Not that you need one, but if ever there was an excuse for taking a weekend break away in November, this is it. Christmas markets. We’ve put together some of our favourites across Europe coupled with some great local homestays. If you’re in Europe this Christmas and want to sip on a glass of mulled wine or indulge in some chocolate crepes, but with locals and not tourists, here are five to note…
Vienna’s most famous Christmas markets are those in front of the city’s imposing Rathaus (City Hall). If you are there over the festive season don’t miss them – they’re stunning. But also try to visit these markets that have been taking place since 1772. Home to Austria’s oldest manger and the warmest of atmospheres, they’re held in the city’s beautiful Freyung Square. For more info visit their website.
Where: Freyung Square
When: 18th November - 23rd December 2016
Homestay: with host Lucyna
Berlin is home to over 60 Christmas markets, from those near the famous TV Tower in Alexanderplatz to others in its many neighbourhoods. One of these is the Lucia Weihnachtsmarkt, in Prenzlauer Berg, a market that’s different from the rest as it’s a Scandinavian themed market.
Here you’ll find Swedish ‘Glogg’ (their version of mulled wine with hot water and rum, raisins and almonds) beside stalls dedicated to everything elk, all to the sounds of Nordic music. For more info visit their website.
Where: Prenzlauer Berg
When: 21st November – December 22nd 2016
Homestay: with host Ruth
Traditionally the first Christmas market to open every year in Prague, these markets are held in front of the Church of St Ludmila in the district of Vinohrady. It's a little bit further out but only a 15 minute walk from the top of Wenceslas Square.
If it’s handmade goods you’re after, you’ll find more here than in the markets in the centre of the city, with lots of independent stalls and local produce. You’ll also find far more locals. For more information on all of the Christmas markets in Prague, take a look here.
Where: Náměstí Miru, Praha 2
When: 20th November – 24th December 2016
Homestay: with host Gautier
Image courtesy of JAVL
Christmas markets in Paris otherwise known as marché de noël, can be found all over Paris. Located close to some of the city’s iconic landmarks including Champs- Elysées, Montmartre-Sacre Coeur, Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame with the largest market set amongst the skyscrapers of La Défense.
Here the 300 plus chalets are host to a wide range of choices, all kinds of arts, crafts, festive decorations and more importantly plenty of French culinary specialities to choose from. You must try a hot cheesy raclette when you are there, and of course a nice glass of vin chaud to warm you up!
Where: La Défense (metro La Défense)
When: 17th November - 27th December 2016
Homestay: with host Christine
Rome is a city that isn’t used to traditional Germanic Christmas markets. Hence, thousands of Romans descend upon the Italian capital’s Piazza Navona every year for their market in one of Europe’s most beautiful locations. Here you can pick up decorations, handmade crafts and more.
Where: Piazza Navona
When: 1st December 2016 – January 6th 2017
Homestay: with host Rochelle
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