Christmas in Europe: the best travel destinations. The most colorful Christmas markets in Europe Christmas in Spain

For European culture, “Christmas” is the most long-awaited and bright family holiday. European countries begin to prepare for Christmas from the end of November. It is at this time that tourists strive to visit Europe in order to fully enjoy the festive atmosphere even before the New Year. Each European country has its own unique traditions of celebrating Christmas and New Year. In this article we would like to tell you about five European countries with the most beautiful Christmas.

Germany

Some people, but the Germans have been treating Christmas for a long time as one of the most important holidays of the year. That is why Germany looks very beautiful on Christmas Eve. Since the end of November, all German cities have been radically transformed: Christmas markets open, the facades of houses and shops are decorated with all kinds of New Year's paraphernalia. Everything glows and sparkles everywhere. The main Christmas tree is installed in the central squares of all cities. In general, all of Germany on the eve of Christmas turns into a magical New Year's world.

In the Czech Republic, as in Germany, they begin to prepare for Christmas at the end of November. Tourists come to the country's most important city, Prague, for the festive atmosphere. At this time, the streets and squares of Prague are decorated with garlands, lanterns and other paraphernalia, and Christmas trees with the stars of Bethlehem are installed everywhere. Christmas in the Czech Republic cannot be imagined without New Year's fairs, which are part of Czech culture. Visiting such fairs will give you many positive emotions and impressions. As a rule, Christmas markets are usually opened near churches. At such fairs they sell anything: fruits, all kinds of sweets, the famous mulled wine drink, traditional Prague sausages and pastries. Sellers decorate fair tents with a variety of New Year's decorations: Christmas tree tinsel, wooden crafts, mistletoe wreaths, etc.

Austria

Austrians also begin preparing for Christmas and New Year from the end of November. To taste a piece of magic, tourists go to the oldest and most fabulous city in Austria - Vienna. On the eve of the Christmas holidays, Vienna, Salzburg, Insburg and other cities in Austria turn into a winter fairy tale. City squares are decorated with fir trees, bright lights, and Christmas illumination. Christmas markets are opening everywhere, where you can try traditional Austrian sweets, drinks, buy figurines of deer, angels and various souvenirs.

In Switzerland they also know how to celebrate Christmas with love. A few weeks before Christmas, fairs open, festivals, and all kinds of performances on the theme of the upcoming holidays take place. Switzerland is turning into one big New Year's theater stage. Here you can walk along the clean narrow streets, which are brightly and beautifully decorated with garlands, balls, Christmas tree tinsel, and the sounds of organ music in churches can be heard everywhere. All this adds to the Christmas atmosphere. And the windows of the fairs are overflowing with all kinds of Christmas paraphernalia.

In almost all European countries, Christmas is the most long-awaited and main holiday. During the Christmas holidays, cities turn into a sparkling Christmas tree. Christmas markets are held everywhere, where a wide variety of toys and souvenirs are presented. In every country there are folk festivals, and fun reigns. There are 10 countries in Europe that host the most beautiful Christmas celebrations. Each of them has its own traditions.

Christmas in Germany

On Christmas Eve, Germany undergoes a radical transformation. The facades of houses and shop windows are decorated with garlands, lanterns and similar paraphernalia. A large Christmas tree is erected in the central squares of every city. Everything around glows and sparkles.

The country begins to prepare for the celebration at the end of November. The most beautiful Christmas markets are held in big cities. They usually have everything from souvenirs to stalls selling the famous gingerbread. In many cities, skating rinks are open, exhibitions are held and all kinds of concerts and show programs are held.

Christmas in Finland

In Finland, Christmas is celebrated in a fun and interesting way. The weather here is usually snowy at this time. It is believed that the real Santa Claus lives in Lapland, so everything here speaks of his presence. All cities are beautifully decorated. A wide variety of events and holiday programs are held for large and small guests. Everyone can not only see Santa, but also take a photo with him. For children, a trip to Finland may seem like a real fairy tale. Everything is very beautiful and realistic.

Christmas in Austria

Christmas in Austria is also incredibly beautiful. Vienna looks especially elegant and fabulous at this time. It is decorated with garlands and invites all guests and local residents to the famous Viennese fairs. You can not only buy gifts and souvenirs with them, but also try hot toddy and enjoy the smell of fresh baked goods. Famous souvenirs that can be purchased at this time are considered to be nutcracker toys. Both adults and children will have fun here.

