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Discovering Europe’s Most Popular Christmas Markets

One of the many Christmas markets in Cologne

It’s Christmas market time! What better way to get into the Christmas spirit than a trip to one of Europe’s famous Christmas markets? With almost every tiny village, town, and city in Europe having some semblance of a Christmas market, it is almost impossible not to stumble across one of these timeless traditions.

Picturesque historic squares filled with wooden stands provide the perfect backdrop for the traditional festive Christmas environment. Over the years, these markets have become so popular that there are now Christmas market tours that hop from country to country, stopping at the biggest and most popular markets in Europe.

However, what these markets are most known for is the local art and hand-made crafts that can be found. Ranging from candles and Christmas decorations to wooden toys and ceramics, it is highly unlikely that you won’t find something that piques your interest. Oh, and the food and drinks are reason enough to visit the markets! Mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, spiced gingerbread, plus a slew of local specialties are to be had - all ensuring that you won’t get cold or hungry on your search for those perfect stocking stuffers.

At a time to gather with family and friends and embrace the Christmas spirit, don’t miss the opportunity to visit one of these markets if you have the chance. Here is a list of countries with some of the most popular markets in Europe:

Germany: By far the country with the most Christmas markets, those in Cologne, Nuremberg, Stuttgart, and Dresden are among the most popular. First held in 1434, the market in Dresden is one of the oldest in Europe and attracts between 1.5 and 2 million visitors each year. However, with over 2,500 markets to choose from in Germany, your choices are not only limited to the big cities and you’re bound to find one that is perfect for you.

Austria: In Vienna, you can find an amazing market situated in the Rathausplatz Square just in front of the colossal neo-Gothic City Hall. A haven for children running amuck in search of the best sweets, this market tends to be quite busy. If you’re looking for something a little more low-key, head over to the museum quarter, where there is another smaller, much more quaint market that offers up a much more adult experience.

France: The oldest market in France, dating back to the 16^thcentury, is located in Strasbourg, however it is the market in Lille that seems to attract more attention. With a 164-foot Ferris wheel and a plethora of local food specialties, it’s also an ideal stop for Londoners, seeing as it is only an 80-minute trip on the Eurostar.

Czech Republic: Considering it is one of the most enchanted cities in Europe, would you expect Prague’s Christmas market to be anything short of magical? Located in the Old Town Square with the Church of Our Lady Tyn looming in the background, entering this market is like walking into a fairytale. With lights twinkling on trees and folk bands playing, there is no way to escape the Christmas spirit!

Denmark: Located in the Tivoli Gardens, Europe’s oldest amusement park, Copenhagen’s Christmas market is full of hundreds of Christmas trees and sparkles under the illumination of over a million lights. A must have is the gløgg, a Danish mulled wine mixed with liquor and spices, just the thing to keep you warm on those cold winter days. There is also another worthwhile market that can be found in the hippy Christiania district.