Top Christmas Destinations in Europe: Must-Visit Festive Getaways for 2024

1. Austria: A true Winter Wonderland

Austria transforms into a magical Christmas wonderland every December…In fact, every November. Its stunning cities are filled with festive lights, traditional markets, and snowy landscapes that evoke pure holiday cheer and hope.

• Vienna

Vienna’s Christmas markets are legendary, with Schönbrunn Palace and Rathausplatz hosting some of the best. In total, you can find 20 official Christmas markets in the city. Indulge in mulled wine or punsch, roasted chestnuts or traditional langos, and hand-crafted ornaments while enjoying classical music in the background. The city’s famous ice-skating rink in front of City Hall adds a playful touch to the elegant atmosphere. If you wish to know the best Christmas Markets to explore and some tips, check out our Blogpost “A Local Guide to the Best Christmas Markets in Vienna”.

• Salzburg

Salzburg, home of the famous musician Mozart, comes alive during the holidays. The Christkindlmarkt at Domplatz, with its origins tracing back to the late 15th century, offers local delicacies like gingerbread and warm pretzels.
Located in the heart of Salzburg's UNESCO World Heritage Site, this traditional market is renowned for its rich history and charming stalls, making it one of the oldest and most picturesque Advent markets in the world. An experience not to miss is the Silent Night Chapel in Oberndorf, where the iconic carol was first performed. 

• Graz

Known for its unique Advent calendar projection on City Hall, Graz combines traditional Christmas charm with modern artistic flair. The city has 17 christmas markets to explore. The main Christmas market in Hauptplatz is perfect for finding artisanal gifts, while the ice nativity scene at Landhaushof is a visual masterpiece.

• Innsbruck

Nestled in the Alps, Innsbruck offers a picturesque holiday experience with snow-capped mountains as a backdrop (a true cozy winter wonderland). The Old Town Christmas Market beneath the Golden Roof is enchanting, while Nordkette Cable Car rides give a breathtaking view of the snowy valley.

2. Belgium: A Festive Feast for the Senses

Belgium is a hidden gem during the Christmas season, offering cozy markets, light shows, and indulgent treats in this time of the year.

• Brussels

​​​​​​​The Winter Wonders market in Brussels is one of Europe’s most famous. Visitors can enjoy a 360° light show at the Grand Place, explore over 200 market stalls, and take a ride on the Ferris wheel for panoramic views of the city. An extra experience to level up your stay in Brussels is to try the Belgian waffles and hot chocolate!

• Bruges

​​​​​​​Bruges feels like a fairytale during Christmas, with its canals and medieval buildings covered in festive decor. The Ice Sculpture Festival and skating rink in the Market Square make it an unforgettable destination for families and couples alike. For the sixth consecutive year, Bruges has the Winter Glow route where a three-kilometer trail of light displays fill the city. This year you can explore 10 light installations that reflect the unity of fire and ice, transporting you to an unique world and giving a different lens to the city.

3. Switzerland: A Snowy Paradise for Christmas

Switzerland’s breathtaking landscapes and festive ambiance make it one of the top destinations for the Christmas season.

• Zurich

​​​​​​​Zurich hosts 12 christmas markets, displaying one of the largest indoor Christmas markets in Europe at the main train station. The Singing Christmas Tree at Werdmühleplatz is a unique tradition, while Bahnhofstrasse, one of the world’s most luxurious shopping streets, dazzles with lights and decorations. If you wish to explore a more traditional Christmas Market, you can explore the one in Niederdorf quarter, giving that romantic seasonal spirit.

• Lucerne

This lakeside city is perfect for a serene Christmas escape, being considered one of the most beautiful markets in Switzerland. The Franziskanerplatz market offers local crafts, while a stroll along the illuminated wooden Chapel Bridge is simply magical.

• Zermatt

​​​​​​​Zermatt offers an unforgettable alpine Christmas with its snow-covered chalets and views of the Matterhorn. If you wish to have a cozy and wholesome Christmas, Zermatt offers that alpine Christmas beauty. Enjoy skiing during the day and festive celebrations in the evenings, including live music and traditional Swiss delicacies, such as Fondue, Raclette or Rösti.

These top destinations across Austria, Belgium, Germany, and Switzerland offer a mix of enchanting traditions, festive markets, and scenic beauty, making them the perfect Christmas escapes for 2024. Each destination has its own beauty and spirit during the winter season. From sipping mulled wine in Vienna to ice skating in Brussels and exploring snow-capped peaks in Switzerland, each destination guarantees holiday cheer and unforgettable memories.