The magic of Christmas takes on a different flavour depending on the city where you choose to live it. From historic markets in Central Europe and glittering canal-side lights in Amsterdam to festive celebrations in New York or West Africa, here are seven cities where Christmas is worth the journey.
Get my travel insuranceStrasbourg, home of France’s oldest Christmas market
Strasbourg’s Christkindelsmärik is France’s oldest Christmas market, founded all the way back in 1570. Each year, from late November to late December, more than 300 stalls fill the Place de la Cathédrale and the surrounding streets with Alsatian specialities, handcrafted decorations and mulled wine. In 2026, the market runs from 26 November to 27 December.
The city’s medieval setting deepens the atmosphere: beneath the garlands of lights, the cobbled lanes of the Grande Île look like a fairy-tale stage set. To extend the magic, the village of Riquewihr, about an hour’s drive away, is well worth the detour.
For a full selection of unmissable stops, see our guide to the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe.
Prague, Christmas beneath Gothic spires
The Old Town Square transforms into a wonderland from late November. In 2026, Prague’s markets open on 25 November and close on 6 January 2027, with a 25-metre Christmas tree at their heart, lit up every evening from 4:30 pm.
Between the baroque facades and the Astronomical Clock, the stalls offer trdelník (the unmissable cylindrical pastry), hand-carved wooden figures and honey mulled wine. Head up to the top of the Old Town Hall Tower for a sweeping view over the whole square. Other markets are dotted around the city, including the one at Malé Náměstí, which has a quieter, less touristy feel.
Vienna, 44 days of festivities
The Rathausplatz hosts Vienna’s largest Christmas market each winter: around 150 stalls set up in front of the City Hall, complete with an ice rink and horse-drawn carriages. In 2026, festivities begin on 13 November and run through to 26 December, a full 44 days of programming.
Other markets bring life to squares throughout the city, from Schönbrunn to the streets of the historic centre, making Vienna one of the European destinations with the longest festive season.
London, Christmas the British way
No need to wait for December: some neighbourhoods put up their decorations as early as November. Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, the London Bridge City Christmas Market, concerts at St Paul’s Cathedral, ice rinks across the city… London’s end-of-year calendar is packed.
One of the most original experiences on offer: dining in heated igloos set up on the terraces of certain restaurants. For everything London has to offer in December, see our guide Christmas in London.
Amsterdam, 6 km of art along the canals
Amsterdam in winter has a special atmosphere all of its own. The gabled townhouses reflect in the canals, and the city fills with light for the Amsterdam Light Festival, now celebrating its 15th edition from 26 November 2026 to 17 January 2027.
Around thirty illuminated artworks by international artists line a 6 km trail through the historic canal district. Walking the route is free and open to all. To catch the night-time reflections shimmering on the water, a canal cruise is the most immersive option.
Christmas markets and wooden chalets round off the festive mood. For more ideas on European light displays, discover the most beautiful Christmas illuminations in Europe.
New York, Christmas on a grand scale
In New York, Christmas is never done by halves. The Rockefeller Center tree, Central Park under snow, the animated window displays on Fifth Avenue, the Bryant Park market: the city stages a spectacular series of festive set pieces.
The atmosphere differs from Europe, bigger, more urban, with that unmistakably American sense of occasion. To plan this trip in detail, find all the highlights in our guide Christmas in New York.
Ouagadougou, Christmas beneath the stars
The favourite destination of Yupwego’s founder for the festive season. He recalls:
“A few years ago I spent Christmas in Burkina, in Ouagadougou. I remember a small clay Christmas tree painted white, leaning against a baobab, and my African friends puzzling over why it was white. I explained it was white because of snow, and since none of them had ever seen snow, I found myself telling Christmas stories under the palaver tree, in the manner of an African storyteller. I watched children and adults alike, eyes wide with wonder, as I drew the shape of a snowflake with a stick in the ochre earth. That human connection was, without question, the most beautiful gift the world has ever given me.”
A story that reminds us that Christmas, wherever you celebrate it, is ultimately about the people you meet.
FAQ
Which is the most magical city for Christmas in Europe?
There is no single answer. Strasbourg is often cited for its historic market, the oldest in France. Prague draws visitors with its medieval backdrop and giant Christmas tree. Vienna offers the longest festive season. Amsterdam combines markets with a free artistic trail along the canals. The right choice depends on the kind of trip you are looking for.
When do European Christmas markets open?
Most open between mid-November and late November. In 2026: Vienna starts on 13 November, Prague on 25 November, Strasbourg and Amsterdam on 26 November. The Prague and Amsterdam markets remain open into January.
Can you visit a Christmas market on a tight budget?
Yes. Admission to European Christmas markets is generally free, as is walking the Amsterdam Light Festival trail. The main costs are transport and accommodation, both of which can be booked well in advance to keep expenses down.
Do you need travel insurance for a Christmas trip within Europe?
Even within Europe, the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) does not cover repatriation assistance, lost luggage or trip cancellation. Supplementary travel insurance can step in quickly if you are hospitalised or face an unexpected situation far from home.
Which destination is best for a Christmas trip outside Europe?
New York offers the full cinematic American Christmas experience, with large-scale festive scenery at every turn. For genuine cultural immersion, West Africa, such as Burkina Faso, offers a way to celebrate the season centred on sharing and human connection that is very different from European traditions.