Christmas in Switzerland

In Switzerland, Christmas is celebrated with love and warmth. They carefully prepare for it and rejoice every Christmas day. A few days before the holiday, fairs open here. Not only guests of the country, but also local residents have something to see and what to buy. Interesting festivals are held in different parts of Switzerland. Interesting performances are held on the theme of the upcoming holidays.

Tourists can enjoy strolling along the clean streets decorated with garlands, tinsel, balloons, etc. You can hear the sounds of organ music coming from the temples. Colorful shop windows complement the overall image of the holiday.

Christmas in Italy

In Italy it is believed that they have the best Christmas, because it is in the Vatican in St. Peter's Square that the head of the entire Catholic world and, accordingly, the Christmas holiday is located. It is on this square that the Pope on December 25 congratulates all residents of the country and their guests, and reads his sermon “The City and the World.” A huge Christmas tree is always installed on the square, which amazes with its beauty.

Christmas markets are held in different cities of Italy. The largest market takes place in Piazza Navona in Rome. Here you can see a whole performance with Santa Claus's carriage, try the famous sweets and apples in chocolate glaze.

Christmas in Spain

Christmas in Spain is somewhat unusual and original. At this time, many cities host crowded carnivals and theatrical performances. Processions in national costumes are held through the streets. Christmas is celebrated in Spain a few weeks before Christmas Eve.

In Madrid, on Christmas night there is always a grandiose pyrotechnic show. In addition, interesting games are held for children and educational programs are implemented. There are also fairs. They host concerts and various shows.

Waiting for Christmas (Barcelona street)

Christmas in the Czech Republic

Christmas is celebrated beautifully in the Czech Republic too. The most interesting entertainment can be found in Prague. Here on Wenceslas Square on the eve of the Christmas holidays interesting shows and programs are organized. Here you can also try local gingerbread for free, which is always made for the holiday. You can also try traditional hot toddy.

It will be interesting to visit the shops during the Christmas holidays. In large centers you can not only buy a wide variety of goods, but also see real performances, which are mostly staged for children. You should definitely try the national local dish - fried carp with potato salad. On Christmas it is prepared in every home.

In Poland, Christmas is considered the most important holiday. At this time, the most unusual things should happen and desires should come true. Like any Christmas in Europe, the city is typically decorated in full splendor with garlands and balls. On the first day of Christmas Eve, all families gather together. It is customary to spend this day only with close people.

On Christmas Eve, Poles usually prepare many different dishes. It is believed that there should be at least 12 of them on the table. In addition, one of the customs is to place an extra plate on the festive table, which is intended for Jesus Christ.

Christmas in France

Christmas in France is celebrated in the traditional French manner. In Strasbourg, on Place Kleber, the largest 30-meter Christmas tree is installed every year. It is near her that all the fun takes place. Every year, holiday festivities, fairs and all kinds of Christmas events are held here. A large Christmas market is held on Cathedral Square, which consists of more than 300 wooden stalls. You can buy souvenirs there, as well as try traditional local treats and dishes.

Christmas in Denmark

Christmas entertainment in Denmark starts at the end of November and lasts until December 23rd. At this time, you can visit Christmas markets where folk festivities take place. It is also worth visiting the Tivoli amusement park. At this time, a variety of entertainment is held here. There is a huge skating rink, interesting carousels, fragrant donuts and other treats. In different parts of the country you can meet Santa Claus with elves.

Discover Christmas in Alsace: the most magical Christmas in the whole world! Starting from the end of November, Alsace turns into one continuous extravaganza, starting with St. Catherine's Day on November 25 and ending with Epiphany on January 6, Alsace dresses up to celebrate one of its most important holidays: Christmas.

More than a hundred Christmas markets scattered throughout the region will give you a unique Alsatian Christmas atmosphere. Your program includes: cities and villages decorated with thousands of light bulbs, sweet markets where you can taste delicious delicacies, craft markets where masterpieces by regional craftsmen await you, etc.

