A small city in the Czech Republic has been crowned the place to go this holiday season for its preserved local traditions and festive feel. 

The city of Brno has been awarded the Christmas capital of Europe, an award bestowed on places that preserve local traditions. The title was first given in 2018 and is organised by the non-profit European Christmas City Network and supported by the European Parliament – previous winners include Genoa, San Sebastian and Kyiv.

Brno has been labelled as hosting the “most atmospheric Christmas scene”, according to judges. Despite being the Czech Republic’s second-largest city, it has less than half the number of residents than the capital which contributes to its local and compact festive charm. 

Just 375,795 tourists visit every year, which pales in comparison to Prague’s 7.4m.

From November 22, the city will transform into a sensory hub of twinkling lights as the smell of hot chocolate weaves through the streets and Christmas carols ring through the town. 

Advent markets will be bringing the spirit to Brno with a magnificent towering tree, a Ferris wheel, concerts, a 100-piece nativity scene, an ice rink and stalls painting the streets featuring the city’s best restaurants. 

Smells of spiced wine and cinnamon-infused apple cider, two of the country’s iconic Christmas drinks, will fill the market as visitors can buy a cup of the warming beverage in the square. 

Brno will also feature a new park of lights this Christmas season to tell stories of the city’s mediaeval history. As well as this, an exhibition will take place to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Czech Republic’s first public Christmas tree being lit on Freedom Square in Brno.

The real magic of the city lies in its history with famous architectural jewels and monuments making the city a must-visit destination. The soaring towers of the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul stand boldly in the square whilst the oldest theatre in Central Europe can be found across the way. 

With multiple UNESCO-protected buildings such as the famous Villa Stimmehat, there is ample 20th century architecture for people to enjoy too. 

For Brits seeking to pay a visit to the capital of Christmas, they can hop on a direct flight to the city taking just two hours, costing as little as £33.