If you want to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit but are eager to do so in a city that isn’t London, Vienna, or other December hotspots, this list is for you.
From famous places you might not think of visiting in winter to lesser-known destinations, here are 20 ideas for alternative Christmas city breaks in Europe.
*I try to keep the information on this blog as updated as possible, but I still recommend consulting the latest prices, opening hours, and other details on the official website of each site, hotel, and tour, as well as checking the updated public transport routes and timetables. I share my personal experience and cannot guarantee yours.
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Alternative Christmas City Breaks in Europe
Lausanne, Switzerland
By Penelope from The Flyaway Girl
If you’re looking for an incredible city to visit at Christmas, then Lausanne needs to be on your radar! It is the largest city and the capital of the canton of Vaud, one of Switzerland’s French-speaking regions.
Located on the shores of the beautiful Lac Léman (better known in English as Lake Geneva), Lausanne is a hilly city so prepare yourself for some walking!
Lausanne itself doesn’t have an airport, so the easiest way to get there is to fly to Geneva and then take a train straight there, which takes just under an hour.
When you arrive in Lausanne, I highly recommend getting the metro or a taxi to your hotel rather than walking like I did… “it’s only a ten-minute walk” hits differently when it’s ten minutes entirely uphill!
Once you arrive in Lausanne, you’ll see how beautiful this city looks during the festive season. The light installations are magical and you can’t miss the elegant Christmas tree at Place de la Palud, a medieval market square.
The main reason to visit Lausanne at Christmas is for the Christmas market, known as Bô Noël. While not as large as some of the more famous Christmas markets around Europe, Lausanne’s market is much less crowded and has some incredible, unique experiences.
Enjoy some vin chaud (mulled wine) or even go on a horse-drawn carriage ride where you eat delicious fondue as you travel around the city in style!
Don’t miss going on the Ferris Wheel for great views over the market and the city. There are seven locations of the market throughout the city, and the Ferris Wheel is located near Lausanne Cathedral, which originally dates back to the 12th century.
The belfry of the cathedral is another great spot for great views of the city, although you’ll have to walk up 224 stairs to get there (but it’s a great reason to then go enjoy a crêpe or fondue after).
Lausanne is a beautiful city with so many things to do at any time of year, but it truly becomes magical at Christmastime!
Lisbon, Portugal
By Marga from Discover Portugal
Christmas in the sun? It’s possible in the Portuguese capital, Lisbon!
From late November until early January, the city is beautifully decorated! Walk to Praça do Comércio to see the huge Christmas tree, or walk the streets in downtown Lisbon to see all the sparkly lights.
Especially around the shopping mall Armazéns do Chiado, you’ll find the most stunning lights and decorations. The annual moment when the lights are first switched on is an unforgettable experience.
There are also many Christmas markets in Lisbon. Discover the Rossio Christmas market, for example, and enjoy a ride on the Christmas train!
Wonderland Lisboa at Parque Eduardo VII is the largest Christmas market, and some of the highlights are the Ferris wheel and the ice skating rink.
There are many markets to discover, selling beautiful handicrafts and local products, but there is also enough to eat and drink. You can even enjoy day trips to Cascais, Sintra, and Óbidos to enjoy the Christmas spirit.
Read more:
Wroclaw, Poland
By Bronwyn from Bronwyn Townsend
The university city of Wroclaw in southwestern Poland becomes a hive of festive activity in December.
One of the best things to do in Wroclaw is to visit the Christmas markets. The colorful main square of Wroclaw’s city center, Rynek, transforms into a winter wonderland of festive proportions, starting in late November.
Twinkling lights, stalls selling handcrafted goods and delicious local dishes, and wooden chalet-style bars create one of the country’s oldest and largest Christmas markets. Grab some pierogi, kiełbasa (Polish sausage), and spiced mulled wine for the coziest winter treats.
With a thriving music and arts scene, Wroclaw hosts several Christmas concerts, from classical performances to choirs and carols.
Elsewhere, light displays twinkle after dark, turning the city into a festive hotspot. The cathedral and nearby botanic gardens are great spots to enjoy the lights after dark, especially if there has been recent snowfall.
