Explore Europe's most elegant cities for the 2025 festive season
There’s something truly magical about the festive season in Europe. From grand palaces aglow with twinkling lights to enchanting lakeside markets filled with artisan treasures, Christmas casts a spell across every corner of the continent.
And, while the likes of London and Paris never fail to impress, Europe is full of destinations where the holiday spirit unfolds in its own unique way. From quaint towns to cosmopolitan capitals, these curated escapes marry exclusivity with experiences, culture with comfort, and timeless tradition with contemporary luxury – all with a side of seasonal sparkle.
Colmar, France
Nearest Airport: Vienna International Airport (VIE)
Few destinations capture the spirit of Christmas quite like Colmar. Its storied streets, lined with pastel-coloured half-timbered houses, are adorned with festive decorations, and every single cobblestoned corner feels lifted straight from a fairytale. In the ancient Old Town, you’ll find six themed markets – including one devoted to food, another to children, and another to handcrafted gifts – ensuring holiday cheer is never far away. Days pass in a beautiful blur of shopping, sightseeing, and Little Venice boat trips, while evenings invite you to sample local delicacies beside the shimmering canal, lose yourself in the fairytale charm, or sip fine Alsace wine beside a roaring fire. The plush boutique hotel La Maison des Têtes, which is also home to an impressive Michelin-starred restaurant, provides the perfect base for a high-end stay.
Vienna, Austria
Nearest Airport: Vienna International Airport (VIE) 
An imperial city adorned with baroque palaces, gilded opera houses, and stately boulevards, Vienna is a showstopper year-round – especially at Christmas. The street lights are among Europe’s most spectacular, but it’s the festive markets that truly steal the show: Art Advent at Karlsplatz brims with artisan offerings, Belvedere dazzles with itspalatial setting, and the Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz remains one of the largest and most beloved. Between market-hopping, linger over coffee at historic Café Central, take a romantic carriage ride, or enjoy a private palace tour. Vienna’s classical music scene is also a must, with intimate concerts at the Konzerthaus or State Opera sure to impress. As for where to stay, the opulent Hotel Imperial ensures your winter getaway feels every bit as regal as the city itself.
Tallinn, Estonia
Nearest Airport: Lennart Meri Tallinn Airport (TLL)
Blanketed in snow during the winter months and home to turreted castles, Gothic spires, colourful merchants’ houses, and magnificent medieval walls, Tallinn has an undeniably storybook feel about it. Add to that the city’s infectious holiday spirit – after all, it gave the world the first public Christmas tree – and it’s easy to see why this cosy capital is a must-visit for festive travellers in the know. At the centre of the celebrations is the traditional Town Hall Square Christmas Market, located in the impressively well-preserved Old Town, which is refreshingly uncrowded despite consistently ranking among Europe’s finest. After exploring the market, set out on a private walking tour to discover this fascinating city’s rich history. End the day in style at Schlössle Hotel, where vaulted stone ceilings, open fires, and impeccable service provide a luxurious setting to unwind.
Lucerne, Switzerland
Nearest Airport: Emmen Airport (EML)
Nestled between snow-capped mountains and the serene waters of Lake Lucerne, this Swiss gem exudes alpine elegance. Here, much of the festive action unfolds around the waterfront area of
Europaplatz, where live music drifts through the crisp air, markets brim with moreish treats (the Swiss chocolate is divine), and skaters glide across the ice rink with the Alps as their backdrop. A stroll through the medieval Old Town, with its winding lanes and garland-draped Chapel Bridge, feels like stepping back in time, while the Lucerne Christmas Train offers a whimsical way to see
the city’s glittering sights. Beyond the centre, charter a boat to explore the fjord-like landscape, or take the scenic mountain train to Engelberg to hit the slopes. For accommodation, opt for the waterfront Grand Hotel National in the city centre or retreat to the lavish Bürgenstock Resort for panoramic views.
Madrid, Spain
Nearest Airport: Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD)
This vibrant capital does festivities with unabashed flair. Light displays dazzle along Gran Vía and Puerta del Sol, while the bustling Christmas market in Plaza Mayor brings seasonal charm to the heart of the city. By day, Madrid provides endless entertainment – from holiday shopping in designer boutiques to visiting world-class museums or savouring the
city’s many culinary delights, there’s something for everyone. And as night falls, the city comes alive: tapas bars and restaurants hum with energy until the early hours, prestigious flamenco tablaos stage unforgettable performances, and warm, fluffy churros provide a sweet treat as you stroll the lively streets. To cap off the experience, stay at the Mandarin Oriental Ritz – a Belle Époque masterpiece complete with towering Christmas trees, Michelin-starred feasts, and glitzy galas.
Whether you’d like to soak up the splendour of a single winter wonderland or craft a bespoke itinerary
to experience several of Europe’s most enchanting cities, we’re here to help. From arranging seamless travel solutions to perfecting every last detail, our expert
Private Jets team will ensure your 2025 festive season begins with the utmost style, comfort, and convenience.
