Christmas magic in seven cities

By Sofia Tastsidis

Christmas is the perfect opportunity to experience the magic of winter in all its glory. From snow-covered villages with illuminated squares to metropolises adorned with sparkling lights, Christmas destinations promise unforgettable moments full of warmth and coziness. Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic fireside getaway, or an adventure filled with nature activities, the options are endless and each has its own special magic. Pack your bags and let the Christmas atmosphere travel you!

Northern Spain, Basque country

It is an autonomous community of three historic provinces that do not speak Spanish but Basque. It is a language that is also found in southwestern France in addition to north-central Spain. The official name of the language is Euskara and it has aroused the interest of linguists as it is a mixture of Latin, French and Spanish.

So in the Basque country, Bilbao and San Sebastian stand out for their wild nature, while the visitor will notice that the locals surf in the waters of the North Atlantic in their free time.

The markets are filled with local products and handmade gifts, while there is no shortage of Basque cuisine, characterized by many as a “gastronomic paradise”. Several restaurants have even been awarded a Michelin star.

One of the most characteristic figures of the Basque Christmas is “Olentzero”, their own Santa who brings gifts to children, lending a unique, traditional tone to the festivities.

The “Queen of the Danube”

Of course, the “Queen of the Danube”, Budapest, which transforms into a fairytale landscape during Christmas, could not be absent from the bucket list. The city is filled with twinkling lights, while the famous Christmas Market offers traditional delicacies such as mulled wine, sausages and local sweets. The impressive ice rink and the walks along the illuminated Danube create a romantic atmosphere that captivates visitors. The city’s historic buildings are magically illuminated, while traditional customs and the sounds of choirs fill the city with warmth and joy.

Prague, the romantic

Next stop that you should not miss, especially if you are a romantic soul, is Prague. With its fairytale architecture and cobbled streets, it is one of the most enchanting destinations for the Christmas holidays. The Old Town Square is transformed into a glittering festive space with impressively decorated trees, traditional markets and stalls offering tasty treats such as the signature cylindrical pastry pastry, also known as the ‘chimney’. The cathedrals are majestically illuminated, while the sounds of Christmas choirs create an atmosphere full of magic. The Charles Bridge, dressed in winter clothes, takes you to another era with its melodies that make you not want to leave.

Under the sounds of classical music

If you are looking for something more aristocratic and cosmopolitan, all you have to do is visit Vienna, a city that embraces all your senses. The city is transformed into a bright, festive canvas, with spectacular illuminations and fairy-tale Christmas markets. There, guests enjoy steaming mulled Glühwein and aromatic cookies. As Austria is the birthplace of classical music, its melodies resonate in the imposing spaces, giving the festivities an aristocratic tone.

Rich history, unique architecture

Let us now move to the heart of Tuscany, Florence. Its rich history and artistic atmosphere, offers a warm and classy Christmas experience that enchants every visitor. The festive atmosphere meets its unique architecture while its traditional events offer you a unique experience integrating you with the local tradition of the place. Santa Croce Square comes alive with the Christmas market, where you can find local delicacies, wine and beautiful handmade gifts. The impressive manger in the Duomo, the illuminated Ponte Vecchio bridge is what will remain indelibly in your memory.

Tallinn, the alternative

For you who are looking for something more alternative and not so much with less people but with a snowy Christmas landscape, I have the ideal choice for you. Tallinn, the fairy-tale capital of Estonia in Northern Europe offers us everything and will not tire you. Its historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, brims with festive magic as the cobbled streets are lit up with glittering decorations and the Christmas market in Town Hall Square steals the show. The traditional mangers, outdoor concerts and the winter landscape create an atmosphere full of warmth and romance. Indeed, a historical review is worthwhile as we learn that the first Christmas tree was decorated at the beginning of the 15th century in Tallinn by a brotherhood. On the last night of the celebrations, they moved the tree to the central square of the city in front of the town hall and all together men, women, children danced around it and celebrated the last night of the Christmas celebration.

With the magic of channels

Let’s travel again to a city that is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The famous canal city of Bruges in Belgium, its medieval architecture and festive Winter Glow Festival makes it look even more magical. A boat ride on its canals, the unique waffles and a taste of their endless beers will be unforgettable. Winter Glow, Bruges’ Christmas Festival gives you the opportunity to follow a light-filled route through the historic center and canals with installations that create reflections in the water.