Christmas Markets in Europe
Christmas in Europe feels like the real deal; like how Christmas should be. One aspect that helps make the holiday season so enjoyable are the Christmas Markets. They are spread out and can be found throughout Europe. The countries that are most famous and have the highest amount of markets are Germany, Austria, United Kingdom and France. Some of these countries have markets that have been running since the middle ages.
Christmas markets provide a different environment for festive shoppers and also showcase beautiful hand crafted works that cannot be found in stores. In some markets there are is a lot less volume of shoppers, which creates a stress-free place to relax and shop at the same time. Then when you are finished with shopping there are food stalls offering local dishes and mugs of mulled wine to warm cold bodies.
Voted as one of Europe’s top Christmas market cities, Cologne has four to choose from. The main one is situated in the main square right in front of the cathedral, which is the most visited monument in Germany. Over 160 stalls pack into the square alongside street musicians and Glühwein sellers. But if you are looking for a more relaxed Christmas market away from the crowds, then head for the Alter Markt. It is more traditional with handmade wooden toys and gingerbread. Other great locations for markets in Germany include Nuremberg, Berlin, Dresden and Munich.
Austria’s capital plays host to one of the most visited markets in Europe. Outside the stunning Town Hall, Vienna’s Christmas market is filled yearly with wooden stalls. The market tradition can be dated back over seven hundred years. It is the atmosphere that makes this market so special. Surrounding the square, trees and buildings are decorated with themed lights and inside the Town Hall a workshop is held for kids helping them to bake and make gifts.
For the past 10 years, Birmingham has hosted the Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market & Craft Fair to huge success. Stalls from Frankfurt providing German favourites like Glühwein and traditional sausages have mixed with traders providing local crafts and products. Even when the city is buzzing with Christmas shoppers, the market feels welcoming and cosy.
Also the British capitol is famous for its markets.Find out everything you need to know about london at this free London Guide . From restaurants to opera or nightclubs we have everything covered at this london guide.
Top ten lists of the best European markets seem to differ greatly; it’s more about the Christmas spirit and simply enjoying the festive holidays.
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