When the winter chill sets in and holiday spirit fills the air, Europe becomes a magical wonderland of twinkling lights and festive markets. If you're dreaming of a European Christmas in 2025, a Europe Tour Package is the perfect way to experience it all. From cozy markets to fairytale castles, a guided tour lets you explore multiple iconic destinations with ease. Whether it's the charm of Vienna or the holiday magic of Prague, Europe offers something special for every traveler.
Here are The Best places to celebrate Christmas in Europe this holiday season.
1. Vienna, Austria: A Christmas Dream
Vienna’s holiday season is nothing short of magical. The city’s imperial architecture provides a stunning backdrop for festive lights and Christmas markets. Christkindlmarkt in front of the City Hall is one of the most iconic Christmas markets in Europe, offering everything from mulled wine (Glühwein) to hand-crafted ornaments. The city's Royal Palaces and historic streets are beautifully lit up, making it feel like stepping into a winter fairytale.
Why Visit Vienna for Christmas:
- World-renowned Christmas Markets: Over 20 markets, each with unique themes.
- Historic Charm: Glimpse the past with stunning palaces like Schönbrunn and Hofburg.
- Cultural Events: Enjoy a traditional Christmas concert at the Vienna State Opera.
2. Prague, Czech Republic: Old-World Charm Meets Christmas Cheer
Prague transforms into a holiday wonderland every Christmas. The Old Town Square becomes a Christmas market full of wooden stalls offering Czech Christmas crafts, sweet treats, and festive drinks. The Prague Castle and Charles Bridge look even more breathtaking against the backdrop of winter’s embrace, with twinkling lights and snow dusting the cobblestone streets.
Why Visit Prague for Christmas:
- Enchanting Christmas Markets: The Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square host some of the most picturesque markets.
- Historic Atmosphere: Explore the Prague Castle and St. Vitus Cathedral amidst holiday charm.
- Czech Christmas Traditions: Try traditional Czech holiday foods, like trdelník and carp.
3. Lapland, Finland: A Visit to Santa's Homeland
For the ultimate Christmas experience, there’s no place like Lapland in northern Finland. Known as the home of Santa Claus, this region offers magical experiences like visiting Santa’s Village, taking a reindeer sleigh ride, and staying in an ice hotel. With the Northern Lights above, Lapland feels like the heart of Christmas. For those looking to make this dream holiday a reality, there are various Finland Tour Packages that offer immersive tours to Lapland, letting you experience the winter wonderland and festive magic Finland has to offer.
Why Visit Lapland for Christmas:
- Santa Claus Village: Meet Santa himself and cross the Arctic Circle.
- Winter Activities: Try snowshoeing, snowmobiling, or a husky sled ride.
- Northern Lights: Experience the spectacular Aurora Borealis in a remote winter landscape.
4. Munich, Germany: Traditional Christmas Cheer
Germany’s Christmas markets are legendary, and Munich offers some of the finest. The Christkindlmarkt at Marienplatz is the heart of the city's Christmas celebrations, surrounded by the Gothic New Town Hall. The market exudes a fairy-tale atmosphere, filled with the scent of roasted chestnuts and spiced wine. Don’t miss the Medieval Christmas Market at Viktualienmarkt for a unique experience. For those eager to explore more of Germany's festive charm, there are various Germany tour packages that offer guided visits to the best Christmas markets, villages, and historic sites, ensuring a magical holiday.
Why Visit Munich for Christmas:
- Traditional Markets: Munich is home to several famous Christmas markets, including the medieval and fairy-tale markets.
- Holiday Beverages: Sip on Glühwein and taste traditional Christmas cookies.
- Winter Wonderland: Ice skating at the Stachus Ice Rink or visit the nearby Alps for skiing.
5. Bruges, Belgium: A Picture-Perfect Christmas City
Bruges, with its cobblestone streets and medieval charm, offers one of the most picturesque settings for a Christmas holiday. The Christmas market in Market Square is filled with local chocolates, festive food, and hand-crafted gifts. The entire city is adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations, with the Belfry of Bruges rising above it all.
Why Visit Bruges for Christmas:
- Magical Setting: A UNESCO World Heritage city with canals, ancient buildings, and Christmas lights.
- Belgian Delights: Warm up with Belgian hot chocolate or try traditional Belgian waffles.
