Who’s ready to leave it all behind and do something wildly different this holiday season? What do you say we go make some new memories with a glass of mulled wine in hand and a stroll through a Christmas market abroad?
With a fresh coat of snow, a bevy of treats to try, and a million different opportunities to pick up unique trinkets for the ones we love, celebrating the holidays abroad could be just the ticket. It was hard to whittle it down, but we’ve selected what we feel are ten of the best places to close out the year on a high note.
Nuremberg, Germany
If we’re talking about the Christmas holidays, we simply must go to one of the oldest, most beautiful Christmas markets in the world – Christkindlesmarkt. Under the lights of the cathedral, you’ll find countless wooden stalls to wander through, often filled with handmade finds. As you sip on your mulled wine and marvel at the wonder of it all, you’ll be ever so happy you came to the place where it all began.
Rome, Italy
We’d love to list Israel as a place to visit if, again, you’re celebrating Christmas but, until there’s peace in the world, we may have to hold off on any pilgrimages to the Holy Land. So, let’s go somewhere else the disciples knew very well. With countless cathedrals to stop in and light a candle – such as St. Paul-Outside-the-Walls – as well as festive lights strewn throughout the city, this could make for a very peaceful holiday experience.
Colmar, France
Colmar is a picturesque medieval village in the northeastern corner of France. During the holiday season, it turns into a winter wonderland. With lights strewn from ancient buildings, a Christmas market right in the heart of the historic town center, and rumors that it was the inspiration for Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, you just know the magic is going to reverberate through the air. Be sure to light a candle inside St. Martin’s Church – dating all the way back to 1235.
Paris, France
The City of Lights is majestic all year round. But it really ups the ante during the holiday season. From the dynamic displays inside the department stores to the Eiffel Tower’s usual light show at night, everything sparkles with delight. Secure a room in a beautiful boutique hotel on Île Saint-Louis, and you’ll be walking distance to Notre Dame – a lovely place to stop in and say hello as she’s just been reopened.
Prague, Czech Republic
Back to the fairy tale theme, this time, dating way back before Disney was ever at the center of our lives. With Gothic churches and the world-famous medieval Astronomical Clock, Prague is coated in beauty any time of year. But, throughout the holiday season, when its Christmas market is lighting up the square, it’s impossible to deny the majesty and wonder of this city. Be sure to stroll across Charles Bridge, another architectural wonder with larger-than-life statues of the saints waiting to wish you glad tidings of joy.
Amsterdam, The Netherlands
One of the best reasons to come to this glorious city during the holiday season is the Amsterdam Light Festival. This year, from November 28, 2024 – January 19, 2025, you can watch the city center light up with installations from artists all over the world. You can admire these fabulous displays by foot, bike, or cruise as you explore this year’s theme – Rituals.
Edinburgh, Scotland
With a fresh coat of snow on the ground, this city – already filled with magic – becomes the true definition of a winter wonderland. When you figure Victoria Street was likely the inspiration for Diagon Alley, you just know you’re going to feel like you, too, could fly on a Nimbus 2000. Of course, there’s a Christmas market for you to enjoy here, as well, over in East Princes Street Gardens. And, when you’re not there, you can count upon other ways to stay warm through any number of whiskey distillery tours or fresh pints of beer in The Tolbooth Tavern, known to have haunted underground vaults.
Galway City, Ireland
For a city with a similar feel to Edinburgh, head west for an Irish welcome. If you stick to the pedestrian-only lanes like Quay Street, you’ll enjoy your strolls beneath the banners of twinkling lights. Of course, there’s a Christmas Market for you to enjoy at the top of the street, as well, including a go-around on the Ferris wheel. Admire the shopfronts as you go, dip in and out of the pubs for a pint or a chance to hear some live Irish music beside the fire. You’ll feel as though everything is merry and bright the entire time you’re in this ancient Celtic land.
London, England
Then, of course, you have another nearby city that knows a thing or two about pomp and circumstance. Come to London to window shop at Harrods and see the remnants of Catherine, Princess of Wales’ Christmas Carol service at Westminster Abbey. Then, you have a host of Christmas markets to choose from in a multitude of magical locations like Covent Garden, Leicester Square, and Trafalgar Square.
Lapland, Finland
We saved the snowiest for last. You’re guaranteed to walk on blankets of fluffy white snow as you gaze up at the ice lanterns and stars strewn about the city. Here, you won’t have to go far to hear the merriment of Christmas carolers or taste some of the finest feasts of the season. All manner of cozy meals will be at your disposal, including pork roasts, casseroles, and rice puddings. And, if you’d like to see what Midnight Mass feels like, you certainly won’t be alone with your fellow worshippers here in Lapland.
When to Book Your European Christmas Vacation
If you’re dreaming of holiday markets and snow-dusted streets, timing is everything. The best time to book flights and accommodations for a European Christmas trip is typically between late September and mid-October. Prices and availability for popular destinations like Paris, Nuremberg, and Prague begin to climb quickly by November.
For the best deals:
- Flights: Start tracking fares 8–10 weeks out. Consider flying midweek for lower rates.
- Hotels: Book charming boutique stays or centrally located rooms early to avoid premium holiday surcharges.
- Markets & Events: Some popular experiences (like guided market tours or Christmas Eve dinners) sell out months in advance, so reserving early guarantees the full festive experience.
Let’s Make Everything Merry and Bright
This year, if you’re planning to travel instead of sticking close to home, you’re onto something special. You’re about to make a host of new memories that won’t soon be forgotten. Light up the night in Paris. Walk the streets of Prague. Nibble on some treats in Nuremberg. Either way, you’re winning.
And, before you take to the snow-covered streets, be sure to check out our destination guides. With a host of tips and tricks to get you where you’re going, we’re here to make everything merry and bright. Here’s hoping that, if all goes well, we get to toast a cup of mulled wine with you in one of London’s many Christmas markets!
Looking for even more inspiration to make your holiday season unforgettable? Check out these travel guides and seasonal planning tips: