Some get their shopping in early, some leave it to the day before, others even leave it too late but enjoy the bargains that can be found afterwards, while there are a group of people who make an event of Christmas shopping, turning this task into an opportunity to travel to an exciting destination at the same time.
For those who enjoy a spot of shopping, Christmas provides the perfect time to indulge, and combined with a welcoming atmosphere of the high street or Christmas markets in December – think cosying up with a warm drink with lights illuminating the dark skies for late-night shoppers, while Christmas tunes drift around – it’s something many look forward to.
London is a popular location for festive browsing in the UK, proving that the experience should be enjoyable and fun, but if you’re looking to really savour the festivities of the season, why stop at London? Gatwick airport is easily reached with anytime rail travel, so why not extend your Christmas experience and hop on a plane to one of these five fantastic locations, perfect for a Christmas shopping extravaganza?
Dublin, Ireland
Although iconic shops are spread throughout Dublin’s streets, Grafton Street and its surrounding boulevards are jam-packed with an array of affordable and luxurious offerings alike from local and international brands.
Find the Fairtrade Christmas market in the city’s famed Temple Bar, while there are plenty of events taking place druing the festive season to fully get into the spirit of the season.
Vienna, Austria
With origins hundreds of years ago and the magical architecture of the Austrian capital, Christmas shopping amongst the stalls here would be a fairy-tale experience that you’ll never forget. The best Christmas market in Vienna is arguably the Old Viennesse Christmas Market located on Freyung, which dates to the 18th century, while the Christkindlmarkt is a popular attraction, too.
Don’t miss out on a visit to Christmas World (Wiener Weihnachtstraum) in the City Hall (Rathaus) where stalls, an ice rink and music make the visit a must-do.
Munich, Germany
Christmas markets are a festive tradition the world over, so where better to visit than the place where it all began?
In the UK, we rarely see much snow around Christmastime. Still, so many of us associate Christmas with images of shoppers bundled up in woollen accessories and treading through white cityscapes with arms full of presents. If you’re looking for this picture-perfect location, then look no further than Munich.
To take your celebrations to the next level, hop aboard the Christmas Tram to take in the decorated city while enjoying a festive punch and baked goods before heading to one of the many top restaurants in the city for a delicious meal.
New York City, USA
For a Christmas shopping experience that is loud and proud, head to the Big Apple. Iconic department stores play your favourite seasonal tunes while you shop ‘til you drop… or until you can’t physically carry anything else.
Head to one of New York City’s many elegant cocktail bars after your day of retail therapy to round off the experience in true style. Don’t forget to check out the enormous Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree which towers over the city and has featured in the heritage of New York for nearly 90 years.
Paris, France
There’s only one way to make the city of romance even more romantic. To go in December! Parisian festive shop window displays are enchanting, but the capital’s outdoor decorations are equally worth the trip.
Grab your significant other or your favourite pals and get ready to dress to impress while you browse stores from the world’s designer brands.
