7 Best Christmas Destinations in Europe to Celebrate the Holiday Season

Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a small medieval town that looks like a Christmas fairy tale come to life. The town has well-preserved old buildings, narrow cobblestone streets, and a famous Christmas market called Reiterlesmarkt. You can walk along the town walls for beautiful views of red rooftops covered in snow. The Christmas Museum is open all year and shows decorations from different time periods. Käthe Wohlfahrt's Christmas store is another popular spot where you can buy handmade ornaments and traditional German decorations.

Vienna is the capital of Austria and one of the most elegant cities in Europe during Christmas. The city has more than twenty Christmas markets, with the most famous ones at Rathausplatz and Schönbrunn Palace. You can try traditional Austrian treats like roasted chestnuts, mulled wine, and sweet pastries while shopping for handmade gifts. The streets are decorated with thousands of lights that make evening walks very special. If you enjoy classical music, there are many Christmas concerts held in historic churches and concert halls throughout December.

Colmar is a charming town in the Alsace region known for its colorful half-timbered houses and flower-lined canals. The town has five different Christmas markets spread across the historic center, each with its own theme and atmosphere. You can find local crafts, Alsatian wines, and delicious gingerbread at the market stalls. The Little Venice area becomes especially beautiful when its medieval buildings reflect in the water with Christmas lights glowing everywhere. The streets feel cozy and intimate, making it perfect for a romantic winter getaway.

Munich is famous for hosting one of the oldest and largest Christmas markets in Germany at Marienplatz square. The market has been running since the 14th century and attracts millions of people each year. You can warm up with Glühwein (hot spiced wine) and try traditional Bavarian food like bratwurst and pretzels. The English Garden becomes a peaceful winter retreat with snow-covered paths and frozen streams. If you want something unique, the Tollwood Winter Festival offers alternative music, theater performances, and organic food stalls.

Prague has stunning Gothic architecture that becomes even more magical when covered in snow and Christmas lights. The Old Town Square hosts the main Christmas market with a huge tree and a nativity scene at the center. You can taste traditional Czech foods like trdelník (a sweet pastry) and enjoy live music performances throughout the day. The Charles Bridge offers amazing views of the castle and river, especially beautiful during sunset in winter. Prague is also more affordable than many other European capitals, so you can enjoy a festive holiday without spending too much.

Zurich offers a sophisticated Christmas experience with elegant decorations and high-quality markets throughout the city. The main railway station hosts Europe's largest indoor Christmas market with a huge Swarovski crystal tree hanging from the ceiling. You can ice skate at outdoor rinks, shop for Swiss chocolates, and enjoy fondue at cozy restaurants. Lake Zurich provides beautiful winter scenery with snow-capped Alps visible in the distance on clear days. The Niederdorf district in the old town has charming streets perfect for evening strolls with festive window displays and warm café lights.

London transforms into a Christmas celebration with giant decorations, spectacular light displays, and festive events across the entire city. You can ice skate at famous locations like Somerset House or the Natural History Museum's outdoor rink. Oxford Street and Covent Garden have stunning light installations that attract visitors from around the world each evening. Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park is a massive Christmas festival with rides, shows, markets, and an ice kingdom. The city also offers traditional pantomime theater shows and Christmas afternoon tea experiences at historic hotels.