Christmas Markets not to be missed in Europe

There’s something about having spending winter in Europe with one of the highlights being a visit to the most beautiful Christmas markets. If you are looking for Christmas presents and dream of the lovely smell of a Christmas tree or the lovely sound of Christmas carols, start planning for a trip there and check these out. Most of the markets are open for the whole of December to early January.

• Nuremberg Christmas Markets

The Nuremberg Christmas Markets are held in the second-largest Bavarian city in Germany, in a town brimming with history, red-roof architecture and moreish pretzels. While in Nuremberg, be sure to visit the magnificent Nuremberg Castle, closely resembling a castle out of a fairytale.

• Vienna Christmas Markets

Situated in front of the gorgeous City Hall, the Vienna Christmas Markets features festive fine-craft stalls, homey biscuit-making and carols. Other possible activities include strolling through the Christmas village of Belvedere Palace or ice-skating through City Hall Park. It’s now super convenient to get to the city centre, too, with the new non-stop City Airport Train transporting tourists to the heart of Vienna in just 16 minutes.

• Prague Christmas Markets

The Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square in Prague have some of the best Christmas stalls in the region. While browsing the festive wares on sale, you can try the city’s famous hot sugar-coated pastries and wash them down with Czech pilsner beers.

• Budapest Christmas Markets

In central Vorosmarty Square, visitors can visit over a hundred Christmas stalls selling unique, delicate hand-made gifts that are pre-checked for quality by Hungarian folk art experts. End your day with a tranquil evening cruise on the Danube or relax in the elegant open- air Edwardian hot baths at Szechenyi.

• Poland Christmas Markets

Held in one of Europe’s most beautiful medieval squares, Rynek Glowny is the best place to enjoy Christmas markets in Krakow. Savour Polish specialties such as grilled ewe’s cheese with cranberries, and vodka tea. The train from Krakow airport arrives at the city centre in 20 minutes.

Every market offers a truly unique experience, depending on the country so be sure to visit as many as you can.