Europe is enchanting during winter when the air is crisp, the light is low and evenings are spent warming up next to a cosy fire.
It’s a festive atmosphere as you head out in coat, hat, scarf and gloves to wander cobblestoned streets lined with seasonal window displays and Christmas trees glistening with fairy lights.
Visiting any one of Europe’s Christmas markets, each with its own charm, is special.
Trafalgar Travel director Colette Engstrom says the moment guests see the entrance to Vienna’s festive wonderland they experience “the wow factor”.
Amid the brightly lit magnificence is an enormous Christmas tree decked with baubles, a scene enhanced by the surrounding Viennese buildings.
Stroll through seasonal stalls filled with handmade crafts, sample sweets laced with cinnamon and warm up with a mug of hot chocolate.
“Of course, visiting the birthplace of the Christmas market is a must and we take you to one of Germany’s best-loved,” says Engstrom. The Christkindlemarkt in Munich is somewhere to reflect on the traditions of a region steeped in history. You’ll also find yourself surrounded by an enormous amount of food.
Away from bustling Christmas markets, there is another side of Europe not to be missed – its wondrous wintry landscapes.
Iceland perfectly depicts the season’s beauty and this is where to see the incredible natural wonder, Aurora Borealis, or the Northern Lights. Green, white and sometimes pink lights dance across the sky, in one of Mother Nature’s most dazzling displays.
Experience authentic Christmas markets of Austria, Germany and Switzerland with Trafalgar. Eight-day tours are now from $1938 a person. Book and pay by August 24 to save $157.
Trafalgar’s Northern Lights of Iceland is six days including the Blue Lagoon trip, from $2770 a person. Book and pay by August 24, to save $224 per person.
Call Travellers Choice on 1300 787 858 or visit travellerschoice.com.au
