Last updated on July 21st, 2024.
Christmas is the time of year that gives you an unlimited fun hall pass.
It’s when we get to let our hair down, indulge our gluttonous side and spend without giving our bank balances a second thought.
And when you add Christmas in Europe to the equation, the fun factor multiplies tenfold.
If you’re searching for the best place in Europe to spend Christmas keep on reading. These 20 best Christmas cities in Europe are some of the most festive spots around the continent.
The chance to experience the holiday in some of the world’s most fairy tale-like cities, get inspired with these best Christmas destinations in Europe.
20 best Christmas cities in Europe
Lapland — Finland
Spend your European Christmas vacation in the magical home of St. Nick in Lapland, Finland.
Regardless of your age, or whether you’re traveling with children, you can’t help but feel Christmassy in Lapland.
Take a visit to the wintry Santa Claus village located in Rovaniemi. Here, there are several attractions and activities here that’ll easily fill up a day.
Stop by Santa Claus’ office and watch the man of the moment and his elves hard at work. Afterwards, swing by the gift house to pick up a few presents to take home.
Where to stay in Rovaniemi
Continue your magical experience in Rovaniemi by spending a few nights at the picturesque Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort.
Booking.comConsisting of cozy igloos and dreamy chalets, it’s your chance to sleep beneath a blanket of stars.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber — Germany
When it comes to wanting a storybook-style Christmas, Germany has several places that will ignite your festive spirit.
Located in northern Bavaria is the medieval town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
Come Christmastime, a powdering of light snow transforms the town into a more fantastical scene. Many visitors say that it’s one of the best places in Europe to spend Christmas.
Take a private tour of Rothenburg ob der Tauber and discover its charming half-timbered houses. The town typically holds 8 Christmas markets, 4 of which include Marktplatz, Grüner Markt, Kapellenplatz and Schrannenplatz.
The Christmas markets of Rothenburg ob der Tauber date to the 15th century.
In 2024, the Rothenburg Christmas markets will run from November 29th to December 23rd.
Not much has changed since the tradition began over 500 years ago. If an authentic Christmas experience is what you’re looking for, you’re in the right place.
Where to stay in Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Hotel Herrnschloesschen is one of the oldest buildings in the town. Offering French-country style rooms and suites, a sauna and rental bikes, it’s a cozy and boutique hotel choice.
Booking.comNuremberg, Germany
While in Bavaria, you may be tempted to stop by the city of Nuremberg.
The second largest city in the region, its annual Christmas market is one of the biggest and the best in Germany.
It’s no wonder why Nuremberg is considered as one of the best places to spend Christmas in Germany.
A festive feast that the whole family can enjoy, the ‘Christkindlesmarkt’ has something for everyone. Browse the many stalls for a luxury Christmas travel gift, before stopping to try a Nuremberg Bratwurst in a bun.
Dates for the Nuremberg Christmas market
The main Christmas market in Nuremberg usually takes place in the central square in the old town, called the ‘Hauptmarkt’.
It usually starts around the first Sunday of Advent so typically the end of November. For 2024, the Nuremberg Christmas markets will run from 29th November to 24th December.
Check the official website for the most up-to-date information. One of the best Christmas cities in Europe, Nuremberg will not disappoint.
Where to stay in Nuremberg
Central, boutique and very affordable, Melter Hotel & Apartments – a Neighborhood Hotel, is a fine choice.
Booking.comThe Nuremberg Christmas market is just 500m from the property and 400m from the old town.
Linz — Austria
Lose yourself in the spicy aroma of freshly baked gingerbread and Linzertorte in the Austrian city of Linz.
Located between Vienna and Salzburg in Upper Austria, the city lights up with festive cheer when the holidays come around.
With a backdrop of beautiful baroque buildings and the old town hall it’s a 2-in-1 trip.
Near to the main train station is the Christmas market in the Volksgarten; a market traditionally for families. Browse the standard wooden stalls, jump on some rides and watch the nativity play.
The 2024 Linz Christmas market dates are still to be advised.
However, it typically takes place each year from mid-November until the end of December/beginning of January. Its primary location is the Main Square.
St. Wolfgang — Austria
The Christmas cheer extends to plenty more towns and cities in the Upper Austrian region.
St. Wolfgang is another fairy tale-like town that feels like it was made just for Christmas. Lantern-lit roads, Christmas trees and a floating light of peace lantern on the lake welcomes you to its shores.
Try one of the town’s local specialties at its Advent Christmas market or watch master craftspeople making vintage handicrafts. St. Wolfgang knows how to do Christmas and they do it well.
