Christmas Traditions Around Europe
It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Christmas is celebrated in all sorts of merry ways across the continent. From magical logs in Spain to foie gras in France, there’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to festive traditions.
For those who globe-trot like Father Christmas himself, discovering how others celebrate Christmas can add a touch of extra sparkle to your celebrations. Who knows, you might even swap stockings for shoes at your fireplace this year!
So, pour yourself a mug of mulled wine, grab a mince pie, and join us as we take a sleigh ride through the most fascinating Christmas customs and traditions around the world.
And, if this leaves you dreaming of cinnamon-scented adventures, don’t miss our Christmas and New Year holidays – they’d look perfect on your Christmas list!
Why choose Leger for a Christmas Break
Contents: Unwrapping Traditions Worldwide
• Continental Christmas: Germany, Austria & France's Festive Celebrations
• Mediterranean Festivities: Spain, Italy & the Magic of Christmas Eve Traditions
• Festive Flavours: Distinctive Christmas Meals Around the World
• Answering Popular Questions About Christmas Around the World
• Experience Christmas Traditions with Leger
Continental Christmas: Germany, Austria & France's Festive Celebrations
Snow-dusted rooftops, steaming mugs of glühwein, and the sweet scent of fresh-baked pastries – Christmas in Europe is nothing short of magical. While you may already be familiar with the charm of Christmas Markets and buttery stollen, many more traditions bring the season to life across the continent.
German Christmas traditions: a visit from Christkind
In Germany, Austria, Switzerland and beyond, children don’t wait for Father Christmas – they look forward to a visit from Christkind (the Christ child)! Inspired by the Baby Jesus, this angelic figure is said to quietly deliver gifts on Christmas Eve. Rather than focusing on who’s been naughty or nice – there is no list to be checked twice here! – Christkind represents the spirit of giving and the deeper meaning of the holiday.
Austria: Krampus Comes to Town: Austria’s
For a darker approach to festive traditions, Austria brings the story of Krampus. This horned, demonic figure is a creepy twist on the beloved Saint Nick, who, instead of handing out treats, punishes naughty children. Krampus parades are still seen today, with the celebrants donning masks and costumes amid much revelry.
Midnight feasting: the French tradition of Réveillon
French Christmas traditions also have their unique flair. Children leave their shoes by the fireplace or under the Christmas tree for Père Noël, who fills them with gifts during the night. On Christmas Eve in France, locals indulge in the late-night meal known as Réveillon. This elaborate feast traditionally begins after midnight mass and includes luxurious dishes such as oysters, foie gras and roast meats.
FUN FACT: Réveillon comes from “réveiller” (to wake), reflecting the long night.
In Provence, the celebration gets even sweeter. Locals serve 13 desserts – each one symbolic and delicious, ranging from dried fruits and nuts to nougat and pastries.
Mediterranean Festivities: Spain, Italy & the Magic of Christmas Eve Traditions
Head south for the holidays and you’ll find a warmer kind of Christmas filled with sunshine, vibrant traditions and celebrations that stretch well beyond the 25th of December. Across the Mediterranean, Christmas is about more than just one day – it’s a season full of unique customs, family gatherings and festive surprises.
The Spanish tradition of the Christmas log
In Spain, especially in the region of Catalonia, one of the quirkiest traditions begins in early December with the arrival of Caga Tió (or Tió de Nadal). This cheerful log, often decorated with a painted face and a red Catalan hat, is “fed” by children each day in the lead-up to Christmas. Then, on Christmas Eve, the real fun begins. Children gather around to sing songs and gently tap the log with sticks, encouraging it to magically release small gifts, such as sweets and nuts.
The Epiphany witch of Italy
In Italy, the festivities extend well into January. While Christmas Day is, of course, celebrated, there’s a second wave of joy on Epiphany – the night of January 5th. This is when La Befana, a kind-hearted witch, visits children across the country. Much like Father Christmas, she brings gifts to well-behaved children and a lump of coal to those who have been less angelic. It’s a beloved tradition that adds another layer of magic to the season.
Festive Flavours: Distinctive Christmas Meals Around the World
Christmas meals around the world tend to reflect a nation’s culture and culinary flair. For those travellers with a taste for tradition, we recommend finding the time to experience the festive season through a destination’s most iconic dishes.
