Only 62 days until Christmas! Which means a wonderful time with friends, family, loved ones enjoying Christmas dinners, presents, Christmas trees… and Christmas markets! Many countries love to decorate their cities during Christmas with beautiful lighting, the biggest trees or even Christmas markets. Did you know that there can be found amazing Christmas markets in Europe? Today we tell you more about the most popular markets during this wonderful season.
Christmas markets in Europe
1. Brussels
The biggest Christmas market in Belgium is located in the capital: Brussels. You can visit this Christmas market from November 24 until December 31st. The 22-meter high Christmas tree and the life-sized stable with real animals make a visit to the Christmas market in Brussels definitely worth it! In total there are 240 stalls with the most beautiful Christmas decorations.
Enjoy the view of the illuminated city from the 48 meter high Big Wheel: The Ferris wheel has up to 18,000 lights incorporated. Afraid of heights? Then the skating rink might be something for you. If you do not have ice skates, don’t worry! It is possible to rent them here.
2. Düsseldorf
Many say that the best Christmas market in Germany the one in Düsseldorf is. But why is it so special? In the city there are 6 different squares with stalls with the best Christmas gifts and delicious snacks and drinks. Each square has a different style, so there is something for everyone. On the Marktplatz, the stalls were put in the same style as the buildings, and the Christmas market on the Heinrich-Heine Platz is entirely Art Nouveau style. All squares are connected and the amazing Christmas lights will guide you to the next Christmas market.
Besides that, the markets are also suitable for children. On the Schadowplatz, an indoor puppet theatre is specially designed for the little ones, and a ride in the carousel is always nice. Have they been too old for that? There is also an ice rink! Skate with them or watch them skating while enjoying a hot drink.
Christmas market in Düsseldorf | ANWB
3. Edinburgh
We all know that Edinburgh is a beautiful city, but even more during the winter! From November until January there are many things to do and see in an wonderful atmosphere. You can have an amazing view of Edinburgh from the Big Wheel, visit the carousel in East Princes Street Gardens or the ice rink on St Andrew Square. Travelling to Edinburgh with young children? Visit Santa Land! There are many attractions and they can stroll through the stalls with toys and all sorts of Christmas gifts.
In the city centre there are Christmas markets where you can try delicious foods and drinks while enjoying the amazing Christmas decorations. In addition, here you can also shop the best gifts and goods.
4. Amsterdam
The Christmas holidays are always special in Amsterdam. There are many activities: stroll through the many markets with all sorts of goods and gifts, visit the Dam with a big Christmas tree or the Museumplein with a ice rink, or try the fresh food stalls on the Leidseplein.
However, Amsterdam has more! From November 30, 2017 to January 21, 2018 the Amsterdam Light Festival takes place. Not only the streets are decorated with lights but also all the canals of the city! And to make it even better, there is a Christmas circus in the Royal Theatre Carré. Only the best international artist play in this show from December 22, 2017 tot January 8, 2018.
5. Vienna
The most popular and biggest Christmas market in Vienna is called “Christkindlmarkt” located at Rathausplatz. It is visited by many people and that is not so weird if you see how beautiful this Christmas market in decorated. Lights, trees and Christmas decorations everywhere!
In addition, there are many food stalls which sell their delicious specialities such as filled pastries, roasted chestnuts and all sorts of pretzels. And yes, of course there is an ice rink for the children. It is a wonderful place to enjoy and experience the Christmas spheres.
However, Vienna has more Christmas markets such as Spittelberg, Karlsplatz, Schönbrunn, Freyung…
Do you think we should add a Christmas market in Europe to our list? Let us know and tell us more about your experience with this specific Christmas market!