European Christmas Markets

If you want to experience some Christmas Magic, spend your winter days wandering around all of Prague’s festive markets. The well-known Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square never fail to impress with their selection of Christmas wares and gingerbread men, the beautifully-decorated Christmas tree and the petting zoo, a favourite for the whole family.

The Belgian city of Antwerp will transform into a full-blown winter playground this Christmas season, which will run from December 7th until January 5th. Anyone visiting during this period can take advantage of the 1000-square-metre ice skating rink smack in the heart of Groenplaats, and enjoy smooth gliding under a roof designed to emulate a starry sky. Grote Markt will be another happening hot spot, with its giant Christmas trees and hanging winter garden sparkling with magical lights, plus a scattering of inviting Christmas Market stands, which, in addition to the classic 'spekpatatjes' (fried potatoes with bacon), will this year be taking you on a culinary journey across the world, with delightful treats like fish & chips and steamy Vietnamese ‘pho’ soup. Antwerp’s city center is compact enough to easily get around on foot. While you do so, remember to wander through the entrancing winter forest of tree sculptures and natural moss in Handschoenmarkt, and pay a visit to the irresistibly cosy Steenplein with its inviting, family-friendly Bar Den and multiple tiny heaters to warm up at.

As the capital of Germany, Berlin has much to offer its visitors - not only when it comes to sightseeing but also around Christmas time. Walking around the city’s more than 60 different Christmas markets will give you the right giggles and jiggles the season requires. All of them are unique and charming in their own way and have their own bit of Christmas magic. Charlottenburg Castle and Gendarmenmarkt are two favourites in Berlin that will give you a taste of the classic winter wonderland.

Vörösmarty Square is the place to go if you are visiting the Hungarian capital between November 9th and the 1st of January. Stop by and experience why this one is one of the most popular Christmas Markets in Europe. Be sure to walk among the stall shutters, but don’t stop there - take a look at the huge advent calendar on the Gerbeaud building and look for live entertainment along the way.

When Christmas time comes around, Sweden gets its locals ready with some glögg and pepparkakor. Sipping mulled wine while chewing on thin ginger biscuits is a typical Swedish way of celebrating the most wonderful time of the year. Don't miss out on the amazing Christmas Market in the capital - step into the winter wonderland that is Stockholm. Visit the beautifully-decorated stalls right in front of the Nobel Museum, where your children can happily play on the tombola for just a few cents.

At the heart of Trondheim you will not only find stalls but also traditional tepee-style tents where you have the chance to buy your very own woollen jumper - a great way to experience the real Christmas-feeling that spreads around Norway. While munching on some berry-flavoured cheese, hop on a sleigh and let the horses take you for an amazing ride in the beautiful snowy surroundings.

Just a short drive away from the Swiss capital, you will find a Christmas market that will set your heart abuzz. St Gallen has the tallest Christmas tree in the country, which is decorated with countless lights. To top off the experience, you can hear the songs of carollers around the clock. During your stay in St Gallen, try out the local specialities, such as biberli and feuerzangenbowle, just the treats to get you in the right mood.

Visiting Brussels between the end of November and January 6th, you will not only find yourself in the middle of a shiny Christmas market along the Place Sainte Catherine but you will also have the chance to experience an elegant sound-and-light show on the Grand Place. Christmas wares and beautiful handmade souvenirs can be found all over the market’s 240 wooden chalets – but be sure not miss out on the traditional Belgian waffle, as well.

Spending a winter break in London is an excellent choice. The Christmas lights in the city light up ceremoniously already in November, so if you are around, don't miss out on the parade either. For the holiday season, Hyde Park turns into a real winter wonderland, offering not only the traditional stalls but also the largest outdoor skating rink of the city. Strap on your skates and head out onto the ice. Wander around the different Christmas markets of London, stop by a Christmas concert or experience the carol sing-along at the Royal Albert Hall.

Senate Square is the place where you have to go if you are looking for a huge Christmas Market in Finland. The capital of the country will not leave you hanging - visit the market's more than 100 beautifully decorated Christmas stalls for real Finnish crafts, hand-made Christmas decorations and much more. If you feel like it is getting chilly, buy a pair of woollen gloves or warm up with some glögi (traditional Finnish spicy mulled wine) at the Food Yard.

The Christmas Market in Gdansk is not only a traditional market but an attraction as well. Besides meeting Santa Claus, riding a carousel horse and skating around the ice rink, visitors can explore the traditionally decorated Christmas trees from all over Europe that are exhibited at the fair. Don't worry about your tummy either - cakes, chocolate covered fruit and different roasted nuts are just a few of all the culinary delights waiting for you in Gdansk.