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Best city to spend Christmas Day

Hello, I had the opportunity to visit several European cities (Strasbourg, Zurich, Salzburg, Vienna and Prague) last December to enjoy the Christmas markets and just the beauty of Europe in the winter. I hadn't planned on going back this year, but I think I'd really like to go back this December over Christmas. I am unsure where I would want to spend Christmas day since I understand many cities really shut down while others may have some restaurants open, etc. I'm going to be traveling solo so I don't want to be somewhere where I'm stuck in my hotel room. I'll be traveling by train, but I'm open to big cities or small villages. For those who have spent Christmas day in Europe, I'd love to hear any suggestions. Thanks so much!

Posted by
7731 posts

Go to the beach or hiking somewhere scenic
Not much you can do solo when everything is closed as people are with their families besides go to church.
Or go somewhere like Istanbul where Xmas is not a public holiday.

Posted by
591 posts

If it doesn't have to be Europe, Tokyo or Kyoto come to mind.

Posted by
24 posts

Ryan T., thanks for the ideas. I'll have to look into those.

Best Regards,
Michelle

Posted by
23177 posts

We spent Christmas Day in Munich. By early afternoon the German beer halls were packed with the families and the singing and beer were flowing freely. Sit down at one of the long tables and someone will suck you into their group. Have a great picture of our one year old granddaughter trying to lift a nearly empty one liter stein. The old German grandmother sitting next to her was giving too much encouragement.

Posted by
3049 posts

I would choose a big, touristy, international city because they are more likely to have things going on. I know it varies from place to place, but smaller cities in Germany (even Stuttgart) are pretty much shut down except for some restaurants serving xmas dinner. I think Berlin would be a fun place to spend xmas, as I'm sure there's plenty going on there.

Also if you're interested in Christmas Markets, keep in mind that in many Germanic cities, they close down in advance of Christmas (such as on the 22nd or 23rd) but this isn't often the case in France. Do your research and check before you book if you'd like to enjoy a Christmas market on xmas eve.