The Christmas season has a way of sprinkling a little extra magic into the air, and there’s no better time to plan an unforgettable holiday adventure or gift someone the trip of a lifetime. Whether you’re a sucker for twinkling markets or dream of catching the elusive northern lights, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into some of the best Christmas destinations that will make your festive season truly unforgettable.
Wherever you choose to explore this Christmas, ensure you can explore unencumbered by your suitcases using Stasher.
1. Christmas Markets That Feel Straight Out of a Fairytale
Nothing says Christmas like wandering through a market with a mulled wine in hand, surrounded by glittering lights and festive tunes. Europe’s Christmas markets are the crème de la crème, and here are three absolute stunners you shouldn’t miss:
Strasbourg, France: The “Capital of Christmas”
Welcome to the OG Christmas market. Strasbourg is the stuff of holiday dreams with its 300+ stalls spread across the charming old town. Think handcrafted ornaments, piping-hot pretzels, and the scent of cinnamon wafting through the air. Don’t miss the Alsatian bredele cookies—these buttery, melt-in-your-mouth treats are a local specialty and the perfect snack to keep you fueled as you shop.
The decorations here are next level. The city transforms into a glittering wonderland with massive Christmas trees and glowing garlands draped across the medieval streets. Bonus? Strasbourg’s proximity to the Alsace wine region means you can indulge in a glass of local Gewürztraminer while you’re there. Cheers to that!
Vienna, Austria: A Hallmark Movie Come to Life
Vienna in December? Simply magical. Picture yourself strolling through Rathausplatz, surrounded by fairy lights, sipping on hot chocolate, and nibbling on sachertorte (a chocolate cake so good, it’s world-famous).
Vienna’s markets are all about tradition, with choirs serenading visitors and booths selling everything from handcrafted toys to glittering baubles. If you’re feeling extra festive, join a public singalong—nothing beats belting out carols with strangers under the twinkling stars.
Looking for that picture-perfect Christmas gift? You’ll find unique Austrian crafts and decorations at every turn. And don’t forget to warm up with a mug of Weihnachtspunsch (spiced punch)—trust us, it’ll keep you toasty!
Copenhagen, Denmark: Nordic Whimsy at Tivoli Gardens
If hygge (coziness) were a place, it would be Tivoli Gardens during Christmas. This legendary amusement park in Copenhagen transforms into a Nordic wonderland, complete with snowy rooftops, sparkling light shows, and market stalls.
Indulge in pancake puffs, aka æbleskiver, served with powdered sugar and jam. Pair them with gløgg (Nordic mulled wine) for the ultimate festive snack combo. And don’t miss the nightly light displays—they’ll have you feeling all warm and fuzzy inside.
Pro tip: The market’s location in the heart of the city makes it easy to explore Copenhagen’s other holiday delights, like the famous Nyhavn harbor decked out in lights.
Plan your visit to Tivoli Gardens here.
2. Northern Lights: A Bucket List Christmas Gift
For those who dream big, a trip to see the northern lights is the ultimate Christmas present. These natural light displays are like nature’s fireworks, dancing across the night sky in greens, purples, and blues. Here are the top spots to witness this jaw-dropping phenomenon:
Rovaniemi, Finland: Where Christmas Magic Lives
Rovaniemi isn’t just any Arctic destination—it’s the official hometown of Santa Claus. Yes, you can meet the man in red himself! Pair that with reindeer sledding, snowshoeing, and snuggling up in a glass igloo while watching the northern lights, and you’ve got the most wholesome Christmas experience ever.
December is prime aurora season, and Rovaniemi’s snowy landscapes make for the perfect backdrop. Plus, the cozy vibes here are unmatched—think crackling fires, woolly socks, and hearty Finnish stews after a day of Arctic adventures.
Tromsø, Norway: Fjords and Fur Babies
Tromsø is where Arctic wilderness meets cozy charm. This Norwegian city is smack dab in the middle of the aurora zone, giving you some of the best chances to spot the lights. Spend your days on fjord cruises or husky sledding (yes, you get to cuddle the dogs), and your nights under the aurora’s glow.
Want to up the romance? Book a private cabin with panoramic windows for uninterrupted sky views. And if you’re into photography, Tromsø’s expert guides can help you snap that Insta-worthy shot of the lights.
Abisko, Sweden: The Clearest Arctic Skies
If you’re chasing crystal-clear skies for aurora viewing, Abisko is your spot. This remote Swedish village is home to the Aurora Sky Station, where you can gaze at the lights from a mountaintop observatory. The views are unbeatable, and the experience is surreal—it’s just you, the stars, and the dancing lights.
During the day, explore Abisko National Park’s snow-covered trails or go ice fishing. By night, bundle up and let the aurora do its thing. It’s a trip you’ll never forget.
Which Trip Will You Choose?
Whether you’re browsing Christmas markets for handmade gifts or bundling up to chase the northern lights, these destinations will leave you with unforgettable memories. So, what’s it going to be? Shopping under the stars in Strasbourg? Cozying up in a glass igloo in Finland? Or perhaps a mix of both?
Wherever you go, make sure to bring your sense of wonder and plenty of warm layers. Happy holidays, and may your Christmas be as magical as these dreamy destinations!
Hi! I’m James, the marketing manager at Stasher. I’m passionate about slow travel, immersing myself in new cultures and building unique memories in different places. On our blog, I share insights and stories to inspire and help you avoid pitfalls. Most importantly, I hope to make sure that you have the most rewarding travels!