Fancy foie gras in France
In France, many residents agree that no Christmas celebration is complete without foie gras. This luxurious liver pâté is a classic of French Christmas traditions. You will often find it served with a healthy dose of fig jam or crusty bread. This rich and sophisticated starter is the perfect way to indulge during the festive season.
Seven fishes and a feast in Italy
In Italy’s southern regions, it has long been customary for locals to eat multiple fish dishes on Christmas Eve, as many Catholic families abstain from meat before the Christmas Day celebrations begin. Italian immigrants to America have dubbed this the Feast of the Seven Fishes. Seafood lovers would be in their element with dishes such as baccalà, calamari, and linguine with clams.
DIY dinners in Holland
In the Netherlands, locals will tell you that Christmas dinner often takes the form of gourmetten – a sociable, do-it-yourself style meal that brings everyone to the table. A small grill is set up in the middle of the table, and each guest will be able to cook their own selection of bite-sized meats, fish, and vegetables in miniature pans. It’s less about one grand centrepiece, and more about the comfort of eating together.
A different centrepiece in Spain
In Spain, Christmas Day is a time for abundance. Like in the UK, the centrepiece is often a beautifully roasted joint of meat, unlike in the UK, the Spanish preference is roast lamb! Contrasting the lighter seafood usually served on Christmas Eve, for many locals, platters of roast lamb alongside all the accompaniments are served on the table, ready for everyone to tuck in and enjoy.
Answering popular questions about Christmas around the world
Which country has the best Christmas decorations?
That’s a hard one to answer, but some countries certainly stand out. Germany, Austria, and Belgium are widely recognised for their exceptional Christmas decorations:
• Germany: Famous for its traditional Christmas Markets such as Cologne, featuring handcrafted ornaments, glowing lights, and festive wooden stalls.
• Austria: Known for elegant, classical displays in cities like Salzburg, where baroque architecture is illuminated with golden lights and accompanied by choirs and seasonal concerts.
• Belgium: Offers a fairytale atmosphere, especially in Ghent and Brussels, with medieval squares transformed by twinkling lights and cosy chalets.
Each of these destinations offers a unique and immersive holiday experience rooted in rich cultural traditions. Better yet, you can experience them all on festive holidays with Leger.
Which countries love Christmas the most?
If there's one thing Europe does spectacularly well, it's Christmas. Germany steals the show with its enchanting markets, mulled wine and Advent traditions. Austria, the Netherlands, and Belgium follow closely, serving up storybook towns, candlelit processions, and classical concerts. Wherever you go, it’s not just the twinkling lights – it’s the magic in the air.
Join us this festive season and experience the magic of Christmas the Leger way – effortlessly, enchantingly, and all wrapped up in one unforgettable journey
Which European countries have the best Christmas Markets?
Germany leads the way with its iconic markets in destinations such as Cologne, while Austria offers timeless charm in Vienna, and Belgium dazzles with Brussels. With Leger, you’ll discover the very best – handpicked, hassle-free, and brimming with Christmas cheer.
What is the origin of the Santa Claus tradition?
Many Christmas traditions across Europe are rooted in the story of Saint Nicholas, the generous 4th-century Bishop of Myra (in modern-day Turkey). Known for his kindness, he famously dropped gold coins down a chimney to help three sisters in need – a legend that gave rise to the tradition of hanging stockings on Christmas Eve.
Celebrated on his feast day, December 6th, Saint Nicholas became the beloved patron saint of children, known for bringing gifts to the well-behaved. Over time, his name and story evolved – in Dutch, Sinterklaas became Santa Claus, blending into the cheerful gift-giver we know today.
Unwrap the stories, traditions and festive spirit of Europe with Leger – where every Christmas journey is filled with wonder.
What is the best way to experience the world’s Christmas traditions?
Fancy experiencing some of these unique Christmas customs for yourself? Let Leger take the wheel on one of our Christmas coach holidays. You sit back, and we will do the rest.
Experience Christmas traditions with Leger
There’s nothing like seeing Christmas traditions come to life in their country of origin. Whether it’s sipping mulled wine at a German market, joining festivities in France, or strolling through Italian villages lit up for Epiphany, the magic is in the details.
With Leger’s luxury coach holidays, including Luxuria and Silver Service, you don’t just travel, you experience culture, cuisine, and celebration like a local.
Explore our handpicked Christmas coach holidays and discover how the world celebrates Christmas – all in comfort, style, and good company.
Looking for more travel inspiration? Be sure to check out our blog.
