Europe does many things well, and celebrating Christmas is undoubtedly one of them. Helped of course by the twinkling storybook villages, snow covered scenes and an abundance of festive decorations displayed in countless shop windows and across towns. Together with the rich history and traditions of the festive season throughout most of the region, Europe at Christmas time is very special.
One of the highlights for many is the enticing Christmas markets, famous in many cities and towns in Germany, France, Switzerland, Austria, Hungary and the list continues. World renowned pictures depict these iconic market scenes with their glowing fairy lights suspended above the neat, quaint stalls, ice-skating rinks and decorated trees set amongst the beautiful, classic architecture and fairytale landscapes.
In the fresh, crisp air, fragrant festive scents of intrinsic pine, cinnamon, chocolate and ginger draw you in as you browse the locally made wreaths, handmade wooden toys and seasonal crafts. And the food! Fresh pancakes, warm sausages, fruity brioche, luscious cakes, roasted chestnuts, baked pretzels and steaming spicy mulled wine practically call your name, while being a delightful comfort from the winter chill.
Cologne, Germany, has long been a favourite destination for Christmas market fans, being home to several markets with the largest in the city centre, known as Markt der Engel. Mainz, Germany is another longstanding choice for many. With around 100 illuminated stalls, its main market, in front of the cathedral in the market square, boasts a magical atmosphere with workshops, plays and an ornate nativity scene in addition to Christmas foods and gifts. The unofficial ‘capital of Christmas’ - Strasbourg, France, holds one of the oldest and largest Christmas markets in Europe. Over 300 traditional wooden chalets line the streets of the city’s central squares selling superb local produce, hand painted ornaments while delighting children and adults alike.
Christmas markets in the Netherlands are still fairly new in comparison with Germany (dating back to the Middle Ages) but are fast gaining popularity here. The largest one is in Dordrecht, spanning over 2.5 kilometres and with close to 300 stalls, with the arrival of Sinterklaas marking the beginning of the festive season. Soak up the atmosphere at the ice-skating rink, join in a Christmas sing-a-long and keep warm with a glass of glühwein (mulled wine)!
Click here for our holidays featuring the Christmas markets in Europe or contact Holidays of Australia & the World on 1300 854 897 or holidays@holidaysofaustralia.com.au
Image credit: Unsplash
