Europe is at its most enchanting during the festive season. Streets sparkle with fairy lights, Christmas markets fill the air with the scent of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts, and centuries-old squares transform into winter wonderlands. If you’re planning a holiday escape, here are 12 of the most beautiful cities to visit in Europe this Christmas.

1. Vienna, Austria
Top Hotels in Vienna from $80

Vienna is pure magic in December. The Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz is one of Europe’s most famous markets, offering festive lights, classical concerts, and delicious treats like Sachertorte and roasted chestnuts.

Photo: unsplash.com/@alisaanton

2. Prague, Czech Republic
Top Hotels in Prague from $89

Prague looks like a Christmas card come to life. Visit the Old Town Square Market for a giant Christmas tree, sip hot mead, and stroll the Charles Bridge for dreamy views of the city’s snow-dusted spires.

Photo: unsplash.com/@patrick_von_der_wehd

3. Strasbourg, France
Top Hotels in Strasbourg from $60

The “Capital of Christmas” hosts one of Europe’s oldest holiday markets. Strasbourg’s half-timbered houses, canals, and cathedral create the perfect festive setting, with Alsatian food and crafts to warm the heart.

Photo: unsplash.com/@filizelaerts

4. Budapest, Hungary
Top Hotels in Budapest from $50

In Budapest, you can shop at the Vörösmarty Square Christmas Market and then relax in a steaming thermal bath while snowflakes fall around you. Don’t miss the festive tram rides lit up like fairy tales.

Photo: unsplash.com/@balint_miko

5. Copenhagen, Denmark
Top Hotels in Copenhagen from $85

The Danish capital exudes a cozy, hygge vibe. Tivoli Gardens becomes a glittering wonderland with rides, food stalls, and holiday cheer, while Nyhavn harbor sparkles with lights reflected on the water.

Photo: unsplash.com/@razvan_mirel

6. Nuremberg, Germany
Top Hotels in Nuremberg from $69

Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt is one of Germany’s most famous. The medieval setting, traditional gingerbread, and handmade wooden toys make it a must-see for Christmas lovers.

Photo: unsplash.com/@alexandra_p_d

7. Tallinn, Estonia
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Tallinn’s medieval old town looks like a snow globe. Its Town Hall Square market is cozy and traditional, with local crafts, hot mulled wine, and the smell of roasted almonds filling the frosty air.

Photo: unsplash.com/@66north

8. London, England
Top Hotels in London from $90

From Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland to the glittering lights of Oxford Street and ice skating at Somerset House, London is full of festive fun. Cozy pubs and Christmas carols add to the charm.

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9. Bruges, Belgium
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Bruges is a fairy-tale city any time of year, but at Christmas it feels truly magical. The Market Square hosts a charming Christmas market with ice skating, Belgian waffles, and romantic horse-drawn carriage rides.

Photo: unsplash.com/@nicolebaster

10. Salzburg, Austria
Top Hotels in Salzburg from $85

The birthplace of Mozart offers a traditional and musical holiday experience. Cathedral Square’s Christkindlmarkt is one of the oldest in the world, filled with carols, candles, and festive stalls.

Photo: unsplash.com/@scornpion

11. Kraków, Poland
Top Hotels in Kraków from $28

Kraków’s Main Market Square turns into a Christmas paradise. Surrounded by historic architecture, the market offers traditional Polish foods like pierogi and oscypek (smoked cheese), plus local handicrafts.

Photo: unsplash.com/@trudi_stevens24

12. Rovaniemi, Finland
Top Hotels in Rovaniemi from $65

For the ultimate Christmas adventure, head to Rovaniemi in Lapland—the official hometown of Santa Claus. Visit Santa Claus Village, ride a sleigh pulled by reindeer, and maybe even catch the Northern Lights.

Photo: unsplash.com/@romashka69