While visiting, make sure to keep an eye out for the gnomes that are dotted throughout the Polish city. Some are dressed up in festive outfits during December, making it a fun challenge for children and adults alike to spot them all.
Bergen, Norway
By Lisa from Fjords and Beaches
Bergen is Norway’s second-largest city and a beautiful destination to visit for the holiday season.
In addition to the city’s charming cobblestoned streets, quaint wooden houses (including the UNESCO-listed wharf area Bryggen), and easy access to the beautiful fjords of Norway, there is more to see in the lead-up to Christmas.
The Bergen Christmas market is a month-long market in the city center, boasting food vendors from all over the region, a merry-go-round, and a Ferris wheel giving you great views of the city center, in addition to the chance to buy local arts, crafts, and souvenirs.
However, the most famous Christmas-themed attraction in the city is Pepperkakebyen (translating to “the Gingerbread City”).
Bergen is home to the world’s largest gingerbread city, built every single year by schools, kindergartens, and organizations all over western Norway. It is a sight to behold and makes it worth visiting Norway for Christmas alone.
Lugano and Bellinzona, Switzerland
By Zoe from Together In Switzerland
For a festive, lesser-known city break in Europe, consider your next visit to Lugano and Bellinzona in the Ticino canton of Switzerland.
Located in the south of the country, Ticino has a Mediterranean vibe, and it’s not the first place you think of when it comes to winter destinations. However, when it comes to the Ticino Festivities and Christmas markets, you’ll be in for quite a surprise.
The Lugano festivities include a beautiful market throughout December, spread across the city and along the promenade. There is a stage with live music most evenings and all restaurants participate with additional stands for mulled wine.
Most places will also serve the most delicious Swiss fondus, which you can enjoy while relaxing by the outdoor heaters.
The Bellinzona December festivities are more special, hosted only on the last two Sundays of the month before Christmas Day.
You’ll find more than 200 market stands with local products, handmade gifts, and decorations. They also sell locally produced food and specialties from Ticino. This is one of our favorite Swiss festivities for December.
As locals, we suggest that you combine a visit to both locations. Lugano is ideal for socializing and enjoying local restaurants, while Bellinzona is great for shopping for local products and gifts. They are just a short 20-minute drive or train ride away from one another.
Tallinn, Estonia
By Soumya from Travel, Books & Food
After Christmas market hopping in multiple European countries, one of my favorite Christmas city breaks in Europe has to be Tallinn. And the charm of a small city is that it becomes magical, especially during Christmas time.
The Christmas market is located in the middle of the Town Hall square, and that is one of the reasons I fell in love with it. It is straight out of a fairytale.
There are multiple stalls selling everything from Estonian delicacies like Black pudding and sour cabbage to Christmas ornaments to some hot mulled wine to keep you warm. There is a small carousel for kids too.
An interesting fact is that the Tallinn Christmas market was one of the first in Europe to put up a Christmas tree back in the 1400s. It also hosts dance shows featuring local artists from Estonia every night.
I would definitely love to visit Tallinn again at Christmastime time as I went in November and missed seeing it covered in snow.
Malaga, Spain
By Joanna from Andalucia in My Pocket
Malaga is one of the most surprising European cities to visit at Christmas. Whilst other countries celebrate with mulled wine and snow, Malaga goes crazy with lights and visual stories.
Every year, the pedestrian Calle Larios gets covered with a tunnel of lights, which play music and dance several times every evening.
Every evening, the Cathedral’s wall hosts a visual light show telling a Christmas story about snowmen and stars – which contrasts with the warm weather the city sees during December.
Visiting Malaga for Christmas will also get you into buildings that are usually closed to the public, to see the presepes. These are nativity scenes at a very large scale, with music, moving elements, and some even with sunsets and sunrises.
The city hosts a small Christmas market on Paseo Maritimo, where local artisans are selling handmade gifts.
In Malaga, the festive celebration focuses on the public’s entertainment and not on financial gain, which makes it a fantastic destination to visit during this time.
