So, Scott and I are totally trying to head to the Christmas markets this year. Much like Oktoberfest, this has always been something I’ve wanted to do for years and really hope this year that I get to make it a reality. Last year we only managed to visit the ones in Edinburgh and Manchester, so I’m hoping to tick some of the following off my list as well.
Christmas season is (unbelievably) almost upon us, and, although it is supposed to be a fantastic time of year for all, it can also bring lots of stress. What if I undercook the turkey? What if I get the mother-in-law something she hates? And what do I say in response to that awful secret Santa gift?
As a result, it may be no surprise to learn that more and more Brits are vacationing during this time of year now, to escape the dreaded pressures and to embrace the holiday and the enjoyment it has to offer.
There’s also a new trend within the Christmas holiday emerging. Almost all of the major cities in the UK including London, Birmingham and Manchester host a Christmas market in the centre of their towns. With the increased interest of this charming tradition, we Brits are looking further afield to experience what some of Europe’s most beautiful cities has to present. And with lots of websites providing cheap coach travel for each of the best Christmas markets in Europe, it’s now easier – and cheaper – than ever to experience a different twist of the most wonderful time of the year.
Here are some of our recommendations for the best countries providing the best ones to visit.
Germany
Arguably the originator of the Christmas market, Germany is a sure-stop for those new to the whole Christmas market experience, or for those wanting to experience the original. There are a large range of markets in Germany, from cities like Berlin, to Dusseldorf and Frankfurt. The ambiance of a German Christmas market is alive with traditional country music, the aromas of the country’s staple cuisine – sausages – and hot chestnuts; a true Christmas custom. The only problem with choosing to go to a market in Germany is choosing which one!
Austria
To experience the ultimate Christmas backdrop, an Austrian market is one of the best choices. The alpines in the background make the general scene appear like something from a holiday greetings card, and the festivities don’t just stop at appearances. Like the rest of the superior markets, Austria’s take on the tradition boasts a wide range of unusual hand-made gifts and crafts, perfect if you’re looking for something a bit different for your loved ones. Wandering through the market in Vienna, you can enjoy the beautiful historic sites with a cup of spiced-mulled wine in hand.
Luxembourg
Another choice that is convenient due to being relatively close to the UK, Luxembourg takes the traditional Christmas market and makes its own. The city of Luxembourg annually hosts the ‘Winter Lights’ festival during advent, Christmas and New Year in which the capital is adorned with more than 1,600m of lights creating beautifully fairy lit scenery of tree-lined streets and squares. And Luxembourg’s Vianden Castle is one of the most perfect spots possible for hosting a Christmas market, with a middle-age theme.
Czech Republic
With a long convention of Christmas markets, Prague has established one that truly brings people together with the spirits of the season – uniting diverse cultures and rituals over good food, good wine and good times. Offering a wide range of Czech specialities such as puppets, Bohemian Crystal and hand-made jewellery, there is truly something for everyone. This is also a great choice for the little ones in your life, as there is a petting area for children, where they can meet and stroke animals such as sheep, goats and even llamas, making for a unique experience for the whole family.
Leave a Reply