Mainland Europe is the epitome of festive charm. For those looking for the ideal winter wonderland during this time of hear, the continent particularly the northern region is one to put on your list. They’re also  ideal because of the colder weather and gothic aesthetics.

Here are a list of European towns and cities that decorate for Christmas like no other, from Vienna, Austria, to Gothenburg, Sweden.

Strasbourg, France

Strasbourg is a lovely city at any time of the year with is scenic Petit France  imposing cathedral, and half-timbered houses set along cobbled streets. And this city knows what’s at stake when it comes to the Christmas season because it cannot let down the thousands of excited visitors every year. Never have I seen so many decorations, lights, and markets. Around every corner there is something else to discover, from the tall tree on Place Kleber to the food stalls by the cathedral. It gets busy and at times you even have to wait in line for your mulled wine, but it is still worth it and definitely one of the best places to soak up the incredible festive atmosphere.

Nuremberg, Germany

Germany is famous for its Christmas markets. Fly over Germany in winter at night and you will see so many sparkling trees in gardens and town squares, making the magic begin before you even touch down. But there are Christmas markets and then there is the Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt — one that needs to be visited at least once in a lifetime. The medieval city center of Nuremberg is a lovely sight to behold at any time of the year, just like all the other towns and cities mentioned here, but during the pre-holiday season, it is something else.

Tallinn, Estonia

The small village of Tallinn is quite charming. You can climb, stroll around, and gaze out over the festively lit array of buildings from the solid wall that completely encloses the old, mediaeval centre. Below, colourful, crooked and frequently half-timbered homes from as far back as the 13th century border the small alleyways.

Helsinki, Finland

Helsinki is a stunning city with some modern and old architecture; the whole place seems to be very focused on décor and design. They also enjoy their glittering lights during Christmas. For once, being far north, where little sunshine reaches people during the winter, is advantageous since you will be able to see the fairy lights almost all day.

York , England

The old city of York is a must-see for any family visiting over the holidays. The narrow roads, crooked houses, and massive York Minster virtually scream Christmas. Käthe Wohlfahrt, a Christmas ornament store, is open year-round. But after the lanes are adorned, the perfume of wine and cinnamon permeates the streets. And as the lights twinkle, you know you’ve arrived at the perfect holiday destination.

Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh is a beautiful city all year round, with its castle on a hill and steep small roads that practically inspired Harry Potter. However, it is the ideal location to be in Scotland during the holidays, including Christmas and New Year’s.To get into the Christmas spirit, start on George Street, which runs parallel to Princes Street. The trees are brightly glittering, and the shop windows are attractively decorated.

London, England

The lights – dazzling angels draped across the big roadway — are all one needs to get into the festive spirit, no matter how Scrooge-like I was feeling before. After a brief sidestep to Carnaby Street on one side and the Burlington Arcade on the other, I’m positively bubbling with Christmas spirit. Covent Garden is one of the most festive areas in central London, with the former market rebuilt as small individual boutiques and restaurants inside the traditional setting, and it is always wonderfully decked for the holidays.

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The world has been given its first look inside the newly restored Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris, a monumental achievement following years of meticulous work.

This iconic Gothic masterpiece, among the most celebrated landmarks worldwide, has been closed to the public since 2019, when a devastating fire caused extensive damage.

The restoration, which required an estimated $762 million, aimed to return the cathedral to its former glory.

Over the past five years, a dedicated team of approximately 2,000 professionals, including masons, carpenters, restorers, roofers, foundry workers, art specialists, sculptors, and engineers, worked tirelessly on the ambitious project.

Their expertise and commitment have successfully revived one of the world’s most treasured architectural and cultural marvels.

French President Emmanuel Macron joined a select group of officials and journalists for an exclusive preview of the restored cathedral. The unveiling marks a significant milestone, symbolizing resilience and the enduring power of heritage.

The cathedral is set to reopen to the public in December 2024, welcoming visitors once again to admire its timeless beauty.

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