European cities that are magical for Christmas

Nowhere has festive charm like the continent of Europe.

With its cold weather, the continent, especially its northern region, is ideal for those looking for a perfect winter wonderland during this time of year.

From Vienna, Austria, to Gothenburg, Sweden, here are the European cities that "take pride" in Christmas like no other country.

Vienna, Austria

The beautiful Austrian capital offers festive charm at the end of the year.

And while the magnificent Christmas tree and iconic Christmas market, located outside the spectacular Rathaus, Vienna's City Hall, are essential stops, the Spittelberg market undoubtedly offers the best.

Wonderful handicrafts and handmade sweaters are just some of the things on offer at the festive stalls lining the streets of the Biedermeier quarter.

Visitors can take a leisurely stroll while marveling at how holiday-ready the architecture looks.

Hallstatt, Austria

On the shores of Hallstätter See and surrounded by high Alpine peaks, the town of Hallstatt and its stunning landscape enjoy UNESCO protection.

The 16th century townhouses, small lanes and snow make this the ultimate destination to get into the festive mood.

Hallstatt's Christmas market, centered around the Market Square, is also impressive.

Imagine a brightly lit tree and stalls selling decorations, handicrafts and wine and you are “halfway” to imagining how special this place is.

Tromsø, Norway

Tromso's status as a cultural center has long been secured, with its stunning Arctic Cathedral, home to regular concerts and events.

But it's during the festive season, when there's no sunlight, that the city, perched high above the Arctic Circle, becomes a must-see.

The streets are decorated with lights, while the Christmas market stalls are packed, including near Macks Ølbryggeri, the world's northernmost brewery.

Visitors can grab a beer or hot chocolate from the Rakettkiosken in the main square, where there's a fire pit for warmth, before taking the cable car above the city to catch a glimpse of the aurora borealis, or northern lights.

Colmar, France

There are many wonderful Christmas markets to be found throughout Europe.

But few capture the imagination or offer a fairytale setting like that of Colmar, in France's Alsace region.

No less than six themed markets can be found in the center, connected by illuminated streets, where cozy wooden houses are crowded.

The result is truly remarkable.

Rudesheim, Germany

Situated in the heart of the wine country of the Rhine Valley, Rudesheim am Rhine is a top destination all year round.

However, once Christmas rolls around, the city, a short boat or train ride from Frankfurt, offers a special atmosphere.

Those arriving by riverboat can board the vessel that heads from the water's edge to the Nations Christmas Market, which is filled with stalls selling gifts and traditional festive foods from around the world.

The town's medieval buildings and alleys ensure that everything retains a classic festive feel.

Drinking a Rudesheimer coffee is a surefire way to keep the cold at bay.

Bruges, Belgium

Once a vital commercial metropolis, the UNESCO-protected medieval center of Bruges is filled with buildings that enchant once the festive lights are turned on.

Every year, the annual Winter Glow festival transforms the entire city into one big festive atmosphere.

There are two Christmas markets, a path of light and, best of all, a floating ice rink on Minnewater, the Lake of Love.

All visitors should enjoy a delicious Belgian hot chocolate accompanied by a waffle.

There's no better way to get into the spirit of the season.

Gothenburg, Sweden

Sweden's last Christmas city, Gothenburg is full of festive surprises for those willing to head north and brave the Scandinavian cold.

And chief among them is the Liseberg Christmas Market.

Located in an amusement park which celebrated its centenary in 2023, visitors can enjoy rides here and enjoy delicious food from around the country.

The city's three-kilometre 'Lane of Lights', which stretches from Liseberg to the harbour, is also worth exploring.

Valkenburg, Netherlands

Valkenburg, in the southern Netherlands, has many of the usual European Christmas charms to entice visitors: lights, trees, stalls and gluhwein galore.

However, what makes it special is the fact that they can all be found underground.

The city's "Christmas Caves" have become internationally known, with a wide range of "stalls" selling festive gifts and decorations.

Rovaniemi, Finland

Located in Lapland, Rovaniemi is great for all kinds of reasons.

The bright and beautiful displays of the northern lights, the traditions of the indigenous Sami people, and easy access to Finland's amazing sauna culture are just a few.

While visitors can go to Rovaniemi's Santa Claus Village all year round, the combination of snow and good cheer throughout the city as Christmas Day approaches makes things seem even more magical.

Wrocław, Poland

Wrocław is considered one of the most beautiful cities in Poland, but it takes things to another level for Christmas.

The city's Christmas market, spread over Plac Solny and Market Square, is home to over 250 stalls, as well as a brilliant fairground and twinkling light installations.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany

The impressive architecture of this predominantly German city in the heart of Bavaria is enough to give it a Christmas feel any time of year you visit.

But the annual Reiterlesmarkt is really what makes it stand out.

"Reiterle", also known as the little knight, is a mythical figure said to have visited the city during the winter for thousands of years.

His arrival is part of the Christmas tradition there, which is why the market was named in his honor.

The result is a fantastic space that prides itself on its history and the simple pleasures of hearty food and warm alcohol. /Telegraph/