Top 6 Christmas Markets to Visit in Europe for Christmas 2015

By MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Life Network Editorial Department
 

Visiting Europe every November, you can feel the strong festive atmosphere of Christmas — historic buildings filled with charm, ancient-looking churches dusted with snow like powdered sugar. Strolling through the markets, sampling local snacks, sipping a warm glass of mulled wine, picking out Christmas gifts and decorations, and soaking in the dazzling twinkle of holiday lights creates an experience that feels like stepping into a fairy tale — definitely a dream trip you must accomplish in your lifetime.

● Vienna Austria
The music capital of Vienna boasts numerous Christmas markets, but the most atmospheric one is located in front of City Hall Square. Here stands a giant Christmas tree, surrounded by hundreds of charming wooden stalls offering a wide array of goods. Among the most popular souvenirs year after year are beeswax candles, wooden toys, and glass ornaments. As for food, chocolate pastries filled with rich cream, candied fruits, roasted chestnuts, and specially mixed hot spiced wine are all local holiday favorites.

※ Event Period: November 20, 2015 – December 24, 2015

● Strasbourg France
The French Christmas market in Strasbourg, which has been around since the 15th century, is the oldest in France and an unmissable destination for experiencing Christmas in the country. The most famous aspect of the Strasbourg market is its romantic and dreamy lighting that decorates the ancient local architecture, transforming the streets into a fairy-tale-like Christmas town. The festive season kicks off four weeks before Christmas and reaches its climax on December 24th, with the most lively spots being around Notre-Dame Cathedral and Place Broglie. Here, you can find French handmade ornaments, traditional pastries, and all kinds of seasonal Christmas toys.

※ Event Period: November 27, 2015 – December 31, 2015

● Brussels Belgium
Although Brussels’ Christmas market is relatively young compared to other long-standing events — it’s only been around since 2002 — it offers a wide selection of exquisite Christmas souvenirs from around the world. Whether it's handmade items, clothing, or anything else you can think of, you’ll find it here. The wooden chalet-style stalls clustered around Brussels’ Grand Place are especially enchanting at night, with their warm glowing lights creating an unforgettable scene. Additionally, Brussels is home to the famous “Plaisirs d’Hiver” (Winter Wonders) light and sound show, which adds even more to the magical Christmas atmosphere.
※ Event Period: November 27, 2015 – January 2, 2016
 

● Prague Czech Republic
Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square are the two most important Christmas markets in Prague. During the holidays, the city is lit up with Christmas trees, festive lights, Christmas music, gingerbread, sausages, wooden crafts, ceramics, and various other handcrafted items brought by people from all over. If you want to enjoy local cuisine, there are also traditional Czech foods to try. Moreover, if you visit the Czech-style Christmas markets organized by various ethnic groups, you can experience not only the festive atmosphere but also the hospitality of different cultures. On some evenings, folk bands perform live, adding to the merriment. Then you can round off your evening with a cup of hot wine in your hand. In short, you can spend a full year’s worth of joy in just a few days. ※ Event Period: November 28, 2015 – January 1, 2016