Best Christmas Markets in Europe
The magical time of Christmas and the festive season is one which millions look forward to each year, especially those in Northern Europe who have taken the essence of Christmas to heart. With a tradition dating back to the middle ages, Christmas markets signal the beginning of the festive season with mulled wine, scrumptious smells, handmade decorations and the cheery sound of laughter mixed in between Christmas carols.
For those looking to make the most out of their December break and reignite the joy Christmas brings to your family, visiting the Christmas markets in Europe is a guaranteed way to do just that. As the spread of covid slows down and the rate of vaccinations increases more countries are opening up their borders in the hope of helping the world heal from the challenging times of the pandemic. So why not spoil your family this Christmas and plan a holiday to one of the most magical places on Earth?
Top 5 Christmas Markets in Europe
Christmas markets now take place all over Europe and usually open in the last week of November. Providing warmth, light and fun all throughout the festive season here are some of the most top-rated markets to date,
Bruges in Belgium
During the festive season, the streets of Bruges are transformed by hundreds of Christmas trees, shimmering lights and wooden huts to form a wondrous winter wonderland. The city also offers ice-skating, winter bars and festive music to complete this fairytale-like experience. In order to visit this Christmas wonderland proof of covid vaccination is required.
Winter World and Christmas market at Potsdamer Platz
This famous market is located in Berlin, Germany and is well known for its delicious delicacies, tobogganing and mulled wines. Schmankerl and Salzburger Stiegl wooden huts line the square offering a variety of goods up for sale, many hours can be spent simply admiring the handcrafted goods. Festive music adds to the atmosphere along with various sporting options to keep everyone entertained and is free to enter.
Copenhagen, Denmark
The Danish have a word “hygge” which they use to describe the feeling of comfort, warmth and happiness that they experience during the festive season, you too could have the same experience if you choose Copenhagen as your holiday destination. The streets of Copenhagen come alive with Christmas lights, stalls, displays, trees and the delectable waft coming from the numerous food stalls. Located close to the Tivoli Gardens amusement park, this market attracts thousands of visitors every year.
Prague in the Czech Republic
Explore one of the most beautiful cities in Eastern Europe while joining in the festivities of the best Christmas market in the Czech Republic. Set up in the Old Town Square, this market has a backdrop of amazing architectural displays such as the Gothic Church of Our Lady and the medieval astronomical clock which is mounted on the town hall. Enjoy various European cuisines while browsing through hundreds of souvenir huts and soak up the Christmassy atmosphere spreading through the town.
Edinburgh in Scotland
This popular market is the most popular in the UK and is known for being one of the longest, opening the second week of November and only closing after the first week in January. Visitors flock to the city to enjoy Christmas snacks, souvenirs, amusement rides, mulled wine and ice-skating all under the magnificent view of Edinburgh castle. Tickets are required in order to use the various facilities and can be purchased on Edinburgh’s Christmas website.
Travel with Bridgewater Parking
As South Africa begins to recover from the covid-19 pandemic and get its covid cases under control more countries are allowing visitors from South Africa into their country. International flights have become more frequent from OR Tambo International Airport, should you require safe and reliable valet services while travelling this festive season give Bridgewater Parking a call on +27 76 591 1728 or visit our website: https://bridgewaterparking.co.
