Christmas Trees are awaited in the main European cities. They symbolize Christmas festivities with their chalets, mulled wine,  pastries… Everyone is proud of their Christmas tree whether young or old. Here is a selection of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe and we would also like to offer you a selection of the most beautiful Christmas trees in Europe.

Whether you have decided to celebrate Christmas in Germany, France, Austria, Italy or anywhere else in Europe, do not miss this opportunity to discover the best Christmas trees in Europe.

1. Vilnius – Lithuania

From 28th November 2020 to 7th January 2021

It is the most beautiful Christmas tree in Europe. The Vilnius Christmas tree is stunning! Get to the bustling streets, watch the Christmas tree and be amazed by the decorations in the Old Town.

Instead of inviting the masses to a magical Christmas town like in the past, this year it has been designed to be safely admired at a distance. While the outside is modern, the inside of the installation reveals a traditional tree assuring everyone that, notwithstanding the changes brought by the pandemic, the Christmas spirit, like always, stays the same.

Visually, the Christmas tree looks like a surrealist picture – a modern 24-meter tall composition is surrounded by 6,000 live and fragrant branches decorated with almost 4 km of colour-changing RGB Christmas lights, 800 silver ornaments, and 150 sq. m of shining mirrors. The state-of-the-art installation is actually twofold: the spatial placement of metal structures creates several mirror-adorned areas while the inside is made to look cosy, home-like, and intimate with a live Christmas tree decorated with pine cones and lanterns.

2. Strasbourg – France

(From 20th November to 30th December 2020)

Strasbourg is the capital of Christmas, often imitated but never equalled. It is a perfect destination to celebrate Christmas. Come and discover its traditional Christmas market and illuminations. Do not resist the temptation of pastries and treat yourself to a mulled wine in this beautiful city.

The arrival of the Strasbourg Christmas Tree is certainly one of the most important events of the year and it marks the launch of the Christmas market. It is one of the biggest Christmas trees in Europe and one of the most beautiful one.

3. Prague – Czech Republic

(From 28th November 2020 to 6th January 2021)

Prague is romantic and so pleasant during the Christian season of Advent. Come and enjoy the open-air concerts, the Christmas market in Prague and take a picture in front of the magnificent Christmas tree very near the Cathedral.

4. Basel – Switzerland

(From 26th November to 23rd December 2020)

Basel has a deep-rooted tradition as Switzerland’s most beautiful and largest Christmas city, and is well worth a visit every year. Not only the well-preserved Old Town is radiant in the warm Christmas light, but the shops and the facades of many buildings glitter with a golden glow. Roughly a hundred tall pine trees border the streets and stand like brightly lit sentinels pointing the way for the visitor. Particularly recommended is the Christmas market, which is being held not only on Barfüsserplatz, but also on Münsterplatz – one of the most beautiful squares in Basel.

The Basel Christmas Market can be found on Barfüsserplatz and Münsterplatz, right in the centre of the city and at the heart of the festively decorated Old Town. A magnificent Christmas tree stands on the Münsterplatz, with ornaments by the well-known decorator Johann Wanner.

5. Tbilisi – Georgia

(From 25th December 2020 to 14th January 2021)

Georgia’s capital city Tbilisi is gradually becoming one of the most visited destinations for the winter season. This is especially evident during the Christmas period, when the illuminated and fabulously decorated Tbilisi, with a magical festive atmosphere, provides the convivial mood for every visitor of the city. Countless little lights and richly decorated Christmas trees are lining up the sidewalks.

The Christmas markets are held almost in every corner of the capital city, where local entrepreneurs and start-ups sell their handicraft items and souvenirs, Christmas treats, street food, Georgian candies and mulled wine.  Set up on First Republic Square, near Rustaveli Avenue, the location hosts visitors of all ages for theatre shows, music performances, puppet theatre, open-air movie-show, gorgeous Christmas tree, wood huts, decorated with colourful bright lights, etc.…The annual Christmas events usually last throughout December.

On Christmas morning (January 7), thousands of people participate in traditional Christmas march called Alilo, where different churches walk through the streets of Tbilisi, collecting food and sweets, which are later distributed to the people in need and orphanages.

6. Cologne – Germany

(From 23rd November to 23rd December 2020)

Cologne is one of the favourite destinations for Christmas travellers. This city seems to be made for Christmas. It is one of the most authentic and beautiful Christmas markets in Europe.

The aroma of baked apples, cinnamon biscuits and mulled wine will waft through the alleys, and many differently themed Christmas markets will invite people to stroll, shop and explore.

The larger Christmas markets are held in downtown Cologne, but Cologne’s smaller Christmas markets also have plenty to offer.

Cologne’s Christmas markets attract millions of visitors from all over the world every year. You too can savour the unique atmosphere of this metropolis on the Rhine at this special time of year. You’re sure to be enchanted!

7. Kyiv – Ukraine

(From 14th December 2020 to 20th January 2021)

The Capital of Ukraine is a perfect destination for travellers looking for authenticity, snow, tradition. There is not one but several Christmas markets in Kyiv. You can admire one of the most beautiful Christmas trees in Europe on St. Sophia Square.

The Kyiv City Council does not do things by halves since this real tree is decorated with tens of kilometres of garlands. The Christmas market is open to visitors from 14th December to 20th January.

