With December right around the corner, the time is drawing near when we slow down, take a step back from the hustle and bustle that was 2022 and spend some quality time with loved ones.
One of the best ways we can think of to wind down and get into the Christmas spirit is to stroll through a Christmas market, enjoying delicious food and admiring all the market has to offer. Not only is it cosy and fun but it is also practical as you can finalise your Christmas shopping at the same time. Whether you spent your childhood visiting Christmas markets or it is a new tradition you want to start in adulthood, there are some amazing Christmas markets to explore in Europe.
If you are still in a trap of busy busy busy and haven’t even thought of setting up your Christmas tree, let alone dash through the snow in a one-horse open sleigh… Join us as we travel to Europe to inspire you to set up your tree with a little magic from Christmas markets in Germany, Austria, Sweden, the United Kingdom and France.
GERMANY – STRIEZELMARKT, DRESDEN
23 November 2022 – 24 December 2022
The history and tradition of Christmas markets run deep in Germany, so if you want to visit a country that knows how to put on a Christmas market, look no further. The Striezelmarkt in Dresden has been held for 587 years with documentation from 1434 indicating its existence. Being one of the oldest Christmas markets in the world and one of Europe’s biggest and brightest, you can be sure to encounter a little Christmas magic and spirit.
Enjoy the distinctive Christmas bread known as Stollen (Striezel), which is covered with icing sugar and filled with dried - and candied - fruits. Besides the gingerbread, mulled wine and Christmas carols, you are bound to have a great time!
AUSTRIA – CHRISTKINDLMARKT ON RATHAUSPLATZ, VIENNA
19 November 2022 – 26 December 2022
From one of the oldest markets mentioned above to one of the biggest Christmas markets, the Christkindlmarkt is held in the heart of Vienna in front of the town hall. If you aren’t afraid of large crowds, you can join the annual 3 million visitors and enjoy this beautiful market with no entry fee to worry about. With around 100 booths to roam and enjoy you are sure to finish your Christmas shopping and munch on some roasted walnuts while doing so.
Of the many Christmas markets in Austria, the Christkindlmarkt in Vienna is surely a highlight to visit and worth putting on your travel list.
SWEDEN - LISEBERG CHRISTMAS MARKET, GOTHENBURG
19 November 2022 – 30 December 2022
If you want to add a little thrill to your Christmas shopping the Liseberg amusement park transforms into a winter wonderland for Christmastime. With Christmas market stalls set up throughout the park, you can do your Christmas shopping, ride rollercoasters, enjoy the ice-skating show and the Swedish Christmas buffet without having to leave the park.
Not only does it put a fun spin on the Christmas market experience but the park is beautifully illuminated by 5 million Christmas lights that are powered by Liseberg’s wind turbine. It’s clear to see how Gothenburg was the world’s most sustainable city 4 years in a row.
UNITED KINGDOM – BATH CHRISTMAS MARKET
24 November 2022 – 11 December 2022
‘Tis the season that the streets of Bath are transformed into a festive Christmas experience once more. With over 200 traders at the market this year you can visit and shop for anything from personalised presents to stylish homeware. The pop-up chalets on Bath Street offer micro businesses an opportunity to join the market for a limited time if they cannot join for the entire duration of the market.
In the spirit of giving, the Christmas market also supports local charities by offering free chalet rentals. In 2019 charities raised more than £26,000 so keep it in mind and pay their stalls a visit in support.
FRANCE – METZ CHRISTMAS MARKET
18 November 2022 – 24 December 2022
The Metz Christmas markets have become the largest Christmas markets in France over the last 25 years. With all the big squares decorated and the original site of the Metz Christmas market at Place Saint Louis, you can make your way to the centrally located Place d’Armes and take a ride on the Ferris Wheel. At 60 meters tall it offers a beautiful view of the city.
If, like most of us, food is the only reason you visit markets of any kind the gourmet food market at Place de la Comédie is where you want to be! With Metz located so close to both Luxembourg and Germany, it is perfect for those who wish to explore several markets in three different countries all in one trip.
While there are numerous Christmas markets throughout Europe with more than one in the locations mentioned, we hope this got you a little excited for Christmas. Whether it is to throw caution to the wind and travel to some markets mentioned, or just to set up your Christmas tree at home and prepare to unwind a little in the time coming.
So, turn on your Christmas music, set up your tree and let us be free to spread some peace and cheer.
