As the festive season approaches, Europe transforms into a landscape of twinkling lights, roaring fires and timeless traditions. Whether you dream of snow dusted peaks, historic Christmas markets or sunshine by the sea, the continent offers a wealth of enchanting destinations for an unforgettable holiday.
From the magic of Lapland to the glamour of St Moritz and the warmth of the Canary Islands, Elegant Resorts takes you on a journey through the most exquisite places to spend Christmas in Europe.
Christmas Markets & Imperial Charm in Austria
When it comes to where to spend Christmas in Europe, few places capture the festive spirit quite like Austria. The scent of roasted chestnuts, the sound of carols echoing through cobbled streets and the glow of fairy lights draped across grand Baroque architecture create a scene straight from a storybook.
In Vienna, the iconic Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz is a must visit, where stalls brim with hand crafted ornaments, spiced mulled wine and delicate pastries. The city's palaces are adorned with garlands and horse-drawn carriages glide past the grand facades of the Hofburg and Schonbrunn Palaces. Over in Salzburg, birthplace of Mozart, the historic Old Town is filled with festive markets, choral music and the soft sound of church bells ringing across snow capped rooftops.
Austria's
Christmas markets are ideal for those seeking both tradition and refinement. After a day of browsing artisan crafts, you can warm up with a glass of mulled wine before retiring to an elegant city hotel, where festive menus and candlelit dining make Christmas Eve a truly magical occasion.
Warm Christmas Holidays in Barcelona
For travellers who prefer sunshine to snow, Barcelona offers a distinctly different festive experience. With pleasant December temperatures around 16 degrees, it's one of the warmest European cities at Christmas - ideal for those wondering where to spend Christmas Day in Europe without the chill.
Staying at the Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona, guests enjoy sophisticated luxury in the heart of the city. Its Michelin-starred dining, serene spa and rooftop views over Passeig de Gracia create the perfect setting for a stylish Christmas escape. While Barcelona may not be blanketed in snow, its festive atmosphere is undeniable. Elegant light displays illuminate Gaudi's architectural masterpieces, the Gothic Quarter buzzes with shoppers seeking last-minute gifts and the city's traditional "Fira de Santa Llucia" market - held beside the Cathedral - fills the air with the scent of pine and cinnamon.
On Christmas Day, dine al fresco on tapas and seafood paella overlooking the Mediterranean, or enjoy a seasonal tasting menu at the hotel before taking a stroll along the beach to watch the sunset. Barcelona proves that warmth and festive joy can coexist beautifully, making it one of the best places to spend Christmas in Europe for those chasing winter sunshine without leaving the continent.
Magical Ski Holidays in Switzerland
If your idea of Christmas involves snowflakes, slopes and the sound of champagne corks popping, then St Moritz in Switzerland is the ultimate place to spend Christmas in Europe.
Synonymous with glamour and exclusivity, this chic ski resort is one of the most luxurious answers to the question of where to spend Christmas in Europe. The snow-covered Engadin Valley sets the scene for world-class skiing, horse-drawn sleigh rides and an indulgent apres ski scene. By day, the perfectly groomed pistes invite skiers of all levels to explore, while off the slopes, designer boutiques and gourmet restaurants offer plenty of ways to unwind. Come evening, St Moritz sparkles with festive lights reflecting off the frozen lake and grand hotels host elegant Christmas Eve galas complete with live music and fine dining.
With its blend of sophistication and snowy enchantment, St Moritz captures the essence of a fairytale Christmas setting - where fireside champagne, Michelin-starred menus and breathtaking mountain views come together in perfect harmony.
A Victorian Christmas in Dublin
For a shorter journey without compromising on atmosphere, Dublin offers a vibrant and luxurious European Christmas holiday destination. The city glows with festive charm, from twinkling lights along Grafton Street to the warm hum of traditional music drifting from cosy pubs.
The five star Merrion Hotel, set within beautifully restored townhouses, provides a refined retreat right in the heart of the city. Its open fires, art-lined walls and elegant decor create a picture perfect Victorian Christmas setting while its celebrated restaurant, The Garden Room, serves exquisite festive cuisine.
Dublin comes alive in December with all manner of seasonal cultural events. From Christmas concerts at St Patrick's Cathedral to festive theatre performances and Christmas markets selling unique artisanal Irish gifts. For those wondering where to spend Christmas Day in Europe with a blend of warmth, culture and old fashioned Victorian charm, Dublin delivers a truly memorable experience.
Sunshine & Serenity in The Canary Islands
If you are wondering where it is hot in Europe in December for a sun-filled getaway, then you may want to consider travelling to the Canary Islands. Located just off the North West coast of Africa, these Spanish islands offer temperatures of around 23 degrees in December, making them a haven for those who prefer sun loungers to snowflakes.
Each island offers a distinct charm. Tenerife combines luxury resorts with volcanic beauty and fine dining, Gran Canaria boasts golden dunes and lively promenades, while Lanzarote entices with its striking landscapes and contemporary art scene. Whether you're celebrating Christmas on the beach, indulging in a spa retreat or enjoying cocktails at sunset, the Canary Islands offer the ideal escape for those dreaming of warmth and relaxation.
A festive stay here is all about unwinding. Exchange traditional carols for the sound of the waves, enjoy Christmas lunch overlooking the ocean and bask in the golden glow of the year-round sunshine. For anyone wondering where to spend Christmas in Europe and still feel the heat, the Canary Islands provide a truly idyllic alternative to a winter wonderland.
The Perfect Family Christmas Holiday in Lapland
For families seeking a truly enchanting festive adventure, Lapland is the perfect
Christmas holiday destination in Europe. Nestled in Finland's far north, this snow-covered region is of course home to Father Christmas himself - making it the most magical answer to where to spend Christmas Day in Europe with children.
In snow filled Rovaniemi, families can meet Father Christmas in his home town, visit his post office to send letters stamped with the Arctic Circle seal and take magical reindeer sleigh rides through glistening forests. Evenings bring the chance to witness the Northern Lights, painting the sky in mesmerising hues of green and violet.
Luxury lodges and glass-roofed igloos offer warmth and wonder in equal measure, allowing you to fall asleep beneath the stars while surrounded by pure, silent snow. Lapland captures the innocence and joy of Christmas in its purest form - a place where fairy tales come true and every moment feels like it has been touched by magic.
Where to Spend Christmas in Europe
Whether you're dreaming of mulled wine and Christmas market stalls in Vienna, sun-drenched Christmas lunches in Barcelona, or sleigh rides under the Northern Lights in Lapland, Europe offers an eclectic array of festive escapes.
From the snowy elegance of St Moritz to the golden beaches of the Canary Islands, each destination offers its own take on Christmas luxury - ensuring your celebrations are as special as the season itself. For those wondering where to spend Christmas in Europe or where to spend Christmas Day in Europe, these destinations promise magic, indulgence and unforgettable memories that will stay with you for a lifetime.