Amarante, Portugal
By Stephanie from Bey of Travel
Nestled along the banks of the serene Tâmega River, Amarante is a picturesque Portuguese town that transforms into a magical winter wonderland during the holiday season.
Whether you’re planning a day trip from Porto, just about 60 kilometers away, or considering an overnight stay to soak in the festive atmosphere, Amarante promises enchanting experiences for every traveler.
Amarante’s historical heart beats strongest at the São Gonçalo Church and Monastery. Adorned with holiday decorations, these landmarks provide a stunning backdrop for contemplative moments or capturing festive photos.
Legend has it that touching the statue of São Gonçalo can bring love and happiness—a must-visit for romantics at heart.
After visiting the monastery and the museum, take a leisurely walk along the illuminated riverbanks. Bundle up in your warmest coat and enjoy the crisp, cool air as you admire the beauty of winter in Amarante.
In and around the monastery and the river banks, you will also find Christmas markets where local artisans showcase their crafts.
If interested, you can also join the locals in celebrating “Consoada,” the traditional Christmas Eve dinner featuring codfish and potatoes, followed by attending the midnight mass. This deeply rooted tradition offers a glimpse into the cultural and spiritual fabric of Amarante.
York, England
By Lavina from Continent Hop
York, with its 13th-century Gothic cathedral and the medieval Rabi Castle, offers the best of Christmas celebrations. The festive events and displays all around the city make York a perfect destination if you are traveling to Europe on Christmas.
The most important of all is the award-winning York Christmas market. This is where more than 70 locals and visitors set up their alpine chalets along Parliament Street and St Sampson’s Square.
I love the variety of foods and souvenirs it offers. The classy, sparkling Christmas tree at St Helen’s Square is my absolute favorite as this helps bring the holiday spirit to the heart of the city.
York will be an exciting addition to your Europe Itinerary if you want to explore bustling Christmas markets this holiday season.
Turin, Italy
Turin seems to be underrated all year round, despite being Italy’s 4th largest city. I fell for it at first sight, thanks to its UNESCO-listed Savoy royal palaces, super cool museums, and chocolate, wine, and food scenes.
Its festive events change a bit from year to year, but there’s always at least one big Christmas tree, advent calendar, nativity scene, and ice skating rink, as well as several markets.
Another fun thing to do in Turin in winter is to marvel at the creative light installations of the Luci D’Artista project, which are actually on display from the end of October to mid-January.
When it gets colder and indoor space is very much needed, it’s time to warm up with a cup of local coffee-chocolate drink called Bicerin, explore an indoor food market, or visit the Royal Palace, Egyptian Museum, and Cinema Museum.
If you’re up for a day trip, Turin’s surroundings also host Christmas markets, including Asti and the Palazzina di Caccia di Stupinigi. All in all, it’s a wonderful city break destination that ticks all the boxes.
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Glasgow, Scotland
By Moumita & Sankha from Chasing the Long Road
If you are looking for an offbeat European city break destination this Christmas, plan a trip to Glasgow, the largest city in Scotland.
From exploring the cozy Christmas Markets to enjoying the city’s vibrant food scene – there are plenty of things to do in Glasgow during the festive season.
Glasgow’s Christmas Market typically runs from mid-November until late December. George Square and St Enoch Square are the two main locations for the markets.
The first thing that strikes you when you arrive at George Square is the sight of the towering Christmas tree and the twinkling lights strung across the square.
If you are a foodie, the Glasgow Christmas markets are pure heaven. From German sausages and Belgian waffles to mulled wine and traditional Scottish fares like haggis – you will get everything here.
Beyond the food, the markets are the perfect place to pick up unique Christmas gifts. The chalet-styled stalls are run by local artisans selling handmade jewelry, candles, and Christmas decorations.
Locarno, Switzerland
By Patricio & Giorgy from Sabiduri
Locarno may not be the first place that comes to mind for a Christmas getaway, but it’s a hidden gem worth discovering in Switzerland.
Nestled on the shores of Lake Maggiore, this picturesque town offers a unique blend of Mediterranean charm and alpine magic.
