With Halloween over and fireworks night celebrations taking place tonight – the next main event to start planning is of course, Christmas.
A great way to start the festive season is to attend one of the many Christmas markets held in most major European cities, these trips aren’t too costly and can be a perfect mini-break.
Beautiful cities such as Paris, Belgium and Copenhagen set up wooden huts on their cobbled streets, as the sounds of traditional carols and the smells of roasting chestnuts and mulled wine mingle in the air giving it that extra Christmassy feeling.
These markets give you a chance to escape the hectic atmosphere often experienced in our local towns and give you the opportunity buy unique gifts for friends and family. They also get you into the festive spirit, offering a fairytale-like setting, with ice rinks, Ferris Wheels and more importantly; snow.
Visitors to the markets can enjoy browsing traditional locally crafted items such as glassware, toys, jewelry and handmade clothing items. But perhaps one of the biggest attractions is the wide selection of local foods that are on offer.
With over 300 stalls at most markets, millions of people flock to Europe to experience the unique charm each individual city has to offer. Whether you want to purchase the local produce and handicrafts or just experience the wonderful Christmas atmosphere, it seems that there is a market for everyone.
The European Christmas Markets begin on November 23rd and run until the New Year. Deals can be found online on sites such as Wowcher and Groupon, one day and one night could cost you as little as £89.
Top 3 Christmas Markets:
- Prague, Czech Republic – Held in the gothic Old Town Square with a giant glittering tree amongst a nativity-themed zoo. Traditional gourmet delights include vanocvka, a breaded pastry with raisins, and vosi hnizda, biscuits made with nuts and rum.
- Budapest, Hungary – With a magical Christmas atmosphere, sample delicious Hungarian pastries whilst watching one of the live puppet performances. There is lots of mulled wine and festive cheer on offer.
- Lucerne, Switzerland – Plenty of Swiss chocolate and wonderful cheeses at the markets in Lucerne, there is also a chance to watch live music and with temperatures below -4oC, snow is guaranteed, making a true white Christmas experience.
Lydia Clayton
