Best Christmas markets around the world
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While ordering Christmas gifts online is the new trend, there are still a few Christmas markets in the world that present visitors with a unique and more hands-on shopping experience. These markets are scattered all over the globe, and embody the Christmas spirit. Here's a list of some of the best such markets around the world.
Colmar, France
Illuminated by lights and decorated beautifully, Old Town (a part of Colmar) has a magical historic setting. Each year, Colmarians create a special Christmas atmosphere by decorating their stalls joyfully. One of several markets in the town is exclusively for children.
Prague, Czech Republic
Situated at Wenceslas Square, the market has rows of beautifully lit wooden stalls that sell traditional fair, Czech handicrafts and so on. If one gets hungry, there are several local delicacies on offer, including mulled wine, sausages and corn on the cob.
Although, it is most well-known for Oktoberfest celebrations, Bavaria in Germany also hosts a fantastic Christmas market. Shoppers can buy traditional Bavarian gifts, while sipping the famous beer.
Stockholm, Sweden
The oldest Christmas market in Stockholm is located near the Royal Palace in Stortorget Square. The market is made up of several wooden stalls that sell smoked sausages, cured reindeer meat, jewellery and Christmas knick-knacks.
Frankfurt, Germany
As many as 200 well-decorated wooden stalls are arranged in the old, historic part of Frankfurt which is bathed in a sea of light. Visitors can enjoy mulled wine, apples, chestnuts and gingerbread here.
Rome, Italy
During the Christmas holidays, Piazza Navona, a landmark located in the heart of Rome, is decorated with thousands of colored lights. The entire square is overrun with booths selling Christmas ornaments, Murano-style glass jewellery and plastic toys.
Edinburgh, Scotland
Every year, Princes Street Gardens is the venue for the traditional German Christmas market. The historic castle and the Edinburgh wheel which is illuminated by colourful lights is in the background, making it look all the more enchanting. Around 25 of these stalls are from Germany, providing for an authentic continental experience.
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Chicago, USA
Inspired by the Christkindlesmarkt in Nuremberg, Germany, the Christkindlmarket Chicago market carries with a beloved European tradition with international flair and local charm. The market draws in several tourists from around the world. Traditional German gifts such as cuckoo clocks and beer steins can be bought from certain vendors. From sauerkraut to sausages to a hot cup of Gluhwein, there is a variety of dishes available.
Prague, Czech Republic
The market at the Old Town Square in Prague has several traditional wooden stalls that sell traditional Czech specialties including glasswork, blacksmith's wares and ceramics. For food lovers, vendors at the market make delicious corn on the cob and trdelnik (cooked dough with cinnamon and sugar).
Lille, France
The main market at Lille is located on Place Rihour, here about 80 traditional wooden stalls sell Christmas decorations and festive food. The other market in the town is located at Grand Place, where a 50 metre high Big Wheel illuminates the entire square, giving visitors an amazing view of the city.
Budapest, Hungary
Christmas celebrations in Budapest can be witnessed in the city’s Christmas fair, where visitors can taste traditional Hungarian food and enjoy some folk dance and music. One can also find a selection of handmade items, all of which are checked for quality and authenticity beforehand.
Strasbourg, France
Alsace’s capital Strasbourg has the oldest and most famous Christmas market in France – the Christkindelsmarik. The market offers visitors the chance to try some regional delicacies such as Alsace wines, bredle Christmas biscuits and foie gras.
Dresden, Germany
The traditional Dresden Striezelmarket looks back over a history of more than five centuries and is the oldest Christmas market in Germany.
New York, USA
Other than hordes of carol singers and colourful lights, New York has an annual holiday market at Colombus Circus. This year, the market will open on December 2nd. Shoppers can find handmade puzzles, artisan chocolates and jewellery from up and coming designers.
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Cologne (Germany) is also quite beautiful!
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wow..is awesome
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Originally posted by anna22:
Cologne (Germany) is also quite beautiful!
Simply beautiful !!
