Most people do not really believe in magic. Not until the Christmas season arrives – the time of the year when the magic reveals itself and people get to see it with their own eyes. There is no place on the Earth that is not magical during this time of the year, but yet there are places where Christmas magic is more present than in the others – the Christmas markets in Europe.
So here are the top 5 most magical Christmas markets in Europe:
Dresden Striezelmarkt
First founded back in 1434, Dresden Strizelmarkt is the oldest and the most charming Christmas market in Germany. In addition, Dresden Spriezelmarkt is also one of the most traditional ones in the country since it includes many traditions from local industries such as mining, pottery, and woodworking. The most popular attraction of the market is definitely the Christmas wooden arch which displays figures and candles symbolizing the candles of the miners back in the day.
Hot wine, Christmas lights, and Christmas carols – Dresden Spritzelmarkt is the place to go if you want to feel the Christmas magic of Saxony.
Time: November 28th to December 24th
Zagreb Advent Christmas Festival
Hot wine, gingerbread cookies, Christmas carols, and a bunch of colorful lights – Croatia’s capital has been voted as “best Christmas market destination in Europe” for three years straight! And of course, there are many reasons for that!
Not only it offers its visitor a chance to see live ice sculpture carvings, ice rink performances, and super delicious street food, but it also has an area dedicated for “fooling around”! Yet again, the most popular attraction of them all is The Jolly Christmas Tram where kids could cruise through the heart of the city in the company of Santa and his elves.
Time: December 1st to January 6th
Trento Christmas Market
Just imagine how magical the twinkling Christmas atmosphere can be with the stunning scenery of the Alps in the background. Sounds like a fairytale, but that’s exactly how Trento’s ‘Citta del Natale’ (Christmas Town, situated in Piazza Fiera and Piazza Cesare Battisti) is.
As if that is not enough, you would also have a chance to get some high-quality Italian cheese and dried orange slices right below the impressive 13th century Buonconsiglio Castle while moving in the rhythm of some Italian Christmas songs!
Time: November 24th to January 6th
The Viennese Dream Christmas Market
First held in 1298, the Viennese Christmas Market is considered to be one of the most traditional markets in the world! With more than 150 stalls and 20 events to choose from, this Christmas Market takes place right in front of City Hall, one of the biggest attractions of Austria.
If you decide to visit it, make sure to try the traditional Austrian sausage and get your kid a reindeer ride! Oh and, of course, don’t forget to get ready for some ice skating as Viennese Christmas Market has a huge ice rink which is the market’s most popular attraction among the visitors.
To learn more about Vienna, check out my other blog post.
Time: November 16th to December 26th
Prague Christmas Market
And the best was saved for last – Prague Christmas Market! You probably have already heard about the legendary Christmas Markets of Prague which take place at Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square which are just a few minutes away from each other!
What makes these Christmas markets in Europe so authentic are actually the treats that could be found on the stalls. Klobasa (Czech sausage) and trdelník (grilled pastry, rolled in cinnamon and sugar) are the most popular specialties among the visitors. And of course, to warm up and get more smoothly in a festive mood, make sure to get a glass of hot wine in the middle of that mixture of Christmas lights and Gothic architecture.
Time: December 1st to January 6th
Final Thoughts
The Christmas season is indeed the most wonderful time of the year! Hence, you should enjoy every single second of it regardless of where you are. However, if you have a chance then I highly recommend you to spend it in some of the above-listed Christmas markets in Europe. Trust me, it will definitely be an unforgettable Christmas experience especially if you love Christmas as much as I do!
Further reading:
5 Cities in Europe You Should Never Visit for Christmas
Prepare Authentic Gingerbread Men Cookies
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