We just lost a loved one and want to break away from our traditional Christmas at home so we won't miss him so much. We would like to go somewhere where celebrating Christ's birth would be at the forefront of the town's festivities. Bethlehem seems like it would be super crowded. I thought of Assisi and Mont Saint Michel or Chartres, but does anyone know of similar places in other countries in Europe? We have been to Italy and France and would like to try a different country.
Posted by
7685 posts
I have been to Bethlehem on Christmas Eve. The Pope spoke to everyone on a huge TV screen. Bethlehem once was a Christian city, but is no longer. Security concerns were huge back in 1985 when I was there, but I am sure they are huge these days.
Not sure if you want to go there, however, Israel is a wonderful place to visit and Jerusalem in particular.
Europe is full of cathedrals. I am not sure what you are looking for, other than celebrating Christ's birth. Germany is known for the Christmas markets, but those wrap up a few days prior to Christmas.
St. Peter's Basilica in Rome is amazing. The Doumo in Florence is awesome, as is Notre Dame in Paris, St. Paul's In London. Not sure were the best Christmas celebration would be.
Posted by
Charm City USA
183 posts
You might consider Poland--stronger religious traditions there than much of Western Europe.
Maybe investigate Krakow at Christmas. Vienna is great too, but very crowded with all the markets and shopping. Might not be what you are looking for for this trip. Elsewhere in Austria, Mariazell might be interesting for you--pilgrimmage town in the mountains.
Also, I once was in a rural part of Switzerland, not too far from Lausanne. It was just stunning. The snow and the mountains. And peaceful. The churches in the towns were busy. The little village in Vaud canton had a tiny old church that we got the key for from a hook on the gate (not sure why the door was locked at all, but OK .. . ! ) So still and beautiful. Point being, thing about smaller places, too. I know it's the opposite of a 'cathedral town' but just an idea.
Best wishes to you!
Posted by
Paris
9627 posts
Zonderpaad makes an excellent point about the importance of religion to the Poles and the consequent richness of their services - that would certainly be an amazing experience, and Krakow is an absolutely beautiful small-sized city.
I also like the idea of going to somewhere in Germany or Austria-- you could do somewhere small and intimate in the mountains, or something large and majestic -- and easy to get to - like Cologne.
I'm sorry for your loss and hope that your different Christmas will help you through the holidays.
Posted by
London, United Kingdom
4684 posts
If you are thinking about London, be aware that there is NO public transport in London on Christmas Day and you would need to stay somewhere in walking distance of a cathedral. (Might I recommend Southwark - least touristy of London's major religious sites and has some cheapish hotels in walking distance)
Posted by
Charleston & Birmingham
4345 posts
Although Christ's birth is not at the forefront of London's activities, we did really enjoy our Christmas trip there in 2014. We went to the service at Westminster Abbey on the 23rd-you have to get tickets far in advance-maybe Sept or Oct? Channel surfing the TV we saw part of a great Christian Christmas choral concert. On Christmas day we just stayed at our hotel and watched the queen's Christmas speech and Downton Abbey Christmas special.
Posted by
50 posts
We spent Christmas in Paris several years ago and went to the Notre Dame and walked the streets after. It made for a lovely evening and wonderful memories.