When considering the Christmas holidays, few places can rival Europe as a destination for celebration. Regardless of your vision for an ideal Christmas getaway, Europe offers an abundance of options. With its snow-covered mountains, festive conifers lining the streets, and the delightful aromas of cinnamon and gingerbread wafting through the air, the vibrant streets filled with the melodious sounds of Christmas carols create an undeniably magnificent festive atmosphere. From quaint seaside towns with tranquil beaches to bustling cities, you can enjoy intimate candlelit dinners beside crackling fires. The choice of how to celebrate is entirely yours. Planning a trip to Europe for Christmas? Continue reading to discover the finest locations to experience Christmas in Europe in 2024.
In Europe, grand celebrations commence four Sundays before Christmas Eve, signifying the onset of Advent. Following this period, many Catholic nations observe the Feast of St. Nicholas during the first week of December. However, in major urban centers, the highlight of Christmas in Europe is the celebration on Christmas Eve, where individuals partake in midnight mass and savor a delightful meal with their families and friends.
Seven top destinations for celebrating Christmas in Europe in 2024.
Christmas is grandly celebrated all across Europe, however, the experience in a few cities is simply mesmerising. Let’s find out the best places to spend Christmas in Europe with your loved ones!
- Reykjavik, Iceland
- Milan, Italy
- Prague, Czech Republic
- Strasbourg, France
- Vienna, Austria
- Rovaniemi, Lapland
- Copenhagen, Denmark
1. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague, once a breathtaking and tranquil city in Europe, transforms during the Christmas season, adorned with festive lights, making it arguably one of the premier destinations for celebrating Christmas in Europe. Renowned for its historic markets, Prague boasts one of the most beautiful and exceptional Christmas markets on the continent. The streets illuminate with a brilliance that creates an atmosphere reminiscent of an extravagant carnival. Furthermore, the city is highly walkable, enhancing the festive experience.
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- Ideal for: Couples seeking a romantic ambiance during a magnificent Christmas Eve celebration.
- Estimated cost per person: INR 65,000 – INR 80,000
- Accessing Prague: There are no direct flights from India; the journey to Václav Havel Airport (PRG) takes approximately 10 hours.
- Key Attractions: Explore the enchanting streets of Old Town Square, enjoy a candlelit dinner on the historic Charles Bridge, and visit the 600-year-old Prague Astronomical Clock.
- December Weather: Ranges from 0° to 5° Celsius.
- Currency: Czech Crown.
2. Milan, Italy
Christmas in Europe would be lacking without a visit to Milan, the fashion capital of the world. For those who have envisioned a winter wonderland reminiscent of the film Frozen, Milan stands out as one of the premier destinations to celebrate Christmas in Europe, offering an opportunity to experience the enchantment firsthand. The entire city is adorned with snow and dazzling lights, creating a truly magical atmosphere.
- Best Suited for: Individuals who are interested in exploring shopping options during the Christmas festivities, both on the streets and in high-end brand stores.
- Average budget per head: Up to INR 80,000 for travel expenses per individual within the group.
- How to reach Milan: Travel from London Luton to Milan via a direct flight from either Delhi or Mumbai. Among the three airports, Linate is the closest to the city center.
- Top Attractions: Visit the Church of Santa Maria Delle Grazie, explore Sforzesco Castle, savor the renowned Panettone, and stroll through the streets of Milan.
- Temperature in December: Approximately 4° Celsius.
- Currency: Euro.
3. Vienna, Austria
The enchanting atmosphere of Vienna during the Christmas season is evident, from the dynamic evening sky at Belvedere to the bustling streets of Graben. In December, the weather is relatively mild compared to the frigid temperatures of January and February. Beginning in mid-November, the city’s most beautiful squares are adorned with festive Christmas markets, establishing Vienna as one of the premier destinations for celebrating Christmas in Europe. The opportunity to experience the charm of Vienna during this time is certainly not to be overlooked.
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- Ideal for: Individuals seeking an opulent Christmas vacation in Europe characterized by extravagant festivities.
- Estimated cost per person: INR 1,10,000 – INR 1,30,000
- Accessing Vienna: There is a single direct flight from Delhi, with an approximate flight duration of 15 hours, arriving at Schwechat International Airport.
- Key Attractions: Explore the Schönbrunn Palace; Vienna is renowned for its association with legendary figures such as Mozart, Beethoven, and Sigmund Freud.
