Christmas markets in Europe are traditionally decorated with wooden houses with stalls, delicious food, and mulled wine, in a word, an ideal place for tourists this holiday season.
Christmas markets are held throughout Europe, from small towns to the central squares of European capitals. Some of them are especially popular with social media users.
Colmar, France
The fair in Colmar this year officially opened on November 24 and will last until December 29.
Colmar has an Old Town atmosphere that makes guests feel like they are in a fairy tale. The city center is full of unique works of architecture, the beauty of which is emphasized by specially designed lighting.
Prague, Czech Republic
This year, Christmas markets in the capital of the Czech Republic are open from November 26 to January 26. Fairs in Prague are the largest in the country. Visitors are treated to mulled wine, traditional Czech Christmas cookies, gingerbread, chestnuts, and various types of meat snacks.
The main Christmas festivities in Prague take place in the very center of the city – on the Old Town Square, as well as on Wenceslas Square. Small markets are opening up in other places as well.
In addition to food, visitors can purchase local handicrafts, jewelry, wooden toys, and dolls dressed in traditional clothing.
Strasbourg, France
The Strasbourg Christmas market is traditionally one of the top ten markets that you should visit during the winter holidays.
It is one of the largest and most beautiful in Europe – there are more than 300 luminous houses, a real tree 30 meters high, hotels with teddy bears, the illuminated Notre Dame Cathedral, angels along the streets, and a sea of hot mulled wine.
The stalls in this market are open every day for a whole month – from November 24 to December 24.
Europe’s oldest Christmas market was first held in Strasbourg in 1570, and since then the city has continued its tradition of being one of the best places to visit during the Christmas period.
Tallinn, Estonia
The Tallinn Christmas Market is open from November 25, 2022, to January 8, 2023. This market was voted the most beautiful European Christmas market three years ago and is now one of the most visited on the continent.
Christmas festivities in Tallinn take place in a historical place surrounded by old buildings and have a long tradition.
It is estimated that every year about half a million visitors come to Tallinn during the winter holidays. This year, the heart was chosen as the decoration of the fair.
As in other Christmas markets, visitors will be able to taste various dishes, purchase handicrafts, and have an unforgettable time.
Budapest, Hungary
The Budapest Christmas Market has already opened its doors in front of St. Stephen’s Basilica on November 18 and will remain open until January 1, 2023.
For two years – in 2020 and 2022 – the Budapest Christmas Market was recognized as the most beautiful in Europe.
Tourists are waiting for a light show, various musical performances, a 12-meter Christmas tree, and a skating rink.
Bruges, Belgium
The Christmas market in Bruges is open from November 25, 2022, to January 8, 2023, and during this time everyone will be able to experience a wonderful atmosphere. The centerpiece for this year’s event in Bruges will be located at the Markt and Simon Stevin Square, with dozens of stalls offering guests all sorts of food and drink.
Other Christmas markets in Europe include Basel (Switzerland), Metz (France), Vienna (Austria), Trier (Germany), Brussels (Belgium), and Edinburgh (Scotland).