The 5 Most Exciting Christmas Destinations in Europe
1. Zagreb, Croatia
Zagreb is a city with a rich history dating back to Roman times. Thanks to the Austro-Hungarian architecture and history, their main tourist attraction, the number of visitors has increased steadily over the past several years. They have become a prime destination around the holidays thanks to their their Christmas spirit, rich music festivals and art programs held throughout the city. What makes the city such a magical place this time of year is the traditional lantern performance. Around 10,000 people come from all over the world to watch or light lanterns themselves signifying their wishes, hopes and dreams. More than 3,000 lanterns are usually set free into the calm Zagreb skies. The best part? The event, now in it's 10th year, donates the proceeds from the event to charity.
Photo Credit: The Dark Room
2. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague, known as “the City of a Hundred Spires,” can be identified by its magnificent Gothic architecture and colorful baroque buildings. The city is famous for it's Christmas markets which include giant hams spit-roasting, choirs singing carols by candlelight, wooden huts selling hand-painted ornaments and local handcrafts. Ladies usually wear their traditional dress and fry trdelník, a sugary Czech pastry, available for sale to the market-goers. A stable, located in the Old Town Square of the city, with sheep, goats, donkeys and other livestock, demonstrates how Prague maintains its rich advent tradition. This year, Prague will celebrate the 26th annual International Festival of Advent and Christmas Music which hosts an open-air Christmas music concert. If you're looking for the romantic, co spirit of Christmas, you'll want to spend it in Prague.
Trdelník. Photo Credit: Easy Baked
3. Vienna, Austria
Vienna is a city recognized for its artistic heritage laying claim to Mozart, Beethoven and Sigmund Freud and is arguably one of the most attractive European destinations for Christmas. The city is decorated with handcrafted decorations, sparkling Christmas trees, enchanted carousels and its Christmas markets attract tourists every year. From mid-November to Christmas, Vienna’s prettiest square is transformed into Christmas markets, the oldest in Europe dating back to the late 13th century. You will be able to smell food baked on the street, which will bring you back to your childhood memories and will transport you into the Christmas atmosphere. The city is also known for its Imperial palaces, such as the Schönbrunn, where the cultural and Christmas market in front of it. The atmospheric market offers traditional handicrafts, hand-made Christmas decorations, Christmas concerts and an extensive children's program, including Christmas workshop. Previous visitors mentioned their Christmas experience in Vienna as traditional, elegant and gracious.
Christmas Market in Vienna. Photo Credit: Mail Travel
4. Rovaniemi, Finland (Lapland)
Rovaniemi is the capital of Lapland, in the northernmost region of Finland. This city was almost completely destroyed during World War II, but today, while the city is known for the Northern Lights, it is more significantly known this time of year for being the ‘official’ home of Santa Claus. It is an exceptional destination, especially when going on a family vacation, as you will have the chance to fulfill your childhood dreams by celebrating Christmas with Mr. and Mrs. Claus in person. The activities offer in Rovaniemi vary from watching Santa’s elves in action, preparing gifts for children around the world, to taking a ride on a reindeer sleigh. Equally memorable, you can even get your postcard stamped at Santa’s very own post office. However, be aware that the holiday season is one of the coldest times of the year to visit, so bring plenty of warm clothes!
Photo Credit: Visit Rovaniemi
5. Paris, France
Paris is a major European city, recognized for its extraordinary art, luxurious fashion and the delicious French gastronomy. During Christmas time, the city is decorated with lights everywhere: on the streets, trees, and stores. Every year, Printemps Haussmann partners with luxury brands to create elaborate window displays. This Christmas, Jimmy Choo, David Yurman and Le Bonpoint are putting their touch on the exterior of the department store. Moreover, Paris is preparing a range of festivities and special events for visitors including the recently opened Champs Elysées Christmas market, the open-air rinks at Hotel de Ville, the enchanted carousels dotted around the city and of course, holiday shows and concerts! The benefit of celebrating Christmas in Paris is the exceptional restaurants and gastronomy present in the culture. The French capital is known to be one of the most romantic cities in the world, so imagine yourself celebrating Christmas surrounded by sparkling lights, delicious food and a large range of entertainment!
Photo Credit: DHC Magazine