- Fairy-Tale Ambiance: Stroll through the streets and experience the holiday magic with fewer crowds than other major cities.
6. Rovaniemi, Finland: Meet Santa Claus
Another Finnish gem, Rovaniemi is the official hometown of Santa Claus. Here, Christmas isn’t just a season – it’s a way of life. The Santa Claus Village is open year-round, but it truly comes to life during the holidays. You can visit Santa’s post office, meet reindeer, and even stay in a glass igloo for the chance to see the Northern Lights.
Why Visit Rovaniemi for Christmas:
- Santa Claus Village: The ultimate Santa experience with reindeer rides, a Santa post office, and Arctic Circle magic.
- Winter Sports: Try ice fishing, skiing, or snowmobiling.
- Northern Lights: See the Aurora Borealis in the most remote, peaceful setting.
7. Edinburgh, Scotland: Christmas with a Scottish Twist
Edinburgh’s Christmas celebrations are uniquely festive. From the Christmas Market in East Princes Street Gardens to the stunning Edinburgh Castle lit up with festive lights, the Scottish capital is a beautiful blend of tradition and winter charm. The Festival of Lights and Edinburgh's Hogmanay (New Year’s Eve celebration) make this city an exciting destination for the whole holiday season.
Why Visit Edinburgh for Christmas:
- Festive Markets: A winter wonderland complete with a ferris wheel and ice skating rink.
- New Year’s Celebrations: The legendary Hogmanay festivities are world-famous.
- Gothic Charm: The Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle offer a stunning backdrop for holiday lights.
8. Zurich, Switzerland: A Winter Wonderland
Zurich is the epitome of Swiss holiday magic. The Zurich Christmas Market is the largest indoor Christmas market in Europe, set inside the beautiful Zurich Main Train Station. The entire city is filled with lights, festive cheer, and delicious treats like Swiss chocolate and fondue. Zurich is a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern holiday celebrations. For those looking to explore more of Switzerland, there are a variety of Switzerland tour packages that offer unforgettable experiences across the Swiss Alps, scenic lakes, and charming villages, ensuring a truly magical Swiss getaway.
Why Visit Zurich for Christmas:
- Christmas Markets: The iconic Zurich Main Station market and the Niederdorf street market.
- Swiss Delights: Warm up with fondue and a cup of Swiss hot chocolate.
- Winter Sports: Take a short trip to the Swiss Alps for skiing or snowboarding.
9. Copenhagen, Denmark: Hygge Christmas Charm
In Denmark, hygge (a cozy, comforting atmosphere) is the hallmark of the holiday season. Tivoli Gardens, one of the world’s oldest amusement parks, transforms into a holiday wonderland with Christmas lights, a festive market, and carnival rides. Copenhagen’s festive spirit is contagious, and the city is beautifully decorated with lights, wreaths, and garlands.
Why Visit Copenhagen for Christmas:
- Tivoli Gardens: Experience a magical Christmas atmosphere with rides, food, and decorations.
- Cozy Cafes: Warm up with a Danish pastry and mulled wine in one of Copenhagen’s cozy spots.
- Christmas Lights: The Nyhavn district’s holiday lights reflect off the colorful buildings and canals.
10. Amsterdam, Netherlands: Christmas on Canals
Amsterdam offers a unique Christmas experience, with its iconic canals serving as a picturesque setting for the season’s festivities. The city’s Light Festival, where artists showcase stunning light installations, is a highlight. The Christmas Markets and Winter Paradise make it easy to shop for gifts, enjoy warm drinks, and soak in the festive ambiance.
Why Visit Amsterdam for Christmas:
- Canals and Lights: The Amsterdam Light Festival is a dazzling display of art and light along the canals.
- Holiday Markets: Explore festive markets in the Leidseplein and Rembrandtplein.
- Winter Activities: Ice skating at Museumplein and enjoying cozy cafés along the canal.
Celebrate Christmas in Europe
Europe’s Christmas celebrations are legendary, each destination offering a unique take on the holiday magic. Whether you’re strolling through a bustling Christmas market in Munich, enjoying the snowy landscapes of Lapland, or soaking up the festive lights of Prague, there’s no shortage of holiday cheer. Plan your Christmas 2025 getaway now and make memories that will last a lifetime in some of Europe’s most enchanting destinations.
