Christmas is around the corner. The shops are full of decorations and the sense of dread at doing the Christmas shopping is starting to seep in. You’ve heard a Christmas song on the radio and conceded that it’s officially Christmas time. To kick-start your Christmas mood this November, we wanted to do a Zest roundup of the very best Christmas markets in Europe that we think you should explore next.
Just imagine for a second, exploring stalls selling handmade Christmas items, the smell of cooked mince pies and gingerbread filling the air. Mulled wine and winter woolly hats to keep you warm while you really soak in the atmosphere at these fantastic Christmas markets.
Tallinn Christmas Markets, Estonia
Open from 15/11/2019 to 07/01/2020
The Christmas markets in the Estonian capital of Tallinn are regarded as the best in Europe. They were voted as the number 1 by customers and independent reviewers as the go-to choice for 2019 so we had to include them here. Let’s take a look and see why they’re such a hit with more than half a million travellers from around the world every year.
The true joy of the fabulous Tallinn Christmas markets isn’t just in the wonderful atmosphere, food, stalls and attractions. It’s in how authentic the whole experience is. Everything from the food, to the selection of goods and the stalls, are unmistakeably Estonian and unique. Estonian’s really bring to life their Pagan heritage during the Christmas period and this is plain to see whilst exploring the markets. The smell of oven-roasted potatoes and pork fills the air which is the quintessential Estonian Christmas dinner. Special Christmas bread, which is sort of like an Estonian sweet pretzel, is available to enjoy as you explore and take it all in.
You can enjoy local hot drinks, food and music as you wander between the stalls surrounded by dancers, singers and musicians. All the performers hosted and orchestrated by Santa Claus himself.
This year is the 800th anniversary of Tallinn. To celebrate, the Tallinn city museum will be organising an hour and a half long Christmas stroll. All to celebrate how Tallinn came to be and the history of Christmas celebrations in the town.
Budapest Christmas Markets, Hungary
Open from 08/11/2019 to 01/01/2020
Why not explore the fantastic atmosphere and culture of the Hungarian Christmas markets in Budapest? The markets are set up right in front of St. Stephens Basilica to add a fantastic backdrop to your getaway.
These markets in Budapest are the most affordable Christmas market in Europe so this is definitely the one to check out if you’re on a budget. Admission to these markets is completely free so there’s no price to taking your time to soak it all up. There’s plenty of tasty local food and drink to enjoy and with over 100 different stalls. All of which are beautifully decorated with stunning lights and ornaments.
The local unique food and drink is also special. From stuffed cabbage, goulash, grilled meats and sausages. To more local favourites like sekler cakes, beigli and flodni. You’ll be spoilt for choice.
The background will be filled with live music from folk, jazz and blues bands between 5pm and 8pm. Even later on weekends to keep the fun going.
Strasbourg Christmas Markets, France
Open from 22/11/2019 to 30/12/2019
Known as the capital of Christmas, Strasbourg is one of the most popular Christmas market destinations in Europe. With over 300 stalls, miles of lights, Christmas trees and concerts, it’s a Christmas experience you won’t forget.
Walking the aisles between the stalls you’ll be spoilt for choice. Stunning ornaments, gifts, mulled wine and a fantastic selection of local food and treats. Also, because Strasbourg is right on the French-German border, there will be a huge variety of everything, a great mix of French and German culture. The market takes place amidst 100 chalets and is the oldest market in France. It’s beautifully decorated with stunning local pottery, tablecloths, jewellery and everything between.
While these markets are on, the whole city is lit up like a literal Christmas tree. This turns the entire city into a stunning sight as you head into the late afternoon. The market is open until 8pm too so you’ve more than enough time to explore and take it all in as the sun sets.
Vienna Christmas Markets, Austria
Open from 23/11/2019 to 05/01/2020
Lastly but certainly not least, we come to Vienna, Austria. Vienna has a fantastic and rich Christmas market history. The precursors to these markets dates back to 1298 and “Krippenmarkt”. Which was a simple market held in Vienna during the December months.
This long-held tradition has evolved into an annual December takeover of the streets of Vienna. It has exploded and evolved into something everyone can enjoy and experience. There’s a big focus on the handmade and unique with hand-blown glass snowmen, Christmas tree balls made of printed paper and much more.
All of these wonderful stalls and lights are set against the fantastic backdrop of the Vienna city hall. This unique setting means everything is an experience. From simply walking about taking it all into sitting down to eat is unique and special. The ground floor of the city hall also has a play area dedicated to kids to even the younger ones have something to look forward to every day.
That’s our top pick of European Christmas markets, have you been to one in the last few years that you’d recommend we add to this list? Let us know in the comments! Wherever you head to, we work with fantastic car hire providers in these locations. As well as many more around Europe including, Munich, Erful, Barcelona, Florence and Frankfurt!
