1. Strasbourg, France
Strasbourg Christmas market, also called Christkindelsmärik, is on everyone’s lips when you are referring to the most beautiful Christmas market in Europe, or even in the world. It is one of the oldest and one of the biggest as it extends from the cathedral to 12 other sites all around the city. The fairyness of its little chalet, city architecture or its huge Christmas tree earned him the title of best Christmas market in Europe more than once.
2. Nuremberg, Germany
Nuremberg’s market or Christkindleinmarkt is the biggest Christmas market in Europe. It exists for more than 4 centuries and tries to stay as authentic as possible by offering traditional Christmas articles that are most of the time created in Nuremberg. Try the local specialty, the Bratwurst, a grilled sausage that will warm you up when needed.
3. Dresden, Germany
Christmas market’s tradition is coming from Germany and Dresden’s Christmas market is considered as the oldest Christmas market in the world. Striezelmarkt tradition started in 1434 and extend for kilometers. It is a pleasure to walk around this Christmas scenery mixed up with the medieval architecture of the city. It also offers a lot of children’s activities such as carousels, small trains, fairy tale houses but also leprechaun.
4. Rovaniemi, Finland
Better known as the « Santa Claus Village », what best than spending Christmas in Santa Claus’ land, capital of the Finnish Lapland? In addition to the usual Christmas attractions, you can also try sleigh ride or a meet Santa. You can also visit the « arctic market » with authentic cabanas selling ancient art craft, natural and local products.
5. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague’s Christmas market is another one that you cannot miss. It is also considered as one of the biggest as it counts no more than 4 different market very close to each other. Around each market, you will find typical wood chalet selling artisanal objects, typical food and hot wine (Svarene Vino) or their more traditional Medovina which translates « Honey wine » and is made of local tipple.