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Table of contents:
- Intro 🎅
- Vienna, Austria 🎁
- Oslo, Norway 🕯️
- Zurich, Switzerland 👼
- Helsinki, Finland ❄️
- Copenhagen, Denmark ⛄
- Brussels, Belgium 🎄
- Rennes, France 🌟
- Nantes, France 🦌
- Dresden, Germany ☃️
- Stockholm, Sweden 🤶
- Bonus: Poland, Netherlands, Ireland and London 🧦
- Informative video 🛷
Intro
Europe in December transforms into a winter wonderland, where every corner sparkles with festive lights, the scent of mulled wine fills the air, and magical Christmas markets take center stage. From snowy Nordic capitals to charming cities in the heart of Europe, each destination has unique traditions, flavors, and activities that make it a must-visit during the holiday season. Here’s a guide to the best Christmas markets, activities, culinary delights, and accommodations in these wonderful and snowy destinations. Shout-out to Scotland and Wales for a very Harry Potter Christmas in Europe!
Vienna, Austria
Best Christmas Markets:
Vienna’s Christmas markets are legendary, with the Vienna Christmas World at Rathausplatz being the most iconic. Featuring over 150 stalls, an ice-skating rink, and a majestic Christmas tree, it’s a sight to behold. Don’t miss the Schönbrunn Palace Christmas Market to have a good time and buy some handcrafted goods. Also, the Prague Christmas Market is a beautiful option (check out this website: https://www.pragueexperience.com/events/christmas-markets.asp)!
Activities to Do:
Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the snow-covered streets, attend a classical music concert at the Vienna State Opera, or marvel at the festive decorations in the historic Kärntner Strasse shopping district. The city’s museums, such as the Belvedere and Kunsthistorisches Museum, also host special holiday exhibitions. This destination definitely needs to be on your Christmas in Europe bucket list.
Krampus Austria
Additionally, the Krampus Festival is an unforgettable sight and sound during the Christmas season. Especially in the Alpine regions of Austria, which make this distinctive tradition both colorful and creepy at once! It includes parades in which men and women wear Krampus costumes, depicting the fanged and horned creature who stands opposed to St. Nicholas, exchanging gifts for coal.
The events are characterized by participants wearing giant-headed masks, costumes with fur, and pelts of some animals dangling from them to create noise and sound as they march through the streets. The festival has an exciting and unforgettable atmosphere guided by blazing torches, loud cowbells, and collectible festive crowds. It is a special part of Austria’s and European folklore. Be careful! You must behave so as not to be taken away by the Krampus. Indeed, Christmas legends are also essential to understanding the Christmas spirit in these countries.
The Krampus Legend (Quick Facts):
- Date Visited: The night of December 5th (the Eve of St. Nicholas Day).
- Role: The “Christmas Devil” who punishes naughty children, often with switches or playfully threatening to take them away.
- Origin: Predates Christianity; originated as a Pagan Winter God in the Alpine regions.
- The Costume: Typically features a giant-headed mask, cowbells, animal fur, and horns.
The Christmas Devil: Krampus (a traditional Alpine companion for St. Nicholas) was a pagan winter god that predated Christianity. Krampus was gradually incorporated into Christian customs as a sidekick of St. Nicholas, who visits children on the morning of December 5. Krampus punishes the naughty children, sometimes with a playful threat to cart them off in his sack. This duality infuses a sense of morality and discipline into the holiday season, making for a one-of-a-kind dark turn to Austria’s otherwise merry Christmas period. Also, visit South Tyrol in Italy if you want to have an amazing/creepy Krampus experience!
What to Eat:
Try some Lebkuchen (gingerbread), roasted chestnuts, and Apfelstrudel (apple strudel). Pair your treats with a warm mug of Glühwein (mulled wine) or a decadent hot chocolate topped with whipped cream. Craving for some chocolate? Check out our chocolate tour in Mexico City.
Where to Stay:
For a luxurious stay, book a room at the Hotel Sacher Vienna, famous for its Sacher Torte. For a cozy, budget-friendly option, the Pension Suzanne offers a warm, home-like ambiance near the city center.