In addition, you will have the opportunity to admire the main fir tree of Strasbourg, the largest fir tree in Europe, please your kids by buying them something at the children's market in Colmar, and also purchase original decorative elements at the fabric market in Mulhouse! In addition, all Alsatian villages are diligently preparing for the Christmas celebration: Celeste, Kaysersberg, Ribeauville, etc. It would take a lot of time to list all the cultural and entertainment events. Simply put, come to Alsace for an unforgettable experience. After all, it's Christmas in Alsace.

Alsace, with its unique geographical location and mixed Romano-Germanic culture, is a great place for your New Year's holiday: hills, mountains and valleys are home to numerous castles, vineyards and cute Alsatian villages such as Riquewihr or Junspach. The regional natural parks of Baglon des Voges and Voges du Nord are always ready for an influx of guests and nature lovers.

Alsace carefully preserves its history. The region is famous for the most beautiful places in France, where for centuries history has coexisted with the “art of living”. In Strasbourg, in the shadow of the spiers of the famous Notre-Dame Cathedral, lovers stroll along the banks of the Ile River and in the Petite France quarter, while art lovers spend hours in museums, especially the Museum of Fine Arts.

Colmar also has a lot to see, from the rich collections of the Unterlinden Museum to the picturesque views of Little Venice, where you can see the Pfister House. The city of Mulhouse, in turn, offers an unforgettable trip to the State Automobile Museum, the Railway Museum and the Zoological and Botanical Park. Alsace tells its story through numerous attractions: the Vauban Museum, the Alsace-Moselle Memorial, Haut-Koenisburg Castle and Hochlandsburg Castle, Mont Sainte-Odile Monastery...

Alsatian cuisine... in Alsace one dish is more appetizing than another. The history of the origin of honey bread (pain d'épices) will be told to you at the Museum of Honey Bread and Folk Art, as well as at the Palace of Honey Bread. On the menus of wine bars and Alsatian restaurants you will find everything from the “kouglof” dessert to the “becqueoffe” cold cuts.

Tarte flambée or Munster pie are also worthy of attention. And you can enjoy the secrets of production and taste of Silvaner, Pinot Blanc, Noir or Gris, Riesling and Gewürztraminer during a trip along the Alsace Wine Route or at the Alsace Vineyards and Wines Museum.

