It’s the most wonderful time of the year. And, around Europe, many cities and towns dazzle with spectacular displays and activities to mark the festive season.
winter wonderland
If you dream of visiting Europe in the run-up to Christmas, one of these 10 destinations will spark your wanderlust.
The home of St Nick, the Finnish region of Lapland is Christmas personified. Stop by Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi to see the man of the moment and his hardworking elves.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany
The medieval town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber offers an authentic German Christmas experience. Browse the Christmas markets that date to the 15th century.
Lose yourself in the spicy aroma of freshly baked gingerbread and Linzertorte in Linz. Stroll through Christmas markets with a backdrop of beautiful baroque buildings.
prague, czech republic
Gaze at the 19m Christmas tree in Old Town Square, before trying some traditional Czech food, and a steaming mug of mulled wine (svařák).
The only Polish market to be nominated for the European best Christmas market award, Gdańsk deserves a closer look.
Strasbourg, France
France’s oldest Christmas market, Christkindelsmärik, takes place each year in Place Broglie.
Gothenburg holds the title of the country’s biggest Christmas market. Illuminated by around 5 million Christmas lights, the market includes stalls and an ice-skating rink.
Bolzano hosts Italy’s biggest Christmas market. The stalls only sell locally-produced items, and it’s against the law to sell anything but.
Over 300 chalets and stalls set up across the city, the main one being in Town Hall Square (Raekoja plats).