Getting ready for the holidays: lesser-known cities in Europe to celebrate Christmas

The time will soon come when families gather together, exchange gifts and prepare a delicious dinner. It reminds us of love, mercy and hope, which are so necessary in this difficult time. But sometimes we want to change something, to go somewhere we have never been before. To visit new locations and get acquainted with their local customs.

Read below to find out where you can feel the true spirit of the holiday.

Strasbourg

A municipality in France. Interesting fact: in 1988, the historic center of the city was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

The location has been famous for the Christmas market – Christkindelsmärik – for centuries. Since 1570, it has been considered the largest and oldest on the continent. It is home to more than 300 wooden houses, where you can find unique handmade gifts and delicious Strasbourg delicacies.

By the way, the locals pay special attention to street decoration: windows, balconies, and shop windows are decorated with original decorations. In December, everything sparkles with lights.

And, of course, we recommend going to the main Christmas tree on Kleber Square.

Tallinn

The capital and main port of Estonia. Located on the shores of the Gulf of Finland. We recommend visiting the Rotermani neighborhood first. It was built on the site of former factories and enterprises. In winter, there are interesting installations where you can make a New Year's photo shoot.

Next, head to Noblesner. This is where the unique "green beauty" is set up. Every year, it is decorated by a local decor shop.

Also visit the Christmas market, which takes place on the Town Hall Square. Here, travelers can buy gifts and souvenirs: handmade woolen products, jewelry, toys, and figurines.

You can explore Tallinn more in the Old Town. There are many shops, workshops, and observation decks.

Rovaniemi

Rovaniemi is located in the Lapland province of Finland. A city where fairy tales come to life and dreams come true. The Santa Claus Village is located just 7 kilometers away.

Here, tourists will visit a theme park where elves live, meet reindeer, ride a sleigh, and go snowmobiling. If you are traveling with kids, be sure to visit Santa's house. We also recommend visiting the World of Snowmen.

Near the post office, where all the letters are stored, there is an old house. It once served as the residence of the first lady of the United States, Eleanor Roosevelt. It was here, in 1950, that the woman met the winter wizard.

Also visit the House of Christmas. Here you can buy themed souvenirs.

By the way, you can see the aurora borealis almost every day in the Rovaniemi neighborhood.

Cologne

Cologne is located in the federal state of North Rhine-Westphalia. It is home to one of the oldest fairs in Europe.

First, visit the Cologne Cathedral. Its construction began in 1248. And the work lasted more than 600 years. The temple was built in the Gothic style.

By the way, there is a popular Christmas market on the square in front of the building. About 160 stalls are arranged in the shape of a star. Many stage performances are held here every year. A 25-meter Christmas tree, the tallest in Germany, is decorated in the center.

For those who like winter entertainment, we recommend going to the Heumarkt. Here you can go ice skating and buy souvenirs.

Lausanne

A city in the west of Switzerland. Interesting things to know: the headquarters of the International Olympic Committee is located here.

Every year, Christmas stalls are set up on the northern shore of Lake Geneva. In the Cathedral there is a nativity scene, one of the largest in the country.

By the way, in the evening you can often see Santa Claus on the streets, riding a donkey. There are also themed open-air performances here. Usually they involve live animals.

We advise you to try some traditional holiday dishes: fondue, raclette, and cupcakes with icing. Also, be sure to try the hot wine with spices – glög.

Gather the company of your loved ones and go on a Christmas trip to Europe!

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