If the idea of an EU Christmas in Austria sounds appealing consider visiting Vorarlberg on the western side. The cities of Bregenz, Feldkirch and Dornbirn celebrate Christmas with a sparkle.
The 2024 Christmas market in St. Wolfgang runs from 22nd November to 22nd December.
Where to stay in St Wolfgang
Wake up to views of the crystalline blue Lake Wolfgang at the stunning Hotel Seevilla Wolfgangsee. The hotel has a small spa center, a 10m infinity pool and a restaurant with a lakeside terrace.
Booking.comPrague — Czech Republic
This next Christmas market should need no introduction.
Prague has built up a stellar reputation for its Christmas markets and for good reason. It’s easily one of the best cities in Europe for Christmas markets and visitors never leave disappointed.
Towards the end of November, the Czech capital is transformed into a Christmas wonderland. A grand 19m tall tree is erected in Old Town Square to symbolize the start of the festive season.
The square’s also one of 5 Christmas market locations in Prague. Just 5 minutes’ walk away is the Christmas market in Wenceslas Square. You’ll also find some smaller markets at St. George’s Basilica at Prague Castle and also at Republic Square.
For 2024, the Prague Christmas markets in Old Town Square will take place from 2nd December to 6th January.
Eat well, drink well
Comfort food is big at the Prague Christmas markets. Indulge in local Czech specialties like spit-roasted hams, barbecued sausages and cheese-topped flatbreads.
Wash everything down with a steaming mug of mulled wine, svařák, or an ice cold Czech beer. The country’s known for being one of the world’s biggest beer consumers so expect plenty of good options.
Where to stay in Prague in winter
Prague has a kaleidoscope of accommodation options that suits all budget types. If staying in a central location is important, look around Old Town Square or Wenceslas Square.
One option is Mosaic House Design Hotel, a gorgeous boutique choice in Prague. With 94 rooms, the hotel’s 0.8mi (1.3km) from the old town. Beautiful inside and out, it’s perfect for Prague.
Booking.comAn alternative option is to book a rental property in Prague. This 2-bed, 2-bathroom apartment is located in the heart of the Old Town, with Charles Bridge just 2 minutes away.
St. Gallen — Switzerland
Step into an old town in northeast Switzerland illuminated by 700 sparkling lights.
St. Gallen is a name you’ve probably not heard of but it’s one of the best Christmas cities in Europe.
The St. Gallen Christmas markets stalls are located in the streets of the old town. Its Christmas tree typically sits in front of the baroque towers of the cathedral.
Traditional as it is charming, it’s where they sell locally-made Christmas presents as well as delicacies. Sink your teeth into some heavenly Swiss Raclette cheese or authentic St. Gallen bratwurst.
The 2024 St. Gallen Christmas markets will run from 28th November to 24th December.
The Swiss Santa Claus
We’re all familiar with the story of Santa Claus, a figure we associate originating from Lapland in Finland.
However, there’s also a Swiss equivalent, and he comes from a village near to St. Gallen called Weinacht.
The ‘Swiss Santa Claus’, Willi Würzer, receives letters from Swiss children as well as from children overseas.
Known as ‘the Santa Claus of Wienacht-Tobel’, Willi receives up to 200 letters a day in the run-up to Christmas. To date, he has received around 5,000 letters.
Where to stay in St. Gallen
The number of options to stay in St. Gallen are surprisingly aplenty despite its small town status. One of my favorite hotels located beside the UNESCO monastery area is Einstein St. Gallen.
Booking.comA leading hotel in town, the rooms are luxurious yet affordable for this part of Switzerland.
Gdańsk — Poland
The port city of Gdańsk oozes plenty of charm more so in the run-up to Christmas. Its historic buildings date to the 14th century, many of which had to be rebuilt after the Second World War.
One of the best cities for Christmas in Europe, the buildings of Gdańsk old town provide a perfect festive backdrop.
Typically starting around late November, the Christmas market in Gdańsk usually takes place around Targ Węglowy in the old town. Come to browse the market stalls and to watch the cultural events taking place during the season.
Gdańsk is also the only Polish market to be nominated for the European best Christmas market award. Plan your trip and find out for yourself.
Where to stay in Gdańsk
Located in one of the most beautiful streets in Gdańsk is Gotyk House. Situated in a building dating to 1453, the accommodation’s warm, rustic and wholly welcoming.
Booking.comOther outstanding features of Gotyk House include its terrace, the library and a museum in the building.
