgier.
The Golden Piglet Inn at Hotel Schlössle is worth a try for traditional homestyle Estonian cooking.
20. Gothenburg — Sweden
Gothenburg is a major Christmas draw in Sweden. Jul på Liseberg turns the Liesberg amusement park into a Christmas market, lit by around 5 million lights.
It also has an ice-skating rink and plenty of Swedish Christmas food to try.
In 2026, Jul på Liseberg runs from November 14 to December 30. Tickets are required to enter the park. See the website for more information.
Try a julbord, a Swedish-style buffet of hot and cold dishes. It ranges from spiced saffron buns to Christmas ham, and foodie travelers shouldn’t miss it.
Gothenburg also has smaller markets outside Liseburg. The Haga quarter of the old town hosts its own weekend market, selling items such as Christmas decorations and homeware.
Where to stay in Gothenburg
With Carpe Diem beds and Egyptian cotton bedding, Dorsia Hotel and Restaurant promises a good night's sleep.
It's in the center of Gothenburg, a short walk from many of the city’s main sights.
21. Copenhagen — Denmark
Combine a European Christmas with a big dose of hygge in the Danish capital.
Many events bring the festive mood, such as Christmas at Tivoli Gardens.
Tivoli is a classic attraction all year round, and at Christmas it becomes a festive playground.
Expect snow-covered trees, wooden huts and thousands of twinkling lights.
In 2026, Christmas in Tivoli runs from November 13 to January 3, and the gardens are closed on December 24.
Other markets in Copenhagen usually start in mid-November and end in late December or early January.
Check the Visit Denmark website before you go.
Kayaks and carols
Another event to look out for is the Santa Lucia parade. Every year on December 13, kayaks decorated with colorful lights sail through the canals.
The kayakers stop several times to sing Christmas carols. It's an event, and a sight, that you won’t see anywhere else.
Where to stay in Copenhagen
Have the Christmas market on your doorstep with a stay at Nimb Hotel, a luxury boutique hotel inside Tivoli Gardens. It has just 38 rooms, 26 of them suites.
Last words
What do you think of this list of Christmas cities in Europe? Which of these cities or towns would you most like to visit? Let me know in the comments below.
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that I’ve recommended. Thank you for your support.
Written by Lisa Rivera: Italy traveler and resident for 10+ years. First-hand researched for 2026.
FAQs on Christmas in Europe
Choose Nuremberg, Strasbourg or Prague for a classic market, Vigo, Gothenburg or London for lights, and Rothenburg, St. Wolfgang or Bolzano for a small-town alpine feel. Jijona suits milder weather. Check dates before you book.
Most open between November 20 and 28, 2026. Manchester opens first on November 6, Tivoli on November 13, Nuremberg and Strasbourg on November 27, and Prague's Old Town Square on November 28. Dates can change, so check each official site.
Christmas Day is quiet across Europe. Many shops, restaurants and attractions close and transport runs less often, so reserve a meal ahead. Markets in Prague, Tallinn, Bolzano and Merano may stay open, but check hours.
Pick a walkable old town with a station nearby. Reims and Bolzano have the market within a few minutes' walk of the station. Nuremberg, Strasbourg, Prague, Tallinn and Rothenburg are small enough to explore on foot.
Sicily and Spain's east coast stay mild in December. Palermo averaged highs of 62°F (16.8°C) in December 2024 and 2025, per my Italy in December guide. Jijona hosts a turrón fair from December 4 to 8, 2026. Neither is beach weather, so pack a jacket.
Warsaw's market is much smaller than Prague's. On my visit it was far less crowded, and gifts, food and drinks cost less. Gdańsk is another lower-cost Polish option.
Pack layers, waterproof boots, a hat and gloves for hours outside. For Poland, see my guide to what to pack for Poland in winter. For Italy, see my guide to what to wear in Italy as a local.
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I absolutely love Christmas markets and festive light-ups! This post is a great inspiration for short-trips during the festive season. I have to check Vigo in Spain - never thought about going there for the light-up.
Vigo is one of the best and brightest in Europe for Christmas, definitely worth seeing!
I’m so excited for Christmas! This post was amazing ✨
Thank you Joi! I'm looking forward to Christmas too 🙂
I really enjoyed your post because it brought back wonderful memories of my visit to Poland and Czech Republic during the Christmas season. I cannot wait to go back after this pandemic ceases its stronghold.
Thanks Rose, I really appreciate you taking the time to read and comment.
I love this post! It gave me so much travel inspo!
Aw thank you so much!
The only one I have ever been to is the one in Stockholm. This is a wonderful list. It is a bucket list for me. Can't wait until we can all travel again. Thanks so much for sharing.
You're welcome LaRena, I'm glad you've visited Stockholm at Christmas, it's so pretty!
Wonderful list. I am happy that my homeland capital (Tallinn) is also included. It's truly a winter wonderland. Great pictures and Christmas vibe.
Aw we loved Tallinn! How lucky you are to live there 🙂
Beautiful! Great list and can't wait to be able to travel to some of these! Hopefully next year... 🙂
Thanks Emily! These are annual events and will be back next year 🙂
Thank you Lisa!
Beautiful recommendations! Looking forward to be able to travel safely to Europe again 🙂
You're welcome 🙂 There are some great places to visit on the list
This is a great list! There is so much left to see but I can't recommend the UK (London and Manchester) enough, especially during the holidays!