Locarno transforms into a Christmas wonderland with twinkling lights reflecting off the lake, creating a serene holiday atmosphere that feels intimate and special.
One of the highlights is the Locarno on Ice event, where the Piazza Grande becomes an ice-skating rink surrounded by cozy wooden chalets offering hot wine, local specialties, and holiday crafts.
The town’s historical architecture, including the Madonna del Sasso sanctuary, adds a spiritual touch to the festive experience.
Strolling through the narrow streets, you’ll find boutique shops perfect for Christmas gift hunting and lakeside walks that provide a peaceful escape from the usual holiday crowds.
If you’re looking for a truly alternative Christmas city break, Locarno delivers the best of both worlds—seasonal charm without the overwhelming bustle of more famous destinations in Europe.
Lyon, France
By Lisa from Travel to Lyon
Lyon, France, is an incredible destination for a winter city break in Europe. The best time to visit is around December 8th, when the city sparkles with its famous Fête des Lumières.
This annual festival started as a religious celebration to thank the Virgin Mary for saving the city from the plague. Today, it’s a magical time when the city’s monuments are bright with light installations.
In addition to visiting Lyon’s Christmas markets, take some time to see the city’s top attractions during your stay.
Take the funicular to the top of Fourvière Hill to see the stunning Notre Dame Basilica, then explore the Gallo-Roman Theater and Odeon, two of the best Roman ruins in Lyon.
Take some time to search for the secret passages in Vieux Lyon and admire the city’s stunning trompe-l’oeil murals. Round out your visit with a trip to Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse and delight your inner foodie!
Belfast, Northern Ireland
By Faith from XYU and Beyond
Belfast is now one of the trendiest cities to visit, having moved well beyond its troubled past. With its vibrant atmosphere and thriving culture, National Geographic Travel Magazine even named Belfast a “must-see” destination, and I couldn’t agree more.
If you’re fortunate enough to visit during the Christmas season, here are some of the top things to do in Belfast to make the most of the festive spirit.
From the Christmas lights switch on at the end of November to the Christmas parade and Christmas Pantos, it just wouldn’t be Christmas in this UK city without these events.
You can enjoy a fantastic Christmas market in front of the beautifully decorated City Hall or join in the festivities and some legendary “craic” with a Horrible Xmas Jumper Pub Crawl.
You can visit Santa at the Titanic Experience or take in another Belfast tradition of watching The Snowman film with an orchestra and young singer.
It wouldn’t be Christmas without a festive feast on the day and many fine Belfast hotels will be hosting guests for sumptuous buffets.
Oradea, Romania
By Cris from LooknWalk
Located in Western Romania, Oradea is a charming city, featuring Art Nouveau architecture. During the Christmas season, it transforms into a winter wonderland.
The main highlight is, without a doubt, the Christmas Market, which is held in Union Square (Piata Unirii).
Taking place between November 29th and December 26th, it welcomes visitors with culinary delights, Christmas lights, live concerts, and, of course, the scent of mulled wine in the air. It’s the perfect place to pick up handmade gifts, sample traditional dishes, or have fun at the ice rink.
When you’re not visiting the market, don’t forget to visit Oradea Fortress, too. And if it gets too cold, Aquapark Nymphaea is a great place to relax and warm up after a day of sightseeing.
If you’d like to ski, there are some resorts in Bihor County. Make sure to check the weather and slope conditions before you plan the day trip.
Still not as busy as other major cities in Romania, Oradea is a great choice to escape the Christmas rush and enjoy an unforgettable holiday.
Olomouc, Czech Republic
By Veronika from Travel Geekery
If you’re looking at alternative cities to visit in the Czech Republic at Christmastime, you should definitely consider Olomouc!
It is located 2 hours away by train from Prague and offers a much more local experience.
The historical center, with its two squares, transforms into a Christmas wonderland with a majestic Christmas tree looming right by Olomouc’s own version of an astronomical clock.
You can expect plenty of stalls, a raised viewing platform, and often even a stage for Christmas concerts.
