Destination: Europe

Top 5 best Christmas destinations in Europe

Discover the five best European Christmas destinations and book your hotel at the best price.

Europe is a fantastic destination for Christmas, as many cities and towns are beautifully decorated, offering a festive atmosphere with Christmas markets, lights, and holiday traditions.

Many Christmas traditions that are now celebrated worldwide originated in Europe. The continent has a rich Christmas customs history, including festive markets, carol singing, and nativity scenes. These traditions create a sense of authenticity and nostalgia that many people find appealing.

Europe is also famous for its Christmas markets, where you can shop for unique gifts, crafts, and delicious seasonal treats. Not only are their markets unique, but they are also usually set within historic architecture and charming old town centers, which make the perfect backdrop for a festive holiday season.

And depending on where you’re planning on visiting, there’s a good chance of a white Christmas with snow covering the landscape. The snowy scenery adds to the idyllic and picturesque quality of the holiday season. In this post, you will find some of the best Christmas destinations in Europe.

Christimas destinations

Strasbourg, France
Vienna, Austria
Prague, Czech Republic
Nuremberg, Germany
Tallinn, Estonia

Strasbourg, France

Christmas in Strasbourg, France

Strasbourg is often referred to as the “Capital of Christmas” for a good reason. Its Christmas market, known as “Christkindelsmärik,” dates back to 1570 and offers an enchanting atmosphere with hundreds of stalls, beautifully decorated streets, and stunning light displays. The city’s historic architecture and picturesque canals add to its charm. You can find traditional Alsatian crafts, delicious regional foods, and a warm festive spirit, making it the top destination to visit during Christmas.

Our favourite hotel in Strasbourg is Hôtel Cathédrale because of its central location and its quaint old worm charm, perfect while visiting the oldest Christmas market. Book Hôtel Cathédrale.

Vienna, Austria

Christmas market in Viena, Austria

Vienna’s Christmas markets are a tradition dating back to the 18th century. You can enjoy classical concerts, visit the Schönbrunn Palace Christmas Market, and savour Austrian pastries and glühwein (mulled wine). Enjoy classical music concerts, shop for unique gifts, and savour Austrian pastries, sausages, and glühwein. The city’s elegant ambiance and musical heritage make it a special place to celebrate Christmas. The city’s imperial palaces and baroque architecture provide a regal backdrop for the holiday season.

The best hotel in Vienna to enjoy Christmas is the Boutique Hotel Stadthalle Wien, on the metro line and close to the centre and the Schonbrunn Christmas market. Book Boutique Hotel Stadthalle Wien.

Prague, Czech Republic

Old Town Square in Prague with the Astronomical Clock in the foreground and Church of Our Lady before Týn with Christmas tree

The historic Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square in Prague are beautifully decorated with twinkling lights and host festive markets. The city’s Gothic and Baroque architecture adds to the magical ambiance. Prague’s medieval Old Town and historic squares are beautifully adorned with lights and decorations during the Christmas season. You can explore the Christmas markets in the Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square, where you’ll find crafts, gifts, and Czech holiday treats. Don’t miss the giant Christmas tree and the stunning Prague Castle.

Our choice for hotel is the EA Hotel Sonata, perfectly situated in Prague’s centre and near the metro station. Book EA Hotel Sonata.

How would you like to have the whole world just one click away?

Get the most up-to-date traveling tips with our monthly newsletter. We will send you news about the best places to stay and eat, must-see attractions, upcoming cultural events, festivals, and celebrations around the world's most exciting holiday destinations.

Nuremberg, Germany

Nuremberg Christmas lights illuminating cobblestones and the whole street at night, Germany

The Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt is one of the most famous Christmas markets in Germany. It’s known for its emphasis on handmade and high-quality goods, including Nuremberg gingerbread cookies and delicate ornaments. Don’t forget to try the local Nuremberg sausages. The festive atmosphere, charming Old Town, and culinary delights like Nuremberg sausages make it a quintessential Christmas destination.

Our favourite budget hotel in Nuremberg Germany is the A&O Nürnberg Hauptbahnhof. It is centrally located and falls well within anyone’s budget. Book A&O Nürnberg Hauptbahnhof .

Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn Christmas Market with a touch of a fairy tale at the Town Hall Square of Tallinn

Tallinn’s medieval Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and looks like something out of a fairytale during Christmas. You can explore its Christmas market while enjoying the historic setting with features such as a beautifully decorated tree and stalls selling traditional Estonian handicrafts, warm drinks, and snacks. It’s a perfect place to experience a magical European Christmas.

Tallinn’s medieval Old Town, with its well-preserved medieval architecture and cobblestone streets, creates a fairytale-like setting for Christmas. The best hotel in Tallinn is the Rija Old Town Hotel, close to everything you would need as well as the beautiful waterfront. Book Rija Old Town Hotel.

Looking for the best places to spend Christmas in Europe?

These destinations offer a range of experiences, from traditional and historic to modern and unique. They’re known for their ability to capture the magic of Christmas, making them some of the best places to celebrate the holiday season in Europe. Keep in mind that Christmas is a popular time for travel, so be sure to book accommodations and plan ahead for any special events or activities. Enjoy your European Christmas adventure!

BON VIAGGIO REWARDS

2% back in your Viaggio Wallet

Book the best hotels
around the World & Save

Sign in, it's free