11 magical European destinations that will give you all the holiday wanderlust
It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and we’ve got visions of sugar plums Euro-trips dancing in our heads.
‘Tis the season for festive travel, and let’s not kid ourselves, some of the impending family time can make us want to get as far from home as possible.
No matter the reason for your holiday escape, we’ve rounded up 11 magical European Christmas destinations that might just have you packing your bags and blowing your gift budget on a trip away for yourself.
Here are the most magical European travel spots of the year.
Berlin, Germany
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Everyone knows Germany is one of the best places for Christmas cheer, with its markets attracting travellers from across the globe and replica German markets popping up worldwide. There are tons of Christmas markets worth visiting in Berlin, but two particularly popular ones are the Berliner Weihnachtszeit near Alexanderplatz, and the WeihnachtsZauber at Gendarmenmarkt.
Bath, England
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Bath has an epic Christmas market that is on now until mid-December. Picture 160 chalets with loads of gifts for sale, as well as lots to eat and drink so you don’t tire out too much from the shopping. Taking a step away from classic options of Raclette and Glhüwein, this spot has everything from churros to donuts to fish and chips and falafels. A quick train ride from London, this also makes an easy day trip if you want to enjoy all of the festive lights London has to offer while you’re in the UK.
Zürich, Switzerland
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If you’ve been wanting to take a trip to Zurich, Christmas might just be the prime time. With nine different Christmas markets to choose from and loads of Christmas advent concerts, the entire city will have you feeling warm and festive in no time. Also, Raclette originated in Switzerland so this is a Christmas must for any of you cheese-lovers out there (all of you, right?).
Edinburgh, Scotland
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This city is magical any time of year but there is loads to do at Christmas in the Scottish capital. From festive Christmas markets to a real-life advent, the city will keep you on your toes until it’s time to cozy up in a Scottish pub for a pint and slice of steak pie.
Kraków, Poland
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Krakow’s Christmas market is located centrally in the middle of Krakow’s Old Town, making a stunning setting for you to enjoy the festivities and a great place to park yourself after a day of exploring. At the market, try Oscypek, a delicious smoked cheese made in a mountainous region of Poland, sure to satisfy your savoury cravings after loads of sugary holiday treats.
Prague, Czech Republic
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The lights and snow in Prague at Christmas time make it a truly picturesque place to be over the holidays, with loads of markets, exhibitions and concerts to warm you up outside and in this Christmas. Awwww.
Vienna, Austria
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We can’t neglect the capital of Austria, which has loads of delicious food and drink and many a Christmas market to visit. The Rathausplatz Christmas Market is the biggest in Austria with roots back to the 18th century. There’s a nearby ice skating trail for a truly festive city break.
Bled, Slovenia
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This Slovenian city is bursting with charm as is, and hosts a Winter Fairytale market on the promenade near Lake Bled. It’s full of Instagrammable lights and photo ops, with Slovenian food to munch on while you explore.
Bolzano, Italy
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If you also believe that carbs are the way to happiness, perhaps Bolzano in hilly northern Italy is your place to be this Christmas. Not only is this highly festive market in close proximity to delicious, authentic pasta, but there’s no shortage of wine here either (obvs).
Amsterdam, Netherlands
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Amsterdam’s canals are lovely as is but picture them lined by Christmas lights. While we’re not sure we need to say anything more, there’s loads to do in Amsterdam at Christmas from the various markets to skating right out front of the Rijksmuseum.
Brussels, Belgium
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Finish off your Euro holiday tour in Belgium, and not just for the chocolate. The Brussels Christmas market has over 200 vendors and fairground attractions, a skating rink, and a range of concerts that will have you singing along whether you like it or not.