Christmas markets are incredibly popular across Europe and make for a great excuse to travel abroad around the holidays. The atmosphere among the stalls is magic. The fairy lights draped along the top of them provide a soft festive glow among the dark and chilly winter evening. Each vendor displays its own beautiful items, most often handmade. Markets are amazing and get you in the Christmas spirit as you browse and sip some mulled wine. Here are some of the best Christmas markets from across the world.
This Christmas market in the central square in Nuremberg’s old town has been vending since the 17th century. It’s one of the largest in Germany and has 180 stalls, each decorated with red and white stripes. Throughout the market, you’ll find traditional German food such as Nuremberg grilled sausages or chocolate-covered gingerbread called Nürnberger Lebkuchen. The market also offers a twist on mulled wine with a blueberry flavoured wine called Heidelbeer Glühwein.
2. Tivoli Gardens – Copenhagen, Denmark
Held in the world’s second oldest amusement park, the Tivoli Gardens market is definitely one to visit. The scene is like one out of a fairytale or a storybook – lights dazzle the area as trees line the market, the scent of warm food fills the aisles and the sounds of laughter from an ice-skating rink on a frozen lake can be heard at certain intervals. The Star Flyer is an 80m tall swing-ride that lifts you up to see panoramic views of Copenhagen. The mulled wine, or glõgg, will heat you up before you get pancake puffs, or æbleskiver, with jam and sugar. You must try the roasted pork sandwich with red cabbage while visiting the gardens.
3. Old Town Square – Prague, Czech Republic
There are many markets in this city, but Old Town Square is one of the best. The stalls are presented as wooden huts and surround a massive Christmas tree. Traditional Czech food such as barbecued pork and blood sausage can be purchased. Instead of mulled wine, enjoy some medovina, a honey wine known as mead in English.
4. Toronto Christmas Market – Toronto, ON, Canada
We may not think of Canada when we think of Christmas markets. In fact, we may not even think of anywhere outside of Europe. However, this market in Toronto’s Distillery District has a lot to offer. It’s located among industrial brick buildings and charming cobblestoned streets. In the market itself, you’ll find wooden stalls decorated with lights and a life-sized gingerbread house. There are many different food options. From Belgian waffles to German bratwursts, there’s a lot of treats inspired by European markets. However, you’ll also find some Canadian spins on foods such as french fries teamed with gravy and soft cheese curds. There is a carousel and a Ferris wheel to take in the views of the city.
5. Albert Square – Manchester, England
Traditionally, continental Europe would have been the hotspot for Christmas markets but Britain has entered the “market” in recent years. The market at Albert Square in Manchester is a particularly good one. It’s divided into different sections such as world market, French market, German market and a section for families with an ice-rink in Cathedral Gardens. There are over 300 stalls showcasing handmade crafts and food alike. You’ll find the likes of grilled cheese sandwiches, German Flammkuchen (similar to pizzas with cheese and meat), Bavarian Strudels and French crêpes.
What are your favourite Christmas market locations? Let us know down in the comments! Check out our list here of Christmas markets to visit in Ireland.
