Christmas in Europe - Vienna?

[Eclipsis]

I'd been thinking about spending Christmas in Thailand this year (2011), but due to the flooding in Bangkok, that seems like a non-starter.

Anybody know of good places for a solo male traveller (33 years) to spend Christmas in Europe?

Ideally it would be nice to meet other solo backpackers for a little get together at the loneliest time of year for some of us. I'd looked into Vienna, but if there are any other suggestions, please throw them over

I'm not much of a party animal, but I do like a good drink and a chin-wag.

[laz]

Vienna is definitely a good place to head for, but obviously not the cheapest of cities. The whole city is packed with Christmas markets, which are actually quite cool places to hang out (IMHO!). They are not just tourist tat, but places to have a drink and eat communally, and to really get a feel for the sociable, multi-cutlural society of Vienna. Some have quite a focus on kids, but there are others which are more adult-friendly.

I must say, I love Vienna, but I think winter is one of the best times to visit, as the whole city seems to focus on home comforts and warming winter drinks and food. I'm afraid I can't advise much on the backpacker scene, however.

Also, if you fancy a "two-city" trip, it's only a few hours to Budapest by train, so you could easily spend Christmas in one city and New Year in the other.
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[TravelBoyBudapest]

Hello,

For Christmas I think Vienna must be one of the best places to go. The Christmas Markets in town beat all others in Europe (almost)... But, I guess you should look for a nice place of accomodation where you might meet up with others!

Good luck, but at least - Vienna is a great town in this period before and throughout Christmas!

[payson]

Vienna is definitely a good choice. During winter time, the city is gorgeous. It could be a bit over budget though, as it's quite expensive. If you are on a budget, why not try Prague. It's a lovely city, quite charming in winter, and much less expensive.

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[jonnyx]

I agree, Vienna is fantastic during Christmas.
But I prefer Malaga, its not so cold and more outgoing and with fantastic Christmas lights.

[rina1602]

I recommend Austria, Switzerland and Germany for the Christmas period.

When I spent Christmas in Paris and England, I was a bit disappointed.

Salzburg and Vienna, as well as Munich, Stuttgart and Basel are great places with festive christmas atmosphere.
You will enjoy the best mulled wine, waffles, cookies and raclette!!!!

[rsjfreight]

It's a bit late to answer you know for xmas 2011 but in case you have the same problem again xmas 2012 - i would recommend Barcelona and to make sure you stay in a youth hostel or something similar - where you can easily meet other travellers.
Head to one of the clubs or bars in Barcelona in an area such as las Ramblas and you will for sure have a good Xmas and New year there.