① Vienna’s Giant Christmas Market
As winter approaches, many of you are probably eagerly awaiting Christmas. With the chill in the air, it feels like Christmas is just around the corner. It’s time to pull out the Christmas tree, decorate it, and immerse yourself in the Christmas spirit while listening to carols. Many tourists plan their trips around the Christmas season. In particular, the Christmas markets in Europe attract attention from people worldwide every year.
In Vienna, the capital of Austria, the festivities have already begun. They started on November 11th and will continue until December 26th.
More than three markets are taking place within the old town of Vienna alone. Markets are held in Rathausplatz, Hofburg Palace Square, and Maria Theresa Square. This shows how much Vienna values its Christmas markets.
The Christmas market in front of the city hall is considered a must-visit during a winter trip to Vienna.
Its size is so large that it can be seen from afar. Rathausplatz, centered around Vienna City Hall, transforms into a dazzling atmosphere in winter. With a giant tree, a huge ice rink, and a big market, there are plenty of places to explore.
② Eastern European Christmas Festivals
The Prague, Czech Republic festival is also not to be missed. December 25th is their biggest holiday and festival each year. It is considered one of the most beautiful markets in Europe. In Prague, various festivals occur in the old town and new town every year-end. This year’s Christmas market will run from December 2nd to January 6th, 2024. You can enjoy a splendid and romantic market every night in Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square.
The most famous market in Prague is held in Old Town Square. A giant tree stands tall at about 72 feet, and the surrounding market allows you to enjoy the Christmas atmosphere fully.
It’s also nice to warm up with a cup of hot honey wine, which has a subtle cinnamon scent, and enjoy the market. You can also enjoy delicious food such as sweet trdelník, also known as chimney bread, and juicy ham while exploring the market.
The Christmas market in Budapest, Hungary, is also famous. Budapest becomes even more dazzling and romantic in winter. The sight of lights illuminating the world’s largest Parliament building and the Danube River is truly moving. Many tourists visit Budapest during the Christmas season, braving the cold weather.
The market held at Budapest Cathedral and Vörösmarty Square offers a cold but heartwarming scene. You can enjoy the festival in Budapest from November 24th to December 31st this year.
Locals often spend the end of the year filled with joy at the market held in St. Stephen’s Basilica Square in Budapest. Here, you can enjoy snacks and artwork from over 100 artisans and food vendors. You can also experience the joyous Christmas markets of Eastern Europe in Budapest.
③ Cities with a Romantic Atmosphere
Munich, Germany, is also one of the European destinations that takes Christmas seriously. The largest Christmas market in Germany is held in the capital, Munich. The festival held at Marienplatz runs from November 27th to December 24th. The city is filled with warm lights and a strong Christmas atmosphere during this period.
Although not well-known to tourists, the market held in Erfurt, located in the central Thuringia state of Germany, is also famous. The Erfurt Christmas market, held in front of St. Mary’s Cathedral in the old town, runs from November 28th to December 22nd. With the cathedral as a backdrop, the scenery is breathtaking. A Ferris wheel adds to the festive atmosphere, allowing you to enjoy the festival entirely.
The Christmas market held in Strasbourg, a small city in France, is also popular. The Christkindelsmärik, which started in 1570 and is known as the oldest market in Europe, is a festival for locals. They traditionally celebrate Christmas, allowing you to enjoy the unique festive atmosphere of Alsace.
You can also find a fairytale-like market in Colmar, located in the northeastern Alsace region of France.
This place is also famous for inspiring the animation Howl’s Moving Castle. In Colmar, the festival runs from November 23rd to December 29th.
The entire city is lit with dazzling lights, allowing you to feel the warm end-of-year atmosphere every day. It is recommended for those who want to enjoy a quaint market that can only be experienced in a small town.
By. Seo Sung Min
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