Thank you! They definitely transform come Christmastime 🙂
What an incredible list!! I haven’t heard of many of these places, even outside their Christmas markets. Hopefully next Christmas we can enjoy them fully again!
Thanks Lannie! Yes, there's always 2021, I'm sure things will be back to normal by then 🙂
I would love to check out these cities some day. I love Christmas and would love visiting these places! Thanks for sharing.
You're welcome! There are some great destinations 😀
All these cities look so lovely. I wish I could visit them for the holidays.
Consider visiting next year Sue, there are some lovely options
I love how there are certain cities that are acquainted more solely with Christmas haha!
These truly are some really nice places to come visit on this wonderful holiday.
You really get the festive vibe here!
So many cities here that I'd love to visit at Christmas time as they all look amazing and so magical! Here's keeping my fingers crossed for next year.
They're all annual events so definitely will be back next year 🙂
Christmas in Europe is so exciting...something I would love to experience one day! Thanks for sharing this list. Lots of beautiful cities to explore!
There really are, consider it for next year maybe 🙂
I am a big Christmas person but prefer to spend that holiday season with my family and friends in the Philippines.
That must be a great Christmas break!
I'm not a big Christmas person but I've always wanted to go to Lapland in Finland. I love Finland and celebrating the holidays would be the perfect way to finally visit.
Lapland is full of festive cheer, I'm sure you'd enjoy a visit here
I had plans to visit some German and Austrian Christmas Markets this year but I guess it will havd to wait one year. I'm keeping this list for that tour, I love that you included lesser-known cities or Chriatmas Markets all over Europe.
Thanks Anda! I always like to include lesser known places, as Europe is so vast and it's always the usual cities that grab the spotlight 🙂
So during the Christmas season of 2019, my wife & I took a Rhine River Cruise for our honeymoon right after Christmas Day. What was awesome is that most of these cities sill celebrated till the epiphany so we got to experience several Christmas celebrations in Hungary, Austria, Germany, and finally in the Czech Republic. We loved all of them, but I have to agree with you and say that Prague was hands down the best. We were there for 5 days on our own exploring and the whole city is full of the Christmas spirit! Of course there is the major market in Old Town. But there are so many smaller markets around the city that we loved too! Of this amazing list of Christmas Cities in Europe, I would say that St Wolfgang or Strasbourg would be on our hit list next. Perhaps Warsaw would also be intriguing.
You're clearly a pro at Christmas in Europe Eric! Definitely consider Warsaw; true it's not as big or glitzy as Prague, but this also means far less people and it has more of a local vibe 🙂
I love Europe in winters. Christmas vibe just makes the countries so beautiful. Lapland is my favourite no doubt, after all, it is the home of Santa but I do love Austria and Germany too. Great list.
Thank you! I agree with you, Lapland takes the top spot!
This is such a great list! I have so many places I want to visit. I've always wanted to go to Spain. I'm definitely bookmarking this for later. Everything looks so beautiful!
Perfect Angie! These markets and events are annual events, so they'll definitely be back next year
OMG!!! Take me to Europe nowwww...St. Gallen — Switzerland looks amazing...I can't wait to move to Europe for good.
Aw I hope you can make your dream a reality one day, there are some great cities here
I have yet to visit Europe. Thanks for giving someone like me a little tour to that part of the world.
You're welcome! I hope you're able to visit one day soon 🙂
Thank you for this wonderful list of places to visit. I have not yet made it cross the pond and will be doing so real soon so when I do get over there I am using this handy list of wonderful suggestions. Everything is so beautiful there!
You're welcome Melissa! Definitely come and visit one day 🙂
What a really great list. I would love to visit Lapland one day, and hopefully meet Santa. I would love to also go and see all the fab Christmas Markets
There are some great markets and events guaranteed to get you in the Christmas mood!
We always wanted to head to Europe for Christmas. It sure won’t be this year! True northern countries like Lapland would certainly provide the full winter experience. But we probably would want to start with Christmas markets. I know see that one trip will not be enough to get all the big ones! I always thought I would start in Germany. But maybe I need to start in Strasbourg if it truly is the “capital of Christmas”. Keeping this list for future winter travel.
Thanks Linda, and I totally understand! All of the markets and events listed here happen annually, so fingers crossed for 2021! And Strasbourg is a great place to start 😀
It would be fun to enjoy the winter season here. It seems like a magical place to visit
There are plenty of choices!
I love all the glow of the magical lights. But the spot I would love to visit is Lake Carezza. It looks gorgeous.
Great choice Julia, it's a little Christmas hidden gem in Italy
Thanks for a great article. Wow, a white Christmas. Tallinn looks amazing, and it must be spectacular with the illuminated 5 million Christmas lights. In our country, South Africa is very hot and humid in December, and hopefully, one day, I can experience a snowy white Christmas.
Thanks Mimmie, I really hope you get to visit one of these and experience a Tallinn white Christmas one day 🙂
Magical. I wish I could go to all of these cities. I was able to be in Germany during the holidays when I was younger, and I remember loving it.
Thank you! There are some magical cities and towns in Europe that are perfect for the Christmas holidays 🙂
Omg. I didn't know St. Gallen steps up during Christmas. Especially with a new Santa Claus and great markets. We were there in 2018 in summertime.
It's so pretty at Christmas, definitely worth returning for!