Looking for the best Winter Wonderland – Where To Go In Europe for the Christmas Holidays?
So this blog post deviates a little from our Mommy Monday family related posts.
However, now is the time to think about planning a winter wonderland retreat.
Whether it be a staycation or a getaway to Europe. Perfect for the Christmas season!
European cities are synonymous with the winter wonderland theme. White snow, age-old traditions, fabulous choirs at Gothic churches, and medieval squares. All filled by festive Christmas stalls during Christmas time.
Listed below are our favorite Countries and places to visit in Europe during Christmas break.
1. Berlin, Germany
Having more than 60 Christmas markets spread across the city, Berlin is one of the best places to spend Christmas in Europe. You can easily find some of the standard German Christmas market fare (spiced wine, sausages, roasted nuts) in these markets. However, at each one, you’ll find that most of Berlin’s Christmas markets have their own theme or personality that makes them a bit different. My favourite part is the way the Christmas lights and ornaments just glow during this time of year.
The best hostel in Berlin – yes hostel not hotel – Wallyard Concept Hostel. It is the only 5 Star Hotel in the German capital! The location is great with being close to the main train station, the design is a loft-styled hipster vibe, and the atmosphere is super relaxing. It simply feels like coming home! I definitely do recommend getting the private rooms with attached bathrooms if you’re traveling with kids. It’s just so much more convenient.
Staying in the heart of Berlin, gives you the chance to experience everything close up and within walking distance. Bundle up! You don’t want to miss the huge stalls full of lovely things and chandeliers and of course your kids don’t want to miss those huge Ferris wheel rides.
2. Vienna, Austria
Known for the grace and elegance that it puts into while celebrating Christmas, Vienna is the best to visit. It feels like magic if you are in Vienna at this time of the year. Its streets and plazas are always jam-packed with sparkling Christmas stalls, cafes with traditional delicacies, and twinkling lights adorning the city’s magnificent architecture.
You can indulge in freshly baked condiments at Vienna’s Christ kindle market, try your hand (or feet) at ice skating in Rathausplatz, visit the Snow Globe Museum, or be a part of the legendary Christmas concerts. Their streets full of lights and magic will amaze you and your kids. Just hold onto them tightly while wandering around in the crowded areas.
3. London, England
Here Christmas season is just warming up. You will find so many things to do in London at Christmas. Frosty Park walks, hot toddies at festive markets, ice-skating with friends, fireside pub lunches, concerts, impressive light displays and spectacular West End shows. Winter Wonderland is known to be one of the biggest Christmas market in London and every year several locals and tourists visit it. It has tasty food, fun roller coaster rides, comedy nights, an ice skating rink, and circus performance. Your kids will definitely be mesmerized by the magical carol concerts that will melt any Grinch’s heart. Delicious food and of course rides everywhere for the little ones are all within hands reach. Go be a part of the Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park because your kids won’t want to miss it.
4. Strasbourg, France
During Christmas, the mighty Cathedral is surrounded by more than 300 traditional stalls that are packed with ornaments for decorating Christmas tree, lovely Nativity figurines, seasonal delicacies, heartwarming seasonal specialties such as roasted chestnuts, bredelecookies, and their very special mulled wine. The incessant waves of carol singing will boost your Christmas spirit to a new level. And who can resist the temptation to jump into ice skating? Making it a perfect place for family Christmas Eve along with your kids who will enjoy the skating and yummy food.
5. The Faroe Islands, Denmark
It may seem like a very unusual and peculiar place to spend your Christmas in Europe, but it is a unique experience. Winter in the Faroe Islands is quite cold with lots of snow, temperatures dipping below zero, and strong winds making it even colder. But for those who love winter, it is truly a winter wonderland with its quiet magical ways.
Locals take time off to spend it with their families and there are practically no foreigners or visitors, so you will have the entire Country to yourself. Let your kids play with snow and make them enjoy themselves with ice balls and snowman.
Let me know if you plan to travel to any of these places in Europe or if you already have? Christmas break is a wonderful time to spend with the family whether you’re traveling or staying at home!
xo, Zarine
