Stroll around historic Christmas markets draped in twinkling lights. Breathe crisp Arctic air as you explore snow-dusted landscapes by reindeer sleigh or snowmobile. Savour festive treats like warm mulled wine, indulgent panettone and roasted chestnuts. You can do all of this and so much more in Europe at Christmastime.
Uncover 11 of the best places in Europe for Christmas. You’ll learn about local traditions, find out where to go for the promise of snow, and discover the cities with the most magical markets.
The aurora over Kirkjufell mountain on Iceland’s Snæfellsnes peninsula.
1. Iceland
Best for: The northern lights, otherworldly scenery and stand-out traditions.
Iceland has some of the most unusual Christmas customs in Europe. One you can join in with while you’re visiting is Jólabókaflóð (the “Christmas book flood”). And instead of meeting Santa Claus, you could encounter some of the 13 Yule Lads.
These gangly elf-like characters are the sons of a troll named Grýla. According to legend, they come down from the mountains in the run-up to Christmas to cause mischief. Nowadays, though, they’re cast more as friendly gift-givers than troublemakers.
Plus, let’s not forget Jólakötturinn (the “Christmas Cat” or “Yule Cat”). This giant cat is Grýla’s pet and is rumoured to gobble up anyone who doesn’t get new clothes for Christmas.
Jólakötturinn (aka the “Christmas cat”) in downtown Reykjavík. © Nordic Visitor
Along with these quirky characters, the locals also embrace classic Christmas traditions like carolling. And throughout Advent, the capital city of Reykjavík sparkles in the glow of fairy lights.
If it’s frosted scenery you’re after, leave the city behind to marvel at turquoise glacier lagoons, frozen waterfalls and mighty volcanoes. Explore the Golden Circle on a day trip from Reykjavík to see natural wonders, including Gullfoss, Geysir, and Þingvellir National Park.
However you decide to spend your days, come evening, you could unwind at a geothermal spa like the Blue Lagoon or Forest Lagoon.
Santa Claus Village in Finnish Lapland.
2. Lapland
Best for: Chasing the aurora and a guaranteed white Christmas.
Few places are more Christmassy than Lapland. In this winter wonderland, you can meet Santa Claus, chase the northern lights, and fall asleep under the stars in a glass igloo.
For the ultimate dose of festive spirit, head to Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi. Complete with Santa’s workshop and official post office, it’s a must for kids of all ages. You can also visit a traditional market, try local delicacies, and pick up some gifts made by the elves.
Top tip: Rovaniemi is popular at Christmas, so make sure to plan your trip well in advance. Or consider travelling outside the festive season – anytime between December and March feels Christmassy in Rovaniemi. Alternatively, head for Swedish Lapland instead. Here, you’ll find the world’s first ice hotel and the Aurora Sky Station.
Glide through forests on a reindeer-drawn sleigh. © Lapland Hotels
Lapland is also home to expansive forests that become dazzling snowscapes in winter. For an adrenaline-fuelled Yuletide, why not explore them by sled or snowmobile? Then, return to your cabin or hotel after a thrilling day in the snow to warm yourself by the fire.
But don’t fall asleep just yet! Lapland’s position in the Arctic Circle means it’s one of the best places on Earth to see the northern lights. Venture out again on a clear night, and you could be treated to a mesmerising display of the aurora borealis.
Princes Street Gardens Christmas Market in the Scottish capital.
3. Scotland
Best for: Lively celebrations, Highland retreats and fiery whisky.
Scotland is renowned for its Highland castles, whisky distilleries and moody lochs. Not to mention, its sleepy fishing villages and historic cities. Visit around Christmas for postcard-perfect scenes in Edinburgh.
While snowfall is unpredictable in the Scottish capital, there’s plenty of festive fun to be had. Wrap up warm and amble through the bustling Christmas market in Princes Street Gardens, or check out the light show at the Royal Botanic Garden.
A misty morning at Stirling Castle.
Discover cosy corners that inspired the Harry Potter books when you wander the UNESCO-listed Old Town. And for a special treat, indulge in a festive afternoon tea complete with sweet mince pies at Edinburgh Castle.
