Christmas is coming and with it comes the cold, snow, stressful last-minute-present-buying, and Christmas markets.
You’ve probably seen some around your town or city, and if you’re in for travelling a little further afield this year, here are 10 of the best Christmas markets from around Europe.
MADRID
SPAIN
The largest square in Madrid is home to a stunningly beautiful market in November and December.
This usually summer vacation spot comes alive to celebrate Christmas during the winter months.
VIENNA
AUSTRIA
Between mid-November and the end of December, Vienna’s centuries-old Christmas markets have something for everyone. One of the oldest in Europe, running since 1298 as a simple ‘December Market’, there are now over 20 Christmas market areas across the city.
PRAGUE
CZECH REPUBLIC
A smaller market in Prague is coupled with the Annual International Festival of Advent and Christmas Music. The city space is home to traditional Advent markets, and open-air performances by various ensembles.
BRUSSELS
BELGIUM
Running from late-November to early January, the Brussels market covers the city centre and is one of the few that includes a public ice-skating rink.
LILLE
FRANCE
This cute French city springs into vibrant Christmas celebrations at the market place ‘On Place Rihour’ where visitors can find local and international treats, arts & crafts, and food. Ooh la la!
DRESDEN
GERMANY
One of Germany’s largest markets, Dresden’s city area, is covered in hundreds of market stalls, and seemingly no space in the city’s vastness is left without a market. With rides, food, crafts, and gifts, as well as traditional Gluhwein, Dresden’s market is one to see to believe.
MUNICH
GERMANY
A massive market in Southern Germany, the Munich market (or Kriskindlemarkt) is one of the oldest, and combines traditional southern-German food, crafts, and gifts, with modern touches. These vast markets will certainly have something to entertain everyone, no matter what your interests.
BUDAPEST
HUNGARY
This market centres on the Vörösmarty Square, which houses the majority of the festivities, including an ice-rink between late-November and January.
STOCKHOLM
SWEDEN
The Old Town in Sweden is home to this wonderful market where visitors can sample local delicacies such as elk meat and reindeer between late-November and the end of December
STRASBOURG
FRANCE
One of the best markets by size, reputation and popularity, this market is the oldest official Christmas Market, beginning in 1570. Running from mid-November to late December, this market is packed with tradition and modern excitement.
