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Best European Destinations To Spend Christmas
Condé Nast Traveler recently unveiled its list of the best places in the world to spend Christmas, and we couldn’t agree more with the festive favorites.
Taking a nod from that roundup, we’ve curated our own selection of European destinations we know best and our team has traveled to. Places where we design seamless holidays and client favorites from over the years. From the twinkling Christmas markets of Bruges to never-disappointing Paris (because Paris is always a good idea), these destinations capture the magic, elegance and warmth of the season. Consider this your insider’s guide to spending the holidays abroad. You pick the place, we got you covered for the rest.
ReykjavÃk, Iceland - In December, ReykjavÃk truly sparkles—from its cozy streets all the way up to the night sky. Twinkling Christmas lights brighten the city during its long winter nights, and on clear evenings, you might even catch the northern lights dancing overhead. The capital also makes a perfect home base for exploring more of Iceland’s natural wonders, with easy day trips to nearby geysers, waterfalls and hot springs to warm up within the cold outdoors, before returning to the warmth and charm of the city.
Colonge, Germany - Come for the old-world yuletide charm of Cologne’s Christmas markets, and stay for the unmistakable feeling that no one does Christmas quite like Germany. With glowing wooden stalls, the scent of mulled wine in the air, and the cathedral as a dramatic backdrop, it’s easy to see why nearly four million visitors flock here each winter. Still, it’s one of those places that simply has to be experienced in person to fully appreciate the magic.
Copenhagen, Denmark - It’s no surprise that Denmark consistently ranks as one of the world’s happiest countries, and the holidays are an especially lovely time to experience it. Nowhere is that festive spirit more charming than Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens, where antique amusement rides glow with lights and a storybook, Alpine-style Christmas market offers decadent hot chocolate and handmade crafts. Add in the occasional Swarovski-crystal-adorned Christmas tree, and you’ve got a holiday setting that feels equal parts elegant and unmistakably Danish.
Edinburgh, Scotland - Warming up with a whisky tasting is reason enough to visit Edinburgh in winter, but the city’s festive appeal goes far beyond a cocktail. The season brings a lively holiday market to East Princes Street Gardens, outdoor adventures like skiing in the Pentland Hills and classic ice skating at St Andrew Square. And just when you think the celebrations are winding down, Christmas rolls seamlessly into Hogmanay, a legendary three-day New Year festival filled with concerts, fireworks and dancing in the streets.
Bruges, Belgium - Europe’s best-preserved medieval city is captivating year-round, but the holidays bring an extra layer of warmth and atmosphere. Strolling along cobblestone market-lined streets beneath softly glowing lights, popping into inviting cafes and lingering over mugs of rich Belgian hot chocolate feels effortlessly festive and timeless.
Paris, France - Is there a better place to spend Christmas than Paris? The city leans fully into the season, with festive touches everywhere you turn—from the glowing light displays along the Champs-Élysées to pop-up markets and ice-skating rinks scattered throughout the city. If you're in the shopping mood, when in Paris, it may be the best time and place to treat yourself to a tax-free designer handbag you've had your eye on all year.
Dublin, Ireland - If your idea of Christmas cheer includes a creamy pint of Guinness by a crackling fire, we understand. There’s no better way to fend off a chilly winter night than with a bowl of beef stew, a hot whisky and catching an Irish traditional music session. We recommend shopping Irish handmade wool accessories to bundle up; and they will be closet staples for winters to come.