Oslo, Norway
Best Christmas Markets:
The Christmas Market at Spikersuppa is the heart of Oslo’s festivities, complete with a Ferris wheel, ice skating, and traditional Sami tents offering Nordic delicacies. Ekebergparken Sculpture Park also hosts a smaller market with handmade crafts and local food.
Activities to Do:
Explore the stunning Vigeland Sculpture Park, dusted in snow, or visit the Norwegian Folk Museum, which comes alive with traditional Christmas decorations and activities. Don’t miss a ride on the Oslo Fjord, where festive cruises offer panoramic views of the icy waters.
What to Eat:
Try Lutefisk, a traditional dried fish dish, or Ribbe, a succulent pork rib dinner. Pair these with Gløgg, Norway’s spiced mulled wine, and enjoy a dessert of Kransekake, a towering almond cake.
Where to Stay:
Stay at the Thief Hotel, a modern luxury hotel with stunning fjord views. For a more rustic experience, the Lysebu Hotel offers a cozy, cabin-like atmosphere on Oslo’s outskirts.
Zurich, Switzerland
Best Christmas Markets:
Do you want to truly experience Christmas in Europe? Then, Zurich is one of your best options. Zurich’s Christkindlimarkt at the Main Train Station is one of Europe’s largest indoor Christmas markets, featuring a dazzling Swarovski crystal tree. The Wienachtsdorf market at Sechseläutenplatz offers artisan crafts, delicious street food, and a lively skating rink.
Activities to Do:
Take a stroll along Bahnhofstrasse, Zurich’s premier shopping street, lit up with Christmas lights. Enjoy a boat ride on Lake Zurich, or visit the Lindenhof district for breathtaking views of the snow-covered city.
What to Eat:
Swiss Christmas is incomplete without Raclette and Fondue, warm, melted cheeses served with bread and pickles. For dessert, try Basler Läckerli, spiced gingerbread, or Zimtsternen, cinnamon star cookies.
Where to Stay:
The luxurious Baur au Lac Hotel offers impeccable service and views of Lake Zurich. For mid-range options, the Hotel Schweizerhof Zurich is perfectly located near the festive action.
Helsinki, Finland
Best Christmas Markets:
The Helsinki Christmas Market in Senate Square is the city’s crown jewel, offering over 100 stalls with Nordic crafts and delicacies. Vanha Ylioppilastalo is another market worth visiting, featuring high-quality handmade gifts and gourmet food.
Activities to Do:
Visit Suomenlinna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, transformed into a snowy fortress. Take a sauna experience, a Finnish Christmas tradition, or admire the festive light displays at Esplanadi Park.
What to Eat:
Enjoy Karjalanpiirakka (Karelian pies), flaky pastries filled with rice or potatoes. Pair these with Glogi, the Finnish take on mulled wine, and try sweet treats like Piparkakku (gingerbread cookies).
Where to Stay:
For luxury, the Hotel Kamp blends historic charm with modern elegance. Budget travelers will love the cozy and eco-friendly Hotel F6, located close to the Christmas market.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Best Christmas Markets:
Another of our best options for a perfect Christmas in Europe experience. The Tivoli Gardens Christmas Market is a fairytale that comes alive with twinkling lights, festive rides, and Nordic stalls. Højbro Plads in the city center offers a more intimate market experience with local Danish treats.
Activities to Do:
Explore Nyhavn, the picturesque harbor, or visit the historic Rosenborg Castle, adorned for the holidays. For a unique experience, take a canal cruise to see the city’s festive lights from the water.
What to Eat:
Feast on Æbleskiver, spherical pancakes served with jam and powdered sugar, or Flæskesteg, roasted pork with crispy crackling. Wash it down with Juleøl, Denmark’s seasonal Christmas beer.
Where to Stay:
The Hotel D’Angleterre is renowned for its extravagant Christmas decorations and luxury service. For a boutique option, try the Andersen Boutique Hotel, located in the trendy Vesterbro district.
