Where the spirit of Christmas reigns: holiday markets in Europe

The first snowflakes are already beginning to cover the roofs of old European cities. And the aromas of mulled wine and freshly baked cookies can be felt on every street. At this time, a real winter fairy tale begins. And where can you find it but at the magical Christmas markets? Today, we're going to tell you where whole neighborhoods are transformed into atmospheric corners.

Prague, Czech Republic

The attraction is located on Old Town Square, near the Town Hall, and is considered the largest in the capital. It is here that you can see the main Christmas tree of the country. The fair will run from November 30 to January 6, 2025.

We advise you to try traditional dishes of the region: baked pork knuckle Vepřové koleno and Czech bread vánočka. You can also buy Bohemian glassware, handmade items, and puppets.

By the way, on New Year's Eve, tourists often meet near the Orloj clock. To wait for the bell to chime.

For entertainment, head to the Havlíčkovy Sad. A skating rink opens here in late fall.

We also recommend attending an evening Advent concert at the State Theater. The building was built in 1783. It once hosted the premieres of Mozart's operas Don Giovanni and The Mercy of Titus.

Vienna, Austria

The Christmas attraction is located near the Rathausplatz. It opens at the end of November and lasts until about December 26.

There are more than a hundred tents with food and souvenirs. We recommend trying Viennese sausages and Glühwein. You can buy an alcoholic drink in a souvenir cup.

There is also a skating rink with an area of more than 3000 square meters. Keep in mind that tickets are much cheaper on the website.

Be sure to visit Maria-Theresien-Platz. During Advent, a whole village with 70 stalls is set up here. Here tourists can buy unique themed gifts. For street exhibitions and concerts, head to the Art Advent Market Karlsplatz.

We also recommend going to the Ferris wheel in Prater Park. The height of the structure is 65 meters. It has existed since the XIX century, so it is considered the oldest of such attractions in the world.

Nuremberg, Germany

Christkindlesmarkt is one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe. It was first mentioned in 1628. The attraction is located on the Hauptmarkt square near the City Hall.

The pavilions appear at the end of November. Here, travelers will be able to taste Nuremberg's minced pork sausages, Drei im Weggla. The dish has been around since 1497. We also recommend trying traditional Lebkuchen gingerbread at the Woitinek bakery. The establishment has been operating for over 100 years.

Tourists can also buy handmade Christmas tree decorations and dolls. If you're traveling with kids, keep in mind that there are interesting activities for them: pony rides, carousels, etc. You can take atmospheric photos in the Handwerkerhof, an old shopping district with craft shops and restaurants. By the way, you can see a golden angel - Rauschgoldengel - flying over the streets of Nuremberg. There is a legend that the messenger of heaven appeared here in the 16th century, during the Thirty Years' War. It was created by a toy maker to cure his sick daughter.

Budapest, Hungary

The Karácsonyi vásár Christmas Market is located on Vörösmarty tér Square. It is popular with gourmets and lovers of folk crafts.

Before the goods get to the counter, they undergo a special selection process. That's why only high-quality products are sold here. We recommend trying the traditional Hungarian goulash in bread, marzipan sweets, and warm cherry beer.

They also often organize light shows and concerts of different styles of music.

We also recommend visiting the fair near St. Istvan's Basilica. There is a large Christmas tree and a skating rink.

And, of course, take a stroll along Váci Street, which turns into the center of festive decorations during Advent.

Strasbourg, France

Interesting fact: the city is called the capital of Christmas. Since 1570, it has been hosting the Christkindelsmärik, one of the largest fairs in Europe.

There are more than 300 wooden stalls where travelers can buy handmade products, traditional jewelry, and gifts.

Be sure to try the local gingerbread and hot cinnamon wine.

There is also a "Christmas Castle" where kids can meet the Angel.

We recommend going to the Strasbourg Cathedral. The height of the building reaches 142 meters. Its construction began in 1015 and was completed in 1439. The shrine is considered a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.

Do not miss the opportunity to plunge into the Christmas atmosphere!

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