The best European Christmas breaks for music-lovers

The best music events taking place in the most beautiful cities in 2015

13:24 11th November 2015

It's a little early to start celebrating Christmas in any big way yet (despite what the department stores try and tell us), but it's certainly not too early to start booking a little Christmas trip away - be it in the UK, Europe or even somewhere in the sun.

If you're a music fan too, why not kill two birds with one glorious stone, and head to a gig or festival in a beautiful city over Christmas? See Madonna in Paris, for example, or go to Top Of The Mountain festival in Austria.

These are the best European Christmas break destinations for music lovers.

Aroriaz, France - Transition Festival: A new music, ski and snowboard festival, Transition is set to take place between 12 and 19 December in the snow-capped Avoriaz resort. This year, Dizzee Rascal and Wilkinson are headlining, along with a handful of big-name DJs.
Prague, Czech Republic - Editors: Prague is surely one of the most beautiful Christmas trip destinations - Editors certainly seem to think so. The band will be playing at the Roxy on 9 December.
Berlin, Germany - Motorhead: If you fancy a little bit of metal to placate the saccharine Christmas cheer, then head to Berlin to catch Motorhead play at the Max Schmeling Halle on 27 November.
Amsterdam, The Netherlands - 538 Jingleball: Everyone should spend a weekend in Amsterdam at some point in their life. If dance music is your thing, then that weekend should be this Christmas. On 19 December, Afrojack, Felix Jaehn, Martin Solveig and more will be performing in the Ziggo Dome as part of the 538 Jingleball.
Les Deux Alpes, France - Rise Festival: "Party on top of the world" reads the festival's slogan. While not geographically accurate, we admire their enthusiasm - and who wouldn't be enthusiastic about a line-up that includes Ms Dynamite, Sigma and So Solid Crew. If that sounds good to you, keep 12-19 December free.
London, England - The Snowman screening: If you're a little strapped for cash, or you live outside of the UK, then why not spend a Christmas weekend in London? It is, after all, one of the greatest cities in the world. On 21 December, the Mozart Symphony Orchestra will be accompanying a screening of The Snowman at the Cadogan Hall. Perhaps go to Motorhead in Berlin, then cleanse your soul with this.
Ischgl, Austria - Top Of The Mountain: To kick off ski season, Top Of The Mountain festival will host The Beach Boys (not a traditional Christmas band, but great nonetheless) on 28 November. Here's an awkward press shot of them, photoshopped onto a snowy backdrop, just to get you in the mood.
Barcelona, Spain - Prince: Whilst Prince has remained secretive about his forthcoming Piano & A Microphone tour, this date has been confirmed by several sources, and will take place on 13 December. Barcelona is a genuinely beautiful Christmas destination.
Brussels, Belgium - Bloc Party: Armed with a brand new album, the new incarnation of Bloc Party will take to the Royal Circus stage in Brussels on 2 December.
Paris, France - Madonna: If you're a fan of Madonna's version of 'Santa Baby', and beautiful cities, then this one's for you. On 9 and 10 December, the Queen of Pop will be playing at the Palais Omnisports de Paris-Bercy.