Europe or the most beautiful part of our world looks like a fairy-tale winter wonderland during Christmas. Since this year is reaching towards the end, all I could think off was where to spend Christmas in Europe? Amongst the list of most picturesque European destinations places like Milan, Prague, Rovaniemi, Vienna, London, Lapland and Strasbourg as some of the best places to spend Christmas in Europe. Other than that there are several other places which look just as beautiful, if not more during Christmas.
From the Biggest Christmas Markets in Europe to catching a glimpse of the best Christmas lights to being a part of some of the oldest European Christmas traditions get ready to have a look at Top 20 best places to spend Christmas in Europe that shall be the fondest memory of your life forever.
21 Best Places to Spend Christmas in Europe
So, this Christmas Pack your backs and escape to the most enchanting European Destinations
Related read:
Most romantic places to visit in the world
#21. Tallinn, Estonia
source: visitestonia.com
Tallinn is popularly counted in the list of best Christmas destinations in Europe. The reason is the magical open air museums, typical European cobblestone lanes and exciting Christmas programs like Christmas villages.
Things to do: Shop at Town Hall Square's Christmas Markets, Enjoy the nightlife of Tallinn, taste the mulled wine and go for skating in the Old Town.
Temperature in December: around an average of -2 degree Celsius.
How do you reach: Baltic Station is the closest railhead while Lennart Meri Tallinn Airport is the closest Airport.
Also Read: Cheap Places to visit in Europe that'll get you to grab your passport right now!
#20. Geneva, Switzerland
If you want to know where can you find the best Christmas lights ever then the answer is Geneva. Lake Geneva looks charming at night. The shops, stalls, and the glitter of a thousand different lights makes this place nothing less than a winter wonderland.
source: lake-geneva-switzerland.com
The markets are stacked with Christmas gifts and delicious Christmas food that makes it one of the best places to spend Christmas in Europe this year.
Things to do: You have to visit these Christmas markets that I just talked about. Other than that, be a part of genève marché international de noel at place de la fusterie. Also, go shopping at Rue du marché.
Temperature in December: around an average of -3 degree Celsius.
How do you reach: From City Centre Geneva Airport is just 4km journey and also Gare de Cornavin is the closes railhead at the center of the city.
Also Read: Top Places to visit in Europe in November to see the gorgeous colors of fall
#19. Stockholm, Sweden
Your Christmas holidays in Europe shall never be complete without a trip to this magical land of exceptional beauty and mouth-watering Christmas cookies and Christmas Cupcakes.
Source: Visit Stockholm
Things to do: Explore the Christmas Markets at Old Town, indulge in the Christmas Celebrations at Drottningholm Castles.
Temperature in December: around an average of -1 degree Celsius.
How do you reach: From the City Centre the Stockholm Bromma Airport lies at a distance of 11 Kms. You can also use the Stockholm Central Station railhead that connects to all nearby places.
Also Read: Indulge into Tantalizing Swedish Christmas Flavors with Jannssons Frestelse-Jannsson’s Temptation
#18. Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik in Croatia is certainly one of the best European city to spend Christmas in Europe. Behold the sight of attractive and adorable Christmas trees beautifully lined up along the limestone paved 300 metered long Stradun through the Old Town.
source: Blog Dubrovnik
Things to do: Sing Dubrovnik Carols, hang out with the locals and drink hot wine, beer along with sausages. Be a part of the popular winter fashion trends that women flaunt here.
Temperature in December: around an average of -8 degree Celsius.
How do you reach: From the City Centre the Chilipi Airport lies at a distance of 15kms and the Ploce railhead is the only closest railhead that lies at a distance of 100Kms.
Also Read: Best Places to visit in the Snoozy Coastal Town of Europe, Croatia
#17. Vilnius, Lithuania
I really don't know why people think of Vilnius as the last option for their Christmas trips to Europe. This beautiful European land glitters in Christmas light and happening food during Christmas.
Things to do: Shop for Christmas gifts, explore the Christmas Markets in city's main square. Also visit the smaller markets to get handmade gifts and local items.
Temperature in December: around an average of -1 to -5 degree Celsius.
How do you reach: From the city centre the Vilnius airport lies at a distance of 6 km. Also, the Vilnius central railway station is pretty close to the Old Town.
Also Read: Hear the Rhythm of your Soul in the Fairy tale Land of Europe: Slovenia
#16. Helsinki, Finland
One of the most beautiful Christmas getaways in Europe that can steal any heart with its mesmerizing Christmas Markets. It should be noted that these astonishing Christmas markets in Finland ranks in the list of Top 10 Christmas Markets in Europe. Other than that, the food, the lights and all that uber festive nights makes this one of the best places to spend Christmas in Europe.
source: Finland Holiday
Things to do: Go Ice Skating, Shop at the Central Stockmann department store, buy gifts and treats from Helsinki's Christmas Markets.
Temperature in December: around an average of -1 to -4 degree Celsius.
How do you reach: From the City Centre the Helsinki Vantaa Airport is 19 Kms. However, the Helsinki railway station is at the centre of the city.
