Christmas in Europe: Where to Go and Stay for an Unforgettable Holiday
Discover Europe’s best Christmas destinations
While Europe is celebrated for its sun-drenched Mediterranean summers, winter unveils a different kind of magic that’s just as captivating, especially around Christmas. When December arrives, cities across the continent transform into enchanting winter wonderlands, filled with twinkling lights, bustling holiday markets, and traditions that have been cherished for centuries. From Vienna’s opulent palaces adorned with festive décor to Copenhagen’s cozy, candle-lit Christmas scenes, Europe’s holiday season invites travelers to experience something truly unique. With fewer crowds, scenic snow-covered landscapes, and the spirit of the holidays in full swing, winter is an ideal time to explore Europe. In this guide, we’ll take you through some of the most iconic Christmas destinations and highlight luxurious Virtuoso-member hotels that provide the perfect setting for a festive and unforgettable winter escape.
1. Vienna, Austria
Why Go: Vienna transforms into a winter wonderland, with Christmas markets, festive lights, and classical music.
Traditions: The Viennese tradition of Christmas markets dates back to the 13th century. Key markets like the Rathausplatz market sell handmade crafts, decorations, and spiced mulled wine called Glühwein. The Advent season is celebrated with concerts in the churches and at Schönbrunn Palace.
What Sets It Apart: Vienna’s Christmas charm lies in its timeless elegance and musical traditions, like classical concerts that showcase works by composers like Mozart and Strauss.
Where To Stay
A historic, family-owned hotel known for its Viennese elegance and famous Sacher Torte. Located across from the Vienna State Opera, it’s steps away from Vienna’s Christmas markets.
Located in a 100-year-old bank building, the Park Hyatt combines traditional Viennese architecture with modern luxury, featuring a tranquil spa and close proximity to the city’s holiday festivities.
This palatial hotel on the Ringstrasse offers a blend of historic charm and modern luxury, with stunning architecture, exceptional service, and easy access to Vienna’s holiday markets.
2. Nuremberg, Germany
Why Go: Known for one of the oldest and most famous Christmas markets, the Christkindlesmarkt.
Traditions: The market opens with the “Christkind” (a local girl chosen to represent the Christ Child) reading a prologue. Nuremberg is famous for gingerbread (Lebkuchen), bratwurst, and handcrafted wooden toys.
What Sets It Apart: Nuremberg emphasizes traditional, handmade items in its markets, maintaining an authentic, old-world atmosphere that has existed since the 1600s.
Where to Stay
While there are limited options in Nuremberg itself, this luxury hotel in Munich is close enough for a day trip to Nuremberg. It’s a perfect base for exploring Bavaria’s holiday markets.
This stylish hotel in Munich has French elegance with a German twist. It’s a Virtuoso property, ideal for travelers who want to explore Bavaria, including Nuremberg’s famous Christmas market.
A grand hotel close to Munich's Christmas markets, ideal for travelers wanting to explore Nuremberg as part of a broader Bavarian holiday.
3. Prague, Czech Republic
Why Go: The city’s fairy-tale architecture pairs perfectly with the holiday spirit.
Traditions: The Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square are transformed with stalls selling traditional pastries like trdelník (chimney cake) and mulled wine. Czechs celebrate St. Nicholas Day on December 5, where a character trio of St. Nicholas, an angel, and a devil visit children.
What Sets It Apart: The unique combination of Gothic architecture and vibrant Christmas decorations makes Prague feel like a step back in time, with emphasis on local crafts and foods.
Where to Stay
Located on the Vltava River with views of Prague Castle, this luxurious hotel offers exceptional service, spa treatments, and proximity to Prague’s main Christmas markets.
Set in a former monastery, this hotel has stunning historical architecture and a serene atmosphere, perfect for a cozy and immersive holiday stay.
Nestled in the historic Mala Strana neighborhood, the Mandarin Oriental combines contemporary luxury with Czech history, featuring an intimate spa and easy access to holiday events.
