The best Christmas markets in Europe
December is around the corner so it's time for you to prepare your upcoming holidays and visit the best Christmas markets in Europe! Decorated wooden houses, the smell of mulled wine and exhibitions of traditional toys are waiting for you in the most beautiful European cities! So hurry up, because most of these markets remain open until the end of January. Check here our top 5 suggestions!
1. Prague
Prague is one of the most beautiful and romantic cities in Europe. During the Christmas period, in the Old Town square and under a huge decorated Christmas tree, you will find one of the best Christmas markets in Europe. Delicious Czech specialities, such as Trdelník, are there to be enjoyed. There are also smaller markets at Republic Square, at Havel's Market, on Kampa Island, and at the square in front of St. George's Basilica at Prague Castle.
2. Budapest
Budapest is an ideal destination for your holidays. Looking for your Christmas gifts? You can walk around the Christmas markets at Vörösmarty tér where you will find traditional handmade toys and beautiful silk scarves. Of course, don't miss the chance to try some hot wine and try the traditional "goulash" dish. Smaller Christmas markets can also be found at the Liszt Ferenc tér and Széll Kálmán ter squares.
3. Berlin
Germany is probably the country of the Christmas markets. Imagine that only in Berlin you can find 26 Christmas markets! The largest and most popular is the one at Alexanderplatz. The smell of the orange juice with spices, pretzels and sweet waffles is coming from the small wooden huts. Don't forget also to buy small Christmas gifts from the craftsmen that demonstrate their work there or stop for lunch in the large Christmas pyramid that stands in the middle of the square!
4. Edinburgh
What about a quick break in Scotland? Enjoy delicious food, drinks and traditional crafts at the Scottish Market on George Street, or choose presents for your family and friends at the Children's Market, part of Santa Land in Princes Street Gardens. At St. Andrew Square you will also find an ice rink, so grab a pair of skates and get in the mood by spinning across the ice!
5. Madrid
The largest Christmas market in Madrid takes place in Plaza Mayor (Mercado de Navidad de Plaza Mayor). There you can find more than 100 log cabins which offer traditional Christmas products and musical instruments. Of course, you can also check the Christmas market in Plaza de España and buy handmade products made by renowned artisans!
The most classic of all the Christmas markets in Madrid takes over Plaza Mayor starting in mid-November and lasts until after the new year.
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