Also Read: Explore Santa’s country, Finland this winter: The ecstatic toy town on our globe
#15. Valencia, Spain
A perfect place to witness the true holiday spirits in the natives, Valencia ranks as one of the best Christmas destinations in Europe.
Source: Erasmus Spain
Things to do: Go Biking in the turia gardens, visit the Gran Circo Wonderland, Indulge in Pumpkin Fritters with Hot Chocolate
Temperature in December: Around 5 to 10 Degree Celsius.
How do you reach: From the centre the International airport lies at a distance of 11 Kms. You can also visit the Valencia Train station for nearby journeys.
Also Read: “Dive into the charm of this Saturday city!: Explore Must visit sights in Barcelona,Spain
#14. Budapest, Hungary
From the grand celebrations at the St. Stephen Basilica to the traditional Hungarian Folk shows, Budapest in Hungary expertly makes it position in the list of best places to spend Christmas in Europe.
Source: Destinations Magazine
Things to do: Dive into the outdoor pool of szechenyi thermal bath, travel in trams adorned with fairy lights, Indulge in mulled wine at vörösmarty tér.
Temperature in December: Around an average of 1 degree Celsius.
How do you reach: From the city centre the Budapest ferenc liszt international airport lies at a distance of 21 Kms. Also, the Budapest Keleti Train station is just 10 minutes from the heart of the city.
Also Read: 25 Must Visit Places in Budapest, Hungry
#13. Madeira, Portugal
European Christmas can be felt and lived in full-swing only in a place such fun-loving as Madeira. The music and entertainment makes this one of the must-visit places to visit in Europe during Christmas.
source: Madeira Islands
Things to do: Witness the 3D thrilling festive lights, enjoy the fireworks, participate in the angels and giant walk-through baubles.
Temperature in December: Around an average of 15 to 18 degree Celsius.
How do you reach: From the city centre the Madeira Airport lies at a distance of 18 Kms.
Also read: Top Places to visit in India in January
#12. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam is certainly one of the best places to spend Christmas in Europe owing to its magical and mesmerizing decoration. The main attraction is to see the Museum Square that dresses up like a bride in these days. Also, the busy Christmas markets and limitless music and entertainment makes best Christmas destination in Europe.
source: Tour radar
Things to do: Do cycling with dutch people, visit the Amsterdam Light Festival, indulge in dutch hapjes (snacks), go ice-skating, go boat cruising in the canals of Amsterdam
Temperature in December: Around an average of 2 to 4 degree Celsius.
How do you reach: From the city centre the Schipol Airport lies at a distance of 18 Kms. Also, the Amsterdam Central Train Station is pretty near to the city.
#11. Salzburg, Austria
Salzburg in Austria hosts the oldest Christmas Markets in the whole world. Witness how this old European city transforms into a charming bride during Christmas. The age old European traditions coupled with the fun activities makes Salzburg one of the best places to spend Christmas in Europe.
source: Pinterest
Things to do: Take a horse-drawn sleigh ride, visit the Salzburg Christmas Markets and head towards to Silent Night Chapel.
Temperature in December: Around an average of 1 degree Celsius.
How do you reach: From the city centre the Linz Airport lies at a distance of 101 Kms. You can also take the Central Train Station that lies at a distance of only 15 minutes from the city centre.
Also Read: The European diamond flame, Austria. 20 + Austrian Destination that will swoon you
#10. Leipzig, Germany
After Salzburg, Leipzig in Germany is said to have the second oldest Christmas Markets. But, it should be highlighted that Leipzig hosts some of the most prettiest markets in all of Europe. Owing to its beauty Leipzig also counts in as one of the best places to spend Christmas in Europe.
Source: languages.leipzig.travel
Things to do: Participate in the parades, indulge in German cuisines, take ferry rides.
Temperature in December: Around an average of 2 degree Celsius.
How do you reach: From the city centre the Halle Airport lies at distance of 22 Km. It is the only nearest airport. You can also take the Leipzig train station.
#9. Copenhagen, Denmark
If you want to see some of the old European Christmas traditions then head to Copenhagen. Did you know that Copenhagen has also been awarded the best city to visit in the world in 2019 as per Lonely Planet? Also, the invigorating smell of Christmas cookies and the bustling Christmas markets makes Copenhagen one of the best places to spend Christmas in Europe.
Source: Flickr
Things to do: Indulge in traditional Christmas culinary, visit the Copenhagen's Christmas markets to soak in the festive spirits.
Temperature in December: Around an average of 2 degree Celsius.
How do you reach: From the city centre the Kastrup Airport lies at a distance of only 8 Kms. And, the Copenhagen Central Station lies only 15 minutes away from city centre.
#8. Vienna, Austria
Vienna is indeed the most Christmas-y city in all of Europe. Your European Christmas vacation shall never be complete without a trip to this magical destination.
Source: Flickr
Things to do: Take photos at Belvedere, visit the Christmas Markets, Drink up weihnachtspunsch.
Temperature in December: Around an average of 3 degree Celsius.