4. Tallinn, Estonia
Why Go: Tallinn’s Christmas market, located in the medieval Old Town, feels like a scene from a fairy tale.
Traditions: Estonians have one of the oldest documented Christmas trees, dating back to 1441. The market offers traditional Estonian holiday foods like blood sausage and sauerkraut.
What Sets It Apart: Tallinn’s medieval setting adds an extra layer of magic. It’s smaller and more intimate than other markets, with a focus on authenticity and local customs.
Where to Stay
Located in the heart of Tallinn’s Old Town, this luxurious hotel blends a historical setting with modern comforts, just steps away from Tallinn’s charming Christmas market.
A boutique hotel set in a 13th-century building, offering a cozy and intimate experience with an emphasis on traditional decor and personalized service.
This elegant hotel is known for its Art Deco styling, luxurious rooms, and prime location in Tallinn’s Old Town, making it a great base for holiday festivities.
5. Bruges, Belgium
Why Go: With cobblestone streets and canals, Bruges offers a cozy and picturesque holiday experience.
Traditions: Christmas markets in the main square sell Belgian chocolates, waffles, and mulled wine. An ice skating rink and light displays add to the festive atmosphere.
What Sets It Apart: Bruges is known for its beautiful, preserved medieval architecture and canals, giving it a quaint, cozy feel enhanced by the holiday decorations.
Where to Stay
A 15th-century palace-turned-luxury-hotel, it offers a regal experience with modern amenities, located in the heart of Bruges and close to the Christmas markets.
Overlooking the canal, this boutique hotel combines Flemish charm with luxury, featuring cozy fireplaces, rich decor, and a short walk from Bruges’ holiday celebrations.
This elegant hotel offers personalized service and historic architecture, providing a warm and intimate atmosphere for holiday travelers.
6. Strasbourg, France
Why Go: Known as the “Capital of Christmas,” Strasbourg’s Christmas market dates back to 1570.
Traditions: Strasbourg has a strong focus on local crafts and food, particularly bredele cookies, which are Alsatian holiday treats. The “Christkindelsmärik” market has stalls selling ornaments, toys, and other handcrafted items.
What Sets It Apart: Being in the Alsace region, Strasbourg combines French and German influences, making its holiday celebrations especially unique with rich food traditions and a focus on artisanal quality.
Where to Stay
Located in the picturesque Petite France district, this hotel combines modern luxury with charming, traditional Alsatian architecture, steps away from Strasbourg’s main Christmas markets.
A contemporary hotel near the Strasbourg Cathedral and Christmas markets, with sophisticated rooms, excellent dining, and stylish decor.
Nestled along the banks of the Ill River just outside Strasbourg, this charming 19th-century château offers elegant rooms, a relaxing spa, and easy access to Strasbourg’s Christmas markets. The property combines Alsatian tradition with modern luxury, providing an authentic yet upscale experience.
7. Rovaniemi, Finland
Why Go: Located in the Arctic Circle, Rovaniemi is known as the “official” hometown of Santa Claus.
Traditions: Visitors can meet Santa Claus at Santa Claus Village, and partake in reindeer sleigh rides, snowmobiling, and Northern Lights tours. Finnish Christmas dinner often includes baked ham, fish, and Joulutorttu (pastries filled with plum jam).
What Sets It Apart: The Arctic location and proximity to the Northern Lights make Rovaniemi a one-of-a-kind destination, especially for families looking to experience a “real” winter wonderland.
Where To Stay
This unique hotel offers luxury in treehouse-like suites with panoramic views of the snowy forests, ideal for those wanting a secluded yet luxurious Christmas experience.
A premium glass-roofed igloo hotel located near Santa Claus Village, allowing guests to watch the Northern Lights from the comfort of their own bed.
Housed in a former city hall, this boutique hotel blends modern design with cozy Lappish details, offering rooms and suites that are individually styled with plush bedding, soft lighting, and unique decor inspired by Arctic nature.
8. Copenhagen, Denmark
Why Go: Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens are famous for their spectacular Christmas lights and decorations.
