With only 6 months until Christmas…if you’re thinking of starting your shopping early, here is a list of the top 10 Christmas Markets
This is the oldest Christmas market in France, known to the locals as “Christkindelsmärik”. There are 12 different markets throughout the city that will give you a wonderful historic sightseeing and shopping excursion as you enjoy the famous aroma of wine and spices.
With over 170 booths, and in between 2 beautiful Baroque Churches, this market definitely give the visitors a festive feel. There is something for everyone here, with daily programs for kids and the young at heart.
Not only are you near the set of Neighbours, but this lovely market is one of the largest in the UK. You can take yourself on a tour as you follow the meandering wooden Chalets throughout the charming city. There are over 300 stalls, and the warmth of the local food, treats and mulled wine will warm you on even the coolest English Christmas days.
These markets take place in the Old Town Square, and are known for their impressive Christmas lighting, beautifully painted ornaments and tubs of Carp (a traditional Christmas meal). For the locals, a mug of “Grog” at the markets really kicks off the holiday season.
These markets may not be the largest in Europe but what they lack in size, they make up for with the ‘Irish’ festive spirit. The theme is “12 Days of Christmas” and brings in visitors by the thousands.
These markets take place at Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen. The most interesting part of being a visitor here is to witness how Christmas is celebrated in Denmark. Nothing will get you into the spirit faster than the sub-zero temperatures…just like home.
At the Budapest markets in Hungary, you are sure to find the finest quality merchandise. All of the 122 vendors are selected and approved by a jury of artistic experts. To top it off there is the traditional Hungarian Christmas delicacies like stuffed cabbage that you can enjoy while watching the puppet show or folk dancing.
Complete with ferris wheel, merry-go-round and skating, this Belgium market is sure to please you. The atmosphere of the lovely baroque houses laced in christmas lights, the smell of mulled wine and every chocolate delight you can imagine will get even the Scroogiest person in the holiday spirit.
Christmas markets in Germany is like flowers in spring, and Berlin is certinly at th top of the list, known as the ‘Christmas Market Capital’. They now have 60 seperate markets within the city all with their own unique charms. The most popular of these is the Charlottenburg Castle Market, set below the glowing festive castle; millions of visitors come here every year seeking gastronomical delights, local music, artwork, trinkets and decorations.
In mid November the beautiful city square of Vienna turns into a lighted winter wonderland known as “Christkindlmärkte”. These markets are picturesque to say the least and full of treasures, treats and ‘Glühwein’ (local mulled wine). Visiting these markets should be a must-do for Vienna.
