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With the majority of the European Union and Schengen Area Member States in lockdowns and entry bans in place, Christmas travellers who love to taste how celebrating Christmas abroad is like are unable to visit some of the European cities known for their Christmas atmosphere.
And though almost no tourists are permitted to enter the territory of the EU, there are still some pretty good options for those who wish to spend Christmas in Europe. Germany, France and other EU countries may be known for their Christmas markets, but other places like Albania, Turkey, and Russia, celebrate Christmas in a whole different level.
While travellers may get a taste of a western Christmas in these countries, they will also meet the local Christmas traditions; even Christmas celebrated by other religions, or in a whole other date.
Albania is known for its hot and long summers, its beautiful coast and cultural heritage. However, it is also a wonderful destination for those who wish to spend the year-end holidays abroad.
With over half of its population self-declared Muslims, and only about 10 per cent Catholics and seven per cent Orthodox, one would wonder how is it possible for Albania to be a Christmas destination.
Often called “the last beacon of religious tolerance in Europe”, Albania is a country of religious harmony, and all religions live together, not only without disturbing one another but also by celebrating each-others important religious dates.
The capital of Tirana is covered in lights during Christmas, and a giant tree is decorated in the main square of the capital while others are placed all over the city.
Usually, Christmas markets are also organised; however, due to the pandemic, it is still unknown how the capital will manage to open the markets this year.
The most important thing that you should know is that currently, Albania does not have an entry ban in place. And though health screening procedures in place at airports and other ports of entry, no negative COVID-19 test is required.
Croatia, which remains the youngest EU country, even years after it joined the Union, has abolished the EU-wide entry ban for several categories including for travellers coming to the country for tourism and other business reasons.
“The Decision on the temporary prohibition of crossing the border crossings of the Republic of Croatia (NN 74/20) prohibits or restricts the crossing of passengers through border crossings, of which are exempt:
2f) Passengers travelling for tourism or other business reasons or having other economic interest and passengers travelling for the purpose of education,” the government points out in its list of persons eligible to enter the country.
Therefore, this Christmas, you can visit any of the Croatian cities as a tourist.
Croatia is a Catholic country, and as such, many traditions take place during the year-end period. The capital city, Zagreb, is lightened up all over with lights and other decorations. Giant trees are placed in every square and at every home. Traditionally they are decorated with ornaments in the shapes of fruits.
Despite the pandemic, the Mayor of the city has already announced that some cultural events would be scheduled, and several stands would also be installed for local service businesses in the city centre.
Since Croatia permits travellers for tourism purposes to enter every part of its territory, one has lots of options where to spend Christmas in this country. For those that want to spend Christmas in a city with more sun, Dubrovnik would be the perfect option.
Moreover, for this year, the Christmas fair will also be held in the city, at the beautiful atrium of the Convent of St. Claire.
The fair will feature traditional craftsmen who will display their handicrafts, Christmas ornaments, candles, toys, glassworks, embroidery, ceramics and porcelain, and everything that the artists make by hand for the holiday season from St. Nicholas’ Day to January 6, including Christmas food.
The city of Istanbul is perfect for those who wish to run away from a commercialised Christmas. With the majority of the population Muslim, the city of Istanbul is still covered in lights and Christmas decorations at the end of the year.
Just a few days before Christmas, all streets and stores of Istanbul are decorated similarly to western countries, with lights, trees, and even Santa Clauses with their reindeers.
You may hear no Jingle Bells or White Christmas, or any special celebrations, but if you wish to attend a special Christmas mass, you can do so at the Anthony of Padua, the largest Catholic church in Istanbul.
Moreover, since December 25 is a workday in Turkey, all Istanbul will be at your service.
As per the COVID-19 restrictions, all arrivals into Turkey are currently subject to a medical evaluation for symptoms of Coronavirus, including temperature checks, and those who show symptoms are required to test for COVID-19.
Those that result positive will have to quarantine at a facility determined by the Ministry of Health or, if preferred, at a private medical facility in Turkey at their own expense.
If you want a snowy Christmas, then the best option for you would be Russia. However, currently, only the nationals and residents of a limited number of countries can enter Russia, amid the pandemic.
Thus, if you are a national of Belarus, Cuba, Egypt, Ethiopia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, the Maldives, Serbia, Seychelles, South Korea, Switzerland, Tanzania, Turkey, the UAE, Britain or Japan, you are highly recommended to visit Saint Petersburg this Christmas.
Since Russia follows the Julian calendar, Christmas is celebrated on January 7 and not on December 25. Yet, the last days of December are very festive, the streets of Saint Petersburg are covered in lights and other decorations.
Moreover, the weather in the city at Christmas and New Year ranges from min temperature of 4⁰C to maximum temperature of 13⁰ C, and only in Russia, you will be able to taste an entirely white and snowy Christmas.