What better way to combine the magic of Christmas than with an educational trip abroad? The towns and cities of Europe really come alive this time of year and from festive markets to interactive museums, kids and teachers alike will be in for a decorated delight.
So, if you’re looking to incorporate authentic European culture into your school trips then below are a few suggestions to set your sleigh in the right direction.
Cologne
As the fourth largest city in Germany, Cologne is packed full of historic landmarks including: the country’s oldest city hall, medieval churches and ancient city gates. Museums housing modern art, Germanic heritage and national sports exhibits are perfect for visiting school groups.
Come the season to be jolly the whole city lights up in a colorful cornucopia of lights and bunting and visitors can expect to find not one but eight Christmas markets decoratively lining the cobbled streets and squares.
The largest collection of stalls and chalets can be found underneath Cologne Cathedral where 160 individual units, offering an array of traditional gifts and local delicacies, provide a splendid opportunity to practice your language skills as you soak up the seasonal cheer.
With nostalgic rides, puppet theaters and decorative merry-go-rounds, spread throughout the city, this is the perfect place to study, have fun and bond as a group in a traditional European setting.
Foodie tip: hot apple strudel
Vienna
Austria’s capital is renowned for its dedication to the arts and there’s no better place to be, around Christmas time, when choirs, carol singers and folk bands fill the streets with music.
Art galleries and museums are housed in fabulous buildings and from the Leopald Museum of Modern Art to the Sigmund Freud Museum of psychoanalysis; you’re bound to find the perfect venue to suit your group’s area of study.
With some stunning venues to experience opera, theatre and festive concerts, Vienna is a ‘must visit’ destination for cultural groups and during the winter months the city comes alive with traditional Christmas cheer.
Most of the advent markets are located in the pedestrianized zones and squares offering everything from food and drinks to handmade toys and tree decorations. The Rathausplatz in front of the town hall is an absolute joy and once you’ve checked out the stalls and displays then outdoor ice-skating is the perfect way to finish off your Austrian adventure.
Foodie tip: cheese sausage dogs
Brussels
As the home of the EU headquarters and some incredible examples of Gothic architecture, the capital of Belgium is an awesome destination to bring a school group.
City landmarks such as the Grand Place, the Atomium and the Parc du Cinquantenaire present some fascinating insights into the past and ensure European history groups will be in their element.
Brussels is a well-known venue for culture vultures and museums exhibiting everything from fine art to comic books, provide excellent study venues for young learners.
Come the end of November the whole city embraces the Christmas spirit and visiting school groups will find a huge array of tiny wooden chalets offering arts, crafts and the finest chocolates you’ve ever tasted. This is a truly magnificent venue for a winter trip and from the Grand Place illuminations to mouth-watering aromas, Brussels really knows how to do Christmas.
Foodie tip: hot waffles and chocolate sauce
Berlin
Germany’s capital is awash with historical monuments and any educational tours centered on WWII history and the Cold War are going to be spoilt for choice. Take your pick from: the Brandenburg Gate, the Reichstag and the East Side Gallery, all of which have great resonance on Europe as you’ll find it today.
If you’re looking for exhibitions and displays then look no further than the UNESCO World Heritage site of Museum Island that’s home to no fewer than five museums. No trip to Berlin is complete without learning about the Wall and from Potsdamer Platz to Checkpoint Charlie, students will undoubtedly benefit from so many first-hand experiences.
Heading to Germany for the festive period is the perfect choice for any group wishing to combine a history lesson with traditional Christmas charm and if you get the chance to visit the market at the Charlottenburg Castle you’ll be in for a real treat.
There’s always plenty of advent attractions in Berlin and you’ll discover numerous decorated cabins selling everything from woodcarvings to glazed fruit (delicious). With street performers and dance groups performing alongside Gospel choirs and jazz ensembles, this is certainly a city that offers a really warm and friendly welcome over the holidays.
Foodie tip: homemade gingerbread
Our guest author, Chris, is a retired teacher who lives in the UK and often visit the European markets over the Christmas period.