Before Christmas, European cities are transformed: streets, shops and just office buildings and houses are decorated with colorful garlands and thousands of flashing lights. A special festive atmosphere is created by Christmas markets, where you can not only buy colorful decorations for the Christmas tree and gifts for friends and family, but also taste traditional Christmas sweets and warm up with a glass of hot mulled wine or punch. Wherever you are - in Germany, Austria or France, at Christmas you will always be treated to gingerbread or honey gingerbread, marzipan and drunk with spiced wine. From mid-November until Christmas, Vienna's most beautiful squares are transformed into fabulous Christmas markets. The aromas of Christmas baking and hot toddy create a pre-Christmas mood. Winter holiday traditions in Austria are so original that the bearded Santa is replaced here by a rather unexpected character - the beautiful blond German maiden Weiner Christkindl. The Vienna Christmas Market opened its doors on November 15th on the square in front of the city hall, crowned with tall towers. Here, in the concert hall, the Viennese Catholic choir and the city orchestra give festive performances every day. The cozy city park is also adequately prepared for Christmas: each tree is decorated with balls emitting a soft matte light; walking along the narrow park alleys, you find yourself on the pages of Christmas fairy tales. Restaurants in the neighborhood will offer roasted Christmas carp and tea with marzipan stollen. The Cultural and Christmas Market in front of Schönbrunn Palace offers Christmas romance against a regal backdrop, and after Christmas it turns into the New Year's Market. The Christmas market in front of the Belvedere Palace also takes place in a regal setting. Open: November 22 - December 26 Velden, Austria The main and brightest moment of the Velden fair is the lighting of a huge wreath decorated with 80,000 lights, which create the atmosphere of a real fairy tale coming to Lake Wörs on Christmas Eve. Official opening: December 7 Berlin, Germany Germany is a classic Christmas destination. Only in Berlin alone with November 23 to December 31 There are 60 Christmas markets. The best of them is in the Wilhelm Gedächtniskirche area - it attracts about a million visitors. Other popular markets in Berlin are located near Charlottenburg Castle and on the Gendarmenmarkt. Cologne, Germany From November 27 to December 23 six large Christmas markets operate in Cologne - the largest of which will open at Neumarkt. One small medieval fair is located in front of the Lindt Chocolate Museum, and the other is on a boat moored off the banks of the Rhine. Nuremberg, Germany The Nuremberg Christmas Market has been held since 1682 and is considered the largest and best in Europe. Here you can try delicious ginger cookies - a specialty of the region, as well as Christmas sausages. In the evenings, the market is softly lit with string lights and guest musicians play jazz to entertain the crowd. The fair will continue from December 1 to December 24. Munich, Germany In Munich from November 27 to December 24 The fair takes place on the Christkindlmarkt square. Traditionally, during its work, Christmas carols are heard and snowball championships are held. Paris, France French Christmas markets are not as old and popular as those in Germany, but they are recognized as the most romantic. It's amazing how Paris changes in December. The flirtatious streets are transformed one after another, dotted with small log cabins twinkling with New Year's lights. A Christmas market of incredible proportions grows in the heart of the futuristic La Defense district, its area reaches 10,000 m². There are small souvenir stalls around the spacious skating rink, and visitors to the bazaar actually shop on skates. A more traditional and relaxed atmosphere reigns at the second Parisian Christmas market, taking over the Champs Elysees. Here, according to tradition, the ball is ruled by people from Alsace, descended from the Germans, famous connoisseurs of Christmas celebrations. Be sure to drink a cup of French coffee with bredele - a spicy sugar sponge cake, and buy a crispy bag of gingerbread - surrounded by sweet aromas, your appetite will not leave you for a second. Those who like a hearty dinner can enjoy tender duck meat with a side dish of potatoes and a piece of birewacke pie stuffed with fruits and nuts in liqueur syrup. Strasbourg, France The fair has been taking place at the foot of Strasbourg Cathedral since time immemorial. The temperature here rarely drops below zero, but despite the lack of snow, the aroma of cloves, almonds and hot mulled wine reminds you of the approaching holiday - it is sold everywhere. In churches and exhibition halls, performances and concerts of choirs and chamber orchestras are held every day. A 30-meter Christmas tree is installed on the main square of the city. Open: November 28 - December 31 Mulhouse, France Mulhouse, the second largest city in Alsace, is famous for its textiles. During the New Year period, textiles become of particular interest to both residents and guests of this city. In Mulhouse you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of rare museum collections. Here is a unique exhibition of wallpaper from the 18th - 19th centuries in Europe and, of course, a car museum with its one-of-a-kind collection. Walking along the wide avenue, where 500 exhibits are on display, you can take a journey through more than a century of automotive history, from Jaco's steam-powered car of 1878 to the present day. Opening period: from November 24 to December 29. Brussels, Belgium In a city famous for its cuisine, the Christmas market is a foodie's paradise. The Brussels Christmas Market stretches through the city center and features wooden stalls, fairground rides, slides and more. During the fair, a light show is organized on the Grand Place. Considered one of Europe's largest Christmas markets, the Brussels Fair offers seasonal gifts and treats, including Belgian chocolate. An ice skating rink with an area of ​​1,050 square meters, located against the background of an illuminated Ferris wheel, gives a special charm to the fair. Belgium, Bruges Medieval Bruges from November 20 to January 3 holds one of the nicest fairs in Europe. Perhaps its main feature is the enormous selection of local beer. Valkenburg, Netherlands Medieval Bruges One of the most interesting fairs takes place in the Dutch town of Valkenburg. . It is located in Fluweelengrot - the so-called “velvet cave” under the Old Town. The corridors, illuminated with many candles, instantly create a festive mood. Barcelona, ​​Spain The annual Fira de Santa Lucia Christmas market in Barcelona is an explosion of festive mood around the Sagrada Familia, which inexorably stretches its jagged towers, as if smelted from sand, towards the distant sky. Christmas in the homeland of bullfighting and flamenco, what could be more exotic? Only here in the bazaar you will find fragrant dishes made of olive wood and soft bags made of fine leather. Typical Spanish souvenirs include skillful clay figurines, among which there are typical representatives of the peculiar Catalan humor, for example, the famous canager - a figurine of a shepherd relieving himself - a symbol of fertility and harvest. However, such humor in no way spoils the Spanish people's love for tasty and luxurious food. While at the fair, be sure to visit Can Culleretes, a restaurant founded in 1786 that serves juicy young goose stuffed with fresh pears. Tallinn itself is a charming city, but in winter, when it dresses up in a fluffy snow coat, and hundreds of garlands and New Year's decorations glitter on the streets, it completely looks like a fairy tale. By the beginning of December, the streets and shop windows of the city begin to be decorated with Christmas trees in every possible way. The tradition of Christmas markets is relatively new to Tallinn. Fair towns in the old part of the city appeared in 1991. But they have already managed to gain popularity among residents and guests of the city. The Tallinn Fair takes place in two squares. The Old Town Square fair is surrounded by picturesque cobbled streets, medieval buildings and Gothic spiers, while the still-young market at Rotermann Square is nestled among old brick warehouses and modern glass offices. Both fairs sell products from Estonian artisans. Here you can buy felt boots, buckwheat pillows, patchwork blankets and knitted sweaters, as well as traditional Christmas products, including black pudding, gingerbread, marzipan and honey. Rovaniemi, Finland And yet, Christmas in Europe is unthinkable without the main “instigator” - old Santa Claus, whose homeland, as you know, is located far to the north, in frosty Lapland. Right on the Arctic Circle stands his workshop, around which a whole village has long grown up, with an amusement park, many restaurants and cafes, and, of course, a huge Christmas market. Are you looking for exclusive gifts for the fair sex? A unique jewelry store-gallery with a Nordic theme has been opened especially for you, and Finnish chocolate boutiques are open until late in the evening. Need to choose a souvenir for a real man? Check out the Finnish hunting knife shop and Lapland fishing tackle shop.
Children will always find something to their liking here, be it a walk through the fairytale elf factory, riding a reindeer sleigh or playing tag along the Arctic Circle line. A family lunch at the Napatapuli restaurant is a holiday in itself, where guests are offered a hot potato casserole, crispy-crusted turkey meat and an unusual Christmas dessert consisting of sweet rice porridge interspersed with roasted almonds. Moscow, Russia The Hermitage Garden hosts a traditional Christmas market, inspired by the atmosphere of the best European fairs. Here you can buy gifts, choose a Christmas tree, toys, watch the performances "The Nativity Scene" and "The Nutcracker", and spend time with children.

