5 Best Locations For A Traditional Christmas In Europe

Europe is a remarkable continent to visit during the holidays, with some of the best Christmas markets, lights, decorations, and good cheer. On top of this, most of Europe has now dropped all those pesky pandemic restrictions, while opening its borders to the world. For anyone seeking an authentic and traditional Christmas, the following are five of the best festive destinations in Europe.

1. Christmas in Salzburg, Austria

Surrounded by the snow-capped Alps, December in Salzburg is wonderfully charming, with its Old Town, chocolate box architecture. In fact, the city was voted in the top 20 best cities to visit in the world by the Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards 2021.

However, at Christmas, Salzburg truly turns on the charm. Those looking to buy presents should head to the Salzburg Christmas Market on Cathedral Square, with its decorations and hand-crafted ware. Meanwhile, there is no better way to celebrate than to enjoy a Mozart concert in the birthplace of the composer. While the weather outside might be icy, head to Mozart’s favorite café, Café Tomaselli for some delicious hot chocolate.

2. Holidays in Berlin, Germany

For those who love the party scene, as well as festive cheer, Berlin is a marvelous place to be during the holidays. In fact, we have Germany to thank for Christmas decorations, as they were almost invented here. The Christmas market scene offers so much choice, plus there’s an ice rink at Potsdamer Platz, as well as a toboggan run. Weihnachts Zauber Gendarmenmarkt offers mulled wine and other treats.

Meanwhile, in Alexanderplatz, a Ferris wheel stands tall as well as a Christmas pyramid of more than 5,000 lights. However, as previously reported, there might not be quite so many lights this year, due to the energy crisis,

Naturally, after hours, Berlin offers some of the best nightclubs in Europe, and they are all open during the holidays.

3. Festive season in Lapland, Finland

Lapland is the ideal place for Christmas magic, for kids and adults alike. The family can enjoy husky-led sled rides through the frosty forests, or head to Ylläs to spend time in a sauna gondola. Yes, the Finnish have converted a cable car into a sauna, which takes guests on a 20-minute ride. This allows an outdoor Jacuzzi session with a traditional sauna, but admittedly, doesn’t come cheap.

Naturally, the kids can get to meet Santa, pretty close to his home at the North Pole.

4. Christmas in St. Moritz, Switzerland

For a guaranteed white Christmas, spend time at the Alpine ski resort of St. Moritz. The kids can enjoy a family toboggan run, or have fun ice skating at Lake St. Moritz or Kulm Country Club. Alternatively, head out for a snowshoe hike or try out snowkiting on the Bernina Pass.

Meanwhile, for those who want a quieter festive season, wrap up warmly to enjoy a horse-drawn sleigh ride.

5. Spend the holidays in Bruges, Belgium

Bruges is one of Belgium’s prettiest cities at any time but turns into a fairytale scene at Christmas. With its gabled houses, cobblestone streets and festive décor the city is wonderful during the holidays. Head to the medieval center, with its Gothic architecture and squares and markets, lit with fairy lights.

Naturally, Belgium is known for its famous chocolate, and Christmas is the perfect time to visit the chocolatiers in the city. As everyone knows, calories don’t count at Christmas!

Keep an eye out for more suggestions for the perfect Christmas vacation in many parts of this big, lovely world.