8. Rome – Italy

(From 1st December 2020 to 6th January 2021)

We do not think this picture needs a comment. A lot of people doubt that Rome is a perfect destination for Christmas but all the streets are full of priests, bishops, archbishops …the city itself looks like a living crib !

Stroll through the Christmas Market in Piazza Navona and the most beautiful places in Rome in an enchanting atmosphere.

9. Warsaw – Poland

(From 23rd November 2020 to 6th January 2021)

Don’t resist the temptation to admire the irresistible charm of the Warsaw Christmas Market in December and discover one of the most beautiful destinations in Europe. Located west of the old town, the Warsaw Christmas Market is a delight for lovers of traditions, illuminations and crafts.

10. Vienna – Austria

(From 14th November to 23rd December 2020)

More and more visitors come and discover Vienna at Christmas every year. There is more than one Christmas market in Vienna: there are tens of them with their scintillating lights everywhere in the streets; we particularly like its giant Christmas tree.

11. Budapest – Hungary

(From 20th November 2020 to 1st January 2021)

The city of Budapest is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe at Christmas. Each year, the city invests in the decoration of the most beautiful monuments, the most beautiful arteries but also trams, public places. Budapest is really magic at Christmas.

If you are looking for an authentic place where you can still find the spirit of Christmas, forget London and Paris and discover Budapest at Christmas. The magnificent Christmas tree in front of the Hungarian Parliament is a perfect starting point for strolling around Budapest and marveling at the beauty of the decorations and illuminations of the Hungarian capital.

12. Inssbruck – Austria

(From 14th November 2020 to 3rd January 2021)

The Innsbruck Christmas Market, called „Altstadt Christmas Market” is one of the most romantic Christmas markets in Europe. It is a paradise for little ones and for grown-ups who gather in the middle of the Innbruck Marktplatz, around the magnificent Christmas tree on the main square of Innsbruck.

Come buy original and handmade Christmas gifts or pamper yourself with a hot mulled wine or sweet christmas food.

13. Brussels – Belgium

(From 27th November 2020 to 3rd January 2021)

Brussels has one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe. At Christmas the whole city is decorated with twinkling lights and welcomes visitors from all over the world.

Come celebrate the magic of Christmas in the capital of Belgium. The tree is located in one of the most beautiful places of the city, the Grand Place. Come admire the famous games of lights, taste the Belgian fabulous chocolates ! We have also selected the best activities in Brussels, as for example a Waffle Making Workshop, a Chocolate Workshop or a guided walking tour.

14. Frankfurt – Germany

(From 23rd November to 22nd December 2020)

Germany is the European country that you should definitely visit if you  are keen of a wonderful Christmas atmosphere. The Christmas market tradition was born in Germany. German people push the boat out to offer you a wonderful Christmas time.

Come and discover the traditional Christmas tree in Frankfurt on the Römerberg square in the historic center of Franckfurt.

15. Tallinn – Estonia

(From 15th November 2020  to 5th January 2021)

Snow is guaranteed at Christmas in Estonia. The Tallin Christmas Market is one of the most famous Christmas markets in the region. Come discover the Estonian’s most famous Christmas tree surrounded by little snow huts selling food, drinks and crafts. 

16. York – England

(From 14th November to 23rd December 2020)

Soak up the medieval charm of York at Christmas. Scents of spiced mulled wine and delicious food fill the air, making a York Christmas the place to be this season. Don’t miss York’s popular festive market, its back with more Christmassy fun than ever before…

Take a leisurely stroll along St Nicholas Fair and soak up the festive atmosphere, as you discover fine Yorkshire produce from crafters and makers showcased at the Made in Yorkshire Yuletide Village. If you’re looking for more traditional Christmas gifts, don’t forget to wander amongst the many alpine chalets on Parliament Street.

17. Stockholm – Sweden

(From 23rd November to 23rd December 2020)

Stockholm looks even more beautiful at Christmas! Stroll through the historic streets of the old city center and let yourself be seduced by its sweet atmosphere. Experience a Christmas market, have some glögg and ginger bread and go shopping under the beautiful Christmas decorations that light up the city every year. 

18. Brasov – Romania

(From 1st December to 31st December 2020)

Brasov is certainly one of the most beautiful cities in Romania. It has one of the most beautiful Christmas markets and Christmas tree on the main square of Brasov. Both young and old love it!

Come and discover the magic of Christmas in Brasov in Transylvania. Enjoy a trip to the castle of Dracula: it is listed among the most beautiful castles in Europe.

19. Paris – France

(From 15th November 2020 to 5th January 2021)

Paris is a must-see destination for Christmas lovers. Just like in London, the atmosphere at Christmas time is sweet in the streets of Paris. Each year  shops of all kinds rival in inventiveness to offer you the finest decorations and the most beautiful shopwindows. If you want to be amazed, go visit the Galeries Lafayette and their wonderful Christmas tree !

Original article: https://www.europeanbestdestinations.com/best-of-europe/best-christmas-trees-in-europe/?fbclid=IwAR1MbDB3xZamJGd5qOyCUzdDGK7JFUd0E7vxt6hYFQvNG052JRuR__ZwhSk#_