How do you reach: From the city centre, Vienna International Airport lies at a distance of 23 Kms while the Vienna Main Station lies at the centre of the city.
#7. Rovaniemi, Lapland
Rovaniemi is one of the most enchanting places to spend Christmas in Europe. This Santa-Land, celebrates Christmas in the best way. This is also considered as the official home of Santa Claus.
source: Visit Rovaneimi
Things to do: Visit the iconic Santa Claus village, check out the Christmas exhibitions, explore the Artic zoo, experience Reindeer ride.
Temperature in December: Around an average of -11 degree Celsius
How do you reach: From the city centre the Rovaniemi International Airport lies at a distance of 11 kms. Also, the Rovaniemi Railhead is just next to the city centre.
#6. London, England
London doesn't need any recommendation as it is widely popular for being the most popular and one of the best places to spend Christmas in Europe. The exceptionally unique decorations and grand carol concert makes this Royal City the best Christmas destination in Europe.
Source: The Keen Group London's Instagram
Things to do: As per "Visit London" - the Official visitor guide, You can go Ice skating at Somerset House, you can sing Christmas carols, make crafts with Mrs Claus at ZSL London Zoo, See the gorgeous lights at Oxford street and more.
Temperature in December: The Average temperature for the month is 6 degree celsius.
How do you reach: You can choose amongst five various major airport i.e. Gatwick, London City, Stansted, Luton and Heathrow. You may also use three railhead Heathrow, Stansted, and Gatwick to travel around the city.
#5. Strasbourg, France
You simply cannot miss Strasbourg in your next Euro Trip. The reason being, the age-old European Churches. It is a wonderful experience to spend the Christmas eve sitting on antique church seats in one of those 400 year old European Churches.
Source: Today's Outlook World Instagram
Things to do: Obviously the best thing to do would be visiting the old Strasbourg, Cathedral. Other than that, visit the famous Christmas markets and shop some exciting gifts.
Temperature in December: Around an average of 4 degree Celsius throughout.
How do you reach: I suggest Baden-Baden airport. You can also take the Karlsruhe airport. You can also travel in train from Gare de Strasbourg-Ville (main railway station)
#4. Brussels, Belgium
I personally think Brussels has to be in the top 3 of the best places to spend Christmas in Europe. Reason being the ideal weather, biggest Christmas markets selling a sea of cute products and gift items all amidst the aroma of delectable Chocolate!
Source: Fine art america
Things to do: For a foodie like me Christmas in Brussels is one of the best experiences that I ever had. Also, do not forget to be a part of the biggest Christmas market in Europe, take a ferry ride, also wait till 31st to see the fantastic firework.
Temperature in December: The temperature ranges between 2 to 7 degree Celsius.
How do you reach: You may chose to fly to Zaventem airport or Charleroi airport, thought the latter is 46 Km south. You can also use train stations like Bruxelles-Midi or Bruxelles Central.
#3. Prague, Czech Republic
If you are asking yourself where to spend Christmas day in Europe then I have to tell you that Prague in Czech Republic is the ideal place for you. The most picturesque European holiday destination transforms into a fairytale land during Christmas. By far, it is certainly one of the best European Christmas destinations in all of Europe.
source: Flickr
Things to do: Go Ice Skating (you'll certainly have lots of fun if you skate at Ovocny Trh - free skating ring that operates until 10 pm beside the Prague City Hall), Explore Christmas markets of Wenceslas Square and Old Town Square, attend Christmas concerts at the St Salvator and more.
Temperature in December: Around an average of 0 degree to 4 degree Celsius.
How do you reach: You can fly in to the Prague václav havel airport that is at a distance of 18 Km (11 miles) from the center of the city. Praha hlavní nádraží is the most important railway station that is only 5 minutes walk from Wenceslas Square and just 15 minutes from the Old Town Square.
#2. Milan, Italy
Milan in Italy is the best of all the best places to spend Christmas in Europe. You Christmas in Europe Itinerary would never be complete without a trip to "quadrilatero della moda" (The Fashion District).
source: Flickr
Things to do: Visit the beautifully decked up Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, visit Oh Bej! Oh Bej! - the primary and most essential Christmas fair in Milan also check out the mesmerizing lighting at Via Monte Napoleone.
Temperature in December: Around an average of 2 degree to 7 degree Celsius.
How do you reach: You can fly in to the Milan Malpensa Airport (largest International Airport in Northern Italy according to Wikiperdia) or Linate airport (closest to the city). You can travel around the city from Milano Centrale Railway Station or Milano Cadorna or Milano Villapizzone Railway Station.
#1. Edinburg, Scotland
Edinburghs Christmas is just magical. Edinburgh Christmas Market is the best of all. Read below to know what more you can do in Edinburgh.
Also Read: Top 14 things that you must do to experience Edinburghs Christmas in full-swing
Hence this was a list of Best Places to spend Christmas in Europe. If you liked this (long) post about where to spend Christmas day in Europe then share it with your friends. At the end, thank you for your patience. Thank you all the people whose images i have used. Until Next time...
Happy Travel to You!!
Merry Christmas!! 🙂 🙂 🙂
