Best European Christmas Markets

Christmas may have only been a month ago but for those that love the holidays, this could be the inspiration to save for a trip to Europe this Christmas! There is something magical about Christmas time in Europe. If you love the holidays, the festive spirit and indulging in Christmas treats, then you are lucky!  Europe is packed with Christmas markets that will cheer you up, fill your stomach and your soul. Here are the best markets the continent has in store for you. 

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Lille

If you always dreamed of France in the winter time, Lille is the perfect Christmas destination. Every year the town transforms into a winter wonderland with the Place Rihour beautifully decorated with lights, and over 80 stalls offering Christmas decorations, nativities and some of the best food you can possibly taste. If you are looking for a small treat, try the macarons or the babeluttes (French toffee).  For something more savoury you can have a look at the variety of French cheeses, chow down on some tartiflette, or indulge in your favorite paté. For those traveling with kids, enjoy a ride on the star of the market: a 50 mts ferris wheel overlooking the entire city.

Düsseldorf

When it comes to Christmas markets, Germany is the country with the most tradition, and Düsseldorf’s Marktplatz is no exception. Set on a 14th century square, this market sees thousands of visitors every year who come in looking for a bit of holiday magic. With stands offering traditional toys, handpainted baubles and a huge arrangement of treats, it’s obvious why the market is so special to its visitors. This place represents the merry of the season.

The kids are usually excited to go on the carrousel, or watching the markets artisans working with iron, wood and blowing glass. The food and the beer are also outstanding so make sure to try the Kasewurst (Bratwurst filled with cheese), Schupfnudeln (potato noodles) and the crowd’s favorite Bratkartoffeln (German fries).

Bath

For those who want to enjoy Christmas in the UK, the market at Bath is one of the most impressive. With over 200 stalls, the streets around the Bath Abbey light up and visitors get to enjoy the best of the local traditions and artisans. When it comes to entertainment, you are able to enjoy the Christmas carols, or head over to Victoria Park for a skate in the ice rink. After working up an appetite, have a hand at the minced pies, and wash it all down with some ale.

Innsbruck

If you are thinking about a little white Christmas, Innsbruck is the place you’ve been dreaming off!  Vienna may be quite popular, but the snow covered mountains on Innsbruck are the perfect scenery for a winter wonderland. Even best, the whole town gets filled with the cheer of the holiday spirit and both tourists and locals meet up to enjoy the best of Austrian Christmas goodies at the christkindlmarkt held on the medieval square.

Satisfy the food cravings with some tasty Kaiserschmarren, a delicious shredded pancake usually served with nuts, cherries and plum sauce.  To keep yourself warm, enjoy a cup of spiced tea, or the usual glühwein.

If you are looking for some family entertainment, every afternoon they have wind playing at the Golden Roof balcony and  life performances of fairytales.

Montreux

With a mountain view on the brinks of Lake Geneva the Marche de Noel at Montreux is one of the most gorgeous Christmas Markets around Switzerland. With thousands of lights twinkling up in the sky, this is no doubt an Instagram worthy destination. In here you can enjoy over 160 stalls that feature artisanal gifts from gloves made out of sheepskin, to handcrafted nativities and other Christmas ornaments.

If you want to satisfy your sweet tooth, there  is a huge supply of crèpes and waffles

and of course being Switzerland, chocolate is all over the place. If you want something more savoury, you can never go wrong with some fondue or raclette.

When it comes to attractions, there is Santa’s flying sleigh and a light show on the facade of the Montreux palace.

Christmas is the season to be merry, and the Christmas markets around Europe help spread the magic of the festivities. From France, to Switzerland, they offer an experience that you don’t want to miss. So get saving for Christmas 2019!!