Best Places to Visit in Monaco for Christmas Cheer

As the festive season approaches, expats and digital nomads in Monaco might be looking for places to soak up the holiday spirit. While Monaco itself is a glittering spectacle during December, there are numerous destinations nearby that offer enchanting Christmas markets, dazzling lights, and heartwarming traditions. Here are some of the best places to visit in December to experience the joy and magic of the holiday season.

Strasbourg, France

Strasbourg is renowned for its Christkindelsmärik, one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe, dating back to 1570. The city transforms into a winter wonderland with its half-timbered houses and cobbled streets adorned with festive decorations. The market, spread across several squares in the city, offers a variety of handcrafted goods, Alsatian Christmas delicacies, and the famous vin chaud (mulled wine). The towering Christmas tree in Place Kléber is a sight to behold, and the festive atmosphere is palpable throughout the city. Events like live music and cultural performances typically take place throughout December, adding to the celebratory mood.

We Recommend: Don't miss the chance to try the local bredele biscuits, a traditional Alsatian Christmas treat, which come in various shapes and flavors. Pair them with a cup of vin chaud for the perfect holiday indulgence.

Colmar, France

Colmar is another Alsatian gem that hosts a series of Christmas markets in its storybook-like old town. The markets are smaller and more intimate than Strasbourg's, offering a cozy and enchanting experience. The Place des Dominicains and Place Jeanne d'Arc are particularly festive, with vendors selling everything from regional specialties to handcrafted ornaments. The town is beautifully illuminated, and the canals add to the picturesque setting. Colmar's Christmas markets usually run from late November to the end of December.

We Recommend: Be sure to taste the pain d'épices, a traditional French gingerbread, and explore the indoor market at the Koïfhus for unique artisanal gifts.

Monte Carlo, Monaco

Monte Carlo itself offers a luxurious Christmas experience with its own festive market at Port Hercule. The Christmas Village in Monaco features chalet-style stalls selling a variety of crafts, gifts, and gourmet treats. The market also includes an ice-skating rink and a Ferris wheel, providing stunning views of the harbor and city. The decorations and lights around the Casino Square are particularly impressive, creating a glamorous holiday atmosphere. The market typically runs from early December to early January.

We Recommend: Indulge in some socca, a local chickpea flour pancake, while enjoying the festive ambiance of the Monaco Christmas Village.

Vienna, Austria

Vienna is famous for its Christmas markets, or Christkindlmarkt, with the most iconic one held in front of the City Hall (Rathausplatz). The market is a paradise for those seeking handcrafted gifts, ornaments, and traditional Austrian sweets like Sachertorte and marzipan. The city is adorned with elegant lights, and the smell of roasted chestnuts fills the air. Vienna's Christmas markets usually start in mid-November and last until Christmas Eve. The city also hosts various concerts and events celebrating the season.

We Recommend: Try the Weihnachtspunsch, a spiced Christmas punch, and visit the Rathausplatz market's tree of hearts for a picture-perfect moment.

Nuremberg, Germany

Nuremberg's Christkindlesmarkt is one of the most famous Christmas markets in the world. The main market is set in the Hauptmarkt square, with a backdrop of the stunning Gothic church, St. Lorenz. The market is known for its Nuremberg Lebkuchen, a type of gingerbread, and the original Nuremberg bratwurst. The Christkind, a traditional Christmas gift-bringer in Germany, opens the market with a prologue, usually held at the end of November. The market runs until Christmas Eve, offering a truly traditional German Christmas experience.

We Recommend: Sample the Nuremberg Lebkuchen, which is protected by EU law for its regional authenticity, and pick up a Zwetschgenmännle, a small figure made from prunes.

London's Chelsea Neighborhood

London's Chelsea neighborhood is a must-visit for those seeking a stylish and upscale Christmas experience. The area is known for its elegant boutiques and high-end shops, which go all out with festive window displays and decorations. The famous King's Road offers a delightful shopping experience, with many stores offering seasonal treats and gifts. In early December, the Chelsea Christmas Lights switch-on event takes place, accompanied by carol singers and festive activities. The neighborhood's restaurants and bars also offer seasonal menus and holiday-themed cocktails.

We Recommend: Enjoy a leisurely stroll along King's Road and take in the festive window displays, then warm up with a hot chocolate or mulled wine at one of the chic cafes.

Little Italy in NYC

Little Italy in New York City is a vibrant neighborhood that embraces the holiday spirit with its Italian-American heritage. The streets are adorned with colorful lights and decorations, and the scent of Italian pastries and mulled cider fills the air. The Feast of the Seven Fishes is a traditional event celebrated by many restaurants in the area, offering a taste of Italian Christmas Eve customs. The neighborhood's festive atmosphere is enhanced by the nearby Christmas market in Mulberry Street, where you can find unique gifts and Italian delicacies. The holiday celebrations in Little Italy typically begin in early December and last throughout the month.

We Recommend: Don't miss the chance to try cannoli and other Italian pastries from the local bakeries, and enjoy a festive meal featuring the Feast of the Seven Fishes at one of Little Italy's renowned restaurants.