Start packing your warmest coat. Grab your camera. We are about to sail on a journey to discover places with the best Christmas holiday vibes.
There is something different about the Europe Trip Packages in December. It isn’t just about shopping or days off work. The overall mood is so special and cozy. The scent of roasted nuts and cinnamon fills the air. Old buildings sparkle with thousands of colourful lights. Around every corner, one can hear music. Christmas in Europe feels like stepping into a Disney fairytale.
If planning a winter getaway has been on your mind for some time, it’s common to feel overwhelmed. The thing is, there are so many options.
Don’t worry. We’ve looked into the best spots recommended by travel experts. Here is a guide to European cities with the most charming Europe Christmas Markets.
1. London, United Kingdom: The King of Decorations
If lights captivate your eyes so much, London is the destination to be. Here, one might miss the traditional wooden huts of Germany, but the stunning decorations will make up for that. The whole city transforms.
- Regent Street: Look up. You will see massive, glowing angels floating above the street. It is iconic.
- Covent Garden: They usually have a huge sleigh and changing displays. Sometimes, they even make it “snow” every hour.
- Harrods: The famous department store goes all out. The windows are like art installations.
You can’t miss the fun activities, either. Go ice skating at Somerset House. It is incredibly picturesque. Or, visit Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park. It’s huge, loud, and full of festive energy. London captures the modern, buzzy side of Christmas perfectly.
2. Strasbourg, France: The Capital of Christmas
Welcome to Strasbourg, the “Christmas Capital of the World.” Once you travel here, you will agree too. Its location is in the Alsace region, very close to Germany. So, you get to experience a beautiful blend of German culture and French style.
The city is no less than a painting. The decked-out half-timbered houses from top to bottom appear so astonishing. There are huge ornaments, teddy bears, and lights on the stunning facades of buildings.
Must-See Highlights:
- The Teddy Bear Building: Yes, a building decorated with teddy bears. It seems they are quite serious about holiday fun.
- Place Kléber: This is where you spot the big Christmas tree — the heart of the festival.
- Pink Lights: Unlike the warm yellow lights you see elsewhere, this city prefers a lot of pinks and purples. These colours create a unique, romantic atmosphere in the evening.
3. Colmar, France: A Real-Life Fairytale
Hop on a short train ride from Strasbourg, and you’ll visit Colmar. If Strasbourg looked cute in your imagination, wait until you come here. This city is small in area and creates an even more wholesome ambience.
Colmar is the best example of a fairytale town. With cobblestone streets and colorful houses, it is truly photogenic. Here, the beauty reflects in the canals of “Petite Venise” (Little Venice).
Pro Tip: This place is crowded during the holiday season. To capture photos of the incredible decorations without so many people at the spot, wake up early. Go there exactly when the sun rises.
4. Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany: Step Back in Time
When you plan for “Christmas markets in Germany”, you get a perfect festive experience. And Rothenburg ob der Tauber is an even more excellent choice. In this medieval walled town, everything feels untouched by time.
From Nuremberg, getting to this place takes about an hour and a half. The architecture alone is mesmerizing. With Christmas decorations, it turns magical.
- Käthe Wohlfahrt Christmas Museum: At this store, people can buy Christmas items all year round. Inside, there is a massive tree and thousands of ornaments. The captivating decorations often spellbound visitors for hours.
- The Vibe: The town feels quieter compared to the big city markets. Come here and wander around with a cup of mulled wine.
5. Nuremberg, Germany: A Traditional Choice
Nuremberg has one of the oldest Christmas markets in the world. This place is famous as the “OG” market. If you are planning Christmas in Europe for the classic German experience, this is it.
People also call it “the little city of wood and cloth.” The reason is that the shops here sell traditional gifts mostly. Not much cheap plastic junk is available. Better you look for:
- “Prune Men” (little figures made of dried plums).
- Handmade wooden toys.
- Beautiful cloth ornaments.
You can find this Nuremberg Christmas Market in the central square, the Hauptmarkt. For the backdrop, there is the stunning Frauenkirche (Church of Our Lady). It can get very crowded, but the atmosphere is magical. You will see everyone smiling, eating sausages, and enjoying the season with their loved ones.
6. Cologne, Germany: A Market for Everyone
Cologne (or Köln) is home to more than one market — seven in total. And each one of them has its own charm. To reach the others, you can walk or hop on a short train ride.
- Cathedral Market: This is the most famous among the seven. The market takes place right in front of the grand Cologne Cathedral. Here, don’t forget to capture photos of the big Christmas tree and a canopy of lights that looks like a starry night.
- Market of Angels: This charming location has figures of angels blowing glitter. Stroll this market to experience something ethereal.
- Nicholas Village: A cozy, family-friendly spot.
- Heinzel’s Wintermärchen: Dedicated to house elves. It has a fun, folkloric theme.
The food items in Cologne steal the spotlight. Give a try to the Reibekuchen (crispy potato pancakes) with apple sauce. It’s a very delicious and greasy treat.
7. Düsseldorf, Germany: The Chic Christmas
Düsseldorf caters to a slightly different vibe. The markets take place throughout the entire city, so there are new pockets of festive cheer in every corner you visit.
- Schloss Benrath: This is a pink palace right outside the city center. Think of a pastel pink castle with little wooden huts nearby selling hot chocolate. Isn’t it romantic?
- City Center: The stalls here are stylish. If you need to buy last-minute gifts, the city will make sure you get the best deal.
8. Vienna, Austria: Elegance and Grandeur
Vienna is fancy — no better way to describe it. Christmas Market feels grand.
The main attraction is the Wiener Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz (City Hall Square). It is huge, and the City Hall backdrop is dramatic and beautiful.
- The Heart Tree: Look for the Herzerlbaum. It is a tree decorated with glowing red hearts. It is a favorite spot for couples.
- Schonbrunn Palace: There is another market here. You have to travel a bit further, but totally worth it. The imperial structure gives you a feel of royalty.
People in Vienna follow a strong coffee culture. When the cold gets too much, find a place like Cafe Central. Try a thick hot chocolate and thaw out in style.
Ready to Go?
Europe Trip Packages in December are truly astonishing. Whether you wish for the snowy adventures of Lapland, the glittering lights of London, or the traditional markets of Nuremberg, a perfect European destination is waiting for you.
Don’t forget to book your stay beforehand. These places are famous for a reason. Also, leave some extra space in your suitcase. You will surely desire to bring some of that Christmas magic home with you.
