Top 12 Places in Europe to See Fantastic Christmas Lights in 2023
Embark on a fairy-tale journey with the 12 most beautiful Christmas lights in Europe for 2023, curated by European Best Destinations. Here are some extraordinary and romantic destinations for your Christmas holiday.
1. Christmas Lights in Vilnius, Lithuania
Vilnius has become a must-visit destination for those seeking the most beautiful Christmas spots in Europe. Enjoy a ride on the small Christmas train, purchase unique Christmas gifts, or indulge in gingerbread, honey cakes, local cheeses, and tasty pastries at the Christmas chalets surrounding Vilnius's magnificent Christmas tree, considered one of Europe's most beautiful.
2. Christmas Lights in Budapest, Hungary
Budapest, a charming city year-round, takes on a special allure during Christmas. Don't miss the trams adorned with Christmas lights and the festive tree in front of the Basilica, standing in the middle of an ice rink.
3. Christmas Lights in Gdansk, Poland
Experience the magic of Christmas in one of Europe's most beautiful Christmas destinations – Gdansk. The enchanting atmosphere of Gdansk's Christmas market is largely created by unique decorations that set the mood. Streets like Chocolate, Cinnamon, Angel, or Christmas Eve come alive, featuring characters like Chattering Muses and the Three Wise Men high above in Angel Mill.
4. Christmas Lights in Zagreb, Croatia
For several years running, Zagreb has been recognized as the best place to spend Christmas in Europe. In a friendly family atmosphere, travellers from around the world discover Croatian traditions, crafts, and local products. Zagreb is a city that seamlessly blends its traditions, architecture, and modern, dynamic, and lively atmosphere, making it one of the trendiest places in Europe.
5. Christmas Lights in Prague, Czech Republic
Prague, one of Europe's most romantic cities, hosts one of the most beautiful Christmas markets. The unique atmosphere of medieval central Prague makes the Christmas markets on Old Town Square highly popular.
6. Christmas Lights in Tallinn, Estonia
Tallinn's Christmas market, recognized as the most beautiful in Europe, attracts travellers seeking authenticity, charm, tradition, and wonder. Tallinn's Christmas market, complete with a little train, chalets, and, of course, real snow, is one of the most enchanting in Europe. Tallinn delights with its cosiness, historic buildings, and ancient traditions.
7. Christmas Lights in Ljubljana, Slovenia
The capital of Slovenia will impress you with its wonderful Christmas decorations and illuminations. Ljubljana, considered one of Europe's most beautiful and greenest capitals, is designed for romantics and travellers seeking authenticity, combining shopping, gastronomy, architecture, culture, walks, and romance.
8. Riga's Christmas Lights Path, Latvia
From December 1, 2023, to February 5, 2024, hundreds of lights illuminate the canal embankment in the centre of Riga, creating the largest Christmas light path in Latvia. Walk through Opera Square, Bastion Hill, and Kronvalda Park, where you'll encounter various Latvian fairy tales. The music accompanying these stories and paths will create unforgettable memories.
9. Christmas Lights in Vienna, Austria
Vienna, with its numerous Christmas markets located throughout one of Europe's most romantic cities, is an ideal place for Christmas enthusiasts. What sets Vienna apart is the elegance of its Christmas decorations.
10. Christmas Lights in Colmar, France
Colmar is one of the best places for Christmas lights in Europe. Beautiful traditional half-timbered houses resemble colourful gingerbread houses. Colmar is likely one of the most beautiful places in France and one of the most romantic for families, lovers, and solo travellers, as well as for those who appreciate culture, wine tourism, and nature.
11. Christmas Lights in Monte Carlo, Monaco
Perhaps because the world's wealthiest people live here, Monaco doesn't settle for a few garlands and Christmas decorations. Success in a place that has it all is no small feat for the teams decorating this city, combining luxury, relaxation, shopping, sun, and business. Don't miss Place du Casino, where each year sees a new grand illumination, adorning the entire square with icicles, crystal balloons, and numerous decorations designed to dazzle both young and old.
12. Christmas Lights in Edinburgh, Scotland
The Light Street is impressive. It is ceremoniously opened on the first day of the Edinburgh Light Night (from mid-November to the end of December). Tens of thousands of little lanterns light up to the rhythm of music. During Edinburgh's Christmas Light Night, incredible light installations are set up throughout the city.
Also, explore the top ten Christmas Markets in Europe for 2023.