As winter spreads across the entire European continent and snow dust accumulates on the cobblestone streets, the Christmas Markets in Europe feel like the towns light up with magical energy, along with the cities. Moreover, the seasonal shopping fests are replaced with festive gatherings as you experience the culture in the context of history, tradition, and local flavor. So, whether you plan on sipping a mulled wine in Vienna, or take a stroll to check out the handcrafted ornaments in Berlin, or witness the grand festive lights in Krakow, the Christmas markets of Europe will surely be a unique, memorable experience during the winter season.
Therefore, in this guide, we will try to tell you the top Christmas destinations in Europe so that you can pack your bags to dive into the holiday markets, participate in the unique local traditions, and get some practical tips to make your seasonal trip a success. Additionally, if you are a resident of the UK and you need an appointment for a Schengen visa from UK, just hit that “Apply Now” button on SCHENGEN VISA HELP UK. Go till the end of this blog to get more details.
As history states, the original Christmarkets started from the German-speaking regions of Europe. The time would be during the Middle Ages. As years pass, this festive season all around the Schengen countries attracts millions of visitors from other countries. The reason is the excellent mix of local culture, mesmerising regional crafts, tasty food, and the magnificent traditional Christmas carols which echo all around the market squares.
Moreover, from the exotic alpine villages to the grand capital cities of Europe, these markets truly offer something unique for everyone. You will get ample opportunities to get the perfect souvenirs. Try out the artisanal gifts, traditional winter foods, and lose yourself in that magical holiday atmosphere.
When you plan on visiting the Schengen countries in Europe, expect that every country will have its version of festive markets. Few destinations stand out exceptionally with their beauty and unique traditions. Let’s explore all of them:
Christmas in Austria feels like it’s straight out of a magical storybook. In Vienna, the Rathausplatz changes into a mindblowing wonderland. There will be over 150 stalls where local people will sell their handcrafted ornaments, candles, and refreshing gourmet treats. As you move around, try to soak in the aroma of roasted chestnuts that fill the air along with the beautiful choirs sung by professionals under the twinkling lights.
Moreover, Salzburg will offer you more of a traditional experience with the excellent medieval Old Town backdrop. Check out the snow-dusted rooftops, and the scent of mulled wine will also make this place an unforgettable holiday scene.
As mentioned above, the birthplace of the Christmas Market tradition is considered to be Germany. Therefore, the Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt is one of the oldest and most famous in the world. Here you can find numerous wooden stalls and canopies colored with red and white stripes. The best part is the ceremonial opening by the Christkind angel.
Moreover, as you move towards the market of Cologne, you will be astonished to find how it is set against the background of the iconic cathedral. Millions of visitors come here just to explore this. Furthermore, you can find everything from exotic wood carvings to delicious gingerbread, which is known as Lebkuchen.
One of the significant features of Belgium’s Christmas is its gourmet appeal. If you go to Brussels, check out the winter wonders. Some of the notable mentions are the massive ice rink, riding on the Ferris Wheel, and over 200 chalets that will offer splendid Belgian chocolates, waffles, and mulled wine.
Next stop at Bruges, as we know the place is famous for fairytale canals and medieval architecture. If you are going as a couple, then soak in the complete romantic settings of the market. Therefore, the whole city is just with the festive lights, which makes it a perfect weekend getaway destination.
Krakow is one of the hidden gems that are not known to all travellers except the frequent ones for having a great festive market. Moreover, the Rynek Glowny, which is the main square, hosts every year with a picturesque background surrounded by churches and townhouses.
Check out the handmade ornaments, traditional Polish sausages and the amazing folk performance which make this market a delightful place to visit.
Apart from the list above there are plenty of European Christmas markets that truly needs to be visited:
If you are a first timer and do not understand what kind of products are best to purchase. We have curated few recommended stuffs:
You must have got the idea now that every country has its version of the unique Christmas market tradition. For example, in Germany, the Christkind is the time that inaugurates the festivities. Then in Austria, it’s the local choirs that make markets lively with awesome festive music. Moreover, Belgium is famous for mixing the food culture with the Christmas spirit, whereas Poland has a lot of folklore and handicrafts.
Therefore, most of the markets will also include charity stalls, which then go to the local cause, which reminds everyone that the season is all about giving.
The Markets will open from late November and continue till Christmas Eve. Some even extend till the early month of January. We recommend that you visit during the early weeks of December, as the atmosphere will be delightful without any holiday rush.
If you travelling from UK, then allow us to recommend some itineraries:
We believe that these routes will surely allow you to enjoy a variety of Christmas Markets in Europe in the most unique way.
If you are a resident of the UK from another country and need a Schengen Visa from UK, it is necessary to apply as early as possible due to the rush of the holiday season. If you do not get an appointment slot, SCHENGEN VISA HELP UK can get it to you instantly. We have a team of experienced and dedicated staff members who work around the clock to get our clients an appointment slot as per their convenience. Our company has been there for 14 years in this field and has helped many clients. Just click on the “Apply Online” button to send us your details. Our experts will contact you immediately.
Therefore, Christmas Markets in Europe are something more than a holiday activity. It’s more of a cultural adventure, which is wrapped beautifully with twinkling lights and aromatic fragrance. Right from the fantastic Christmas Markets in Germany to the romantic canals of Christmas Markets in Belgium, every destination is waiting to tell you a visual story.
Furthermore, you can head to the Christmas Markets in Austria to enjoy the live choirs, take plenty of strolls on the snowy streets of Christmas Markets in Krakow, and enjoy a gourmet treat in Brussels. The experience will surely leave you with many memories.
Finally with the right planning, and booking your Schengen Visa appointment early, you can have a memorable UK to Europe Christmas trip.
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