Traditions: The Danish celebrate “Julefrokost” (Christmas lunch) with friends and family, featuring smorgasbord-style meals with fish, meat, and sweets. The city also has a strong tradition of lighting candles and decorations around the city.
What Sets It Apart: Hygge, the Danish concept of coziness, is at its peak during Christmas, with an emphasis on togetherness, warmth, and comfort in the dark winter months.
Where to Stay
A historic luxury hotel with stunning holiday decorations, gourmet dining, and a prime location near Nyhavn and the city’s Christmas markets.
Located in Tivoli Gardens, this boutique hotel is known for its fairy-tale architecture, luxurious suites, and direct access to Tivoli’s spectacular Christmas displays.
An intimate boutique hotel in central Copenhagen, Hotel Sanders exudes refined elegance with warm, inviting interiors and a rooftop conservatory garden. Just steps from Nyhavn and Tivoli Gardens, it’s a luxurious base for exploring Copenhagen’s holiday attractions.
9. Edinburgh, Scotland
Why Go: Edinburgh’s Christmas celebrations are known for their energy and variety.
Traditions: Edinburgh has a month-long festival with rides, markets, and ice skating in East Princes Street Gardens. Scots also celebrate Hogmanay (New Year’s) with fireworks, concerts, and the Torchlight Procession.
What Sets It Apart: Edinburgh’s celebrations are lively and continue through New Year’s, blending traditional Christmas with unique Scottish customs, like first-footing during Hogmanay.
Where to Stay
An iconic hotel with a clock tower, The Balmoral is a luxurious base with refined decor, views of Edinburgh Castle, and proximity to the city’s Christmas and Hogmanay celebrations.
Known as "The Caley," this elegant hotel offers spacious rooms with views of Edinburgh Castle, a tranquil Guerlain Spa, and exquisite dining at the Grazing by Mark Greenaway restaurant.
A historic building with modern luxury and Scottish charm, located near the Royal Mile and festive markets, making it a great choice for holiday travelers.
10. Zurich, Switzerland
Why Go: Zurich has a cozy, alpine charm, with scenic markets and a spectacular Christmas lighting ceremony.
Traditions: The Singing Christmas Tree, where choirs perform on a platform decorated like a Christmas tree, is a major attraction. Swiss holiday foods include raclette, fondue, and festive cookies.
What Sets It Apart: Zurich offers a mix of Swiss tradition and a more intimate holiday experience, perfect for travelers looking to explore markets alongside winter sports like skiing and ice skating.
Where to Stay
A legendary lakeside hotel with luxurious rooms, beautiful holiday decorations, and a prime location near Zurich’s Bahnhofstrasse shopping street and Christmas markets.
Perched above the city with breathtaking views, this grand hotel combines a serene mountain vibe with luxurious spa facilities and seasonal decor.
A boutique hotel with individually decorated rooms, located in Zurich’s Old Town and close to Christmas markets, perfect for a unique and cozy holiday experience.
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From the Mediterranean to the Pacific - Exploring Oahu
Exploring the diverse beaches and rich culture of Hawaii, from the serene sands of North Shore to the vibrant energy of Waikiki.
One of the biggest gifts from playing basketball is the opportunity to build relationships and friendships with people all over the world. How lucky am I to have basketball friends in the greatest U.S. state, Hawaii!
North Shore
This trip was my first time staying in the North Shore, a nice change from my usual visits to bustling Honolulu. North Shore felt like the real countryside of Hawaii. On my first day, I went for a run and later grabbed breakfast in Haleiwa, a small town with a cool surf culture and local eateries.
After breakfast I ordered an uber back. My uber driver asked me how many days I have been in Hawaii and what Hawaiian treats I had tried so far. He said pickled mangoes are his favorite Hawaiian treat, and he suggested we track some down. Together, we followed handwritten signs on the streets to a local’s house who sold them so that I get a taste. Speak about hospitality!
