Christmas is right around the corner and lovers of the festive season have been told the best festive markets to visit across Europe.
The team at Busuu have researched eight of the most joyful European Christmas markets to visit this year to get into the festive spirit.
From a decadent fresh hot chocolate in Brussels to a chimney cake in Budapest, the options for food are endless let alone the countless Christmas themed activities across the markets.
Local trades will be looking to bring festive spirit to the public, with food, drinks, crafts and handmade gifts featuring on all of the best Christmas markets across Europe.
A spokesperson for Busuu said: “Christmas markets are truly one of the best ways to really get into the festive spirit.
“With mulled wine and hot chocolate, traditional foods and roasted marshmallows, handcrafted gifts and ice skating, Europe knows how best to do markets come Christmas time.
“Every country has different Christmas traditions but they all have one theme in common: spending time with loved ones over the festive period.
“Now is the perfect time to take a short break away to Europe with your nearest and dearest to take a look round what each market has to offer.”
Here are Busuu‘s top eight European Christmas markets to visit this Christmas:
- 1. Munich, Germany
The Munich market will be held around the Marienplatz this year. It dates back to the 14th century, with stalls showcasing Bavarian charm including arts, craft and delicious culinary treats. Fun activities include The Himmelswerkstatt (Heavenly Workshop) for children aged 6-12 with free crafting activities.
Running from 21st November to 24th December 2022.
- 2. Basel, Switzerland
Considered to be one of the prettiest Christmas markets in Switzerland, the market at Barfüsserplatz and Münsterplatz will host 130 unique stalls boasting everything from painted baubles to hand-painted cookies. After a bite to eat, head over to the cathedral to admire the beautiful fairy lights and get a family snap for Instagram.
Running from 24th November to 23 December 2022.
- 3. Poznan, Poland
Poznan’s famous International ice sculpting competition is the largest contest of its type in Europe and it returns for another year in the Old Market Square. Watch artists sculpt large blocks of ice whilst enjoying the historic atmosphere and architecture that Poznan has to offer.
Running from 19th November to 27th December 2022.
- 4. Budapest, Hungary
The glorious St. Stephen’s Basilica provides a scenic backdrop for the capital’s festive Advent. There you will find beautiful handicrafts and special Hungarian delicacies including Chimney Cake. Chimney cake is a sweet dough, rolled in sugar and baked on hot charcoal. They’re coated in festive flavours including cinnamon, vanilla, cacao and walnut.
Running from 18th November 2022 to 1st January 2023.
- 5. London, England
Hosted in England’s capital, the extremely popular Winter Wonderland is back for another year and bigger than ever. With ice sculpting classes and roller coasters, London’s biggest festive event has everything you could dream of for the perfect festive day out.
Running from 18th November 2022 to 2nd January 2023.
- 6. Brussels, Belgium
Brussels comes alive with its Christmas markets. The cobbled streets and squares are full of snow-dusted chalets, pop up eateries and buzzing bars. The markets take place on and around Grand-Place, Bourse, Place Sainte-Catherine and Marché aux Poissons.
Running from 25th November 2022 to 1st January 2023.
- 7. Prague, Czech Republic
The Prague Christmas Markets are at the Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square with stalls, tasty food and local drinks to enjoy. Popular foods to enjoy include large hams roasted on spits, smoked sweet meat dumplings and pancakes. Other attractions include nativity scenes and carol singing by local school children. In Old Town Square is the giant Christmas tree dressed in baubles and lights.
Running from 26th November 2022 to 6 January 2023.
- 8. Salzburg, Austria
The Christmas market in Salzburg dates back to 1491 and takes place on Cathedral Square, located at the foot of the Hohensalzburg fortress and around the Cathedral of Salzburg. It’s the perfect place to shop, be tempted by the delicious smell of apples and enjoy warming festive drinks. Other highlights include the Advent Brass Concert, folk song and dance performances and exciting processions.
Running from 17th November 2022 to 1st January 2023.
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