THE BEST CHRISTMAS MARKETS IN EUROPE
Visiting Europe’s Christmas markets is one of the most magical ways to kickstart the festive season. Expect traditional foods, music and beautiful handicrafts as you peruse the stalls by fairy light at these best-loved markets.
Germany
Germany is home to some of the biggest and most-visited Christmas markets in Europe. Saxony’s market is thought to be one of the oldest “Christkindlmarkt”, while Cologne also boasts several traditional markets, including Markt der Engel. Berlin is the ideal destination for a more modern experience with over 80 Christmas markets across the city.
Basel, Switzerland
Over 150 picturesque stalls vie for attention at Switzerland’s biggest Christmas market in Basel. The section at Barfuserplatz is the go-to destination for handmade gifts and decorations, while Munsterplatz teems with kids’ workshops and activities.
Budapest, Hungary
From mid-November, Budapest’s two main markets bring seasonal cheer to the city with music, traditional crafts and winter food. Visit the Basilica market for fun on an ice-skating rink and to see laser projections on the Basilica building itself. If you are looking for warming food and live music, Vorosmarty Square is a large and spectacular market with a fairytale look.
Salzburg & Vienna, Austria
At Salzburg’s Christmas markets, you will find traditionally crafted gifts, decorative trinkets and delicious baked treats. The market stalls look as though they are straight from the 15th Century and a dusting of snow serves to create Christmas card scenes. If you are travelling with children, they are sure to wonder at Vienna’s markets which feature twinkling lights and stalls filled with traditional toys. At both locations, you can enjoy daily choirs, brass bands and visits from ancient characters such as the Christkind.
Winter Wonderland, London
Hyde Park undergoes a transformation each festive season with a Christmas market featuring over 100 wooden chalets, an ice rink, funfair and food stalls. There are also fantastic festive activities such as ice sculpting workshops, an ice slide and an immersive ice kingdom.
