The most wonderful time of the year is even more magical in the mountains: fairy-tale villages, falling snow and twinkling lights. In many resorts, you can spend Christmas Eve listening to choirs, joining village activities and sharing special dinners after a day on the slopes. Split your days between morning skiing and relaxed afternoons in town. Market squares often host festive stalls with hot chocolate, glühwein, fresh chocolates and regional snacks. Browse hand-crafted ornaments, jewellery and local specialities, then settle in for a cosy evening. Want tips for Christmas traditions in specific countries? Then keep reading.
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Austria, Frohe Weihnachten!
In many Tyrolean families, it’s traditional to bake biscuits before and during Christmas. The classic is Zelten—a Christmas fruit bread with dried fruit and nuts. Not tried it yet? Don’t miss it this year.
Austrians also love their good-luck charms. In the days leading up to Christmas and New Year’s Eve, stalls outside supermarkets sell charms such as four-leaf clovers, pigs and chimney sweeps. Buy one and, according to the locals, you’ll have a little extra luck.
France, Joyeux Noël!
There are many ways to celebrate Christmas in France, but most people spend it at home with their family. For many, the most important part of Christmas is attending church on Christmas Eve. Before and after the service, families usually exchange presents and share a dinner that often stretches late into the night. In some Alpine villages, festivities begin as early as 6 December. If you’re lucky, your resort will be lit up at night for the whole week.
Italy, Buon Natale!
A traditional Italian Christmas is spent with family, and mountain villages are decorated more beautifully than you can imagine. Visit a Christmas market for roasted chestnuts, music and, in some places, a live nativity play (presepe vivente). In many regions the festivities begin around 8 December (the Immaculate Conception) and continue through to Epiphany on 6 January, when La Befana brings sweets to children.
Switzerland, Frohe Weihnachten! / Joyeux Noël!
Christmas markets, ice-skating rinks and fairy-tale villages lit with festive lights make Switzerland truly stunning over the holidays. You can’t skip fondue this week: sharing Swiss cheese fondue with friends or family is the Swiss dinner of choice. With snow, wonderful food and beautiful surroundings, Christmas in Switzerland feels magical.
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