Europe in winter is a place where magic feels real—where cobblestone streets glow under a canopy of twinkling lights, the scent of spiced wine and roasted chestnuts drifts through the air, and the melody of carolers seems to rise from every corner. Christmas markets and holiday tours invite you to step fully into the festive spirit, to lose yourself in wonder, and to experience a world transformed by holiday cheer.
With Viator, these dreams come alive. From bustling markets tucked into medieval squares to serene, snow-dusted landscapes in the far north, Viator’s curated tours guide you effortlessly through Europe’s most enchanting winter moments. Whether you travel solo, with loved ones, or in search of something extraordinary, Europe’s holiday season promises memories that linger long after the snow melts.
Plus, from October 28 to November 16, 2025, take 10% off Viator tours and activities when you book with a Montecito Village Travel advisor. Mention code THANKYOU2025 to claim this limited-time offer and start planning your winter escape today.
Dating back to the 12th century, Christmas markets—Christkindlmärkte or Weihnachtsmärkte—turn city streets into living fairy tales. Imagine wooden stalls brimming with handcrafted treasures, the glow of lanterns reflecting on frosted rooftops, and the joyful hum of a crowd wrapped in scarves and wool hats. Viator brings you to the very heart of these celebrations, whether your dream is a refined French getaway, a cozy Scandinavian escape, or a whirlwind journey across borders. Here is MVT's list of top-rated European holiday tours by Viator:
Begin in the storybook streets of Colmar, France, where half-timbered houses are draped in garlands and fairy lights. Drift into Basel, Switzerland, a city shimmering with festive décor, before winding through Freiburg, Germany, where gingerbread and roasted almonds scent the crisp air. Each market offers treasures to discover—handcrafted ornaments, whimsical gifts, and seasonal delicacies—turning one day into a kaleidoscope of culture, flavor, and festive delight.
Paris sparkles with an otherworldly charm during the holidays. From an open-top bus, the Eiffel Tower gleams like a jewel, the Arc de Triomphe is swathed in light, and the Champs-Élysées glows with festive brilliance. Wrap yourself in a cozy scarf, sip something warm, and let the city’s romantic glow transform your evening into a memory that will linger long after you leave.
Prague is a fairy tale in winter, where Gothic spires pierce the frosty sky and markets bustle in plazas both grand and secret. Wander through wooden stalls brimming with artisanal crafts, taste sweet Czech treats, and marvel at glittering nativity scenes. A local guide weaves stories of old traditions, transforming your stroll into a journey through centuries of holiday enchantment.
Step across the border to Dresden, where the Striezelmarkt—the oldest Christmas market in Germany—radiates old-world charm. Then venture into the wild serenity of Bohemian and Saxon Switzerland National Park, where snow-dusted cliffs and frozen forests feel like a scene from a winter painting. This day melds festive city cheer with the awe of untouched nature, creating an experience as exhilarating as it is magical.
Not all holiday magic happens in Central Europe. On the Iberian Peninsula, Lisbon offers a festive celebration that dazzles the senses. Step aboard a New Year’s Eve cruise on the Tagus River, where the city’s sparkling lights reflect across the water. For two unforgettable hours, sip from an open bar, feel the gentle sway of the river beneath you, and watch as a spectacular fireworks display lights up the night sky at midnight. There’s a sense of joy and possibility in the air—this is how Lisbon welcomes the new year in unforgettable style.
The canals of Amsterdam come alive with light and color during the Amsterdam Light Festival. Drift along in a heated boat, wrapped in blankets, mulled wine warming your hands, while sculptures and installations reflect on the glassy water. The city glows around you like a living painting, each turn of the canal revealing a new marvel that awakens your sense of wonder.
Step into Victorian London and follow Ebenezer Scrooge’s footsteps on a Dickens-themed walking tour. Meander down hidden alleys, peek into centuries-old taverns, and experience the streets that inspired A Christmas Carol. The air is alive with the spirit of the past, and the story of London’s holidays unfolds like a living tale, full of twists, turns, and festive charm.
In Lapland, the holidays feel truly otherworldly. Meet Santa Claus in his cozy village, ride a snowmobile through pristine forests, visit a reindeer farm, and glide through snowy landscapes on a sleigh. Every jingle of bells, every puff of frosty air, and every twinkle of light captures the enchantment of a winter unlike any other—perfect for families, couples, or anyone eager to embrace their inner child.
Viator, a trusted and globally recognized leader in travel experiences and part of the TripAdvisor family, offers more than 300,000 curated experiences worldwide—from guided tours and immersive cultural adventures to festive holiday activities. With knowledgeable local guides, carefully designed itineraries, and a commitment to exceptional service, Viator transforms European holidays into effortless wonder.
When you travel with Viator, you’re not just visiting a destination—you’re stepping into an extraordinary holiday experience designed to enchant, delight, and inspire.
Montecito Village Travel advisors have access to Viator’s full catalog of global experiences, so you can craft the ultimate winter getaway. Working with an advisor takes the stress out of planning, coordinating logistics, and finding the best experiences. Combine MVT's expertise with Viator’s curated tours, and every detail is seamlessly handled, leaving you free to relax and immerse yourself fully in the magic of your holiday.
Plus, from October 28 to November 16, 2025, take 10% off Viator tours and activities when you book with a Montecito Village Travel advisor. Mention code THANKYOU2025 to claim this limited-time offer and start planning your winter escape today.