'It's the most wonderful time of the year'. Filled with sparkly lights, jolly festive music, the smell of delicious treats and mulled wine in the air—it’s like the holidays are flirting with you.. If you're looking for unique gifts, tasty food, or simply a cozy atmosphere, these markets are the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit. Cozy atmosphere, festive cheer, and maybe a little mistletoe? Count us in! Here are ten markets that’ll have you feeling merry in no time.
PRAGUE
The Christmas Market in Prague is a fairy-tale-like setting against the magical background of Old Town Square. You have to try traditional Czech delicacies such as trdelník, roasted ham, or warm mulled wine during your stroll through the rows of the market festive stalls. Handmade ornaments, wooden toys, and glassware are perfect to buy as gifts or souvenirs. Their illuminated Christmas tree has become the main ornament for the market. With carolers singing and the scent of holiday spices in the air, it's a truly enchanting holiday destination.
STRASBOURG
Strasbourg is called the "Capital of Christmas," as it turns into a winter wonderland every Christmas season. Located in Alsace - France, where the streets are made of cobblestones, and the houses look like the ones in a fairy tale. The market has been around since 1570, making it the oldest in France, and it’s full of handmade gifts, yummy food, and mulled wine. One of the best parts is the giant Christmas tree in Place Kléber, and the whole city is decorated with twinkling lights. Strasbourg’s magical atmosphere promises an unforgettable Christmas holiday experience.
BRUSSELS
Come to Brussels and celebrate the magic of holidays in the capital of Belgium. The Christmas market also known as 'Winter Wonders' which is one of the most iconic festive events and it attracts visitors from all over the world. The streets are full of dazzling lights, and the air smells of cinnamon and delicious waffles. There are many handcraftes treasures to be found including ornaments depicting various famous Belgian landmarks . If you love walking around with a warm cup of hot chocolate or mulled wine this is a perfect place to make memories with the family, as the festive spirit is just heartwarming.
BUDAPEST
There are quite a few christmas markets in Budapest you want to visit this year and they are located about 10-minute walk from eachother. From wooden lodges of local craftsmen to numerous culinary stalls that offer a taste of Hungarian specialties. You can also enjoy christmas carol-singing choir and ice-skating rink.
FRANKFURT
Of course, one of the most liked places in Germany for Christmas time is the Frankfurt Christmas Market. You will be delighted with many traditional food stalls filled with traditional delicacies such as brats, roasted almonds, and mulled warm apple wine for cold winter nights. You can find great, unique gifts in this marketplace: beautifully crafted wooden ornaments, candles, and many souvenirs. Make sure to marvel at the great Christmas tree in Römerberg, placed among the beautifully decorated half-timbered houses. The market is full of carolers, live music, and twinkling lights, making it very magical for all ages.
LONDON
The London Christmas markets are truly festive delights, with something to entice everyone. Stroll along Southbank or make your way to Hyde Park's Winter Wonderland for streets of charming wooden chalets full of unusual presents and seasonal delicacies. Take in the festive spirit over mulled wine, mince pies, or roasted chestnuts. Entertainment abounds, from an ice skating rink to dazzling light displays. The magic of the season is just perfectly celebrated when combined with the iconic vitality of London's markets.
VIENNA
Vienna's Christmas markets bring forth a magical combination of tradition and charm to some of the most beautiful locations in this city. A must-visit is, without saying, the one located on Rathausplatz. A favorite, twinkling bright with lights, handicrafts for gifting, and edibles like roasted chestnuts and apple strudel, it also lets one warm up with spiced glühwein during a browse through festive stalls. The air is filled with the scent of gingerbread and the sound of carolers, adding to the holiday spirit. Vienna's markets are the perfect way to experience the magic of Christmas in a truly elegant setting.
NAPLES
Naples’ Christmas markets presents a celebration of tradition and craftsmanship. Via San Gregorio Armeno is the heart of the festivities, famous for its handcrafted nativity figurines and unique decorations. You can enjoy the stalls are filled with local treats like sfogliatella and zeppole, perfect for indulging in the holiday spirit. The streets come alive with music, lights, and the warm scent of roasted chestnuts. A visit to Naples at Christmas is a mix of festive cheer and Italian authenticity.
TALLIN
During this time, Tallinn's Christmas Market turns the very heart of its medieval Old Town into a winter fairy tale. In the heart is a nicely lighted Christmas tree, surrounded by charming little wooden stalls selling handmade crafts and traditional Estonian specialties. You can warm yourself up with a cup of spiced mulled wine or enjoy some gingerbread with black pudding. The gothic architecture in the Old Town of Tallinn adds an extra charm to the market. It's a serene spot to soak up the traditional Christmas atmosphere, not crowded with many tourists.