I would like to plan a family vacation in Europe during Christmas week but I'm afraid that I'd be losing several precious days because things are closed for Christmas (which my family does not celebrate). Certainly London won't work, as they totally shut down for a few days. A few years ago we went to Paris and were delighted that a few museums (and of course the Jewish Quarter) were open on Christmas day. I want to visit a cultural capital, not too cold, and be able to do something and get around even on Christmas. Where to go? Thanks!
Posted by
Oxford, United Kingdom
5452 posts
The Charles Dickens museum is open on Christmas Day in London (as is Ripley's Believe It Or Not ...). There are several guided walks in the City itself which take advantage of the streets being deserted - which also makes cycling a lot easier for a day. You can watch, if you don't want to participate in, the traditional Christmas Day swim in the Serpentine. The boats are still on the Thames with special cruises. Boxing Day sees the shows and classical music concerts resume, and the shops start their sales. Some of the major attractions are open, the rest waiting until 27 Dec. Maybe not your cup of char, but not really shut down for days either.
Posted by
Tel Aviv
15777 posts
Jerusalem.
Posted by
maplewood, new jersey, usa
818 posts
We loved Venice at Christmas because it didn't matter what was closed - we spent Christmas Day wandering and there was an ice skating rink and hot mulle wine.
Posted by
New Paltz, NY
9109 posts
Off the top of my head: In Amsterdam the Rijks Museum, Van Gough Museum, Stedelijk Museum, Jewish Museum, Zoo, and the Anne Frank House, are all open on xmas day. In Luzern Switzerland the Swiss Transport Museum is open.