Warsaw — Poland
The Polish capital isn’t as well known for its Christmas markets compared to other larger European cities.
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 though it was bitterly cold, it was an enjoyable time of year to travel.
The main market, which takes place near Warsaw Castle, is much smaller than others I’ve been to. On the plus side, it was far less crowded and also much cheaper for goods and for food and drink.
The 2024 Warsaw Christmas market runs from 25 November to 6 January 2025.
More than 1 — best Christmas cities in Europe
Alongside the main Christmas market in Warsaw, the city usually holds smaller Christmas markets nearby. One is located near a Catholic church, just before the castle, while the other’s in the old town market place.
What Warsaw lacks in size regarding its Christmas markets, it more than makes up for in festive spirit.
Come Christmastime, a parade of lights and a traditional Christmas tree illuminate the city. Dive into any of the small nearby bars for a glass of gluwein and an escape from the cold.
My guide on what to pack for Poland in winter prepares travelers on how to keep warm during their trip.
Where to stay in Warsaw
My all-time favorite boutique hotel in Warsaw is H15 Boutique Hotel.
Located in a central, yet quiet, part of Warsaw, it’s within walking distance of the city’s top attractions.
Booking.comIt takes about 15 minutes on foot, or 5 minutes by taxi to reach the Warsaw Christmas market in the old town.
20 best Christmas destinations in Europe 1. Lapland, Finland 2. Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany 3. Nuremberg, Germany 4. Linz, Austria 5. St. Wolfgang, Austria 6. Prague, Czech Republic 7. St. Gallen, Switzerland 8. Gdansk, Poland 9. Warsaw, Poland 10. Strasbourg, France 11. Reims, France 12. Bolzano, Italy 13. Lake Carezza, Italy 14. Vigo, Spain 15. Jijona (Xixona), Spain 16. London, UK 17. Manchester, UK 18. Tallinn, Estonia 19. Gothenburg, Sweden 20. Copenhagen, Denmark
Strasbourg — France
A city whose tagline is the ‘capital of Christmas’, you’d expect Strasbourg to be one of the best cities to visit in Europe at Christmastime.
When Christmas arrives, the capital of the Grand Est region in northeast France hosts more than 300 market stalls.
A city lit up by fairy lights, the streets, houses, churches and balconies make a dazzling Christmas market.
The Strasbourg Christmas markets usually begin around the end of November and finishes at the end of December. You’ll find all the markets, 11 in total, in the Grande Île area (historic center) of the city.
In 2024, the Strasbourg Christmas markets run from November 24th to December 24th.
Dating back
One of the larger markets holds the title of France’s oldest Christmas market. Christkindelsmärik takes place in Place Broglie and has been welcoming visitors for four centuries.
Another of Strasbourg’s festive star attractions is its grand Christmas tree. Located in Place Kléber, the luminous fir overlooks the holiday festivities and instantly ignites festive cheer.
Nearing the German border, the city’s location reflects its dual heritage. A mix of French and German culture as well as its architecture, Strasbourg is more than a one-stop shop destination.
Where to stay in Strasbourg
Le Moon is just 350m from the Strasbourg Christmas market, making it an ideal choice for your stay.
Booking.comThe 19th century building has colorful contemporary rooms and everything you need for a comfortable stay in the city.
Reims — France
Another in the Grand Est region of northeast France is the spectacular city of Reims. The city’s most known for its grand Cathédrale Notre-Dame, the coronation place of France’s kings.
However, when the holidays arrive, the ‘unofficial capital’ of the Champagne region also becomes well known for its Christmas festivities.
With around 140 chalet-style huts selling a variety of gifts, crafts, and refreshments, there’s plenty to keep you busy.
The Children’s Kingdom promises plenty of entertainment in the form of an ice-skating rink and activity-based workshops.
Sounds good? Stay tuned for the 2024 Reims Christmas market dates.
Just 45 minutes by train from Paris, there’s no excuse not to visit France’s third largest Christmas market.
Where to stay in Reims
The ultra-chic and stylish Continental Hotel is a top choice for Reims. Housed in a 19th century building, it offers modern rooms and is also close to top sights like Cathédrale Notre-Dame.
Booking.comBolzano — Italy
When the holiday season arrives in Italy, there’s only one destination that puts me in the holiday mood: the Dolomites. As much as I enjoy being in Sicily and feasting on Sicilian Christmas food, a wintry landscape suits me better.
The mountainous region, that spans across the north of Italy and borders with Austria, is ideal for an Italian winter getaway.
And one city in particular, Bolzano, transforms 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.
