Europe is home to some of the most spectacular Christmas events, with plenty of holiday attractions to choose from.
But how do you select the ultimate location for your upcoming Christmas excursion? From theme park attractions to Christmas markets, Europe has it all.
This article walks you through some of the best Christmas destinations in Europe, complete with activities the whole family is guaranteed to enjoy. Let's begin our Christmas adventure!
England
When touring Europe for Christmas, London is one of the premier locations.
London offers everything from Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park to Christmas shopping all along Oxford Street. This festive city has an array of Christmas markets to choose from, with plenty of Christmas activities for all to enjoy.
Winter Wonderland has everything from food and drinks to rides and games. Explore Santaland, where children will get to meet Santa himself. Well-behaved boys and girls may even get a special present from Santa.
Once you've finished at Winter Wonderland, you can shop for Christmas decorations at the wintertime market at Southbank Centre. You can also visit the ice rink at Somerset House or experience London Bridge's Christmas by the Rives.
Romania
Some of the most popular European traditions include Christmas markets, and Romania is home to some of the most spectacular ones. You'll find yourself surrounded by beautiful architecture as you walk through a Romanian Christmas market. You'll also find a wide selection of ornaments.
If you're looking for the best Christmas market in Romania, then Sibiu is where you need to travel to. Sibiu was named the European Capital of Culture and doesn't disappoint. You'll find the Christmas Market nestled in the Grand Square, right in the heart of the city.
At night, bright Christmas lights adorn Sibiu's old town, creating a magical ambiance you only see at Christmas. Enjoy everything from roasted almonds and mulled wine to fine Romanian ornaments. Some handmade items include leather hats and gloves, as well as jewelery and furs.
Switzerland
What's Christmas without snow? Switzerland tops the charts as one of the most idyllic Christmas destinations in Europe. The mountains offer plenty of snow and old-world charm with a fairytale-type of appeal.
Any of the alpine resorts you stay at are perfect for skiers, snowboarders, and anyone looking to enjoy a white Christmas. No matter what the age, alpine resorts have a myriad of exciting activities that are fun for the entire family. You can go on a horse-drawn sleigh ride or attend a beautiful Christmas market.
If you celebrate Christmas in Zermatt, there's a mass at St. Peter's Church. It's known to attract upwards of 800 people, so be sure to stop by.
Gstaad, another delightful resort town, has a very special visitor every year. Santa Claus comes to town and walks the children from the oldest hotel in town, Posthotel Rössli, to the chapel.
Sweden
For the ultimate Christmas experience, be sure to visit Gothenburg. It transforms into Sweden's very own "Christmas City," providing a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
The Christmas market, located in Liseberg, is the biggest Christmas market in all of Sweden.
Liseberg Amusement Park boasts a Christmas attraction like nothing you've ever seen. Upwards of 500,000 eager visitors come from all around to see the 80 rustic market stalls and Christmas shops.
You'll find quaint cabins selling arts and crafts, seasonal foods, and mulled spiced wine - a tradition. Some foods include marinated herring, roasted reindeer, and marzipan pigs.
You'll have plenty to do, as there's an ice-skating rink where you can watch shows or skate yourself! Julius the white rabbit helps children celebrate Christmas as he visits his cousins in Rabbit Land.
Children can watch Santa prepare for Christmas in his very own workshop. They can even leave their Christmas wishlist with him before enjoying tons of great rides!
Bulgaria
If you're looking for the perfect Christmas destination in Bulgaria, then look no further than the Sofia Christmas Market.
This German Christmas Market runs from November to December, taking place for a whole month. You can access the market daily, as there are tons to do and see! This wonderful Christmas attraction is held at the City Garden on Knyaz Alexander I Square.
For the adults, you'll experience nightly musical performances, shopping, delicious food, and plenty of drinks. If traveling with kids, you can expect some of the stage performances to be geared toward the younger ones. You'll also see Father Christmas when he makes a special appearance.
If you're in search of a perfect family Christmas picture, you'll find a fantastic holiday photo booth. They'll take- and print- Christmas photos, so you can capture your experience.
You'll also find Bulgarian souvenirs, Christmas ornaments, nutcrackers, holiday decorations, and packaged goodies to take with you.
For the foodies, you can expect bratwurst, sauerkraut, and potatoes, to name a few. There are also Hungarian Langos and Mexican churros to choose from.
If you're wondering what there is to drink, you'll be pleased with the mugs of mulled wine (gluhwein). You can also purchase a souvenir mug.
Best of all, entry into this market is free. Even the performances are free! You'll experience the best of Christmas without breaking the bank.
What's your Christmas destination?
Now that you've learned about some of the most idyllic Christmas destinations in Europe, it's time to book your next adventure! Choose from an array of Christmas markets and experience food, drink, and entertainment unlike no other.
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