I am one of those people that tests the limit with Christmas appropriateness…I may sample a festive song or two (or ten) in October, I am giddy over the first sightings of decorations, and you’ll probably spot a seasonally specific hot beverage in my hand at all times. If this sounds like  you too, then I have a strong suspicion you will love Europe during the holiday season. By mid-November, there are an abundance of markets popping up all over serving mulled wine or hot cocoa and traditional foods by the twinkle of holiday lights and maybe even a sprinkle of snow.

LONDON : I may be biased but I do think London has the best Christmas lights anywhere! Every little square and corner has bright lights and unique decorations sparkling up the holiday season. Also, Hyde Park becomes transformed into an almost theme park display of festiveness with rides, performances and a German market that will have you shouting Prost like you’re back in Oktoberfest! 

 VIENNA : the stunning capital city with its’ Baroque architecture just screams Christmas…and it’s not just market wandering during the festive season, head to the orchestra or the ballet for Christmas themed performances. BRUSSELS : the main square in Brussels is the perfect Christmas backdrop…and insert, the best fries and waffles ever = Christmas Miracle. 

PRAGUE : the Czechs know how to put on a Christmas Market…there are about 5 in the city to wander between with the two biggest at the Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square, just grab a beer and a Trdelník and you’re all set.

COPENHAGEN : the colorful Nyhavn strip is as pretty as any Christmas card but the Tivoli Gardens are a must-visit for the holiday enthusiasts. Also, you can’t miss warming up by a cozy fire and experiencing Danish “hygge” with “æbleskiver” and “gløgg”!  KRAKOW : minutes after touching down in Poland, the most perfectly delicate snow fall trickled from the sky–it just made it feel all the more Christmasy like I was sitting in a snow globe.  GERMANY : yeah, Germany is not a city but I’m not sure listing every German city would have worked either! From Hamburg to Stuttgart, Cologne to Dresden, the country is scattered with festive spirit…you can probably smell the spiced wines and fresh pines when you step off the plane.

What European destinations are your favorite for Christmas?