If you’re thinking of getting away this holiday season but you’re still not sure where to go for Christmas, Europe is a fantastic option for those who want to travel while still going somewhere where that festive spirits are high. Traveling to Europe is becoming more affordable. Traditional holiday markets and nostalgic settings, charming medieval squares, and Gothic churches are some of the lovely sights to enjoy throughout Europe, during the festive season. There are countless destinations that can definitely deliver a hefty dose of holiday spirit. We’ve put together a list of destinations so you can start to find the best place to spend Christmas in Europe this year.
Christmas 2022 in St. Moritz, Switzerland
The perfect time to avoid an overcrowded ski resort; is Christmas! Europe offers peak-time skiing on its slopes from February through March. Traveling to Europe for a ski holiday is definitely worth the experience; you’ll get the opportunity to ski where the sport originated, enjoy the beautiful scenery, and indulge in the local food and wine. The Alps are a haven for anyone who loves adventure and outdoor sports, and with idyllic towns like St. Moritz, it’s perfect for a Christmas holiday!
There are hundreds of ski resorts to choose from, but St. Moritz in Switzerland is a truly special destination. This resort is the oldest winter holiday destination in the world, making it the most unique and luxurious escape you could ask for this holiday season. Spend mornings skiing, and your afternoons getting cozy by the fire with a hot chocolate and relaxing in elegant style.
Lapland, Finland
If you’re traveling to Europe with family this holiday season and have young children, take them to Lapland, one of the best places to spend Christmas in Europe. You are sure to have the most amazing winter wonderland experience and create memories that will last a lifetime. Stay in this unique igloo before taking a short road trip to Rovaniemi to visit Santa’s Village. Your day will be full of fun and family activities. Enjoy a ride on a snowmobile, a reindeer safari, a husky-driven sled ride, and of course say hello to Santa!
Pertisau, Austria
Europe is spoiled for choice when it comes to mountain villages and lakeside cities, but this lesser-known spot offers a leisurely pace of life all year round. Nestled on the shores of Lake Achensee and surrounded by dramatic mountain ranges, this unique village is perfect for a fantastic Christmas. The atmospheric bazaar offers traditional crafts and freshly made waffles. While the Pertisau Parish Church offers a beautiful Christmas concert. You can really indulge in all things festive with a stay in this adorable spot.
Kiruna, Sweden
The Northern Lights are one of the seven wonders of the world, and the best time to chase the Aurora is during the holiday season. In December, evenings are long and dark, so the chances of seeing the lights are very high. You can enjoy the white Christmas you’ve been longing for and spend plenty of time in the snow.
Spending the nights beneath the Northern Lights is the ideal retreat for a romantic getaway. In Kiruna, Sweden, you can fall asleep watching the Aurora dance the night away under a completely translucent glass roof—a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Granada, Spain
If you’re looking for a storybook Christmas, Granada is the perfect place to visit. The city is famous for its breathtaking landscapes and magical nativity scenes, known as belenes. Set the tone this festive season and indulge in a Spanish navidad. Reconnect with nature and go glamping for the holidays by staying close to the snow-capped mountains of the Sierra Nevada in this beautiful tipi, or enjoy a luxurious stay in this stunning vacation rental with a pool just 20 kilometers from Granada.
Want to avoid the cold this Christmas? Europe has some great destinations to enjoy some winter sun!
Malta
Christmas in Europe doesn’t have to mean snow and cold snaps. With warm weather, rarely dropping below 15°C, you can look forward to a relaxing getaway in the sun, strolling through the picturesque streets of Valletta, or taking long walks through the unspoiled countryside. Malta boasts nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites, natural harbors, idyllic fishing villages, rocky coves, and incredible cliffs, it is the perfect mixture of culture and nature. Combine that with a range of unique accommodations, and you have the making of a unique and sunny Christmas.
Cyprus
Cyprus boasts upwards of 340 days of sunshine—some years even boasting temperatures of 20°C on Christmas! It is a fantastic option for Christmas with a sunny twist with wonderful spots to stay at. Christmas day could be spent on the beach, or up in the mountains where it is slightly cooler. The capital, Nicosia, boasts incredible restaurants, museums, and incredible archaeological sites to explore. You can truly lose yourself on this stunning, Mediterranean island.
Despite the heat, Christmas is still a big deal here. Starting on the 24th of December with kids going door to door singing carols. Celebrations continue until January 6th with a feast to celebrate the Epiphany, so this island nation offers you an incredible 12 days of Christmas!
Want to check out some more of our winter glamping options in Europe? Keep exploring here!
