Have you ever wondered what it would be like to spend Christmas in a city or town that looks like it’s straight out of a Hallmark movie? Christmas markets, snow-covered streets, a heavily decorated town square with a gigantic Christmas tree in the center, ice skating in the park, and lights lining the sidewalks are just a few things that make these Christmas towns truly magical during the holidays. December is one of the most popular months for travel, mostly because people from all over are traveling to spend the holidays with friends and family. This year, consider trying something new for Christmas and visit a town that has an excess of Christmas spirit. Continue reading for some of the best places to travel to in December and discover all that these Christmas-themed towns have to offer.
Prague, Czech Republic
The city of Prague does not take Christmastime lightly. This historic city completely transforms into a winter wonderland during the month of December. The Old Town Square is converted into a huge Christmas market that sells wooden toys, delicate ornaments, handwoven clothes, and handmade jewelry. Climb to the top of Old Town Square Tower for an amazing view of Prague in all its Christmas glory. Choir concerts and carol sing-alongs can be heard from anywhere, bringing in the Christmas cheer with festive and lively music. Visit the Gingerbread Museum to learn about how gingerbread is made and get the chance to buy some of your own in their shops. Wenceslas Square, named for Good King Wenceslas (sound familiar?), is another great place to visit Christmas markets. Try Tredelnik, a popular Czech dessert made of hollowed-out pastry dough covered in cinnamon sugar. You can eat this on its own or get it topped with soft-serve ice cream.
New York City, New York
It’s a well-known fact that Christmas in the city is unlike any other. New York City is a magical place to spend the holidays. The Empire State Building is lit up with green and red lights for the holiday season, and billboards and decorations all scream of Christmas cheer. Visit the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and ice rink, go sledding in Central Park, window shop at the 5th Avenue holiday window displays, and go shopping at the Union Square holiday market. Book tickets for New York City Ballet’s The Nutcracker for a truly remarkable performance, but make sure to book tickets in advance, as they sell out quickly. Winter Village in Bryant Park has ice skating, Christmas activities, and Christmas markets as well. Stay a few extra days to see the world-famous ball drop in Times Square on New Year’s Eve!
Nuremberg, Germany
Nuremberg, Germany has Christmas markets that have been around for centuries. These markets feature over 180 stalls and sell colorful German nutcrackers, hand-painted ornaments, and beautifully crafted porcelain Nativity sets. This market is called the Christkindlesmarkt and has the symbol of the Christkind. The Christkind, otherwise known as the Christmas Angel, is a blonde girl who is chosen to open the market each year and watches over it throughout the holiday season. The Sister Cities market is filled with vendors who sell traditional holiday items from cities all around the world. Some of these countries include Turkey, the USA, Ukraine, Scotland, Greece, Poland, France, and much more. Wander the streets of Nuremberg to see Nativity scenes in old cathedrals and churches scattered throughout the city. Don’t forget to buy some gingerbread as Nuremberg is the most famous exporter of Nurnberger Lebkuchen (gingerbread) in the world!
Salzburg, Austria
Salzburg, Austria is known as the birthplace of the famous composer Mozart but is also famous for the transformation the city undertakes during Christmas. The city of Salzburg has Christmas markets dating back to the 15th century. One thing to be on the lookout for while shopping at these Christmas markets is collectible mugs. These mugs can be found in a variety of styles and themes and are a fun souvenir to help you remember your trip! Salzburg is also known for its Krampus Runs. Krampus is a devil-like creature who looks for children who have been naughty during the year. On December 6th each year, Salzburg hosts Krampus parades, where people dress up as a Krampus to scare away the dark spirits of winter and remind children to be good. Silent Night is said to be written in Salzburg and there are plenty of landmarks to visit throughout the city that is reminiscent of the holiday carol Silent Night.
Strasbourg, France
During December, Strasbourg, France transforms into a Christmas Village. This city has ten different Christmas markets scattered throughout the streets. Each street is decorated head to toe with lights, wreaths, Christmas trees, and much more. Climb to the top of the Cathedral Notre-Dame de Strasbourg for an amazing view of the Christmas markets. La Petite France is a historic corner of Strasbourg. Its cobblestoned streets make the area very picturesque and perfect for tourists. Place Kleber is where Strasbourg’s Great Christmas Tree is located and an ice rink is found nearby as well.
Valkenberg, The Netherlands
Valkenberg is known as the “European City of Christmas.” The city of Valkenberg also has Christmas markets, but theirs are found underground, in caves. Shop for Christmas decorations and gifts in over 50 different shops throughout the Velvet and Municipal Caves. Wilhelmina Cave turns into a Winter Wonderland during December, with holiday games and activities for all types of visitors! Don’t miss the huge Christmas Parade that goes throughout Santa’s Village.
Ready to spend Christmas in a winter wonderland? Let us know what fun Christmas Villages you’ve visited, or maybe even live in! Christmas is a wonderful time to meet new people, make great memories, and explore other cultures! Everyone has a different way of celebrating Christmas, so why not make some new traditions and explore all that the world has to offer during the holiday season?
Acanela Expeditions has a variety of trips and tours all throughout the world. Book today for some great travel deals and for the chance to go on the trip of a lifetime!
Post written by Abby Kimball