The 7 Best Christmas Markets In The World
Every year millions of Brits flock to Christmas markets around the globe, and with good reason. Where better to get into the holiday spirit than against the backdrop of some of the most amazing cities in the world!
But with the big day less than two months away, it can be a daunting task working out exactly which market to visit. But fret not, yuletide friends! We’ve compiled a list of some of our favourites to help you on your way to a hassle-free Christmas.
1. London, Hyde Park - Winter Wonderland
If you’re looking for some domestic delights this Christmas, Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland is not to be missed. Located in central London, it’s one of the most easily accessible Christmas markets on the map, being in the centre of London, and with fast connections via the Underground from Heathrow, Gatwick and City Airport, it’s a great place to either start your holiday early, or keep the festivities going when you’re back.
With over 100 spectacular rides, including nine roller coasters as well as plenty of child-friendly attractions, there really is something for everyone here. Our top tip? If you’re looking to take in one of Winter Wonderland’s live shows, book in advance to avoid some occasionally horrendous queue times. We recommend Cirque Berserk, featuring acts of jaw-dropping acrobatics and daredevilry.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a Christmas market without a veritable smorgasbord of food and drink options, varying from all manner of sweet treats to a Barvarian beer village, complete with wood fires and a hog roast.
Open from 21st November 2019 to 5th January 2020.
2. Bruges
Just a short hop across the Channel, Bruges’ Christmas market looks as if pulled from the pages of a fairy tale. The main square is the focal point of the market, lined with countless stalls selling a variety of Christmas inspired food, drink and crafts. If you fancy yourself the next Torville or Dean, the beautiful ice rink also enhances the cosy and vibrant Christmas atmosphere.
You simply can’t leave Bruge without enjoying some genuine Belgium chocolate. But you have to be careful, there are only eight that actually sell handmade chocolate! One that we recommend is Chocolaterie Jan De Clerck, an old fashioned shop a short walk from Market Square and conveniently located next to an amazing beer shop. The evenings in Bruges are especially idyllic, there’s something truly special about taking a stroll along the canals with brief interludes of mulled wine or hot chocolate; you’re guaranteed to have a perfect Christmas evening.
Open from 22nd November 2019 to 1st January 2020.
3. Nuremberg- (Nürnberger Christkindlesmarkt)
Nuremberg's Christkindlesmarkt is one of the world’s oldest Christmas markets, dating back to 1530. Renowned for its famous gingerbread (Lebkuchen), make sure to try the chocolate covered ones from the Lebkuchen-Schmidt stand!
The German chalets, with striking red and white tiled roofs, surround the perimeter of the main market square; paired with twinkling lights and Christmas carols, they create the perfect setting for a traditional festive break. It has over 180 stalls, selling colourful handcrafted German nutcrackers, hand painted Christmas ornaments and nativity sets. If you’re planning a getaway in mid-December, make sure to watch the Lantern Procession (12th December), where children walk through the streets and up to the castle to stage the Christmas story. Performed every year since 1948, when Nuremberg was in ruins following the Second World War, it’s a particularly moving display.
Open from 28th November to 23rd December 2019.
4. Salzburg- (Salzburg Christkindlmarkt)
Staying in historic Germany, the Cathedral Square provides a truly romantic setting to host the oldest market in Salzburg, originating in 1491. Salzburg Cathedral serves as a magnificent setting to this fairy tale inspired market, where senses are heightened by the alluring fragrance of baked apples, candy floss, mulled wine and Austrian specialities such as Weihnachtsstollenm. Hosting over 90 events, including exciting processions of Perchten in their frightening masks and costumes, alongside a stream of folk song and dance performances - a highlight being the Advent Brass Concert. Its unique romantic atmosphere is augmented by specially designed lighting that stretches above the market, creating an illuminating starry sky.
Open from 22nd November to 26th December 2019.
5. Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen
Copenhagen’s world famous Tivoli Gardens is at its best in December; the fairground rides and assortment of permanent stalls provide the ideal location for a spectacular Christmas market. Alongside the traditional festive market, three different beautiful light shows are displayed throughout the gardens, alongside traditional Pixie bands performing festive songs.
St Lucia’s Day (December 13th) is a particular highlight, an ancient ceremony during which 100 girls pass through the gardens carrying candles and singing. If you happen to be in Copenhagen for Christmas Day itself, you can also experience Tivoli Garden’s incredible fireworks display.
Open from November 16th 2019 to January 5th 2020.
6. Helsinki - ‘The Christmas City’
The home of Father Christmas and Lapland, Finland is the perfect Christmas destination if you’re travelling with young children! Usually the city is blanketed white in time for the Christmas celebrations, with the first substantial snow of the year falling just in time, creating the most picturesque traditional festive ambience. To make up for the lack of winter sun, the Helsinki Christmas markets provide a welcome warmth and all manner of festive delights, ranging from mulled wine, or glögi (paired extremely well with gingerbread cookies) to glowing window decorations, as well as traditional carol recitials. If you want to make the most of your trip to Finland, why not venture to the Winter Circus, which runs from November 9 until January 14, and includes a miraculous display of circus performers and artists, combining video, art, and dance.
Open from 1st December to 22nd December 2019.
7. Toronto
If you fancy going further afield, why not take a trip to Toronto, one of the biggest Christmas Markets in North America. It’s situated within the city’s Distillery Historic District, an enchanting backdrop for a dazzling 50-foot Christmas tree, Santa’s grotto, fairground rides, beer gardens and a mass of European influenced vendors. One to note is the ‘Wafel Bar’, providing a little taste of Belgium in the form of authentic caramelised Liege style waffles.
In the last few years, a 100ft long light tunnel has been erected, an interactive installation that can only be truly experienced in person.
Open from November 14th to December 22nd, 2019 (excluding Mondays).
Book your holiday extras early
It pays to book your airport hotel as soon as you book your flights. Prices usually go up nearer the date you fly, so you can usually save money by visiting us as soon as you've booked your trip.
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