You’ve come to the right place to learn about different Christmas markets around Europe!
Now that Thanksgiving is over, this means one of the most festive ways to get into the holiday spirit is here: Christmas markets! This means ornately decorated stalls nestled together in city streets selling hand-painted glass ornaments, seasonal foods, and all-around holiday cheer. You might not expect it, but there is plenty of Christmas magic across Europe this time of year. You’ve come to the right place to learn about different Christmas markets around Europe. Read on to learn more!
The Best Christmas Markets in Germany
The German Christmas markets are the originals and a few of the best. They date back to the 1300s, and many of them still celebrate traditions from the old days. You will find richly decorated Christmas stalls and foods like Kartoffelpuffer and bratwurst. Some suggestions for the best Christmas markets include Heidelberg, Munich, Nuremberg, and Dresden. Most towns in Germany, even the smaller ones, all offer a Weihnachtsmarkt, so you can’t go wrong! Nuremberg is steeped in tradition, and you will find plenty to do. Munich is the one who started Christmas markets, so it would be a shame not to go there as well.
The Best Christmas Markets in France
Going to France is like walking right into a Currier and Ives print. The perfectly placed gingerbread houses by the Christmas stalls, music, and sweet-smelling pastries are a feast for your senses. The most beautiful markets are in Strasbourg and Colmar, located in the Alsace region. Strasbourg’s Christmas markets are scattered throughout the city, and each one is prettier than the next. The décor is over-the-top but very fun. The background of the Notre Dame cathedral makes a big statement over the square, but the real highlight is the 30-meter-tall Christmas tree there! They call Strasbourg the Capital of Christmas, and for good reason. Colmar is great, too, with each building adorned with lights, ornaments, and teddy bears. Everywhere you look is a half-timbered landscape of multicolored houses. It definitely looks like a doll’s playhouse.
The Best Christmas Markets in Switzerland
The ideal place for a winter wonderland is definitely Switzerland. You will find ski chalets right next to Christmas markets and, of course, the incredible Alps. The best markets are located in Basel, Lucerne, Bern, and Zurich.
We at AESU have our Euro Focus trip upcoming, which takes you through various European countries. Visit our website to learn more!
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