Winter, hot chocolate, decorations, gifts, and warm hugs. Sounds like a good Christmas, right? Well, some European cities have mastered the tradition of Christmas and its festive spirit. Alongside the beautiful landscapes that the continent of Europe has to offer, some of the renowned cities are a treat themselves.
So without further ado, here are five cities in Europe that are famous for celebrating the Christmas spirit with some magical enchantments to accompany:
Also Read: 5 Most Visited Cities of Europe to Include In Your Next Euro Trip!
1. Salzburg, Austria
Having a spectacular view of the Eastern Alps, Salzburg is one of the best cities to spend your Christmas. Situated in the beautiful country of Austria, the city is divided into two parts by the Salzach River. Altstadt (Old City) and Neustadt (New City) show both the medieval churches and the modern buildings separated by some beautiful bridges over Salzach. Naturally, Christmas in this iconic city would be a memorable trip.
- The Christkindl Market - Salzburg holds some iconic Christmas markets throughout the city. The Christkindl Market (situated in Dom Square) is one of the oldest markets having over a hundred stalls to shop from. You can shop, eat, and drink your way around the market alongside the snowfalls of Austria during Christmas.
- Mozart’s Cafe - Salzburg, the birthplace of legendary composer Mozart has a blend of old and new. Situated in the Old Town of Salzburg, Cafe Tomaselli was a regular place for Mozart and has been running for over 150 years! Check out some of the hot and delicious beverages that Tomaselli has to offer in a Christmassy December.
- Altstadt - Meaning “Old City”, this side of the town is situated on the left bank of the Salzach River. Altstadt has some of the most iconic churches and medieval buildings that light up the night during Christmas.
2. Tallinn, Estonia
Situated amidst the remains of centuries of architecture and the breathtaking views of the Baltic Sea, Tallinn is the capital of Estonia. The average temperature during December is -2°C so make sure to carry a warm jacket with you. Although the city faces some chilly winters, Tallinn shines the most during Christmas. Here are some of the most wondrous things that Tallinn is known for during Christmas time:
- Tallinn Market - Tallinn Christmas Market was named the Best Christmas Market of Europe in 2019. The iconic city continues to boast an iconic Christmas shopping experience among the streets of Tallinn that you will never forget.
- Christmas Jazz Festival - For lovers of Jazz Music, Tallinn gives the world a stage of international and world-renowned jazz performers during this festival.
- Gingerbread Mania - This charming city hosts an event called Gingerbread Mania where a variety of Gingerbread Houses are at display during Christmas. Some of these creations are truly beautiful.
3. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague, the capital of Czech Republic, has a plethora of things to do and places to visit during Christmas time. The city (nicknamed “the City of a Hundred Spires”) has a blend of the old and the new. With its medieval architecture and the natural beauty around it, Prague is one of the finest cities to spend your Christmas.
- Prague Christmas Market - Much like many other European cities, Prague has a Christmas market that is bustling with people, lights, and the festive spirit. Situated in the Old Town Square, the market has something for everyone and plenty of memories for your trip.
- The Charles Bridge - Being one of the most iconic bridges in the world, people cross The Charles Bridge during the winter months of December early in the morning. Built in the 14th century over the Vltava river, this bridge has been a tourist-favorite and has been featured in several Bollywood films as well!
- Kolace Cakes - It’s not Christmas without a delicious cake for desserts. Head on over to some of the local cafes and pastry shops of Prague and try their local delicacies (called Kolace) to enjoy Christmas with a sweet treat by your side.
4. Lapland, Finland
The northernmost region of Finland, Lapland has some of the best winters and Christmas festivities that start from mid-November to the end of December. Although sparsely populated, this town has some of the most magical things to offer tourists who are willing to spend their Christmas with snow, Santa, and, ski-resorts.
- Santa Claus Village - Visit the world-famous Santa Claus Village where you can enjoy some Christmas Cookies. While visiting this amusement park, check out the Arctic Circle line that cuts right through the center of the village.
- Northern Lights - What could be better than sipping on some hot chocolate while looking up at some wondrous Northern Lights, right? Well, that is exactly what Finland experiences during Christmas as the people gather to look up at the night sky and see the vivid colors of this wonderful world during Christmas.
- Fairy Lights - Most of the towns of the region are covered by fairy lights that give Lapland a magical atmosphere. The Finland territory truly shines during the high of Christmas and thousands of tourists visit Lapland every year to get a taste of this magical experience.
5. Hallstatt, Austria
Another Austrian city known for its Christmas shine, Hallstatt is a beautiful village situated in the country’s mountainous region. The 16th Century architecture is home to some iconic shops and cafes that have been cozied up for thousands of travelers who decide to spend their Christmas in this iconic village.
- Winter Wonderland - The village itself is a key attraction during Christmas time since the snow-covered landscapes and mountains are a sight to behold. Alongside the walkways, you can discover Christmas trees and lights that guide your way in the evenings.
- Skywalk - A cable car that takes you up to 838 meters on the top of a mountain, the Skywalk ride offers a 360-view of Hallstatt and the mountains surrounding it. Seeing the city lit up with Christmas lights and decorations is a scene that you would not want to miss.
- Ski Resorts of Hallstatt - Sipping on a cup of hot chocolate and going for a ski ride is an iconic thing that the ski resorts of Hallstatt has to offer. After a wonderful skiing experience, relax in the sauna baths and enjoy the wondrous views of Christmas that Hallstatt has to offer.
Conclusion
Wherever you decide to go on a wondrous Christmas trip, it will surely be memorable for years to come. Check out some of the wonderful Europe Tour Packages that we have to offer. In the end, it’s all about traveling and Christmas happens to be just the best time.
Also Read: 5 Most Visited Cities of Europe to Include In Your Next Euro Trip!
Also Read: 7 Famous European Foods to Try On Your Euro Trip!
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