The best Christmas markets in Europe
Christmas markets are a beloved tradition in many European countries. They typically take place in the weeks leading up to Christmas and feature stalls selling a variety of festive items like decorations, food, and drinks.
There are Christmas markets all over Europe, but some stand out above the rest.
Here are 10 of the best Christmas markets in Europe that you shouldn’t miss:
1. Dresden Striezelmarkt, Germany
Dresden’s Striezelmarkt is one of the oldest and most well-known Christmas markets in Germany. It dates back to 1434, making it the first-ever recorded Christmas market. The market is spread out over several squares in the city center and features around 250 stalls selling everything from traditional German food to handmade gifts.
2. Vienna Christmas Market, Austria
The Vienna Christmas Market is one of the most popular markets in Europe, attracting around 3 million visitors each year. It’s located in front of City Hall and features over 100 stalls selling a variety of holiday items. The market is also known for its giant Ferris wheel and elaborately decorated Christmas tree.
3. Bruges Christmas Market, Belgium
Bruges’ Christmas market is located in the center of the city on the picturesque Burg Square. The market features around 80 stalls selling everything from Belgian chocolate to handcrafted decorations. There’s also a large ice rink in the square, making it the perfect place to enjoy some festive fun.
4. Christmas Market at the Place Saint-Sulpice, France
The Christmas Market at the Place Saint-Sulpice is one of the most unique markets in Europe. It’s located in front of the famous church of the same name and features around 60 stalls selling a variety of items, including handmade jewelry and Christmas decorations. The market also has a carousel and a ferris wheel, making it a great place for families to enjoy some holiday fun.
5. Winter Wonderland Hyde Park, London, UK
Winter Wonderland Hyde Park is one of the biggest and most popular Christmas markets in Europe. It’s located in London’s Hyde Park and features over 200 stalls selling everything from food and drink to gifts and souvenirs. The market also has an ice rink, a ferris wheel, and a variety of other rides and attractions.
6. Lapland Market, Rovaniemi, Finland
The Lapland Market is located in the heart of Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, Finland. The market features around 50 stalls selling a variety of Christmas items, including handmade gifts and traditional Finnish food. The market is also a great place to meet Santa Claus himself and get your photo taken with him.
7. Prague Christmas Market, Czech Republic
Prague’s Christmas market is located in the Old Town Square and features over 80 stalls selling a variety of holiday items. The market is also famous for its large Christmas tree and live music stage, making it a great place to enjoy some festive fun.
8. Madrid Christmas Market, Spain
The Madrid Christmas Market is one of the most popular markets in Spain, attracting around 4 million visitors each year. It’s located in front of the city’s famous Puerta del Sol and features over 100 stalls selling a variety of holiday items. The market is also famous for its large nativity scene and live music stage.
9. Christmas Market at the Cathedral, Cologne, Germany
Cologne’s Christmas market is located in front of the city’s famous cathedral and features over 200 stalls selling a variety of holiday items. The market is also known for its impressive light display and giant Christmas tree.
10. Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt, Germany
Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt is one of the most famous Christmas markets in Germany. It dates back to 1628 and is spread out over several squares in the city center. The market features over 200 stalls selling a variety of traditional German food and gifts.
Conclusion:
There are a variety of wonderful Christmas markets located throughout Europe. Each market has its own unique atmosphere and offerings, making them a great place to find holiday gifts and enjoy some festive fun. Whether you’re looking for traditional German food or handmade decorations, you’re sure to find it at one of these markets.