As the festive season approaches, Europe transforms into a winter wonderland. For travelers seeking meaningful Christmas experiences, Good.travel has curated a list of the best places to visit in Europe in 2023. Pack your bags and unwrap the magic sustainably at these breathtaking destinations:
Strasbourg, France: The Capital of Christmas
Located along the Rhine River, Strasbourg boasts the oldest Christmas market in Europe. The city comes alive with hundreds of stalls, each offering handcrafted ornaments, treats, and the scent of cinnamon and gingerbread. Explore stalls offering locally crafted goods, and savor organic delights while appreciating the city's eco-friendly initiatives.
Dates: Nov 24 - Dec 24, 2023
Prague, Czech Republic: Fairytale Charm
Prague's medieval streets and squares transform into a fairytale setting during Christmas. The Old Town Square hosts a bustling market, and the iconic Prague Castle is illuminated with festive lights, creating a magical atmosphere. The Christmas market at Old Town Square promotes handmade, eco-conscious products.
Dates: Dec 2 - Jan 6, 2024
Vienna, Austria: Classical Elegance
Vienna's imperial palaces and grand boulevards are draped in festive lights, evoking a sense of classical elegance. Enjoy the melodies of classical music at the city's enchanting Christmas concerts and explore the market at Rathausplatz.
Dates: Nov 11 - Dec 26
Tallinn, Estonia: Old World Charm
Tallinn's UNESCO-listed Old Town is a winter wonder, with cobblestone streets and medieval buildings dusted with snow. The Christmas market in Raekoja Plats offers traditional Estonian crafts and heartwarming winter delicacies.
Dates: Dec 1 - Jan 7
Budapest, Hungary: Thermal Baths and Lights
Budapest's thermal baths provide a warm escape during winter, while the city's streets dazzle with festive lights. The Christmas Fair at Vörösmarty Square offers Hungarian crafts and gastronomic delights.
Dates: Nov 24 - Dec 31
Rovaniemi, Finland: Santa's Hometown
For an authentic Christmas experience, head to Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus. Embrace the Arctic spirit with reindeer sleigh rides, husky safaris, and the chance to meet Santa himself at the Santa Claus Village.
Dates: Nov 25 - Dec 10
Barcelona, Spain: Festive with a Twist
While not traditionally associated with Christmas, Barcelona offers a unique celebration. Experience the Catalan tradition of the Caga Tió, a festive log that "poops" out gifts, and explore the vibrant Christmas markets.
Dates: Nov 24 - Dec 23
Zurich, Switzerland: Picture Perfect Christmas
Zurich, surrounded by the Swiss Alps, is a picture-perfect Christmas destination. The city's Christmas markets, like the ones in the Old Town, exude a warm ambiance. Enjoy a cup of Swiss hot chocolate as you wander through stalls offering handmade crafts and seasonal treats.
Dates: Nov 23 - Dec 23
London, UK: Lighting up the Iconic Streets
London, a city that blends tradition with modernity, offers a great Christmas experience. The streets sparkle with lights, and the famous Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park boasts ice skating, charming stalls, and thrilling rides. Explore the iconic Oxford Street for festive shopping.
Dates: Nov 2 - Jan 7
Embrace the spirit of the season as you explore these magical Christmas destinations. Good.travel wishes you a joyous and festive holiday season with unforgettable travel experiences. Let's unwrap the magic of Christmas while making conscious choices that benefit the planet and local communities.
Browse our entire selection of sustainable hotels all around the world.
Follow us to discover more unique hotels, slow stays, LGBTQ-friendly resorts, and conscious luxury escapes.
Subscribe to our newsletter for more interesting articles about sustainable travel
About the author
Palak Bothra
Palak studied Management and Entrepreneurship then continued to get her Master's Degree in Digital Marketing. A dedicated spirit to the start-up world, Palak has 4 years of experience in organic growth strategies.