Christmas is the perfect time to share it with the family, stroll through the light-filled streets, go in search of crib ornaments, home decor or gifts for loved ones. Now, it is also synonymous with vacations and, of course, vacations.
Here are five European destinations to travel to right now; Enjoy the Christmas markets and discover the city and its attractions thanks to the digital platform that connects museums and cultural attractions with visitors from all over the world.
Barcelona
From ice skating or going to Christmas parties, having a picnic, seeing Christmas decorations in shop windows and streets or buying gifts at the various Christmas markets in the city. One of the most traditional is the one that takes place (since 1786) next to the Cathedral of Barcelona, the Feira de Santa Lucia, which takes place in 2022 from November 26 to December 23. After shopping, you should enjoy the magic of Christmas and one of the offers you should keep in mind is the one offered by the modernist de Sant Pau from November 22nd to January 16th. This is Les Llums de Sant Pau, where Christmas and architecture combine to make a fun fairytale picnic for the whole family. More than a million LED lights cast a colorful glow, flooding the UNESCO World Heritage Site with light. Tickets from 14 euros.
Munich
The capital of Bavaria, located in the south of Germany, is one of those perfect cities to spend the Christmas season. Since the beginning of Advent, the city has been filled with stalls selling gifts, decorations or gastronomic specialties that can only be tasted at Christmas. A tour of the Christmas markets in Munich includes a visit to the famous Christkindlmarkt, which dates back to the 14th century, where you can sample some gingerbread or wine while looking for the perfect gift. In the same way, the Aldeia de Natal is visited in the courtyard of the Royal Residence, the Nativity Market and the famous Medieval Market. Price from 18 euros. Once in town, take the time to visit Neuschwanstein Castle, perched atop a mountain above the town of Hohenschwangau, a 19th-century Roman fantasy that was awarded Best Place in the World at the 2022 Awards.
Vienna
Advent magic breathes almost throughout the Austrian capital; From the City Hall and its squares and palaces to its alleys, it celebrates with great joy. Christmas markets in Vienna are a very old tradition. Although, since then, the character and spread of these markets has changed dramatically.
Today, a variety of seasonal gifts are sold and the Christmas atmosphere is appreciated. This magic can be discovered with the Christmas Market Tour, which stops at four different Christmas markets – Mariahilfer Market, Spittelberg Market, MQ Market and Karlsplatz Market – and stories about them told by an expert guide. In addition, it offers the possibility to enjoy gluhwein and hot rum punch, in addition to the typical Christmas cookies. From 59 euros.
Paris
Fun rides, ice skating rinks, concerts, shopping at the Christmas market, mulled wine, shows and lots of atmosphere, this is what a visitor expects at Christmas Paris. Anyone who wants to go out in search of gifts or Christmas decorations should head to any of the city’s open markets; From the famous Champs-Elysées Christmas market, with its beautiful Ferris wheel and small wooden huts, to the La Defense Christmas Market, the largest in the city and one of the most picturesque.
The French capital, on the other hand, is a fan of Christmas decorations, so taking an open-top bus for an evening tour to see the lights is a great idea. It lasts 90 minutes and includes a typical hot drink and an audio guide with Christmas songs. From 32 euros.
Copenhagen
At Christmas, the streets of the Danish capital are filled with lights and garlands that give the city a different look, despite the cold. While stores diligently decorate their windows with huge and elegant decorations. In addition to the beautiful decor, Copenhagen is famous for its Christmas markets, where you can buy everything from local handicrafts and wool products to typical seasonal dishes.
One of the most exclusive is what happens at the Copenhagen Zoo, with the Christmas atmosphere full of experiences and activities, such as fraternization with Santa Claus or the more than 30 stalls to buy decorations and gifts. Don’t forget Christmas in Tivoli, when the theme park becomes a feast for the eyes with festive decorations everywhere, a cozy Christmas bazaar and, on New Year’s Eve, an unforgettable fireworks display.
