In December, Europe transforms into a magical world full of wonders and incredible events. As Christmas approaches, each city tries to stand out, making December a particularly interesting time to be in Europe. The kaleidoscope of markets, festivals, art exhibitions, parades, and concerts can make your head spin. We've tried to compile a list of truly noteworthy and unique events that you can attend in Europe this winter to soak in the festive atmosphere.
Amsterdam (Netherlands)
Christmas is all about magic and wonder. People in Amsterdam know this well, as the capital of the Netherlands hosts the amazing Amsterdam Light Festival for the fifth year in a row. Light installations can be seen in various districts of the city, with most of the light figures hanging above the city's canals.
You can enjoy the exhibition for free from the shore. If you want a closer look, book a water tour through the canals on the Water Colors Cruise, which costs €20. The outdoor light exhibitions will run from December 1, 2017, to January 21, 2018.
It is worth noting that Amsterdam consistently ranks among the best cities for celebrating Christmas and New Year. Hence, we recommend buying tickets and booking your hotel in advance. Find tickets to Amsterdam at the best prices on the InTravel portal.
Amsterdam is one of the main destinations for youth tourism. Planning to visit this city in December with friends? Make sure to plan your trip around the unique Valhalla festival, which takes place on December 23. This extraordinary event brings together lovers of electronic music and circus arts under one roof. The festival will be held at the RAI Amsterdam center. Tickets cost €53.
flickr / Florent L.
Bruges (Belgium)
If you dream of a colorful Christmas away from the hustle and bustle of big cities, head to Bruges. Throughout December, the city hosts a charming holiday market that exudes the sweet aroma of mulled wine and freshly baked pretzels.
This small town seems tailor-made for a romantic weekend before Christmas. Its winding canals, gingerbread houses, and cozy streets complete the picture of the perfect holiday.
flickr / ye6836
Marseille (France)
Tired of standard Christmas markets? Then welcome to Marseille. This southern city in France, located on the Mediterranean coast, is considered the main maritime gateway to the famous Provence region. Every year at the end of November, the traditional Santons market opens in the Old Port area of Marseille.
Santons are one of the main symbols of Provence. These are small ceramic figures used to recreate scenes of peasant life as well as Christmas scenes. The figurines depict artisans, shepherds, women with lavender, animals, and household items. For the people of Provence, creating santons is a form of art.
At the market, you can learn in detail about the tradition of making these charming figurines and buy your favorite characters as souvenirs.
flickr / unukorno
Vienna (Austria)
Vienna is synonymous with elegance and sophistication. Dream of ringing in the New Year to the sounds of operatic singing by the best performers of the Vienna Opera in an atmosphere of luxury and classical chic? Then the Hofburg Silvesterball on December 31 at the Hofburg (the former residence of the Habsburgs) is just what you need!
Tickets for the evening range from €165 to €720. Guests will enjoy an unforgettable aristocratic reception, a festive dinner, fireworks, and performances by artists. Don't forget to pack a costume and an evening dress!
Vienna is also famous for its Christmas markets. We recommend booking a hotel in Vienna a few days early so you can fully immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere of this amazing city.
flickr / Lance Griffin
Strasbourg (France)
Not many people know this, but the French city of Strasbourg is called the capital of Christmas. This is because the first Christmas market in Europe opened here back in 1570. Every year, in the city center, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, a holiday market unfolds where you can buy everything you need for Christmas and treat yourself to festive delicacies.
The market features fun quizzes, concerts, and exhibitions, so even if you don't buy anything, you won't leave without positive emotions. The Strasbourg market runs from November 24 to December 24. On Christmas Eve, the stalls close at 6:00 PM.
flickr / Emmanuel Cattier
Edinburgh (Scotland)
Scotland attracts tourists from all over the world with its majestic medieval castles and incredible nature, and as New Year's approaches, it also hosts one of the best Christmas festivals in the world.
The Hogmanay festival will take place on December 30 and 31 in Edinburgh. During these days, the entire city turns into a stage for various events. Visitors can enjoy concerts, street parties, and a torchlight procession.
The grand finale of the festival is a colorful fireworks display over the spires of Edinburgh Castle. This fireworks show is considered one of the largest in the world, so the festival is definitely worth your attention.
flickr / henrygiblin
Rome (Italy)
If you're a fan of unique exhibitions, be sure to visit Rome this December. From November 23, 2017, to January 7, 2018, the Italian capital will host the "100 Cribs" exhibition. Participants from different countries will create cribs from various materials (wood, chocolate, coral, metal, bronze, glass, bread). The exhibition will be held at the People's Square, near the Santa Maria del Popolo basilica.
flickr / John T. McDevitt