Brussels, Belgium
Best Christmas Markets:
Winter Wonders in Brussels is one of Europe’s most famous Christmas markets, with over 200 stalls, a Ferris wheel, and a stunning sound-and-light show at Grand Place. Nearby, the Place Sainte-Catherine hosts artisanal vendors and festive activities.
Activities to Do:
Admire the architecture of Grand Place, visit the Royal Greenhouses of Laeken, or skate under the lights at the market. For chocolate lovers, take a holiday-themed chocolate-making workshop.
What to Eat:
Sample Belgian waffles, crispy on the outside and soft inside, and Speculoos, spiced cookies. Don’t miss the Jenever, Belgium’s famous juniper-flavored liquor, served warm during Christmas.
Where to Stay:
Stay at Hotel Amigo, a luxury hotel steps away from Grand Place. For something quirky, 9Hotel Central offers modern amenities in a charming, historic setting.
Rennes, France
Best Christmas Markets:
Rennes hosts a charming Christmas Market at Place Hoche, offering handcrafted gifts, regional specialties, and cultural performances. Nearby, the Place de la Mairie boasts an ice rink and carousel.
Activities to Do:
Take a guided tour of the medieval Parlement de Bretagne, adorned with holiday decorations. Explore the festive streets of Rue Saint-Michel, known as “rue de la soif” for its lively atmosphere.
What to Eat:
Galette-Saucisse is a savory buckwheat pancake with sausage. Warm it up with Cidre Breton, a spiced cider. For dessert, enjoy Kouign-Amann, a buttery, caramelized pastry.
Where to Stay:
For elegance, choose the Balthazar Hotel & Spa, a boutique hotel in the city center. For a cozier stay, Hotel De Nemours offers stylish rooms at a reasonable price.
Nantes, France
Best Christmas Markets:
The Christmas Market at Place Royale features wooden chalets offering artisanal gifts and festive foods. Cours Saint-Pierr et Sant-Andre is another must-visit, with a focus on eco-friendly crafts.
Activities to Do:
Discover the enchanting Machines de l’Île, where giant mechanical creatures like the Great Elephant roam. Take a boat ride along the Loire River or visit the historic Château des Ducs de Bretagne, beautifully lit for the season.
What to Eat:
Treat yourself to Beurre Blanc, a buttery white sauce served with fish, and Fouace, a regional sweet bread. Pair these with Muscat de Nantes, a sweet local wine.
Where to Stay:
The Radisson Blu Hotel Nantes, set in a former courthouse, offers a unique blend of history and luxury. For an intimate stay, the Hotel La Pérouse provides modern amenities and is in proximity to major attractions.
Dresden, Germany
Best Christmas Markets:
Dresden’s Striezelmarkt is one of the oldest Christmas markets in the world, known for its traditional crafts and the famous Stollen Festival. The Medieval Christmas Market at Stallhof offers a unique historical ambiance.
Activities to Do:
Visit the stunning Frauenkirche church, explore the Baroque Zwinger Palace, or enjoy a boat cruise along the Elbe River. For families, the Dresden Zoo offers festive winter activities.
What to Eat:
Dresdner Stollen is a rich fruitcake with powdered sugar and bratwurst from street vendors. For drinks, try Feuerzangenbowle, a flaming mulled wine specialty.
Where to Stay:
The Hotel Taschenbergpalais Kempinski offers unmatched luxury in a historic setting. For a more affordable option, the Innside Dresden has a modern design and great views.
Stockholm, Sweden
Best Christmas Markets:
The Gamla Stan Christmas Market in Stockholm’s Old Town is the oldest in Sweden, dating back to the 16th century.
Here, you’ll find charming red stalls selling everything from handmade ornaments to traditional Swedish sweets. For a more modern twist, head to Skansen Christmas Market, set in the open-air museum, where you can explore Swedish traditions alongside the festive stalls.
