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The festive season brings with it the charm of twinkling lights, the scent of mulled wine, and the warm atmosphere of Christmas markets. To make the most of these magical experiences, staying in the right hotel is key. The following properties not only provide luxurious stays but also immerse travellers in the festive spirit of the season, with prime access to some of the world’s best Christmas markets. From historic European cities to modern metropolises, each property offers a unique holiday experience, making any Christmas getaway truly unforgettable.
5* Hotel Sacher Wien, Vienna, Austria
Hotel Sacher Wien is a grand and opulent choice located just a few minutes’ walk from Vienna’s famous Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz. This market is known for its stunning backdrop of the Rathaus (City Hall) illuminated with thousands of lights, creating a magical atmosphere. Visitors can explore more than 150 stalls offering everything from hand-blown glass ornaments to traditional Austrian treats like Vanillekipferl cookies. After soaking in the festive atmosphere, retreat to the hotel’s historic Café Sacher for a slice of their renowned Sacher Torte and a hot drink. The property also features a luxurious spa, where guests can unwind with a massage or soak in the sauna while overlooking Vienna’s skyline.
5* Four Seasons Hotel Prague, Czech Republic
Perched along the serene Vltava River, the Four Seasons Hotel Prague provides a luxurious retreat just steps from the Old Town Square Christmas Market. Known for its enormous Christmas tree, live music, and charming wooden huts, this market is a feast for the senses. Visitors can enjoy traditional Czech foods like trdelník (sweet pastry) and svařák (mulled wine). The Four Seasons blends historic architecture with contemporary comforts, offering rooms that look out over the illuminated Prague Castle. The hotel’s CottoCrudo restaurant serves a seasonal menu with views of the river, making it the perfect spot for a romantic winter evening. After a day of exploring, guests can warm up in the serene spa with river views.
5* Rocco Forte Hotel Amigo, Brussels, Belgium
Hotel Amigo in Brussels is ideally located near the Grand Place, home to the city’s renowned Winter Wonders Christmas Market. This market is one of Belgium’s largest, featuring over 200 wooden chalets, festive Belgian treats, and a stunning light show that illuminates the historic buildings of the Grand Place. The luxurious Hotel Amigo offers contemporary rooms with Belgian art, a cosy bar, and Ristorante Bocconi, which serves Italian cuisine. With its festive decorations and prime location, guests can easily enjoy both the market’s charm and nearby attractions like the Manneken Pis and the Sablon district.
5* Hotel Taschenbergpalais Kempinski, Dresden, Germany
The historic city of Dresden is home to the Striezelmarkt, one of Germany’s oldest Christmas markets, dating back to 1434. Hotel Taschenbergpalais Kempinski is just a five-minute walk from this iconic market, which offers handcrafted ornaments, traditional German baked goods like stollen, and warm glühwein. The hotel, built in a former royal palace, combines classical elegance with modern amenities, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a touch of history. During the festive season, the hotel’s courtyard is transformed into an ice-skating rink, adding a fun activity right on the doorstep. Guests can also indulge in a decadent afternoon tea or relax by the fireplace in the stylish bar after a day in the cold.
5* The Ritz-Carlton, Budapest, Hungary
Situated near the festive Vörösmarty Square Christmas Market, The Ritz-Carlton, Budapest is a refined haven for travellers. The market is known for its traditional Hungarian crafts, such as embroidered tablecloths, ceramics, and candles, as well as local treats like chimney cakes and hearty goulash. The hotel’s elegant interiors reflect Budapest’s rich heritage, with rooms offering views of the Danube River and the city’s sparkling lights. Guests can rejuvenate in the spa, which includes an indoor pool, sauna, and steam room, or enjoy a meal at Deák St. Kitchen, which features a seasonal menu of Hungarian and international flavours. The Ritz-Carlton’s holiday decorations, including a grand Christmas tree in the lobby, add to the festive atmosphere.
5* Hotel Adlon Kempinski, Berlin, Germany
Berlin’s Gendarmenmarkt Christmas Market is famous for its stunning backdrop of the Konzerthaus and the French and German Cathedrals. Just a short walk away, Hotel Adlon Kempinski offers unparalleled luxury and comfort. Guests can explore the market’s selection of handmade gifts, from wooden toys to scented candles, and savour traditional sausages and mulled wine. The hotel’s refined rooms and suites provide a comfortable retreat, while its Michelin-starred restaurant, Lorenz Adlon Esszimmer, offers a sophisticated dining experience with a seasonal twist. Guests can also relax in the Adlon Spa by Resense, featuring an indoor pool with views of the wintry cityscape.
5* Sofitel Strasbourg Grande Ile, Strasbourg, France
Strasbourg’s Christkindelsmärik, known as one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe, is a magical experience set against the backdrop of the city’s stunning Gothic cathedral. Sofitel Strasbourg Grande Ile is ideally situated just a short stroll from the market, making it easy for guests to explore the enchanting wooden chalets offering Alsatian treats, mulled wine, and intricate ornaments. The hotel combines French elegance with a cosy atmosphere, offering plush rooms and a refined restaurant where guests can enjoy Alsatian specialties. For those looking to take in more of the festive atmosphere, the hotel’s bar offers seasonal cocktails perfect for warming up after a day at the market.
5* The Savoy, London, UK
The Savoy is a quintessential London experience, especially during the festive season. Located close to the Southbank Centre Winter Market, The Savoy provides easy access to a riverside wonderland of twinkling lights, festive drinks, and artisan crafts. The market’s mulled wine and Christmas-themed street food make it a popular spot for visitors and locals alike. The Savoy itself is transformed into a holiday dreamland, with its stunning decorations, live music, and festive afternoon tea. Guests can relax in the Thames Foyer with a glass of champagne or enjoy a seasonal dinner at the renowned Savoy Grill.
5* Mandarin Oriental, Munich, Germany
Located near Marienplatz, the Mandarin Oriental, Munich, is a luxurious base for exploring one of Germany’s most picturesque Christmas markets. The Marienplatz market is renowned for its traditional Bavarian food stalls and the impressive Christmas tree that stands in the heart of the square. The hotel offers elegantly designed rooms and suites, with some providing sweeping views of the snow-dusted Alps. Guests can enjoy a festive afternoon tea in the elegant lobby or head to the heated rooftop terrace for stunning panoramic views of Munich’s holiday lights. After a chilly day out, unwind in the hotel’s wellness area, complete with a steam room and sauna.
5* Raffles Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul’s European-style Christmas Market at St. Antoine’s Church is a delightful festive surprise in this vibrant city. Raffles Istanbul, located in the upscale Zorlu Center, provides a luxurious stay with sweeping views of the Bosphorus. The market offers a blend of Turkish and European holiday traditions, with stalls selling unique crafts, holiday treats, and Turkish delights. Raffles Istanbul features an expansive spa with a Turkish hammam, making it an ideal place to relax after exploring the city’s festive scene. The hotel’s luxurious rooms, equipped with spacious terraces, provide a serene retreat, while its acclaimed restaurant, Isokyo, offers an innovative take on Pan-Asian cuisine.
