Christmas in Europe is an experience like no other, filled with festive markets, delicious foods, rich traditions, and often snow-covered landscapes. While many countries in the European Union offer unique Christmas experiences, here are some of the best countries to celebrate Christmas in the EU. This includes a special focus on Malta’s distinctive holiday charm, which offers a Mediterranean twist on the season.
1. Best EU Countries to Celebrate Christmas: Germany
Germany is often considered the birthplace of modern Christmas traditions. As such, it’s one of the best countries to celebrate Christmas in the EU. Known for its enchanting Christmas markets, Germany provides a perfect blend of tradition, food, and festive cheer.
Highlights:
- Nuremberg Christmas Market: Famous for gingerbread cookies, mulled wine (Glühwein), and handcrafted gifts.
- Traditional Christmas Food: Enjoy Bratwurst (sausages), Lebkuchen (gingerbread), and Stollen (fruit bread).
- Snowy Scenery: Bavaria’s snow-covered landscapes create a picturesque winter setting.
- Festive Traditions: Advent calendars, Advent wreaths, and Christmas dinners make the season even more magical.
Germany’s mix of history, food, and festive spirit truly makes it one of the best countries to celebrate Christmas in the EU.
2. Austria – A Classical Christmas Experience
Austria offers a traditional and elegant celebration of Christmas. Set against the stunning Alpine landscapes, this country is a perfect choice for those who love culture, tradition, and winter sports. It is undoubtedly one of the best countries to celebrate Christmas in the EU.
Highlights:
- Vienna Christmas Markets: Beautifully decorated markets ideal for shopping and enjoying festive beverages.
- Classical Music: Enjoy a concert in Vienna’s grand halls, featuring composers like Mozart and Strauss.
- Winter Sports: Austria’s ski resorts, such as St. Anton and Kitzbühel, are perfect for winter adventures.
- Unique Traditions: Austria celebrates the Advent season with candles and the Krampuslauf, where locals dress as the fearsome Krampus.
Therefore, Austria offers a perfect blend of culture, snowy landscapes, and festive cheer, making it a top contender for the best countries to celebrate Christmas in the EU.
3. Best EU Countries to Celebrate Christmas: Finland – The Home of Santa Claus
Finland, especially the Lapland region, is often regarded as the true home of Santa Claus. With its snowy forests, the mesmerizing Northern Lights, and unique Christmas customs, Finland is undeniably one of the best EU countries to celebrate Christmas.
Highlights:
- Santa Claus Village: Meet Santa in Rovaniemi, cross the Arctic Circle, and send postcards from his official post office.
- Northern Lights: Finland offers an amazing display of the Northern Lights, especially in Lapland.
- Winter Activities: Participate in husky sledding, snowshoeing, or snowmobiling in this magical winter wonderland.
- Christmas Eve Traditions: Finnish families celebrate Christmas with a large family dinner and attend church services.
For a fairy-tale Christmas experience filled with snow and adventure, Finland stands out as one of the best EU countries to celebrate Christmas
4. United Kingdom – A Festive Wonderland
While not part of the EU now, the United Kingdom offers a wealth of traditional Christmas celebrations. From the grand Christmas lights in London to cozy village festivities, the UK is one of the best EU countries to celebrate Christmas.
Highlights:
- London’s Christmas Lights: Famous displays on Oxford Street, Covent Garden, and Regent Street.
- Traditional Christmas Pudding: A rich dessert, often flambéed with brandy and served with brandy butter or cream.
- Boxing Day: Celebrated on December 26th with sporting events, shopping sales, and social gatherings.
- Festive Theatre Performances: Traditional British pantomimes are a fun and family-friendly experience.
Thus, the UK offers a rich combination of traditions, food, and entertainment, making it a fantastic choice for Christmas lovers.
5. Best EU countries to celebrate Christmas: Italy – A Warm Celebration
Italy may not boast the snowy Christmases of other countries, but its warm holiday spirit makes it one of the best Eu countries to celebrate Christmas. Known for family-oriented celebrations and mouthwatering food, Italy offers a unique and festive experience.
Highlights:
- Naples Christmas Markets: Famous for its elaborate nativity scenes (Presepi) and bustling Christmas markets.
- Christmas Eve Dinner (La Vigilia): Italians often celebrate Christmas Eve with a grand seafood feast, followed by treats like Panettone and Pandoro.
- Midnight Mass: A key tradition in Italy, where families gather to celebrate Christmas Eve at church.
- Winter in the Alps: Northern Italy’s Dolomites offer beautiful snowy landscapes and ski resorts.
Italy’s combination of family traditions, delicious food, and festive warmth makes it a fantastic destination for Christmas.
6. Malta – A Mediterranean Christmas Delight
Malta offers a unique Christmas experience, blending traditional holiday festivities with the warmth of island life. While it may not have snow, Malta’s holiday charm makes it one of the best EU countries to celebrate Christmas for those seeking a Mediterranean twist.
Highlights:
- Christmas Markets: Malta’s capital, Valletta, hosts a festive Christmas market with local crafts, food, and live performances.
- Traditional Christmas Celebrations: Maltese traditions like Midnight Mass and family feasts blend Catholic customs with Mediterranean flavors.
- Nativity Displays: Malta’s elaborate nativity scenes (Presepju) are displayed in homes, churches, and public spaces.
- Mild Weather: Malta’s mild climate allows for outdoor activities, making it ideal for those seeking a warm Christmas.
Malta’s unique blend of traditions, mild weather, and Mediterranean charm truly makes it one of the best EU countries to celebrate Christmas.
Top Picks for the Best EU Countries to Celebrate Christmas
Whether you’re drawn to Germany’s snow-covered markets, Austria’s classical charm, Finland’s winter wonderland, Italy’s warm holiday spirit, or Malta’s Mediterranean Christmas, these countries offer diverse and magical experiences. Each one presents something special, from snowy adventures to cultural traditions, festive food, and vibrant markets. Thus, if you’re wondering where to celebrate Christmas, these countries will certainly make your holiday unforgettable.
Best EU Countries to Celebrate Christmas FAQs
What makes Christmas in Germany special?
Germany is known for its Christmas markets, especially the Nuremberg Christmas Market, offering treats like Glühwein (mulled wine) and Lebkuchen (gingerbread). The country’s deep-rooted traditions, such as Advent calendars and Stollen fruit bread, add to the magic of the season.
Can I visit Santa Claus in Finland?
Absolutely! Finland is home to the Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi. Here, you can meet Santa, cross the Arctic Circle, and send postcards from his official post office.
What are the best Christmas markets in the UK?
London, Bath, and Edinburgh are known for some of the best Christmas markets in the UK. These markets feature festive shopping, seasonal treats, and holiday performances.
How is Christmas celebrated in Italy?
In Italy, Christmas celebrations revolve around family, food, and religious traditions. On Christmas Eve (La Vigilia), Italians often enjoy a festive seafood feast and attend Midnight Mass. Additionally, elaborate Presepi (nativity scenes) are displayed across the country.
What makes Christmas in Malta unique?
Malta’s Christmas traditions, such as elaborate Presepi nativity scenes and family gatherings, offer a unique Mediterranean twist on the holiday. The mild weather allows for outdoor activities, making Malta an ideal destination for a warmer Christmas experience.
Which country is best for snow lovers at Christmas?
For snow lovers, Finland and Austria offer the best snowy landscapes and winter activities. Finland’s Lapland provides a magical winter wonderland, while Austria’s Alps offer picturesque snow-covered views and skiing opportunities.