Activities to Do:
Take a stroll through Gamla Stan (the Old Town) and admire its cobblestone streets adorned with twinkling lights. Visit the Royal Palace and its Christmas exhibitions, or enjoy a cozy fika at one of Stockholm’s many cafes. For a unique experience, try ice skating at Kungsträdgården or take a ferry to one of the archipelago islands for a serene winter escape.
What to Eat:
Get ready to taste traditional Swedish Christmas treats like Pepparkakor (gingerbread cookies) and Lussekatter (saffron buns). For a heartier meal, try Julbord, a festive buffet featuring cured salmon, herring, meatballs, and Christmas ham. Wash it all down with a warm glass of Glögg, Sweden’s spiced mulled wine.
Where to Stay:
For a luxurious stay, book a room at the Grand Hôtel Stockholm, offering stunning views of the waterfront and a festive atmosphere. For a more budget-friendly option, the Hotel Rival in trendy Södermalm provides modern comforts and easy access to the city’s Christmas attractions.
Bonus: Poland, Netherlands, Ireland and London
Christmas Traditions Poland
Christmas in Poland offers one of Europe’s most sincere and religious experiences, beginning with Advent and culminating in the ceremonial Wigilia (Christmas Eve) supper.
- The First Star: The meatless feast doesn’t begin until the first star appears in the evening sky, symbolizing the Star of Bethlehem.
- The Opłatek Ritual: Families share the opłatek (a thin, blessed Christmas wafer) before dinner, exchanging blessings and forgiveness.
- The 12 Dishes: The meal traditionally consists of 12 meatless dishes, representing the 12 Apostles (including barszcz, pierogi, and carp).
- The Empty Seat: An empty plate setting is often left at the table for the Baby Jesus or a lonely traveler, ensuring no one is alone.
- Close: The celebration closes with Midnight Mass (Pasterka) and gift-giving.
Christmas Traditions Netherlands
Dutch Christmas traditions emphasize family and folklore, with the festivities starting early and featuring the famous Sinterklaas.
- Sinterklaasavond (Dec 5): The main gift-giving event is on the eve of St. Nicholas Day, when Sinterklaas (who arrives by ship from Spain) leaves small gifts and sweets.
- Treats for the Horse: Children leave their shoes by the fire with hay and carrots for Sinterklaas’s horse.
- Christmas Day Meal: Christmas Day is an intimate family celebration, often centered around Gourmetten—a social fondue/grill where groups prepare small portions of meat and vegetables at their table.
- Food Delights: Traditional treats include kerststol (fruit bread with marzipan) and oliebollen (fried dough balls).
Christmas Traditions in Ireland
Irish Christmas, rooted in Catholic and Celtic heritage, is characterized by community gatherings and specific traditions lasting through January 6th.
- Candle in the Window: A traditional custom to light a solitary candle in the window on Christmas Eve to welcome strangers and remember those away from home (symbolizing Mary and Joseph).
- St. Stephen’s Day (Dec 26): Celebrated with the “Wren Boys”, locals who wear colorful costumes and parade through towns, often playing traditional music.
- Christmas Swim: Brave locals participate in the charity Christmas Day Swim in the freezing sea (most famously at the Forty Foot in Dublin).
- Nollaig na mBan: The season officially ends on January 6th (Little Christmas or Women’s Christmas), where men traditionally take over household duties, giving the women a day of rest.
Christmas in London
London transforms into a magnificent winter wonderland, blending traditional British customs with spectacular light displays and major events.
- Iconic Venues: The Hyde Park Winter Wonderland offers major attractions, while historic venues like St. Paul’s Cathedral host cherished carol concerts.
- The Royal Message: Families gather at 3:00 PM on Christmas Day to watch the Royal Christmas Message (The King’s Speech) broadcast.
- The Festive Table: Dinner features classics like roast turkey, pigs in blankets (sausages wrapped in bacon), and Christmas Pudding.
- British Humor: Christmas Crackers are pulled at the table, revealing paper crowns, small gifts, and terrible jokes, ensuring a lively atmosphere.
- Pantomimes: Attending a Christmas Pantomime—a theatrical show filled with slapstick humor, music, and audience participation—is a beloved tradition.