5 Christmas Markets That Deliver Festive Fun
Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year and elevate your Christmas shopping experience at one of Europe’s festive Christmas markets. Enter a winter wonderland of twinkling lights and fabulous displays against the backdrop of impressive architecture in some of the most iconic city centers in Europe.
Browse through the dozens of stalls selling special gifts, drink delicious hot mulled wine, and sample endless amounts of local delicacies. The following 5 Christmas markets offer visitors a true fairy tale experience, so grab your coat and let’s go!
1. COLOGNE
Cologne's main Christmas market, in front of the famous Cologne Cathedral, is a truly magical sight, with a spectacular lit tree in the middle of the center surrounded by dozens of brightly decorated stalls featuring every type of unique gift and delicacy. Take in the aroma of mulled wine, hot chestnuts, and gingerbread that fills the air, and enjoy the full-stage program that features over 100 Christmas performances of music and entertainment.
2. STRASBOURG
The oldest and arguably the best Christmas market in France, Strasbourg puts on quite a display, complete with dozens of wooden stalls decked out with lights and ornaments, caroling choirs, an ice rink, and mulled wine served in special, boot-shaped mugs. Other edible treats include roasted chestnuts, bridle cookies, and soft, warm pretzels.
3. VIENNA
Vienna's main Christmas market in front of the grand City Hall is like a scene out of a fairy tale, complete with brilliant lighted displays, strolling carolers, chestnut stands, and stalls featuring a bevy of seasonal handcrafted goods including handmade beeswax candles, wooden toys, and glass ornaments. Enjoy this Christmas market steeped in tradition and brimming with festive cheer!
4. PRAGUE
Prague's main Christmas markets are situated around the Old Town Square and feature the iconic decorated wooden huts selling seasonal handicrafts, and delicious traditional foods prepared right in front of you. Sample honeyed gingerbread and other regional pastries and cookies, and wash them down with a famous Czech beer, mead, or a cup of hot mulled wine.
5. BRUSSELS
Brussels' theatrical Christmas market delights visitors with a nightly light show on the Grand Place and an elegant market along Place Sainte Catherine, with over 200 chalets hosting artisans from around the world. Food stalls offer every sort of delicacy, from delicious Belgian waffles and fries to fine chocolates and tasty beer and mulled wine. A spectacular Ferris wheel and a large ice skating rink round out the festive fun!