A change from the norm
A white Christmas tree substitutes the standard green one, shedding a dazzling array of light and colors over the town.
Italy’s biggest Christmas market is in Bolzano, selling only locally-produced items like slippers and hats to cakes and scented candles. For me, it makes Bolzano one of the best Christmas cities in Europe. It’s actually against the law here to sell any other products than locally made.
Complete your Bolzano Christmas experience by sampling some of the region’s finest produce. Sink your teeth into a freshly made apple fritter and wash it down with some spiced mulled wine.
The 2024 Bolzano Christmas market dates takes place from 28th November to 6th January 2025.
Where to stay in Bolzano
Just 500m from the Christmas market and 800m from the Bolzano Victory Monument is Goldenstern Townhouse. Luxurious furnishings run throughout this rustic hotel.
Booking.comWith just 11 rooms, this design boutique’s a top choice in Bolzano.
Lake Carezza — Italy
Just 20 minutes’ drive from Bolzano is the tiny town of Lake Carezza.
As its names suggests, the serene lake acts as a backdrop to the small, yet charming, Christmas market.
There wasn’t a Christmas market in Lake Carezza in 2023 and the 2024 dates haven’t yet been released. When running, the market typically runs from 10:00 until 18:00.
Located in the Eggental (Val d’Ega) region of South Tyrol, Lake Carezza is a Christmas hidden gem in Italy. It’s also one of the most beautiful places to visit in South Tyrol.
Extra Italy Christmas stop: Gubbio
If visiting the world’s largest Christmas tree is on your bucket list, you need to visit the town of Gubbio.
Sitting in the Umbria region of Italy, Gubbio is famous for its luminous tree that lights up the slope of Ingino Mount.
While the tree isn’t technically a tree, its dazzling number of lights are sure to leave you speechless.
Vigo — Spain
Lights, lights and more lights are what you can expect at Christmastime in the Spanish city of Vigo.
Each year, the city goes out of its way to make sure that the festive displays outdo the previous years.
To give you an idea, it’s estimated that the lights will cover over 300 streets and 465 trees. With some trees reaching heights of around 60m, there’s no escaping Christmas in Vigo.
Where to stay in Vigo
Unwind on the sun rooftop terrace after a long day of exploring the city at Agua de Mar Hotel boutique. Add a touch of color to your stay in one of these elegant rooms, which offer plenty of natural light.
Booking.comJijona (Xixona) — Spain
What if you love Christmas but hate the cold weather?
Lucky for you, a European Christmas solution comes in the form of Jijona, or Xixona, located on Spain’s east coast.
The town sits in the province of Alicante, which is known for its stretches of sandy beaches and sunny weather.
Typically taking place around the first week of December, Constitution Avenue is transformed into the Jijona Christmas fair.
The event has around 90 stalls, selling everything from Christmas decorations and turrón to seasonal sweets and local produce.
A little different from its colder northern neighbors, Jijona makes for a unique Christmas destination in Europe.
London — United Kingdom
There’s no lack of glitz and glamour when the holidays come to the UK capital.
London’s Christmas lights displays are some of the best in the world, with crowds gathering to photograph them.
One of the best Christmas cities in Europe, you can plan your trip around the zone 1 tube map.
The capital has several Christmas markets to get you into the festive mood. Areas like London Southbank, Winter Wonderland and Somerset House are just a handful of locations that host festive events.
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 just one of many top boutique choices.
Booking.comStaying here guarantees a central location in London and is within walking distance of the city’s top attractions. We stayed at its sister hotel in New York City, the Crosby Street Hotel, and weren’t disappointed.
Manchester — United Kingdom
When November arrives in Manchester, its world-famous football team isn’t the only draw to the city.
Beginning around the second week of November, the city hosts several Christmas markets, the main one located in Albert Square.
The 2024 Manchester Christmas market dates are yet to be confirmed.
One of the best Christmas cities in Europe, the Manchester Christmas markets resemble those in Germany or Austria.
There’s an impressive number of chalets and stalls — over 300 in total across the city. Featuring goods and produce from local sellers, as well as European vendors, there’s a solid international vibe that runs throughout.
Where to stay in Manchester
Sleek and stylish, Dakota Manchester offers guests a central choice. Its 137 rooms have the latest mod-cons installed plus rainforest showers and en-suite bathrooms.
Booking.comMarket Street is an easy 5-minute walk, while Manchester Piccadilly Station is 3 minutes away.
Tallinn — Estonia
A city that exudes charm anytime of the year, Tallinn becomes something even more special when Christmas arrives.
