Our international bunch here at Pai HQ have put their heads together and compiled the ultimate collection of activities and days out to get you feeling festive.
So from London to Paris, via Berlin and Copenhagen, we’ve got you sorted.
You’re in… COPENHAGEN
Day: There are Christmas markets galore in Copenhagen, but if you fancy something even more traditional hop on the train to Rosendal.
Just 45 minutes north of the city, it’s an old-fashioned farmer’s market where you can pick up presents and enjoy traditional Danish Christmas treats. Best of all, you can choose a Christmas tree from the sustainable plantation and cut it down yourself!
Night: Once darkness falls, head to Kongens Nytorv (Kings Square), stopping to admire the beautiful lights on the Hotel d’Angelterre before gliding (or sliding) across the ice-skating rink.
If you’re lucky enough to be in Copenhagen on 13th Decemember, head to Tivoli Gardens to see the Santa Lucia procession – 100 girls from Copenhagen choirs, singing by candlelight.
You’re in… LONDON
Day: Avoid the crowds and head to Maltby Street Market early on a Saturday morning for a hearty breakfast courtesy of the famous St John bakery, washed down with a mince pie or two. You might even pick up a few Christmas presents from the great selection of artisan foods.
Fancy something a bit more central? The Christmas market on the South Bank always has a brilliant array of foodie treats.
Night: For some of us here at Pai HQ, Christmas isn’t Christmas without ice-skating at Somerset House. Be sure to book early to avoid missing out and remember to wrap up warm!
End the day holed up in a cosy pub with good food, a drink and a roaring fire.
You’re in… BERLIN
Day: Christmas is all about R&R, so take a break from the city and head out to the beautiful Grunewald forest, just south-west of Charlottenberg, for a wintery stroll. It’ll be pretty chilly, so layering is essential.
Night: Berlin trumps all other cities when it comes to Christmas markets – there are almost eighty across the city, open late into the night. The biggest and best is the Weihnachtszauber am Gendarmenmarkt, expect to leave full of strudel!
You’re in… PARIS
Day: Have a stroll down Le Grand Boulevard and take in the amazing Christmas windows of Printemps and Galeries Lafayette. Be sure to stop for a bag of roasted chesnuts available on most street corners, for the ultimate festive snack.
Night: Travel to Notre Dame to check out the huge, beautifully lit Paris Christmas tree. If that doesn’t get you feeling festive, nothing will!
Alternatively, skate in style in the square in front of the Paris City Hall while overlooking the banks of the Seine, followed by a cup of vin chaud.
Do you have any festive top tips? Be sure to share them below!
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