Top 4 European Christmas Markets

Posted by Rachel in Seasonal on 11 28th, 2010 | Read Comments(3)

Traditional Christmas markets first started in Germany, but they’ve been hugely popular over the years and have spread to many European locations. As well as being a good chance to do some Christmas shopping and taste some local delicacies, the Christmas markets are a wonderful way of celebrating the season and getting into the festive spirit.

Most Christmas markets run annually from the end of November until Christmas Eve, with some opening after Christmas as well. If you’re keen to visit one or more of them, then here’s our guide to the top four European Christmas markets.

1. Nuremberg Christmas Market, Germany

The Christkindlmarkt in Nuremberg is about 400 years old and still going strong. It takes place annually and you’ll find in the region of 200 market stalls lining the main square in the Old Town.

The market is well known for being a good place to find traditional handmade wooden figurines, particularly of nativity figures. The local seasonal food, Lebkucken, is also widely available, alongside traditional favourites such as hot and spicy sausages.

2. Cologne Christmas Market, Germany

Cologne has not one, but four Christmas markets, and they’re dotted around in various parts of the city. One of the markets is held in the cobbled square at Alter Markt, in the centre of the old town, and there are plenty of stalls to enjoy, alongside a carousel, puppet theatre and Santa’s grotto – perfect if you have children.

Street musicians and carol singers abound at the markets all across the city. If you’ve got lots of shopping to get done, then head to the Am Dom market located near the cathedral, as there are about 160 stalls to browse.

3. Brussels Christmas Market, Belgium

In Belgium’s capital city, Brussels, a Christmas market is held at Grand-Place. Small, wooden chalet-style huts are brought in for traders to share their wares with shoppers and you can guarantee that they’ll be plenty of delicious Belgium chocolate available in between the gingerbread and other traditional Christmas foods.

Nearby there’s usually a temporary ice rink opened at the same time, so you can shop for a while then go and watch the skaters, or have a go at skating.

4. Prague Christmas Market, Czech Republic

Prague hosts several Christmas markets – or Vanocni trh – with the largest held in the Old Town Square. The baroque setting, with its cobbled streets, is the perfect place for a traditional Christmas market and it’s a very festive experience.

Like many of the other Christmas markets, stalls are situated in little decorated wooden huts and, as well as handmade Christmas gift ideas, you can buy local foods and Bohemian crystal.