Splendid Christmas Destinations In Europe

With the advent of the magical season of Christmas, snowy mountains and chilly climate herald a time of happiness and frolic. Being a festive season, people all over the world look forward to and welcome December. End of the year becomes beginning of a revelry spell. European countries in particular deck themselves in a jovial mood. In fact, each country boasts of multiple Christmas destinations in Europe. Remarkable Christmas markets, dazzling illuminations, idyllic ambiance, lively shows and snow-clad climate constitute Christmas destinations in Europe. Even as spiritual and traditional practises overlap, aroma of special food and drink adds delight to each of the Christmas destinations in Europe. Here is a short list of a few of them.

Bergen, Norway

Norway comes with the reputation of being one of the best and splendid Christmas destinations in Europe. Welcoming everyone with a spate of cheerful sites, Christmas fairs, seasonal and cultural activities, Bergen becomes the warm centre of Christmas activities. Bryggen, the harbour district in Bergen with its wooden buildings – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – remains the special attraction in the city. The area is also popular for going on a shopping spree during the Christmas season. Bergen’s Pepperkakebyen, world’s largest gingerbread town is very famous. Many of the landmarks in the town are recreated in gingerbread this season. If you are lucky, you will witness the spectacle of the Northern Lights to light up the Christmas season in Bergen. Then, there is the Norway’s unusual Christmas tradition of ‘Christmas bath’, the julebad. It is a plunge into ice-cold water to mark the end of Christmas preparations. Going on a dog sledging or on reindeer ride is another exciting activity. Seasonal food in Bergen is another reason why you should be in this beautiful location. Ribbe, Lutefisk, pinnekjøtt, sauerkraut, småkaker are a few in the list.

Andalusia, Spain

Another celebrated Christmas destination in Europe is Andalusia in Spain. From sparkling light displays, street processions and church vigils, the town literally lifts your spirit during Christmas season. Large family gatherings to celebrate Christmas in merry is a special aspect of the celebration in Andalusia. The heritage town with a religious legacy showcases palaces and historical sites from the 8th to the 11th centuries. Sites that have had Muslim and Christian occupation have left behind splendid spots to hang out especially during this time of the year. Practise of Zambombas where the locals gather around a bonfire singing carols and dancing through night is captivating. Reyes Magos parade or the Three Kings’ Parade is another interesting activity not to be missed while you are in Andalusia. And if you wonder about the Christmas special food and drinks, the list is tempting too. Cured meat, Spanish jamón, Pork and lamb preparations, sweet meat called turron, Roscos de vino, Roscón de Reyes and a lot more can be enjoyed. Year after year, Spain also has the distinction of making largest chocolate nativity set in world. The spectacle of Heavenly Angels Christmas lights and El Gordo lottery in Spain drawn on December 22 also attract a lot of attention.

Prague, Czech Republic

When the medieval and baroque structures are decked with Christmas lights, local stalls and public vehicles exhibit celebratory attires, Prague comes alive to celebrate Christmas. Snowy roofs and tree tops add charm. Visiting castles, museums and parks that are all vibrant with activities remains a must. However, what stands out at Prague during Christmas season is the Christmas markets. Market places in the Old Town Square and in Wenceslas Square turn out to be two of the splendid Christmas destinations in Europe. These markets are open from 30 November till 6^th January 2025. These theme-based markets become centre stages for locals and tourists to come together in celebration. Christmas trees to decorated articles, ornaments, Czech special food items and a lot more traditional items are on sale here. There are also other local markets. Nativity processions, music and dance add life to the market places. Sightseeing and river cruises are also popular in Prague during the season. It is interesting to note that despite the fact that many Czechs are atheists they continue to attend the midnight Christmas Mass to keep up the tradition.

Zagreb, Croatia

The Croatian capital, Zagreb, has the distinction of being named Best Christmas holiday destination in Europe a few times. And the reason? There are multiple reasons why tourists flock to Zagreb to celebrate Christmas. The renowned ice-skating rink on King Tomislav Square and Donji Grad are two key spots where the jubilant crowd make merry. Illuminated streets and food kiosks add beauty to the magic. In different places, live concerts, animations, light illuminations and shows will enthral the visitors. Toys installed as part of the Christmas decorations are also a sight to behold here. Underground 3D show in the Gric Tunnel, historical sites, museums, exhibitions, workshops and theatres are other activities to keep you moving. Also, tasting Medenjaci, a Croatian Christmas gingerbread, fritule, strudel, traditional mulled wines and hot chocolates is part of the celebration. With its rich cultural background, Zagreb is an amazing location that brims with the spirit of Christmas in this time of the year. The Christmas lights have been officially switched on 30th of November 2024 heralding this year’s celebrations at Zagreb.

Alsace, France

Christmas season in Alsace brings together different cultures and traditions overlapping with a German touch. Great food, festive mood, decorations, shows and Christmas market make Alsace one of the sought-after Christmas destinations in Europe. Opened in 1570, The oldest and largest Christmas market in France is located in Alsace. The vast Strasbourg Christmas market is a mini-Christmas world of its own. Locally called Christkindelsmärik, the market remains open from November 27th to December 27^th this year. Beyond the happening market area, numerous other activities unfurl during the season. Street illuminations, parades, midnight mass, Noël Bleu in Guebwiller are a few of them. A local tradition after Christmas involves making a 16-kilometers walk from Wissembourg to Berwarstein Castle in Germany. Les Noëlies or different musical concerts organized during the season is yet another entertaining event. Seasonal ice-skating rink and Ferris Wheel add more action-packed time. Finally, never miss Christmas wine and other delicious local dishes.

Fill your backpack with a lot of winter cloths and fly to one of these splendid Christmas destinations in Europe.

Happy Christmas!