Trending 6th November 2025 by Stellar Magazine

5 European Cities For Your Ultimate Christmas Getaway

*books flights immediately*

via Pexels

From Christmas markets to festive attractions, cities all around Europe thrive during the holiday season.

If you’re thinking of going abroad this Christmas, while you might immediately look to the classic getaways like Berlin or Edinburgh, why not take these other festive cities into consideration.

1. Bruges, Belgium

Just under two hours away from Dublin, the Winter Glow festival enchants the city of Bruges. Experience Bruges at its most beautiful, as the city transforms for the winter season with the traditional Christmas markets, the King Albert I Park ice-rink and the ‘IJsgoed’ winter bar – not to mention the dedicated festive shopping days with free public transport, as the perfect way to complete your holiday gift buying.

With a winter calendar full of festivities, your Brugge itinerary will create itself, with countless events taking place across the 6 weeks of Winter Glow, beginning on the 21st of November – giving you plenty of time to visit. You can get to Bruges by flying to Brussels followed by a one-hour train that takes you right into the city.

As if the festive events weren’t tempting enough, the return flights and tickets to Brugge come to an average of less than 100 euro throughout November and December. Bruges is among the many hidden gems of European cities when it comes to the festive season and is definitely worth checking out this Christmas

2. Vienna, Austria

There’s no better place to feel that cherished classic Christmas atmosphere than Vienna. From the rich history to stunning architecture, the Austrian capital is full of wonders that only excel during the festive season.

With the charm of the art and music throughout the city, a trip to Vienna is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in a rich culture that goes hand in hand with festive activities at Christmastime. The Christmas markets in Vienna are truly an age-old tradition. With certain markets aging back to the 13th century, this city and what it has to offer during the holiday season is not to be missed.

3. Strasbourg, France

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by DreaminChristmas (@dreaminchristmas)

Known as the ‘capital of Christmas’ Strasbourg in France is of course a front-runner in ‘must visit cities’ during the holiday season. As France’s oldest Christmas market, the emblematic Christkindelsmärik transforms the city into an enchanted setting, with the 300+ chalets and the 33-meter-tall Christmas tree.

Strasbourg takes no breaks in celebrating the Christmas season, with traditional events and experiences taking place every day throughout November and December. There is something for everyone in this capital of Christmas, and will no doubt offer that classic Christmas charm that you’re looking for.

4. Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen is full of Christmas spirit throughout the entire city throughout November and December. From the Tivoli gardens to the Santa Lucia Kayak Parade, there is much to offer in ensuring a unique yet treasured Christmas experience. If your intensions for travelling this Christmas is to experience that unforgettable, ‘like no other’ spirit of Christmas, Copenhagen is no doubt the place for such.

Start your day off by taking an ice swim at La Banchina, followed by a historical visit to the Rosenborg castle or the Christianborg castle to tick off a touristy attraction, then treat yourself to a spa treatment at the AIRE ancient baths and wrap up the evening with a visit to the Broens ice rink. There really is so much on offer in Copenhagen during the holiday season that will certainly exceed your expectations.

5. Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany

The medieval town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, is a quaint hotspot for all sorts of festivities during Christmas, that lies on the historic backdrop of the old town. The atmospheric Christmas market, Reiterlesmarkt, features a cherished combination of the town’s picturesque architecture and vibrant culture.

If you’re looking to celebrate the roots of the Christmas season you can pay a visit to The Käthe Wohlfahrt’s Christmas Museum, a fascinating and immersive way to learn more about the holiday. While of course most heads will turn to Berlin when it comes to visiting Germany during the holidays, it may be worth traveling to the charming town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber instead, especially if you’re looking to experience a uniquely cozy and most treasured Christmas atmosphere throughout your visit.

Words by Leah Foran