Best European Christmas markets to get you in the Christmas spirit

Christmas is at hand, it's only a short time away and lovers of the festive season are now being given tips on the best festive markets to visit throughout Europe.  

The team at Busuu have researched eight of the most joyful European Christmas markets to visit this year to get into the festive spirit. 

From a delicious fresh hot chocolate in Brussels to a chimney cake in Budapest, the options for food are countless, as are the Christmas themed activities across the markets. 

Local traders will be looking to bring festive spirit to the public, with food, drinks, crafts and handmade gifts featuring on the very best Christmas markets across Europe. 

A spokesperson for Busuu said: “Christmas markets are truly one of the best ways to really get into the festive spirit. 

“With mulled wine and hot chocolate, traditional foods and roasted marshmallows, handcrafted gifts and ice skating, Europe certainly knows how best to do markets at Christmas time.  

“Every country has different Christmas traditions but they all have one theme in common: spending time with loved ones over the Christmas period.  

“Now is the ideal time to take a short break away to Europe with your nearest and dearest to take a look round what each market has to offer.” 

Here are Busuu’s top eight European Christmas markets to visit this Christmas: 

1. Munich, Germany 

The Munich market will be held around the Marienplatz this year. It dates back to the 14th century, with stalls showcasing Bavarian charm including arts, craft and delicious culinary treats.  Fun activities include The Himmelswerkstatt (Heavenly Workshop) for children aged 6-12 with free crafting activities. 

Running until 24th December 2022. 

2. Basel, Switzerland 

Considered to be one of the prettiest Christmas markets in the country of Switzerland, the market at Barfüsserplatz and Münsterplatz will host 130 unique stalls boasting everything from painted baubles to hand-painted cookies. After a bite to eat, head over to the cathedral to admire the beautiful fairy lights and get a family snap for Instagram.  

Running until 23 December 2022.  

3. Poznan, Poland  

Poznan’s famous International ice sculpting competition is the largest contest of its kind in Europe and it returns for another year in the Old Market Square. Watch artists sculpt large blocks of ice whilst enjoying the historic atmosphere and architecture the city of Poznan has to offer.  

Running until 27th December 2022. 

4. Budapest, Hungary 

The glorious St. Stephen's Basilica provides a wonderful scenic backdrop ti the capital's festive Advent. There you will find beautiful handicrafts and special Hungarian delicacies including Chimney Cake. Chimney cake is a sweet dough, rolled in sugar and baked on hot charcoal. They’re coated in festive flavours including cinnamon, vanilla, cacao and walnut.  

Running until 1st January 2023.  

5. London, England  

Hosted in England's capital, the extremely popular Winter Wonderland is back for another year and bigger than ever. With ice sculpting classes and roller coasters, London’s biggest festive event has everything you could dream of for the perfect festive day out.  

Running until 2nd January 2023.  

6. Brussels, Belgium 

Brussels really comes to life with its Christmas markets. The cobbled streets and squares are filled with snow-dusted chalets, pop up eateries and buzzing bars. The markets take place on and around Grand-Place, Bourse, Place Sainte-Catherine and Marché aux Poissons. 

Running until 1st January 2023. 

7. Prague, Czech Republic 

The Prague Christmas Markets are at the Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square with stalls, tasty food and dekicious local drinks to enjoy. Popular foods to enjoy include large hams roasted on spits, smoked sweet meat dumplings and pancakes. Other attractions include nativity scenes and carol singing by local school children. In Old Town Square is the giant Christmas tree dressed in baubles and lights.  

Running until 6 January 2023.  

8. Salzburg, Austria 

Salzburg's Christmas market dates back to 1491 and takes place on Cathedral Square, located at the foot of the Hohensalzburg fortress and around the Cathedral of Salzburg. It’s the perfect place to shop, you'll be tempted by the delicious smell of apples and enjoy the warming festive drinks. Other highlights include the Advent Brass Concert, folk song and dance performances and exciting processions.  

Running until 1st January 2023. 

To find out how to get to them and for more details visit https://www.busuu.com.

(Image of Salzburg at Chirstmas courtesy of Inn and Pixabay)