As the festive season draws upon us and gatherings with loved ones become our focal point, we travel to Europe to find an array of unique gifts. From lederhosen in Munich to handcrafted pralines in Brussels, there is something to suit every taste. Below is your insider’s guide to Christmas shopping in Europe.
BRUSSELS
Just steps from the Grand Place and its glittering Christmas markets, Hotel Amigo is perfectly placed to celebrate the festive season in true Belgian style. With more than 250 stalls, Winter Wonders is one of Europe’s largest Christmas markets, a cheerful maze of twinkling lights and handmade gifts. Make time to explore Brussels’ growing scene of independent boutiques designing with conscience, or delight someone special with a beautifully wrapped box of artisanal chocolates.
For something out of the ordinary
For one-of-a-kind treasures, wander to Scènes de Ménage in the leafy district of Ixelles. This characterful boutique is a cabinet of curiosities where each corner reveals unexpected finds – from vintage ceramics and antique mirrors to contemporary art and whimsical décor. Every object feels discovered, collected, and cherished, making it the perfect spot to pick up something truly original.
Place Georges Brugmann 4, 1050 Ixelles
For the sweet tooth
Chocolate has been part of Belgian life since the 17th century, but it was here in Brussels that pralines were first invented. To experience this delicious heritage, visit Neuhaus in the Galerie de la Reine, where Jean Neuhaus first created the praline in 1912. Step inside the historic shop, once a pharmacy, and fill a ribbon-tied box with velvety ganaches and crunchy hazelnut creams.
Galerie de la Reine 25, 1000 Brussel, Belgium
MUNICH
Overlooking the tranquil Old Botanical Garden and close to the Isar River, The Charles Hotel is perfectly placed for a city break. Browse for lederhosen, bratwurst and modern art to take home in Kunstareal, the city’s happening art district.
For fashionistas
Step into the world of haute couture with a bespoke personal shopping experience at EDEM Chambre Privée, in the historic Old Town. Curated by Edem Adobaya, former fashion director at Giorgio Armani, this intimate showroom offers a handpicked selection of avant-garde pieces from emerging designers. When you visit, each item is thoughtfully matched to your personal style, ensuring a unique addition to your wardrobe.
For whisky lovers
SLYRS is a celebrated heritage brand of Bavarian whisky, with roots in ancient monastic brewing. Take your spirit lover outside the city to the lakeside distillery at Schliersee and enjoy a memorable single malt whisky from Upper Bavaria.
Bayrischzeller Strasse 13, 83727 Schliersee
LONDON
There’s nothing quite as enchanting as Christmas in London. From the towering tree in Trafalgar Square to the dazzling lights along Regent Street and the ice rink at Somerset House, every moment feels lifted from the pages of a storybook. Guests staying at Brown’s Hotel are invited to enjoy the city’s festive spirit and some of the world’s most famous department stores — with Harrods, Liberty and Bond Street’s glittering boutiques all within easy reach.
For a taste of a quintessential Christmas
No London Christmas is complete without a visit to Fortnum & Mason. Its beautiful window displays, sparkling with ribbons and wreaths, draw crowds from across the city. Inside, discover a world of festive magic: hampers, hand-iced biscuits, advent calendars, preserves and puddings. Don’t miss the third floor’s Cook Shop and Food & Drink Studio before descending to the first floor’s Christmas Shop — a treasure trove of baubles, games and holiday cheer.
181 Piccadilly, London W1A 1ER
For the perfume connoisseur
A short stroll from Brown’s, within the elegant Royal Arcade, Ormonde Jayne blends British craftsmanship with rare ingredients from across the world. Each fragrance tells a story — of memory, mood and place — making it a thoughtful and deeply personal gift. Whether chosen for someone special or as a treat for yourself, these exquisite perfumes capture the charm of a London Christmas.
16, 28 The Royal Arcade, Old Bond St, London W1S 4SR
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