Is there a country that you would suggest during Christmas week? We are tied to school break. Of course Christmas Day sites will be closed—but we love walking so wandering a city is great. But wondering about closing in days before and after. Any country more closed up? We would want to stay in a larger city—Paris, Florence, Munich…or Scandinavia an option!
We are pretty hale about cold also.
Thanks.
Paris is great that week, and on XMAS Day you can stroll up and down the Champs Elysses and shops and restaurants will be open in the afternoon, so plenty to enjoy...
In many countries, businesses close about mid-day on Dec 24 and are closed thru Dec 26.
This includes restaurants and sometimes public transportation (England).
Perhaps Vienna, where the Xmas markets continue into New Years?
This is a frequent question here on the Forum, so I'd suggest a Search.
Good luck!
Here's a video of the Rick Steves Christmas in Europe program that might give you some ideas: Christmas in Europe
I am so biased, I moved here.
https://youtu.be/HK2eaR2hDOQ?feature=shared
https://edition.cnn.com/travel/article/budapest-winter-things-to-do/index.html
And a few of the bathhouses are open 24, 25 and 26 December: https://szechenyibath.com/
The Christmas Market closes its food stalls on Christmas eve, but the rest opens up again on the 26th and stays open until New Year. Restaurants and many bars remain open throughout the holidays.
we love walking so wandering a city is great
Berlin can be a good option because it is a huge area with manifold impressions from buildings, streets and parks - and you will experience different flavors of the quarters (called Kieze) in the various districts.
For sure nicely illuminated Kurfürstendamm (photos from 2017) and Unter den Linden are walk recommendations in the evening.
A few Christmas markets remain open between the years.
Shops will close latest afternoon of Dec 23 and will re-open on Dec. 27.
Most cafés and restaurants re-open Dec. 25 - some opens all days through.
Some museums and sights will open, some will not.
Public traffic operates in Sunday mode.
My wife and I did a Christmas Markets river cruise last year and it was absolutely wonderful! You get to see a whole lot in just 7 days, but don't need to be unpacking all the time.
