For most North Americans, the charm of a visit to Europe is that chance to experience a country's rich culture-- and what better time of year for Europe than Christmas, a time full of special traditions, celebrations, decorations, and seasonal warmth?
You might sip hot chocolate at a Christmas market, listen to a choir in a midnight service at a medieval cathedral... even the storefronts, all decorated for the season, can be an experience.
And a bonus, for those traveling to Christmas in Europe: you can get there with lower airfares and stay in hotels with off-season rates. Below, find many resources from our About.com Guides about:
Christmas in Europe, For Families
London Christmas
From carolers under lamplights to figgy pudding: much of the way we picture Christmas comes from Victorian England. Head over to London and imagine you're on Bob Cratchet's street, and have extra fun at the many seasonal events, from outdoor ice-skating to carols at Trafalgar Square.
Germany - Christmas Markets:
No matter what city you're visiting in Germany, you'll find a day or night market with great gifts and a festive atmosphere. Their popularity is nothing new. Four centuries ago, a Nuremberg priest complained that few people came to church service on Christmas Eve: everyone was shopping at the market nearby.
France:
Christmas markets, midnight mass at cathedrals, special traditions... France is steeped in Christmas history.
More Christmas Markets in Europe
Germany is famous for its Christmas markets, but many other countries -- France, Italy, Spain, Scandinavia, and more-- have these traditional markets, with twinkling lights, roasted chestnuts, and plenty of toys for sale.
Christmas in Paris: ice skating, Christmas market, decorations and holiday lights...
Italy:
In Italy, celebrations start on December 8, the Feast day of the Immaculate Conception, and continue until The Epiphany, on January 6 when la Befana delivers candy and gifts. Read about local customs, and the best places to see nativity scenes, markets, torchlight parades, and more.
Athens, Greece:
The mayor of Athens is promoting seasonal celebrations and off-season tourism: you'll find holiday playgrounds, Christmas tales street theater, musical performances, New Years Eve fireworks, and more.
Sweden:
About's Guide for Scandinavia for Visitors highlights Christmas in Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen: this famouse amusement park is well over 150 years old and a "must-see" tourist spot for families. At Christmas, more than 70 stalls offer gifts and seasonal delicacies; Santa's sleigh has landed; the Carousels and other rides are in use. See also: seasonal customs in Sweden and Norway.
Sweden - Ice Hotel:
And speaking of Sweden: for a truly unique experience, how about a visit to the Ice Hotel? Created anew every year, out of 10 000 tons of crystal clear ice; location is in the village of Jukkasjärvi in Swedish Lapland, but don't worry, various packages can get you there.
Europe Christmas traditions:
an overview of what you'll find in a number of countries.
*& photo courtesy of VisitBritain.