The most beautiful New Year trees await you in the largest cities of Europe. They are a symbol of the Christmas holidays and go perfectly with hot and aromatic mulled wine and spiced pastries. At the same time, it doesn’t really matter whether the tree is old or young on the square on Christmas Day.

If you decide to spend the Christmas holidays in Germany, France, Austria, Italy or other European countries, then do not miss the opportunity to admire the most beautiful evergreen trees. Each city will greet you with aromatic dishes, friendly smiles and an incredible magical atmosphere.

1. Vilnius

It is believed that here, year after year, you can find the most beautiful Christmas trees in Europe. The evergreen trees in Vilnius are simply amazing! Especially those that were installed and decorated in the Old Town.

On one tree alone you can find more than 900 toys and 70,000 light bulbs, which shine so brightly that they can be easily seen when the plane begins to descend at Vilnius Airport.

According to tradition, in this city the Christmas tree is erected from a metal frame, onto which large coniferous branches are attached - the remains of agricultural work. One tree covers a total area of ​​2500 square meters!

But in addition to the Christmas tree, which evokes childish delight among city guests, Vilnius has a themed market where you can find farm products and handmade gifts.

2. Prague

Prague is a romantic city that seems to be shrouded in a magical veil, especially during the Christmas period. If you visit this city during the holidays, you can enjoy open-air concerts, stroll through the bazaar and take photos next to the magnificent cathedrals!

3. Rome

If you look at the photo, you will understand that this city, along with the Christmas tree, needs no comment!

Many people doubt that Rome is an ideal place to celebrate Christmas and New Year, because all the streets are literally crowded with priests, bishops, and archbishops. But it is here that one can feel all the thoughtfulness and joy when the world thanks God for the gift of the birth of Jesus.

Take a stroll through the Christmas market in Piazza Navona and immerse yourself in this enchanting atmosphere of the Italian city!

