Our Top Five Destinations in Europe to Spend Christmas in Your Motorhome

If you’ve just bought a new motorhome from Go European, or are considering it, then you’ll also be thinking about places you can go sooner rather than later.

Christmas in Europe in a motorhome is a thoroughly modern option for a traditional time of year. Experiencing a perfect blend of adventure and seasonal cheer, exploring Christmas markets and traditional celebrations at your own pace, spending the festivities in your motorhome can be truly magical.

From the twinkling lights of Germany’s famous markets to the cosy holiday spirit of France, Spain and beyond, this edition of our blog guides you through some of the best Christmas destinations in a motorhome for a festive European getaway.

Strasbourg is sometimes referred to as the ‘Capital of Christmas’ – a bold claim, but with good reason. Located in the Alsace region, this charming city boasts one of the oldest and most enchanting Christmas markets in Europe, reputedly dating all the way back to 1570. This year (29024) the market runs from Wednesday 27th November to Friday 27th December, and sprawls across various squares in the city. There will be hundreds of stalls selling handcrafted decorations, local delicacies and festive treats. You can also wander through stunning medieval streets, marvel at the illuminated timber-framed houses and enjoy the traditional giant Christmas tree in Place Kleber.

• Getting there by motorhome: The most convenient route to Strasbourg is via the Channel Tunnel. Once you’ve crossed into France, take the A26 south towards Reims and then the A4 towards Strasbourg. The total driving time once you’re through the tunnel and at the terminal in Calais, is five-and-a-half to six hours.
• Parking: The Indigo campsite offers hard standing pitches, as well as a few short-stay motorhome spaces (two days maximum) and a service point. It’s just a 10 minute walk from a tram stop with services to the city centre.

Nuremberg is home to one of the most famous Christmas markets in the world – the Christkindlesmarkt. Held in the city’s picturesque Hauptmarkt square, this market has been running since the 16th century and each year features around 200 stalls. The Christkind is a big presence here, and greets visitors at the opening of the market. This traditional figure goes back to the protestant reformer, Martin Luther (1483-1546) who, turning away from Catholic tradition of gift-giving earlier in December, began doing so on Christmas Eve.

• Getting there by motorhome: Cross into France and take the A26 south to Metz, and then head east into Germany. The most direct route is via the A5 and A6 highways, which will take you into Nuremberg. This should take between 9 and 10 hours.
• Parking: One of the best parking areas is the Aire de Camping Car, Nürnberg, which is a pleasant walk from the historic old town and the Christkindlesmarkt.

Often considered one of the most picturesque cities in Europe, Prague transforms into a fairytale winter wonderland at Christmas. The city’s Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square host two of the most popular Christmas markets in Europe. Stalls offer wooden ornaments, Czech glass Christmas decorations, and traditional Czech foods. There are also annual Advent concerts held in the city’s churches, and a visit to the wonderfully informative National Museum is well worth some of your time.

• Getting there by motorhome: The drive from the tunnel terminal at Calais (France) to Prague should around 12 hours. The best route is to go through Belgium then follow the E40 motorway from Germany into the Czech Republic.
• Parking: Prague has several parking options for motorhomes. One of the most convenient spots is the Aire de Camping Car, Prague near the Vltava River. It’s located in a peaceful area and is just a 15-minute bus ride from the city centre.

If you’re of a certain age the chances are you’ll walk around Vienna humming that 1981 electro-atmosphere classic by Ultravox – it’s perfectly suited to the grand imperial palaces and festive elegance. This city is a supreme destination for a luxurious Christmas getaway and the markets, held in front of the stunning City Hall are famous for their sparkling lights, ice skating rink and impressive tree. The city also hosts regular classical concerts, adding a truly cultural touch to your Christmas adventure – don’t expect to see Ultravox though!

• Getting there by motorhome: From the UK, the most convenient route is through Germany, taking the A6 and A93 south to the Austrian border, and then continuing along the A1 motorway to Vienna. From Calais, this journey takes around 10 to 11 hours.
• Parking: Vienna has a number of motorhome parking areas, including the Camping Wien West , located just a short distance from the city centre. Good public transport options make it easy to access the Christmas markets.

If you’re looking for Christmas with a Mediterranean twist, Barcelona offers a unique blend of Spanish holiday traditions and exotic charm. Although Spain is not traditionally associated with Christmas markets on the same scale as Germany or France, there’s still plenty of festive cheer on offer in Barcelona. The Fira de Nadal at the Gran Via and other outdoor Christmas fairs are worth a visit, and there is always a special focus on the Caga Tio, an intriguing Catalan Christmas tradition. Gaudí’s Sagrada Família is, of course, worth your time and is beautifully illuminated for the festive season.

• Getting there by motorhome: The drive to Barcelona takes around 14 to 15 hours from the Channel Tunnel, and continues down through France into Spain via the A9 and AP-7 motorways.
• Parking: Barcelona has several motorhome parking areas located within easy reach of the city. Campsites are all well-connected via public transport, making it easy to access the Christmas fairs and festive market in the heart of the Gothic Quarter.

Spending Christmas in Europe in your motorhome is fun and educational – the perfect way to experience how the season is celebrated in different cultures. It’s also much easier to ‘go for’ than you might think. Just do it! A Christmas motorhome road trip offers a life-enhancing chance to embrace the season.