From ancient markets in the heart of historic cities to colorful modern destinations, this article will take you to discover the 10 most worth-visiting Christmas markets in Europe, each offering unique and unforgettable experiences.
1. Wiener Christkindlmarkt (Austria)
Wiener Christkindlmarkt (Austria) (Photo source: Collected)
Located in front of Vienna City Hall, the Wiener Christkindlmarkt is one of the oldest and largest Christmas markets in Europe. With over 150 stalls, the market attracts around 3 million visitors each year. Visitors can enjoy traditional dishes such as punsch and glühwein (mulled wine) while shopping for unique handicrafts. The highlight of the market is the giant 28-meter-tall, lavishly decorated Christmas tree.
2. Colmar Christmas Market (France)
Colmar Christmas Market (Photo source: Collected)
Colmar, a small town in the Alsace region, is famous for its medieval architecture and charming Christmas market. The market is held in five different locations around the city, each with its own theme. Visitors can enjoy local delicacies such as pretzels and pâté, while shopping for handmade Christmas decorations. The fairytale setting with colorful wooden houses creates a special Christmas atmosphere.
3. Basel Christmas Market (Switzerland)
Basel Christmas Market (Switzerland) (Photo source: Collected)
Basel boasts one of Switzerland’s most beautiful Christmas markets, concentrated mainly in two main squares: Barfüsserplatz and Münsterplatz. With over 180 stalls selling local crafts, decorations and food , the Basel Christmas Market attracts thousands of visitors each year. The Christmas tree decorated by famous decorator Johann Wanner is a highlight not to be missed.
4. Strasbourg Christmas Market (France)
Strasbourg Christmas Market (France) (Photo source: Collected)
Dubbed the “Christmas Capital of Europe,” Strasbourg hosts one of the continent’s oldest Christmas markets, dating back to 1570. The main market, Christkindelsmärik, is centered around the stunning Gothic cathedral. With over 300 stalls, visitors can find everything from traditional decorations to typical Alsatian dishes like kugelhopf and vin chaud.
5. Christkindlesmarkt Christmas Market (Germany)
Christkindlesmarkt Christmas Market, Germany (Photo source: Collected)
Located in Nuremberg, Christkindlesmarkt is one of Germany's most famous Christmas markets. With a history of over 400 years, the market attracts around 2 million visitors each year. The highlight of the market is the opening event, where the "Christkind" - a blond angel - gives an opening speech from the balcony of the Frauenkirche church. Visitors can't miss the opportunity to taste traditional gingerbread and shop for exquisite wooden toys.
6. Tallinn Christmas Market (Estonia)
Tallinn Christmas Market (Estonia) (Photo source: Collected)
The Tallinn Christmas Market offers a unique experience in the medieval setting of the Old Market Square. Held since 1441, it is one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe. Visitors can enjoy traditional Estonian food, shop for handicrafts and enjoy fun activities such as ice skating. The highlight is the Christmas tree, believed to be the first publicly placed tree in Europe in 1441.
7. Christmas at Tivoli, Copenhagen (Denmark)
Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen transforms into a Christmas wonderland with millions of twinkling lights. In addition to traditional food and craft stalls, visitors can enjoy rides and performances. A highlight is the artificial snow garden, where children can play and build snowmen even when there is no real snow.
8. Christmas Market in Brussels, Belgium
The Brussels Christmas Market, also known as Winter Wonders, is one of the city’s biggest events. Stretching over 2km from Grand Place to Place Sainte-Catherine, the market features over 200 stalls selling local crafts, decorations and food. Highlights include an outdoor ice-skating rink and a giant Ferris wheel, offering stunning panoramic views of the city all decked out in festive decorations.
9. Barcelona Christmas Market, Spain
Fira de Santa Llúcia, Barcelona's main Christmas market, has been held since 1786. Located in front of the impressive Gothic cathedral, the market has more than 300 stalls selling traditional Catalan Christmas decorations, including unique figurines called "caganers". Visitors can also enjoy local treats such as turró (nougat) and neules (rolled sponge cakes).
10. Christmas Market in Helsinki, Finland
Souvenirs for sale at the Christmas Market (Photo source: Collected)
The Helsinki Christmas Market, held on Senate Square, brings a warm Christmas atmosphere to the cold Finnish winter. With around 120 stalls, visitors can find traditional handicrafts, Christmas decorations and enjoy Finnish dishes such as glögi (mulled wine) and piparkakku (gingerbread). A highlight is the chance to meet Santa Claus, who is said to have originated from Lapland, Finland.
Each Christmas market in Europe has its own charm and beauty, reflecting the unique culture and traditions of each country. Whether you are looking for a unique gift, want to enjoy local cuisine, or simply want to soak up the festive atmosphere, these Christmas markets are sure to bring you unforgettable experiences during the end-of-year festive season.
Source : https://www.vietravel.com/vn/am-thuc-kham-pha/top-10-cho-giang-sinh-dang-ghe-tham-nhat-chau-au-v15756.aspx
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