One thing you can bet on when visiting Tallinn in winter is snow, and plenty of it. The Tallinn Christmas market usually begins in mid-November and lasts until the beginning of January.
Its main location is the Town Hall Square (Raekoja plats) in the heart of the old town. Close to the medieval restaurant, Olde Hansa, you’ll instantly be enamored by the festive display.
There’s an impressive number of chalets and stalls — over 300 in total across the city. Featuring goods and produce from local sellers, as well as European vendors, there’s a solid international vibe that runs throughout.
The 2024 Tallinn Christmas market dates are 22nd November to 27th December.
Lots going on — best Christmas cities in Europe
A short 15-minute drive from the center is the Estonian Open-air Museum. Its winter program typically features a Christmas village, where you can watch demonstrations on historic bread baking and handicrafts.
Where to stay in Tallinn
Accommodation in Tallinn doesn’t get any better than these 2 very central, and boutique, hotels.
Hotel Schlössle and St. Petersbourg Hotel are charming spots with locations right in Tallinn old town. While the former retains more of a rustic feel, St. Petersbourg Hotel is modern and edgier.
Booking.comThe Golden Piglet Inn at Hotel Schlössle is a must try for traditional homestyle Estonian cooking.
Gothenburg — Sweden
Visit the most Christmassy city in Sweden, and one that holds the title of the country’s biggest Christmas market.
It’s one reason why Sweden is considered as one of the best countries to visit during Christmas.
Illuminated by around 5 million (you read that correctly) Christmas lights, the event takes place at Liseburg amusement park. The market typically starts around mid-November and finishes at the end of December.
The 2024 Liseberg Christmas market dates haven’t yet been released.
Highlights of the event include the market stalls, an ice-skating rink and a chance to sample some Swedish Christmas delicacies.
A ‘julbord’ is a Swedish-style buffet consisting of hot and cold dishes. From spiced saffron buns to Christmas ham, it’s one event that foodie travelers shouldn’t dare miss.
Gothenburg is also home to smaller Christmas markets outside of Liseburg. The Haga quarter of the city’s old town hosts its own event, selling items such as Christmas decorations and homeware.
Where to stay in Gothenburg
With Carpe Diem beds and Egyptian cotton bedding, a good night’s sleep is guaranteed at Dorsia Hotel and Restaurant.
Booking.comLocated at the center of Gothenburg, this lavish hotel’s a short walk of many of the city’s main sights.
Copenhagen — Denmark
Combine a European Christmas with a big dose of hygge in the Danish capital of Copenhagen. There are tons of events to get you into the festive mood, such as the Christmas season at Tivoli Garden.
A classic attraction all year round, Tivoli Garden transforms into a festive playpen of Christmas activities. Snow-covered trees, wooden huts and more than 1,000,000 twinkling lights await you at this Copenhagen favorite. The Christmas season for 2024 have yet to be made public.
The Christmas markets in Copenhagen usually start around mid-November and end in late December/beginning of January.
Check the Visit Denmark website before visiting.
Kayaks and carols
Another attraction worth looking out for is the Santa Lucia parade. On 13 December, kayaks decorated with colorful Christmas lights and decorations sail through the canals.
During the parade, the kayakers make several stops to belt out a few Christmas carols. An Instagrammable sight to capture and something you won’t see anywhere else.
Where to stay in Copenhagen
Have the Copenhagen Christmas market right on your doorstep with a stay at the super luxurious Nimb Hotel.
Booking.comWith just 38 rooms — 26 of which are suites — this dreamy boutique hotel is a class above the rest.
What do you think of this list of the best 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.
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ABOUT me
Welcome to my site. I'm Lisa, an Italy-based travel and lifestyle blogger behind Following the Rivera. Find out more about me and my story.
Where are the best places to spend Christmas in Europe?
1. Lapland 2. Rothenburg ob der Tauber 3. Nuremberg 4. Linz 5. St. Wolfgang 6. Prague 7. St. Gallen 8. Gdansk 9. Warsaw 10. Strasbourg 11. Reims 12. Bolzano 13. Lake Carezz 14. Vigo 15. Jijona (Xixona) 16. London 17. Manchester 18. Tallinn 19. Gothenburg 20. Copenhagen
When is Christmas in Europe?
The Christmas season in Europe begins around late November. This is typically when the Christmas markets begin.
What are the best Christmas destinations in Europe?
Germany, Czech Republic, Austria, Switzerland, France, Denmark, Sweden, Poland, Italy, Estonia
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!