Where to go Christmas shopping? Discover Europe's most beautiful Christmas towns
Christmastime is the perfect time to enjoy the unique atmosphere of many European cities. Think atmospheric lights, the smell of mulled wine and roasting chestnuts in bustling Christmas markets. Europe has a number of cities that are not to be missed. Discover below the most beautiful cities in Europe where Christmas shopping is perfect.
Vienna, Austria
The Austrian capital is famous for its traditional Christmas markets, which have been an integral part of the city since the 13th century. The most famous Christmas market, the Wiener Christkindlmarkt, is located on Rathausplatz. Here you'll find numerous stalls selling handmade decorations, handicrafts and delicious Austrian specialities such as apple strudel and mulled wine.
The city also offers a unique opportunity for Christmas shopping in an environment full of culture. Visit the magnificent window displays in the luxury stores of Kärntner Strasse and Graben, or discover unique gifts in the small boutiques of the Spittelberg district.
London, England
London is one of Europe's most iconic Christmas shopping destinations. The British capital is famous for its spectacular Christmas illuminations, particularly along Oxford Street and Regent Street. During the Christmas season, these streets are transformed into a sparkling decor, ideal for a pleasant evening stroll.
The city offers a wealth of shopping opportunities, from famous department stores like Harrods and Selfridges to the trendy boutiques of Covent Garden. Don't forget to visit Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, where you can enjoy a host of attractions, market stalls and winter delights.
Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik may be small, but the city more than makes up for it with its unique Christmas experience. The cold, clear skies and chances of seeing the Northern Lights make Reykjavik a special destination during the holidays. Reykjavik's Christmas markets are modest but charming, offering mainly local products such as handmade woollen garments, jewelry and Icelandic delicacies.
In Reykjavik, Christmas is celebrated with seriousness, and this is reflected throughout the city. The streets are decorated with simple but atmospheric Christmas lights. There are also many cafés and restaurants where you can warm up with traditional Icelandic food after a day of Christmas shopping.
Paris, France
Paris is a city that takes Christmas seriously, with elaborate Christmas markets and magnificent lights along the Champs-Élysées. There are several markets scattered around the city, but the one near La Défense is well worth a visit. Here you'll find a wide variety of stalls selling everything from French specialties to unique gifts.
For lovers of luxury brands, the Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré district is a must. Here you'll find exclusive boutiques, perfect for finding elegant gifts. Department stores such as Galeries Lafayette are also completely in the Christmas spirit, offering a wide range of gifts.
Berlin, Germany
Berlin is one of Europe's most famous Christmas towns, with many Christmas markets well worth a visit. The Gendarmenmarkt market is one of the most popular, with a combination of crafts, food, drink and live music. The markets at Kaiser Wilhelm Gedächtniskirche and Alexanderplatz are also highly recommended.
In addition to Christmas markets, Berlin also boasts a wide range of stores, from high-end boutiques to alternative stores in districts such as Kreuzberg. This makes the city a versatile destination for Christmas shopping.