Because it’s a popular city to visit among locals, and the space is relatively small, these Xmas markets can get quite full, but just with locals! If you happen to meet any foreigners, they’re usually exchange students.
Olomouc Christmas markets have a lovely vibe and plenty of food delicacies. Other than the usual sausages and trdelník (chimney cake), you can come across a local specialty – tvarůžky, which is a (slightly) stinky cheese.
If you venture out just a few steps further into the “Tržnice” (= marketplace) area, you can even enjoy some ice skating.
Olomouc Christmas markets typically end just before Christmas. For 2024, the dates are Nov 22 to Dec 23.
Bologna, Italy
By Zi from Italy Finds
If you find yourself in winter in Italy, make sure to visit Bologna at Christmastime.
If you’re a fan of cozy atmospheres and fewer crowds, this is the perfect time to visit. Not to mention that the city is magical this time of year with its medieval streets draped in festive lights.
Bologna has a rich history tied to Christmas. In fact, the city’s oldest Christmas market dates back to the 16th century! Piazza Maggiore, the city’s heart, hosts a traditional Christmas market, Fiera di Santa Lucia, offering local crafts and delicious treats like panettone and tortellini in brodo.
I’d recommend staying through New Year’s and witnessing Bologna’s unique tradition of burning the Vecchione, a giant effigy, in Piazza Maggiore—a symbolic way to say goodbye to the old year and welcome the new.
Valkenburg, The Netherlands
By Cosette from KarsTravels
The Christmas markets in Valkenburg, in the South of the Netherlands, are unique since they’re held inside caves.
How were they created? For years marl was removed from quarries, resulting in a series of caves. After the mines were shut down, they became used for leisure purposes, such as Christmas markets.
The markets are held in Fluweelengrot and Gemeentegrot. In Mergelrijk, there’s the Christmas story in miniature.
In addition, Winter Wonderland is a hill with a large Christmas tree, a small Christmas market, and fun rides on top. It also has the Wilhelmina cave, with the Christmas story on display.
Then there’s the Landal Christmas Parade going through town twice a week and more fun Christmas events.
Buy your tickets in advance online and arrive early at the Fluweelengrot and Gemeentegrot to avoid the long waiting lines to go inside.
Lagos, Portugal
By Campbell from The Algarve Family
Are you looking for a warm place in Europe to spend Christmas? The ancient maritime town, Lagos with more than 2000 years of history is the perfect holiday spot.
Located on the Atlantic coast of the Algarve region, in the south of Portugal, this small city has more than 300 sunny days per year. The festive season here is an entertaining event with some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe a short walk from the festivities.
The Lagos Christmas Village is a beautiful, fun Xmas market on the city’s Praça do Infante, located in the Lagos Old Town, between December 1 and 24. The market offers a mix of local and typical Christmas delicacies for sale – you can pair some Gluwein with a pastel de nata!
The Christmas Village also has a busy program for children, including a craft market, a mini Xmas train, concerts, storytelling sessions, an ice rink, a ramp for sliding with tubes, and, of course, the chance to meet Santa!
There are some great places to stay in Lagos, a stone’s throw from the ocean.
Ljubljana, Slovenia
By Zi from Craving Adventure
Ljubljana in winter is a hidden gem that deserves a spot on your winter travel list. In December, the city’s old town transforms into a festive wonderland with twinkling lights, lively Christmas markets, and a cozy, welcoming vibe.
The Ljubljanica River, lined with glowing decorations, adds a magical touch as you stroll along the bridges.
The Christmas market along the Ljubljanica River is a must-visit, offering handmade crafts, local delicacies, and mulled wine. The scent of roasted chestnuts fills the air, making it perfect for a slow wander through the charming streets.
Ljubljana is small enough to explore on foot, which makes it easy to soak up the holiday atmosphere. It’s an ideal spot for a quieter, more intimate Christmas getaway!
Ljubljana also has a unique tradition—its festive lights aren’t just random; they represent themes like planets and stars, symbolizing new beginnings and connection. It’s both beautiful and meaningful.
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