4. Strasbourg

Strasbourg is rightfully considered the capital of Christmas, which no other city in the world can compare with. Of course, many tried to imitate and even erected the same huge Christmas trees as, for example, it was done in Vilnius, but this French capital of Alsace still creates an incredible festive atmosphere.

In addition to the traditional Christmas market, you will be able to see incredible illuminations. You probably won’t be able to resist the temptation to try the aromatic pastries, washed down with hot, warming mulled wine.

If you see a Christmas tree in Strasbourg in person, you can safely assume that you have witnessed the coming of Jesus into our world! In this city, although they don’t put up huge evergreen trees, they make them the most beautiful and brightest.

5. Vienna

More and more people are looking to celebrate Christmas in Vienna. It remains to be seen why!

Firstly, the whole city is covered in lights, which makes you feel like you are in a fairy tale. Secondly, the holiday market in Vienna is a truly unique place where you can try baked goods, aromatic drinks and buy handmade gifts. Thirdly, a giant Christmas tree that can be seen even from a great distance!

6. Innsbruck

In Innsbruck you can find an incredible Christmas market that is the most romantic fair in Europe. This is a paradise for both children and adults who gather in the center of the square to take photos and make wishes near the huge festive tree. Look at the photo and see for yourself!

7. Brussels

Brussels, like Innsbruck, is famous primarily for its fairy fair. At Christmas, this city transforms as it is shrouded in a myriad of twinkling lights that surprise and inspire visitors from all over the world.

Head to the Belgian capital to celebrate Christmas. Here, on the Grand Place, you will see an incredible evergreen tree, which is covered with garlands and toys. And, of course, what holiday in Brussels would go well without trying a bar of real Belgian chocolate!

8. Frankfurt

Germany is a must-visit European country, especially if you simply enjoy the Christmas atmosphere. The tradition of opening a holiday fair was born in this country, as was decorating the Christmas tree with glass toys.

The German people simply love to celebrate Christmas in a big way. Come and discover Frankfurt's traditional Christmas tree at Römerberg Square.

9. Tallinn

If you want to celebrate Christmas as it should be - with snow, frosty air and red cheeks, then you should go to Estonia, namely Tallinn. As expected, here, at the Christmas market, is the most famous Christmas tree, which is surrounded by cute houses. Each of them offers you hot drinks, souvenirs, clothing, food - everything you need to immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere.

10. Warsaw

It is impossible to resist the temptation to admire the irresistible charm in Warsaw. If you visit this city, you will probably notice that it is truly one of the most beautiful places in Europe.

If you go west of the Old Town, you will come to Christmas Square, where there is a festive fair - a joy for lovers of traditions, illuminations and crafts.

Also in Warsaw, you must visit the Palace of Culture and Science - one of the tallest buildings in Europe.

11. Brasov

Brasov is certainly one of the most beautiful cities in Romania. It houses an incredibly attractive and inspiring market, which is famous for its lush and colorful Christmas tree. Brasov is loved by children, adults and old people!

But do not forget that not far from Brasov there is a historical region - Transylvania, which is famous for its mystery and mysticism. Visit Dracula's Castle, one of the most beautiful castles in all of Europe.

12. Stockholm

Stockholm is already a beautiful city, but imagine how it transforms at Christmas! You can stroll through the historical streets of the Old Town and discover an incredible festive atmosphere.

Once at the Christmas market, you can buy fragrant ginger bread and see the original New Year's decorations that light up the city every year.

13. Paris

Paris is a must-visit destination for Christmas lovers. Just like in London, the festive atmosphere in this city will give you a rush of romantic feelings, warmth and peace.

Every year, absolutely all stores begin to compete with each other, showing ingenuity. You can see the best decorations and colorful displays. You will be especially amazed if you visit Galeries Lafayette. But what would a holiday be without a real Christmas tree, which looks as if it were a huge and incredible tree that came to us from alien worlds.

Whatever European city you go to, incredible colors await you, showing that Christmas is truly a magical holiday. It is here that you will feel a subtle fairy-tale atmosphere, be able to believe in miracles again and make sure that for just a few days the whole world literally becomes silent to listen to the heartbeat of these wonderful cities.