Aweoweo Beach Park
Staying with a friend in Waialua, I often visited Aweoweo Beach Park. This spot, with its sandy beaches and clear waters, is a haven for sea turtles. Swimming alongside these creatures in such a peaceful setting was amazing. Waialua, with its simple charm and friendly locals, made me feel at home.
Ka’ena Point
My friends took me to Ka’ena Point, a beautiful and remote spot on the westernmost tip of Oahu. This area is known for its rugged beauty and untouched landscape. The hike to Ka’ena Point offers stunning views of the ocean on one side and green mountains on the other. It’s also a great spot for spotting native Hawaiian plants and wildlife, including monk seals and albatrosses. The sense of isolation and natural beauty made it one of the highlights of my trip.
Ko’olauloa Pupukea
We decided to connect with nature on a deeper level by hiking barefoot in Ko’olauloa Pupukea. This area is part of the Pupukea-Paumalu Forest Reserve and offers lush trails with stunning views of the coastline. Hiking barefoot allowed us to feel more connected to the earth and the natural beauty around us. The experience was both grounding and exhilarating, providing a sense of tranquility that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Sunset Beach Park
At Sunset Beach Park, I reunited with friends from Cyprus. This beach is famous for its massive winter waves, attracting surfers from around the world. During the summer, the waves calm down, making it a perfect spot for swimming and relaxing. The sunset here is spectacular, with the sky painted in vibrant colors. Watching the sun dip below the horizon with friends made for a memorable evening.
Waikiki
Touring Waikiki was an eye-opener. As a Leisure Sales Manager at a Forbes 4-star resort, my perspective on this bustling tourist area was different. I was keenly interested in the luxury resorts, their architecture, and design. Comparing their service with my experiences as a manager added a new layer of appreciation. I also rented a surfboard and hit the waves. The abundance of surf instructors in this tourist-friendly area was a blessing, as their tips helped me immensely. Surfing under rainbows and witnessing a stunning sunset made it one of the most wholesome experiences of my life.
Waimea Beach
Waimea Beach, located on the North Shore, is famous for its big wave surfing in the winter and its calm, clear waters in the summer. One of its most popular attractions is the rock that many visitors dare to jump from. With my friends from Cyprus, we made a pact to all jump from it. Despite our initial fears, we encouraged each other, and one by one, we took the plunge. The sense of camaraderie was palpable as everyone around cheered and clapped for each jumper. To top it off, a magnificent rainbow appeared, with its beginning right on the beach, adding a magical touch to the day.
Kailua Beach and Lanikai Pillbox Hike
The next day, we visited Kailua Beach, known for its white sand and turquoise waters. Located on the windward coast of Oahu, Kailua Beach is a favorite for kayaking, windsurfing, and simply relaxing by the sea. After a relaxing morning, we hiked the Lanikai Pillbox trail, which offers stunning panoramic views of the coastline. The hike is relatively short but steep, and the view from the pillboxes (old military bunkers) is truly breathtaking. The vibrant colors of the ocean and sky from the pillbox were a sight to behold.
Traditional Luau
We attended a Luau with the Mauka Warriors in Waipahu. This traditional Hawaiian feast is a great way to experience Polynesian culture. We enjoyed traditional Hawaiian food, music, and hula dancing. The luau was not just a feast for the senses, but also a journey through Hawaiian history and culture. Despite being a touristy experience, it was an amazing way to delve deeper into Polynesian culture and traditions. I highly recommend it to anyone visiting Hawaii, as it’s a wonderful opportunity to learn and appreciate the rich heritage of the islands.
Final Surfing Session in Waikiki
On my last day, I returned to Waikiki for one final surfing session. The feeling of being one with the waves and striving to master them is second to none. It’s an exhilarating experience that brings a sense of flow, much like what I sometimes feel on the basketball court. Although I had to cut my session short to catch my flight back to LA, I promised myself that I would return in two months to solely focus on surfing.
