Among the medieval facades of Strasbourg, Colmar, Riquewihr, and Kaysersberg, Christmas takes on a unique intensity. Their markets—considered among the oldest and most beautiful in Europe —envelop the streets in an atmosphere that blends history, craftsmanship, and the aroma of mulled wine.

Alsace is a perfect destination to immerse yourself in the most traditional Christmas essence : warm lights reflected in the canals, half-timbered houses lovingly decorated and squares where every detail seems designed to celebrate winter.

❄ Must-do: Explore Strasbourg's Christkindelsmärik, a World Heritage Site, and watch the lights of Colmar reflected on its canals.

❄ Local experience: Try the pain d'épices , bredele and artisanal specialties that fill the stalls from November.

Richmond and the Cotswolds capture the British winter spirit with a blend of sophistication and village life. In Richmond, the Petersham Nurseries greenhouse transforms into a small Christmas oasis: candles, handmade wreaths, decorated tables, and the scent of pine herald the arrival of winter. A stroll along the river at sunset is one of those experiences best enjoyed during the colder months.

The Cotswolds , meanwhile, seem designed for Christmas: golden roofs, pubs with fireplaces, craft markets in towns like Stow-on-the-Wold or Burford, and an atmosphere reminiscent of classic winter postcards.

❄ Must-do: Enjoy a Christmas tea at Petersham Nurseries or visit Bath's festive markets, perfect for a break from the Cotswolds.

❄ Local experience: Experience carol singing in a village church or take a winter route through hills and quiet trails.

Stockholm It's one of this year's biggest additions, and it couldn't be a better fit for a Christmas article. The city is illuminated with thousands of warm lights that contrast with the Nordic chill and create an absolutely cinematic atmosphere. In Gamla Stan, its old town, the Christmas market is one of the oldest in Europe and keeps Swedish tradition alive with local crafts, hot glögg, and typical sweets.

The Swedish capital experiences winter with calm: cozy cafes where you can take refuge from the snow, museums that seem designed for dark December evenings, and walks along the water that, even in the cold, convey serenity.

❄ Must-see: The Gamla Stan market and the light festival that winds through the squares and streets of the historic center.

❄ Local experience: Try pepparkakor (spiced cookie) and enjoy winter fika —coffee and something sweet— as a warming ritual.

Amsterdam transforms its canals into an open-air art gallery with the Amsterdam Light Festival , a unique spectacle that turns every bridge and bend in the water into a contemporary light show. Its markets, especially those in Museumplein, combine tradition, Dutch design, and winter cuisine.

Copenhagen , for its part, is the perfect definition of enjoying the simple pleasures of Christmas: the illuminated Tivoli Gardens , cafes that smell of cinnamon, markets overflowing with decorations, and a welcoming atmosphere that invites you to stroll slowly and savor every corner. It's one of the European cities where this time of year is best experienced.

❄ Must-do: Explore Tivoli Gardens illuminated at night and visit the markets at Museumplein in Amsterdam.

❄ Local experience: Freshly made Stroopwafels, pepernoten , spiced hot chocolate and whole afternoons letting yourself be carried away by the winter light of both cities.

Madrid experiences Christmas with intensity: from the illuminated Gran Vía to the Plaza Mayor, passing through the craft markets , the light shows and the winter terraces that fill up with plans when evening falls.

This 2025, the city incorporates new proposals such as the immersive show of the Botanical Garden, Nature Alight, in addition to light routes, concerts, renewed markets and ephemeral spaces that make the city a vibrant destination for those looking for an urban Christmas plan.

❄ Must-do: Go up to the Mirador del Círculo de Bellas Artes to see Madrid illuminated from above.

❄ Local experience: Chocolate with churros in San Ginés after exploring the markets in the city center.