Christmas is fast approaching and we can’t help but get swept up by the festive spirit. Although many keep some holiday days for the Christmas period, why not take a short break beforehand to some of the most charming European towns that look as if they’ve been taken straight from a Christmas card.
Europe is full of beautiful towns at Christmas, why not get to know them with us.
Colmar (France)
If we said that Colmar is considered the little Venice of France, you would get an idea of how amazing it might be to spend a few days there over Christmas. This medieval town with wooden houses and renaissance buildings fills with lights, nativity scenes and Christmas markets in this period, both for visitors and those who live there to enjoy. It is undoubtedly one of the Christmas towns you can’t miss out on.
Gstaad (Switzerland)
The first time you see Gstaad, you might think it’s straight out of a film. A small mountain town full of wooden houses where some of Switzerland’s most exclusive hotels, ski slopes and shops are located. And as exclusive as its shops and spas (don’t forget your flip flops when you go) are the Christmas festivities that are held there. Advent market, classical music concerts, visits from Father Christmas and even sleigh rides.
Flam (Norway)
Flam is another town to visit at Christmas that you should definitely include on your list. It is located in Aurlandsfjord, and although it’s not very big, it is one of the most beautiful settings to visit at this time of year. Its Flamsbana train has enthralled thousands of visitors, almost as much as its small farms, mountains, valleys and, of course, the charm of the Christmas period with the lights and decorations.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber (Germany)
Another beautiful town is Rothenburg ob der Tauber, in the German state of Bavaria. During the Christmas period, it is home to one of the prettiest markets in the area, where children can meet Father Christmas and adults can enjoy concerts and night-time walks to see the lights in all their glory. If you go, don’t forget to take a comfortable backpack to store everything you buy.
Ochagavía (Spain)
You can also enjoy some of these charming towns at Christmas in Spain. A clear example is Ochagavía in Navarra, on the edge of the magical Irati forest. Its rural architecture from the 11th century, stone façades and slate roofs form an idyllic image that only increases when snow falls and it is decorated for Christmas. An ideal destination if you are also looking for walking routes to enjoy nature, as well as the Christmas atmosphere.
Riquewihr (France)
Alsace is a region full of incredible towns to visit at Christmas with children, one of which is Riquewihr. There is the renowned Wine Tour, but the Käthe Wohlfahrt Christmas shop can also be found among its medieval houses full of wooden details, a place that specialises in Christmas decorations and that becomes a hive of people looking for that special detail with which to decorate their home.
Engelberg (Switzerland)
Engelberg is located near to Lake Lucerne, surrounded by mountains and with one of the best ski resorts in all of Switzerland. This town is not only ideal for snow and mountain lovers, it’s also perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of cities at Christmas and find magic and traditions, such as its Advent market.
Manarola (Italy)
One of the most beautiful towns to visit at Christmas in Italy is Manarola. Located in the Cinque Terre region, it is especially unique during the Christmas season thanks to its luminous nativity scene created by Mario Andreoli, which has 300 life-size figures. If you visit Manarola, it is also worth visiting its market or immersing yourself in its festive atmosphere. Of course, remember to wear comfortable shoes such as sneakers.
Hallstatt (Austria)
Austria is home to a town that Disney lovers will quickly recognise. It is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful all year round, but especially so at Christmas. Hallstatt, a UNESCO heritage site since 1997, was the animation studio’s inspiration for the creation of Arendelle, the home of Elsa and Ana in Frozen. A magical image that you can’t miss, above all at such a special time of year.
Buitrago de Lozoya (Spain)
Back in Spain is Buitrago de Lozoya, a medieval town in the Sierra Norte of Madrid, that during the Advent and Christmas period becomes a magical location for lovers of these festivities. Not only are its streets filled with coloured lights and products, but it also has a living nativity scene, which almost the entire town takes part in, that began to be performed in 1988. Don’t miss it!
Schiltach (Germany)
The Black Forest in Germany is home to some of the most beautiful towns at Christmas, such as Schilltach. With its characteristic traditional architecture on the banks of the river canals that traverse it, this small town is transformed into a magical place with one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in the region.
Grindelwald (Switzerland)
You may associate this name with one of the villains from the Harry Potter saga, but Grindelwald is one of the most beautiful towns you can visit in Switzerland, especially at Christmas. Looking like it’s straight off a postcard, its Christmas market offers artisan decorations, sweets, drinks and gifts that you can’t miss if you visit. Also, if you are lucky enough to be there on 6 December, you may find Father Christmas arriving on a sleigh.
Castleton (United Kingdom)
We know that small towns in the English countryside are magical at any time of year, but Castleton is special. A Christmas tree festival is held there each year, whereby different associations compete for the best decorated tree. In addition, there is a Christmas market with seasonal products and craft, as well as almost daily Christmas carol concerts performed by choirs.
Rovaniemi (Finland)
Of course, if what you want is to visit the town that can officially be considered the true Christmas town, then go to Rovaniemi, Father Christmas’s home. This small town in Finnish Lapland is surrounded by forests full of snow, reindeer and, above all, it has one of the most important figures of this time of year, Father Christmas himself. You can’t miss this destination if you are travelling with little ones.
Guadalupe (Spain)
Finally, another destination in Spain, Guadalupe in Extremadura. This town has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1993 and is one of the most beautiful in the country, with its Christmas lighting featuring in advertising campaigns. An unforgettable setting where you can enjoy the warmth of the people and that of this cosy time of year.
Have you already chosen your destination?
