The holiday season is one of the best times of the year to explore Europe. Here are four of our favourite winter getaways in the European continent.
Paris – Léonard Cotte/Unsplash
Paris, France
The French capital is known for being one of the most romantic cities on the planet, and during the winter season, Paris becomes truly magical. The city’s Montmartre is one of the best areas to head to during the festive holidays. The area is decorated with lights and festive fare, meanwhile, artists, street performers, and cosy cafes add to the enchanting atmosphere. There is a festive market here too, along with another popular one in the city’s beating heart – the Champs-Élysées. Follow the famous Avenue and take in the beautiful festive lights and illuminations across the landmarks and streets. Two other festive areas to take in the spectacular illuminations are the Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré and the Place Vendôme. For one of the best bird-eye-views of the city, take to the city’s famous Ferris wheel in the Place de la Concorde for a unique view of the festive fare. If you plan to see in the New Year in the City of Light, be sure to stop by the Eiffel Tower which will be illuminated with a spectacular show at midnight or join in with the lively celebration on the nearby Champs-Élysées to welcome in 2024. Paris, of course, is also known for being one of the best gastronomic cities in Europe. During the festive season, several delightful dishes come to prominence on Parisian menus, including bûche de noël, gratin dauphinois and the city’s famous chocolate chaud. For one of the best in the city, visit Angelina on the rue de Rivoli for its thick, decadent hot chocolate. There are a plethora of restaurants to try too. For a delightful festive meal check out Alain Ducasse’s Champeaux at Les Halles. For the ultimate festive hotel stay, book into Le Royal Monceau – Raffles Paris. The hotel is located in the heart of the Avenue Hoche, just steps from the Arc de Triomphe.
Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe during the festive season. Wander through the Baixa and Chiado districts and see the city come alive with colourful decorations, creating a festive and joyful ambience. Be sure to check out the various festive markets that pop up around the city. The markets offer local crafts, gifts, and traditional Portuguese treats, with markets at Praça do Comércio and Rossio Square being two of the best to visit during the festive season. Throughout the winter months, the Gulbenkian Foundation also holds special concerts which are worth booking a ticket to go and see. Equally, the city’s popular Terreiro do Paço transforms into a festival village with decorations, a tree, and holiday activities for both children and adults. Those who enjoy taking to the ice should head to the festive ice rink set up in Parque Eduardo VII, which comes with beautiful views of the city as a backdrop. While in Lisbon, be sure to take in a Fado performance, which is part of the rich musical tradition in the city. There are plenty of Fado houses across the city, which during the holidays often showcase special festive shows. To truly appreciate Lisbon’s historic decorated streets, take a ride on the city’s iconic Tram 28 which weaves through some of the most beautiful parts of the city. If you have time to explore further afield, book-in a day trip to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Sintra, which is close by and home to the country’s best palaces and woodland grounds, and is dressed in beautiful decorations during the holiday season. Delicious Portuguese flavours can be found at Michelin-starred Cura restaurant, which will be leading the way this holiday season with its festive-inspired tasting menu. Chef Pedro Pena Bastos creates artisanal dishes of great depth and flavour using locally sourced seasonal ingredients. Meanwhile, the Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon offers one of the most memorable holiday stays in the Portuguese capital. Situated in the heart of the city, the property is decorated in sumptuous festive decor and offers guests a luxury experience like no other during winter months.
London, England
London comes alive during the festive season. The crisp winter weather and attractive architecture which is steeped in history make it one of the most aesthetic places to spend the holiday season. During the cooler months, Hyde Park transforms into a Winter Wonderland, featuring a Christmas market, ice skating rink, carnival rides, and festive entertainment. Another great place to explore is the city’s famous Kew Gardens, where each year, there are enchanting light displays and festive installations and the gardens are illuminated with a magical glow, creating a beautiful festive glow. London is known for putting on one of the best lights displays in the world, with spectacular locations across the city including everywhere from Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Carnaby Street to Covent Garden and Seven Dials. Throughout the year there are incredible performances at the British capital’s Royal Albert Hall and during the holiday season, there are a slew of festive shows to take in. This year’s shows include “Christmas with Judi Dench and Gyles Brandreth”, “The Snowman at 40”, “Trevor Nelson’s Soul Christmas” and “La La Land in Concert.” During your trip to the British capital indulge in a festive afternoon tea at one of London’s elegant hotels or tea rooms. We recommend The Ritz, Claridge’s, and The Dorchester which all put on fabulous fare during the holiday season and beyond. For a traditional British festive feast, The Goring in Belgravia is an excellent pick (and was known to be a favourite of the late Queen Elizabeth II). Throughout the holiday season, it is decorated in exquisite decorations and the menu includes dishes such as duck liver terrine, Anjou pigeon, roast turkey and Christmas pudding. For modern, sumptuous British luxury check into the Shangri-La at the Shard for a fabulous festive trip and 360-degree views of the city. For a more traditional location, pick The Ritz, Piccadilly which is famed for being a popular spot for the meetings of well-known names from Winston Churchill and Charles de Gaulle to Margaret Thatcher.
Prague, Czech Republic
Situated in the heart of Europe, Prague is one of the most spectacular cities to visit during the winter months. The capital of the Czech Republic is full of festive cheer, with snow-lined and festive decor. Wrap up warm and explore the enchanting Christmas markets in Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square. These markets are filled with wooden stalls selling handmade crafts, traditional Czech food, and holiday treats. While you’re there, try trdelník (a classic local sweet pastry), gingerbread, chestnuts and local hot drinks. There are often local Czech singers and children’s groups performing traditional events and concerts in the Old Town Square throughout the festive season. This is also the place to see one of the city’s key landmarks: in the square, you can witness the hourly show of the Astronomical Clock. The clock’s display is accompanied by animated figurines, making it a unique and historic spectacle. From Old Town, traverse the Charles Bridge where you will have panoramic views of Petřín Hill and Prague Castle while enjoying the festive lighting and city architecture. For the best views in the city, climb to the top of the hill, where you can explore the historic outdoor courtyards and buildings which during December are dressed for the holiday season. For a unique view of the city take a festive boat cruise along the Vltava River to see the city’s landmarks beautifully lit up. During the holiday season, many boat companies offer holiday bespoke packages. Literary fans should make time to stop by the Franz Kafka Museum while in the city, which is worth a visit and situated in the remarkable Herget Brickworks building on the Lesser-Town bank of the Vltava River. For festive cuisine, be sure to try local dishes such as carp, potato salad, and vánočka (Christmas bread). For foodies, several restaurants in Prague have been tapped by Michelin. Those include the One Star restaurants Field (which serves up Czech dishes that mix classic and modern elements) and La Degustation Bohême Bourgeoise which sits in a beautiful historic building and offers seasoned Czech dishes which echo the seasons. In terms of accommodation, the Mandarin Oriental sits in the middle of Prague City and offers an exceptional hotel experience.