- December Climate: Approximately 0° to 4° Celsius
- Currency: Euro.
4. Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen, undoubtedly not the least significant destination on your itinerary, is one of the premier locations to celebrate Christmas in Europe and is certainly a must-see during your visit to the Scandinavian region. The city upholds some of the finest Christmas traditions. You can enjoy a romantic stroll while discovering the entirety of the city and its extensive Christmas markets. In summary, it is an exceptional city to experience the festive season in Europe.
- Ideal For: Individuals seeking an enchanting extended journey through Europe, particularly to discover the gorges.
- Estimated Cost per Person: INR 1,00,000 – INR 1,20,000.
- Accessing Copenhagen: There are no direct flights available; travel time to Copenhagen is approximately 16 hours.
- Key Attractions: Visit the splendid Tivoli Gardens, enjoy mulled wine at the distinctive Hotel and partake in ice skating at Frederiksberg, among other activities.
- December Weather: Temperatures range from approximately 1° to 5° Celsius.
- Currency : Danish Krone.
5. Strasbourg, France
Strasbourg is frequently recognized as the Christmas Capital of Europe, surpassing any other city on the continent. It heralds the commencement of Christmas celebrations across Europe and is undoubtedly one of the premier destinations for Christmas festivities. This historic Christmas market, which has been in existence for 400 years, is an essential experience; it offers a wide array of items for purchase. Be sure to capture photographs at the magnificent Christmas tree located in Place Kleber.
- Ideal For: Individuals seeking to immerse themselves in a genuine and traditional Christmas celebration.
- Estimated Cost per Person: The expenditure varies between INR 90,000 and INR 1,20,000 for each participant.
- Accessing Strasbourg: There are no direct flights available; travelers should arrive at one of the following airports: Strasbourg, Zurich, Munich, or Frankfurt.
- Key Attractions: Explore the city center at Place Broglie, capture photographs of the magnificent Christmas tree in Place Kleber, enjoy the Christmas Markets at Cathedral Square, and take a cruise along the Rhine River.
- December Temperature: Approximately 0° to 5° Celsius.
- Currency: Euro.
6. Rovaniemi, Lapland
Welcome to the enchanting realm of Santa Claus! Renowned as the official residence of Santa, Rovaniemi stands out as one of the premier Christmas destinations in Europe. Additionally, visitors can extend their holiday greetings to Santa at the Santa Village, situated on the Arctic Circle and
open year-round. Furthermore, your Christmas festivities in Rovaniemi promise to be both extraordinary and distinctive.
- Most Appropriate For: Individuals who have envisioned a classic and traditional journey through Europe, as well as those who are receptive to cold weather conditions.
- Estimated Cost per Individual: INR 1,15,000 – INR 1,30,000 per person. Accessing Rovaniemi: There are no direct flights; the quickest journey to the Lapland region takes approximately 14 hours.
- Key Attractions: Meet Santa at Santa Village, enjoy a reindeer sleigh ride, participate in a city tour with huskies, witness the breathtaking northern lights, visit the Arctic zoo, and more.
- December Temperature: Approximately -4° to -11° Celsius.
- Currency : Euro.
7. Reykjavik, Iceland
Consider the opportunity to witness the Northern Lights while enjoying a magnificent Christmas Eve amidst a snowy landscape. It certainly sounds enchanting! This is precisely what awaits you for a Christmas celebration in Iceland. Reykjavik stands out as one of the premier destinations in Europe for Christmas festivities, transforming into a vibrant city filled with joy and holiday spirit following the first week of November. You will also have the chance to seek out the Icelandic Yule Lads, the Icelandic version of Santa Claus.
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- Ideal For: Adventurous individuals eager to experience the Northern Lights, as well as families seeking magnificent Christmas festivities.
- Estimated Cost per Person: The average expenditure ranges from INR 1,00,000 to INR 1,20,000.
- Accessing Iceland: Travel by air to Amsterdam-Keflavik Airport or utilize the Smyril Line ferry departing from Denmark.
- Major Attractions: The illumination of the Oslo Christmas tree, relaxation at the Blue Lagoon, Gullfoss waterfalls, and reindeer sledding excursions.
- December Temperature: Ranges from -1° to 4° Celsius.
- Currency Used: Icelandic króna.
Central & Eastern Europe
Mediterranean Europe
Northern Europe