Stick around for Hogmanay, Scottish New Year, to experience other seasonal traditions. Stonehaven’s parade of whirling fireballs is a strong contender for the most jaw-dropping. Or, head to the Scottish Borders, where you can listen to bagpipes at the lighting of the Biggar Bonfire.
Wherever you decide to go at Christmas or New Year, you’ll have a memorable festive season in Scotland.
Norway’s Lofoten Islands on a sunny winter day.
4. Scandinavia
Best for: Frozen fjords, Viking heritage and moreish cinnamon buns.
In Northern Europe, the kingdoms of Denmark, Sweden, and Norway make up the region known as Scandinavia. Whether you visit just one of these nations or tour all 3, they’re the perfect setting for a Christmas trip.
The Danish capital of Copenhagen is one of the best European cities for Christmas with the kids. The whole family can enjoy vintage-inspired fairground rides surrounded by 1,000 Christmas trees at Tivoli Gardens theme park.
Tivoli Gardens at Christmastime.
You’ll find another popular Christmas market at Nyhavn. This harbour district is also a top spot for sipping Danish mulled wine (“gløgg”) by the fire at canalside restaurants.
In Norway and Sweden, there are many more Scandinavian cities for you to discover.
Venture to Bergen, Norway’s “Gateway to the Fjords”, where the UNESCO-protected port of Bryggen wows beneath Christmas lights. Or, for diverse dining and nightlife, travel to Swedish cities like Stockholm and Gothenburg.
Zermatt and the Matterhorn’s pyramidal peak in the Swiss Alps.
5. The Alps
Best for: Snow-capped peaks, medieval cities and storybook châteaux.
Think of the Alps at Christmastime, and you probably imagine glamorous ski resorts in full swing and ice skating rinks in historic squares. This European region spans 8 countries, so you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to enchanting escapes.
There are few better spots than an Alpine town for a traditional festive market. Imagine shopping for gifts beneath Switzerland’s mighty Matterhorn in the mountain town of Zermatt. Or visit the Austrian city of Salzburg, with its captivating old town and grand Baroque architecture.
Munich’s magical Christmas market.
You could also venture to Germany’s Bavarian Alps for hilltop castles, frosted forests and dramatic lakes. Just make sure not to miss Munich, the region’s capital. A Christmas market dating back to the 14th century is held in front of the city’s Neo-Gothic town hall each year. Grab a soft pretzel and hunt for hand-crafted souvenirs.
The northern lights over Illulisat in Greenland. © Thomas Norby Mogensen
6. Greenland
Best for: A guaranteed white Christmas, Inuit traditions, and activities like snowshoeing.
Greenland is a winter wonderland with its iceberg-strewn fjords and vast ice caps. Travel during the festive season and prepare for a Christmas to remember. Most visitors split their time between the colourful capital of Nuuk and scenic Ilulissat.
Both settlements have breathtaking views of the Arctic Ocean. Whichever one you choose, you’ll find the streets decorated with stars and candles at this time of year. Plus, the long winter nights mean you’ll have more chances to spot the northern lights.
Imagine seeing icebergs floating off the west coast of Greenland.
Like many European countries, Greenlanders celebrate Christmas on 24 December. Expect dancing around Christmas trees, carolling, and hearty feasts.
Stay until 6 January, and you can experience the Mitaartut festival. Although sweets and sometimes scary costumes are involved, this is not an Arctic take on Halloween. Instead, this historic custom of silent masked dancing is deeply rooted in Inuit culture and marks the start of a new year.
Of course, being in the Arctic means Greenland can get harsh winter weather. Consider visiting in summer for more settled conditions and opportunities for activities like whale-watching and hiking.
Dublin’s Temple Bar District.
7. Ireland
Best for: A warm welcome, cosy pubs and toe-tapping Irish tunes.
Ireland may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of Christmas holiday destinations in Europe. But the Irish know how to throw a party, and Christmas is no different.
You’ll find the biggest Christmas events in the capital city of Dublin. Check out Dublin Castle’s Christmas at the Castle for a boutique festive market in spectacular surroundings.
