Rovaniemi, Finland

Fistfuls of Christmas clichés characterize Rovaniemi, the “official” terrestrial residence of Santa Claus.

Everyone’s favorite bearded man hangs out in an atmospheric Arctic Circle grotto, and it’s free to visit him. Snow and reindeer add festive spirit, while the Arktikum museum gives insights into life at these latitudes.

Christmas markets in Germany & Austria

December sees these romantic historic markets pop up all over Germany, Austria, and other European nations.  Expect cute stalls selling everything from gingerbread to sleigh bells and plenty of good cheer, toasted with a glass of warming glühwein.

Abisko, Sweden

Almost as far north as you can get in Europe on a train, Abiskois for lovers of serious winter. The sun doesn’t rise for several weeks in December but that darkness makes it one of the world’s best places to view the aurora borealis.

Athens, Greece

It’s a real downer trying to Photoshop 500 people out of your would-be-prizewinning Parthenon photo, but during the winter in Athens, it’s not an issue.

Copenhagen, Denmark

For fairytale European winter, it’s hard to beat the home of Hans Christian Andersen. Forget the over-hyped Little Mermaid and head to the city’s cozy bars and cafes to watch snow flurrying outside.

Budapest, Hungary

Couples skating hand-in-hand, breath cloudy in the frosty air – there’s nowhere better for it than the Hungarian capital’s picturesque central park Városligeti Műjégpálya, with its enormous outdoor rink.

Jasna, Slovakia

Slovakia offers high-quality skiing at affordable prices. Accommodation and food are reasonable too, and there’s a friendliness that’s missing from some of the snootier Alpine slopes.

Andalucia, Spain

Parts of Andalucía are further south than the African coast so expect mild temperatures in winter. Accommodation is cheap, and crowds are smaller at standout attractions like Granada’s Alhambra or Seville’s cathedral.

Transylvania, Romania

You can’t visit Dracula’s lair on a sunny day with lambs bleating in the fields, right? Try steel-grey skies, bare trees, and a smattering of snow.

Venice, Italy

Hauntingly beautiful and rather weird, Venice’s Carnevale in February is a European highlight. Elaborate costumes and spooky masks bring the canal city’s colorful history to life.