Cultural Reflections
Hawaii has a special place in my heart, and each visit deepens my appreciation for its natural beauty, culture, and the incredible people I get to call friends. This trip was a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and personal growth. One of the things that struck me the most was the strong sense of community and hospitality in Hawaii, which reminded me so much of my home in Greece. Both cultures value family, community, and the beauty of nature, and both are incredibly welcoming to visitors. This sense of connection and shared values is a big reason why I love Hawaii so much. Being from Greece, I felt a deep bond with the Hawaiian way of life, where relationships are cherished, and nature is revered. This trip was a reminder of the importance of staying connected to nature, friends, and oneself. I can’t wait to return for more adventures and to deepen my connection to this incredible place.
4th of July Celebration Reflections: From Greece to the American Dream
Reflecting on seven years of personal and professional growth, from Greece to the United States, celebrating the 4th of July with themes of freedom, cultural exchange, and sustainable tourism
With today’s 4th of July celebration, I reflect on all the experiences and opportunities this country has offered me. Every place has its good and not-so-good aspects, like Greece, but I am immensely grateful for the opportunities and people I've encountered on this journey. The US, while far from perfect, has provided me with a unique environment to grow and thrive.
Independence Day reminds us not to take our freedom and independence for granted. There are still places in the world plagued by war, inequality, and the suppression of women's rights. Humanity is far from perfect, but we are fortunate to live in a land of freedom and independence, something not everyone has. We have the freedom to be who we want, express what we believe, and create with the numerous resources available to us.
History has always fascinated me, especially coming from Greece, a country with one of the richest cultures in the world. Learning about Ancient Greece and the birth of democracy has deeply influenced my understanding of society. When I attended an American high school in Athens, I delved into world history and learned about American history for the first time. While not as ancient or extensive as Greek history, it provided valuable insights into the formation of different societies and why they function as they do.
History is a powerful lens through which we can understand the present and shape the future. The struggles and triumphs of ancient civilizations, such as Greece, offer timeless lessons on governance, philosophy, and human rights. Similarly, the history of the United States, marked by its fight for independence, civil rights movements, and technological advancements, showcases the nation's resilience and innovative spirit. By studying these historical narratives, we gain a deeper appreciation for the complexities of our world and the enduring quest for freedom and justice.
The intense work culture in the US is rooted in the Puritan work ethic, which emphasizes hard work, discipline, and frugality. Combined with the rise of capitalism and the American Dream, which suggests that success is achievable through hard work and determination, this culture drives many Americans to prioritize work and career advancement. This belief in upward mobility through relentless effort has created a culture characterized by long hours and a strong dedication to one's work. It takes a certain mindset and determination to thrive here, and living in this environment, although intimidating at first, inspired and motivated me to explore various interests and figure out what truly brings me joy and purpose.
Tourism has played a significant role in my professional journey, particularly my work in sustainable travel, eco-tourism, and cultural tourism. The US offers vast landscapes and diverse cultures, making it an ideal destination for promoting eco-friendly travel practices and preserving cultural heritage. By advocating for sustainable tourism, we ensure that future generations can enjoy these natural and cultural treasures.
Cultural tourism, in particular, has been a rewarding aspect of my career. It allows travelers to immerse themselves in local traditions, arts, and histories, fostering greater understanding and appreciation between different cultures. My background in Greek culture and history provides a unique perspective that I bring to my work in the US tourism industry. By promoting cultural exchange and sustainable practices, I hope to contribute to a more connected and conscientious world. The opportunities I’ve had in the US to explore and develop these aspects of tourism have been invaluable, and I am excited to continue this journey, making a positive impact on both the industry and the environment.
Being immersed in this culture, I transitioned from the familiar realm of basketball to discovering new interests and communities. My journey was not without challenges; recurring injuries forced me to step away from sports and focus on my passion for the environment and tourism. Now, as a luxury hotelier working towards my next goal, I am grateful for the opportunities the US has provided. Despite the tough immigration system, the experiences and possibilities are endless. It's important to remember and appreciate living in a free country.
Having the freedom and access to various resources is a privilege. It's all about maintaining the right mindset to recognize opportunities and being open to receiving them.