Soak up dramatic scenery from Ireland’s dramatic Slieve League cliffs. © Paul Lindsay – Chris Hill Photographic
On Christmas Eve, stroll down bustling Grafton Street in the heart of the city, and you can hear legends of Irish music busking. In previous years, icons such as Bono, Glen Hansard, and Imelda May have performed at this charity event.
Beyond the Irish capital, cities like Galway and Cork are great places to visit. Wherever you decide to go, stop off at snug local pubs for live folk music and tasty Irish dishes.
Milan’s Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II at Christmastime.
8. Northern Italy
Best for: Irresistible food, romantic cities and famous lakes.
In the stylish city of Milan, sleek skyscrapers stand side-by-side with medieval castles and frescoed churches. During the festive season, you’ll see Italy’s fashion capital embrace a slower pace beneath glittering Christmas lights.
For the ultimate Milanese experience, catch a Christmas concert at the Teatro alla Scala, one of the country’s most famous opera houses. And while you’re in town, try a slice of fruit-studded panettone. This sweet buttery bread is the Italian stand-in for Christmas cake.
Naviglio canal in Milan decked out for Christmas.
With Milan as your base, you could be on the shores of Lake Como in around 1 hour by car or train. Explore the cobbled streets of Como and soak up mountain views on a cruise of the lake.
Or, if you’re planning a romantic Christmas getaway, why not head to Verona? Nicknamed Italy’s “City of Love”, it’s the setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet.
Tallinn’s Christmas market is brimming with old-world charm.
9. Estonia
Best for: A magical festive escape in one of the lesser-known cities in Europe.
For an off-the-beaten-track European Christmas destination, try Estonia. With its uncrowded capital and a high chance of snow, this could be the ideal spot to spend your holiday season.
Tallinn’s UNESCO-listed old town is a good place to start. The capital’s winding medieval streets look as though they’ve been lifted straight from the pages of a fairytale.
Here, in Town Hall Square, you’ll find the city’s festive market. Admire the giant Christmas tree and try the local cuisine. If black pudding and sour cabbage aren’t for you, opt for gingerbread or indulgent hot chocolate.
If you’ve got time to go beyond Tallinn, check out Estonia’s second city, Tartu. This up-and-coming university town was named the 2024 European City of Culture. Or, consider extending your trip in the Baltics with a cruise to Helsinki, Finland’s capital.
The French town of Colmar looking festive.
10. Alsace, France
Best for: Strasbourg’s world-renowned Christmas market.
France is one of the most visited countries on the planet, thanks to its captivating cities and breathtaking scenery.
Travel in December, and you’ll enjoy plenty of Christmas spirit. Perhaps the best place to celebrate Christmas in France is the Alsace region. Here, you’ll discover a blend of French and German culture, as well as medieval towns with cobblestone streets.
While many towns in the region get decked out for the season, Strasbourg is the self-proclaimed “Capital of Christmas”. With a 400-year-old tradition of Christmas markets and around 300 chalet-style stalls throughout the city, you could argue the title is justified.
So surely, there’s no better place to do the last of your shopping and savour delicious treats like Yule log (“bûche de Noël”).
Kraków in the snow.
11. Poland
Best for: Getting festive in one of the world’s oldest Christmas markets.
Poland’s cities are great places to visit at any time of year. But head to the likes of Gdańsk, Wrocław, or Kraków at Christmastime, and you’ll see these grand cities sparkle.
In the historic port of Gdańsk, expect a red-brick cityscape and lavish townhouses. Kraków, meanwhile, has one of the most striking castles in Europe, perched on Wawel Hill. And make sure you don’t miss the Kraków market. It’s one of the oldest Christmas markets in the world.
One of the most unique Polish Christmas traditions is the meal on 24 December. It consists of 12 courses, representing the months of the year and the 12 Apostles. Just make sure to pace yourself if you’re invited to one of these festive feasts.
Looking out to the Reynisdrangar sea stacks from the Icelandic village of Vík.
Now you know the top places in Europe to spend the holiday season, all that’s left to do is plan your festive trip!
