Embark on an enchanting European winter escapade, where twinkling lights dance on lively streets, and festive markets beckon joyfully. This journey promises to create timeless memories as you unearth traditional treasures.
And, as 'tis the season to wander, prepare to unwrap the magic of a European Christmas!
Your dream festive adventure awaits:
- The Winter Festivals
- Outdoor Ice Rinks
- Mulled Wine
- Theme Parks
- Christmas Markets
Best Christmas markets in the EU:
- Advent Feast at the Basilica
- Southbank Centre Winter Market
- Place Jeanne d’Arc
- Wiener Christkindlmark
- Le Village de Noël at Les Halles
Why Visit EU During Christmas
Picture snow-dusted streets and the twinkle of Christmas markets—a celebration of the holiday season like never before!
Winter in Europe means a snowy spectacle, turning the ordinary into a magical photo op. But wait, there's more–Christmas markets in Europe also take over, filling the streets with the aroma of locally crafted mulled wine and unique handmade goods.
It's a festive feast for your senses that allows you to taste local delicacies and sweets. Get ready to unwrap the joy and ho-ho-hop into the holiday spirit!
1. The Winter Festivals
Christmas in Europe is all about that burst of color! Credits: Photo by Elina Fairytale on Pexels
Jump right into the heart of European winter magic! Despite the cold temperature, Europe's winter festivals are a burst of life, color, and history. Picture this: lively celebrations, vibrant traditions, and a diverse tapestry of events that will warm your spirits.
Brace yourself for the ultimate dose of fun and entertainment—these festivals are like Europe's cultural show-and-tell that displays the continent's rich heritage. Thousands of tourists flock in—ready to soak up the festive vibes from New Year's Eve extravaganzas, lively carnivals, to sizzling fire festivals.
2. Outdoor Ice Rinks
Take out your skates and glide on the ice alongside everyone! Credits: Photo by redcharlie | @redcharlie1 on Unsplash
Europe is home to some of the biggest outdoor ice rinks in the world! People from all walks of life drop by these rinks to get a taste of that simple joy of skating outdoors without a care in the world!
Not to mention, Europe is home to some of the world's most scenic ice skating locations! These include the Old Town Ice Rink in Warsaw, Poland, Lac de Joux in Switzerland, and Hampton Court Palace in Surrey, England.
3. Mulled Wine
Christmas in Europe just isn’t complete without mulled wine! Credits: Photo by George Dolgikh on Pexels
Get set for a flavorful journey with mulled wine! Imagine this: red wine infused with a medley of fruits and spices makes a warm, aromatic beverage that screams holiday joy. Found at Christmas markets in Europe, this traditional European drink is the epitome of yuletide cheer!
Mulled wine is a symphony of fruity, tart, sweet, and smoky notes that dance on your palate. It's not just a drink; it's a flavor fiesta that adds sparkle to your celebrations!
4. Theme Parks
Spend Christmas while chasing the thrill of adventure! Credits: Photo by Adora Goodenough on Unsplash
No matter the season or celebration, theme parks will never get old. Topping that list is Disneyland Paris, where children and adults alike can experience the magic of Disney! Experience a whimsical journey through five enchanting lands where fairytales come alive with dazzling shows, attractions, and street parades.
Mingle with swashbuckling pirates, zoom through time and space, and be captivated by the mesmerizing firework and light displays illuminating the Sleeping Beauty Castle. It's a Disney Christmas party in 2023 that you won't soon forget!
5. Christmas Markets
Find your next treasure in one of Europe’s Christmas markets! Credits: Photo by Humphrey Muleba on Pexels
Last but not least, you must visit Europe during Christmas because of their Christmas markets. Europe is a home base for some of the most beautiful and largest Christmas markets. You wouldn't want to miss it!
Here are some Klook recommendations:
Best Christmas Markets in Europe
Advent Feast at the Basilica
Where else can you celebrate the best Christmas? Credits: Horváth Botond on Adobe Stock
Hailed as one of Europe's most beautiful Christmas markets, the Advent Basilica offers a unique experience to your Christmas celebration. It also won in the competition for Best Christmas Markets in Europe for three consecutive years from 2020-2022!
From November 24th to December 31st, the square in front of St. Stephen's Basilica will transform into a winter wonderland. This 12-year-old tradition promises a magical ambiance with 120 domestic craft exhibitors, culinary delights, heartwarming programs, and delightful surprises.
Southbank Centre Winter Market
Marvel at the trinkets and local goods! Credits: I-Wei Huang on Adobe Stock
Witness the South Bank’s riverside undergo a metamorphosis into a wintry wonderland! Delight in the fusion of global cuisine and an artisan Christmas market in London, UK, at Southbank Centre's Winter Festival.
Stroll past charming wooden chalets along the Thames, discover exquisite stocking fillers in the Winter Market, or savor cheese-based delicacies, and mulled wine from the stalls.
And since you’re here already, check out London in a double-decker bus at night!
Place Jeanne d’Arc
Discover the charm of an Alsatian village at Place Jeanne d’Arc, an iconic Christmas market in Colmar, France. This delightful spot, nestled at the corner of Grande Rue and Place Jeanne d’Arc, showcases a variety of local products. From delectable pain d’epices (ginger-spiced bread) to foie gras and fine wines, feel free to splurge on a festive array of delights!
Wiener Christkindlmarkt
Never run out of things to do at Wiener Christkindlmarkt! Credits: rustamank on Adobe Stock
Step into a festive journey at Wiener Christkindlmarkt, one of the world’s largest Christmas markets in Vienna, Austria. With over 100 stalls, it's a haven for Viennese delights like kaiserschmarrn (sweet, fluffy, ripped-up pancakes), glühwein (mulled wine), and bauernkrapfen (donut-shaped fried pastries).
Illuminate your holiday with lights, an ice rink, and a carousel at Rathausplatz, Vienna's city hall. Open from mid-November to Boxing Day, this Christmas market in Europe is one of the best locations—drawing millions of tourists every year.
Le Village de Noël at Les Halles
Immerse yourself in the magic of the Christmas Village at Les Halles, Paris. It's truly a festive delight, with sixty chalets offering seasonal crafts, decorations, and treats.
Engage in workshops, including a letter-writing session to Santa, and let the kids explore the Enchanted Forest in search of Père Noël's house. A hit since its debut in 2017, this Christmas market in Europe sparkles after Les Halles' multi-year renovation!
And since you’re already in Paris, adding Disneyland Paris in your 2023 Christmas celebration is best. You can also complete the magic with a Paris bus tour!
'Tis the season to wander and embrace the festive joy that Europe has to offer. Book your reservations and hop on a flight to your winter wonderland!
