Christmas Market | Salzburg, Austria
Last-Minute Escapes and Next Year’s Big Adventures
’Tis the season for Christmas markets. The European markets are one of the best ways to jumpstart the holiday spirit and enjoy all the flavors and feels of the festive season.
Rathausplatz, Vienna, Austria | Decorated Gingerbread Heart, Austria | Christmas Market Mulled Wine | Christmas Market, Salzburg, Austria
Feast on everything from stollen cake stuffed with marzipan to mulled wine (each city has its own souvenir mug), from juicy bratwurst to giant salty pretzels, and don’t forget the Lebkucken gingerbread and gooey raclette. Traditionally, Christmas markets are only open during Advent and close just before Christmas Eve. But many countries have markets that stay open longer to extend the fun.
This season in Austria, Salzburg and Vienna are open until Jan. 1 and Innsbruck till Jan. 6. In Germany, explore Berlin’s market until Dec. 30. Prague’s market serves roasted chestnuts and much more till Jan.6. While the market in Bruges, Belgium closes Jan. 7. In London, Christmas at KEW Gardens runs until Jan. 6.
Dog Sledding, Pendry Park City | Hot Air Balloon, Pendry Park City | Big Sky Resort, Montana | Skiing, Montage Deer Valley
Closer to home, skiers who can’t wait to hit the slopes should consider Big Sky Resort in Montana or Deer Valley Resort in Utah this season. Deer Valley is expanding with 300 more acres of skiable terrain. The new East Village is a skiers-only snow paradise (the snowboarders in your group can catch the shuttle to Park City resort next door). Deer Valley is renowned for its alpine luxury accommodation and dining—don’t miss the exquisite seafood buffet at Snowpark Lodge.
Aosta Valley, Italy | L'Apogée Courchevel, France | L'Apogée Courchevel, France | Gstaad Palace, Switzerland
Let’s start planning 2025 trips—those unforgettable family holidays and grand getaways are best booked early. Love the Alps? Switzerland’s Crans-Montana Resort is now on the EPIC pass, allowing unrestricted lift access to U.S. and Canadian pass holders. Apres-ski at Le Refuge, the new rooftop patio at Six Senses Crans-Montana for views across the Rhone Valley to the Matterhorn and Mont Blanc.
Or, consider the legendary slopes of St. Moritz and Courchevel for a luxurious winter escape—these alpine destinations are perfect for making next year’s holidays truly extraordinary.
Cozy chalets and vin chaud await—whether it’s a last-minute escape or a big trip next year, warm up your winter with somewhere new.
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