European towns and cities come to life magically at Christmas

From Vienna, Austria to Gothenburg, Sweden, European towns and cities are filled with Christmas spirit, according to CNN.

This fairytale Norwegian town is magical this time of year. Photo: Diana Robinson Photography/Moment RF/Getty Images

Vienna, Austria

Austria's beautiful capital exudes festive charm at the end of the year.

While the towering Christmas tree, the iconic Christmas market located outside the spectacular Rathaus, Vienna City Hall are must-see stops for visitors, the Spittelberg market is sure to add to the appeal with its festive atmosphere.

The Austrian capital is filled with festive spirit at Christmas. Photo: Lisi Niesner/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock

Gorgeous handicrafts and handmade sweaters are among the wares on sale at festival stalls located among the streets of the Biedermeier area.

Visitors can sip a glass of gluhwein and take a leisurely stroll, while admiring the architecture designed specifically for the holiday.

Hallstatt, Austria

Located on the banks of the Hallstätter See and surrounded by towering peaks, the town of Hallstatt and its stunning landscape have been designated a UNESCO "World Cultural and Natural Heritage".

16th century townhouses, small streets covered in snow at Christmas make this the best destination to enjoy the festive atmosphere.

The Hallstatt Christmas Market, centered around the Market Square, is considered a legendary destination.

"Imagine a glowing Christmas tree. A Christmas scene crafted from local wood. Stalls selling ornaments, crafts and mulled wine. You get half the idea of ​​how special this place is," CNN described.

Tromso, Norway

Tromso has long established itself as a cultural hub, with the stunning Arctic Cathedral hosting regular concerts and events.

During the holiday season, when there is no daylight, this city high above the Arctic Circle becomes a must-see destination.

The streets are decorated with lights, while Christmas market stalls are dotted everywhere, located next to Macks Ølbryggeri, the world's northernmost brewery.

Visitors can sip a beer or hot chocolate from Rakettkiosken on the main square, which has a warming fire pit, before taking a cable car across the city to see the northern lights.

Colmar, France

There are many beautiful Christmas markets across Europe. But few can capture the imagination or immerse you in a fairytale setting like Colmar, in France's Alsace region.

There are at least six themed markets in the centre, connected by illuminated streets lined with cosy wooden houses. The view is truly breathtaking.

At around 5pm on Wednesdays and Saturdays, a children's choir takes to the local canal, known as Petite Venise or Little Venice, singing carols and bringing more holiday cheer.

Rudesheim, Germany

Located in the heart of the Rhine Valley wine region, Rudesheim am Rhine is a year-round destination.

This town in Germany's Rhine Valley is a great place to visit at Christmas. Photo: Elizabeth Beard/Moment Unreleased RF/Getty Images

However, when night falls and during the Christmas season, the town, a short boat or train ride from Frankfurt, takes on a special atmosphere.

Those arriving by boat can board a free shuttle that runs from the water's edge to the Christmas Market of Nations, which is packed with stalls selling gifts and traditional festive foods from around the world.

The town's medieval buildings and alleyways ensure everything retains a classic festive feel.

Sipping a cup of Rudesheimer coffee is a sure way to ward off the cold.

Bruges, Belgium

Once an important trading metropolis, Belgium's UNESCO World Heritage-listed old city is now filled with buildings that resemble gingerbread houses when the festive lights come on.

Every year, the Winter Glow festival brings a big festive atmosphere to the city. All visitors can enjoy a delicious cup of Belgian hot chocolate paired with a waffle. There is no better way to get into the festive spirit.

With its medieval architecture, cobblestone streets and canals, Bruges is at its most beautiful during the festive season. Photo: Garden Photo World / Alamy Stock/https://www.alamy.com/Alamy Stock Photo

Gothenburg, Sweden

Gothenburg - Sweden's best Christmas city is full of pleasant surprises for those willing to venture north and brave the Scandinavian cold. And chief among them is the Liseberg Christmas Market.

Housed in a theme park that turns 100 in 2023, visitors can enjoy rides here and sample delicacies from around the country, including pickled herring and glögg spiced wine.

The city's three-kilometer-long Light Route, which stretches from Liseberg to the harbour, is also worth exploring.

Visit on December 13 for Luciatåg and witness traditional St. Lucia concerts, when locals dress in white robes and celebrate the day of the Catholic saint, who is considered a symbol of light in the darkness.

This long-standing annual tradition is said to be inspired by winter solstice celebrations./.

Hong Nhung

Source: https://toquoc.vn/nhung-thi-tran-va-thanh-pho-chau-au-tro-nen-lung-linh-ky-dieu-vao-dip-giang-sinh-20241205114547297.htm