12 Prettiest Christmas Villages and Towns in Europe

2. Hallstatt, Austria

Nestled between the Hallstatt Lake and the Dachstein Alps, Hallstatt is a UNESCO World Heritage site that looks straight out of a storybook. 

During Christmas, the town is adorned with festive lights and decorations, creating a serene and magical atmosphere. The snow-covered rooftops and the reflection of Christmas lights on the lake add to the charm. 

Hallstatt’s Christmas market, set against the backdrop of the stunning alpine scenery, offers traditional Austrian crafts and delicious treats, making it a delightful Christmas destination.

3. Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany

Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a well-preserved medieval town in Bavaria, Germany, known for its charming half-timbered houses and cobbled streets. 

During Christmas, the town hosts the Reiterlesmarkt, a traditional Christmas market that dates back to the 15th century. The market is filled with festive stalls selling handmade crafts, delicious German Christmas treats, and mulled wine. 

The town's medieval architecture, combined with the festive decorations, creates a magical Christmas atmosphere that is sure to enchant visitors.

Romantic Road, Rothenburg, and Harburg Day Tour from Munich

4. Bruges, Belgium

Bruges, often referred to as the "Venice of the North," is a stunning medieval city with picturesque canals and cobbled streets. During Christmas, Bruges transforms into a winter wonderland with its festive lights, ice skating rink, and Christmas markets. 

The main market in the historic city center offers a variety of holiday gifts, Belgian chocolates, and warm drinks. The romantic charm of Bruges, enhanced by the twinkling lights and holiday decorations, makes it an ideal Christmas destination.

Bruges and Ghent - Belgium's Fairytale Cities - from Brussels

6. Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, boasts one of the best-preserved medieval old towns in Europe. During Christmas, Tallinn's Town Hall Square hosts a charming Christmas market, complete with a towering Christmas tree, festive stalls, and traditional Estonian food. 

The medieval buildings, cobblestone streets, and festive decorations create a magical atmosphere that transports visitors back in time. The crisp winter air and the cozy cafes offering hot mulled wine make Tallinn a perfect Christmas destination.

• Tallinn 3-Hour Estonian Food Tour

• Guided Old Town Tallinn Historical Walking Tour

7. Rovaniemi, Finland

Rovaniemi, located in the heart of Lapland, Finland, is known as the official hometown of Santa Claus. Visiting Rovaniemi during Christmas is like stepping into a winter wonderland. 

The town offers a variety of festive activities, including reindeer sleigh rides, husky safaris, and visits to Santa Claus Village. The Northern Lights, snowy landscapes, and the chance to meet Santa himself make Rovaniemi a magical Christmas destination for families and children of all ages.

Northern Lights Rovaniemi: Guaranteed Viewing & Unlimited Mileage

PRIVATE Party dinner in a Glass Igloo Under Northern Lights

Original Emerald River Adventure

8. Innsbruck, Austria

Innsbruck, nestled in the Austrian Alps, is a picturesque town known for its stunning mountain scenery and charming old town. During Christmas, Innsbruck hosts several Christmas markets, each with its unique charm. 

The main market in the old town is surrounded by medieval buildings and offers a variety of holiday treats, handmade crafts, and festive decorations. 

The snow-covered mountains, twinkling lights, and the warm glow of the market stalls create a magical Christmas atmosphere in Innsbruck.

Tyrolean Folk Show Ticket in Innsbruck

Private Full-Day Tour of Neuschwanstein Castle from Innsbruck

9. Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic

Cesky Krumlov, a UNESCO World Heritage site in the Czech Republic, is a fairy-tale town with its charming streets, historic castle, and picturesque river. During Christmas, the town is adorned with festive decorations, and the main square hosts a delightful Christmas market. 

The market offers traditional Czech crafts, delicious holiday treats, and hot mulled wine. The medieval charm of Cesky Krumlov, combined with the festive atmosphere, makes it a perfect Christmas destination.

Cesky Krumlov Tour 4 hours

10. Strasbourg, France

Strasbourg, known as the "Capital of Christmas," hosts one of the oldest and largest Christmas markets in Europe. The town's historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is transformed into a festive wonderland with its twinkling lights, decorated streets, and numerous Christmas markets. 

The main market at Place Broglie offers a wide range of holiday gifts, traditional Alsatian food, and warm drinks. The enchanting atmosphere, combined with the stunning Gothic architecture, makes Strasbourg a must-visit during Christmas.

Alsace Colmar, Medieval Villages & Castle Small Group Day Trip from Strasbourg

11. Trier, Germany

Trier, Germany's oldest city, is home to a charming Christmas market set against the backdrop of the stunning Trier Cathedral and medieval buildings. The market offers a variety of festive stalls selling handmade crafts, delicious German treats, and warm drinks. 

The historic charm of Trier, combined with the festive decorations and twinkling lights, creates a magical Christmas atmosphere. Visitors can also enjoy the city's Roman ruins and beautiful architecture, making Trier a perfect Christmas destination.

12. Montreux, Switzerland

Montreux, located on the shores of Lake Geneva, is known for its stunning views of the lake and the Alps. During Christmas, Montreux hosts a magical Christmas market along the lake promenade. The market offers a variety of holiday gifts, Swiss delicacies, and hot drinks. 

The town's festive decorations, combined with the breathtaking scenery and the cozy atmosphere, make Montreux a wonderful Christmas destination. Visitors can also enjoy a ride on the Christmas train to Rochers-de-Naye to meet Santa Claus.

Chillon Castle Entrance Ticket in Montreux