Strasbourg, France – The capital of Christmas

Strasbourg, often referred to as the "Capital of Christmas," is a place where holiday magic truly comes to life. Its Christkindelsmärik, one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe, dates back to 1570. Located in the heart of the city's UNESCO-listed Old Town, this market transforms the charming streets into a winter wonderland.

The centrepiece of Strasbourg's Christmas market is the towering Christmas tree at Place Kléber, a sight to behold with its thousands of sparkling lights. Stroll through the cobblestone streets adorned with beautifully decorated stalls selling handmade crafts, regional treats, and stunning decorations. Don't miss trying the local specialty, Flammekueche, a delicious Alsatian flatbread.

Vienna, Austria – imperial elegance meets Christmas cheer

Vienna, the capital of Austria, is synonymous with elegance, and its Christmas markets are no exception. The city's stunning architecture serves as a backdrop to these markets, making them even more enchanting.

One must-visit market is the Christmas Village at Belvedere Palace, where you can skate on an ice rink with the palace as a backdrop. Alternatively, head to Rathausplatz for the grand Vienna Christmas Dream market. It's here that you'll find everything from beautifully crafted gifts to exquisite decorations. And while you're in Vienna, be sure to warm up with a cup of Vienna's famous hot chocolate.

Prague, Czech Republic – A fairytale come to life

Prague, with its fairy-tale-like Old Town Square, turns into a magical winter wonderland during the holiday season. The towering Christmas tree, shipped from the Krkonoše Mountains, and the Gothic Tyn Church provide a picture-perfect setting.

Stroll through the quaint wooden huts selling traditional Czech gifts, like intricate glass ornaments and wooden toys. The trdelník, a sweet pastry cooked over an open flame and coated in cinnamon and sugar, is an absolute must-try. Take a leisurely walk across the iconic Charles Bridge to admire the city's sparkling Christmas lights from a different perspective.

Cologne, Germany – A whiff of cinnamon and glühwein

Cologne, one of Germany's oldest cities, boasts several Christmas markets, but the one at Cologne Cathedral is particularly breathtaking. The backdrop of the majestic cathedral combined with the sweet scent of cinnamon and mulled wine creates a truly magical atmosphere.

The market stalls offer an array of handcrafted gifts and holiday treats. Try local specialties like Reibekuchen (potato fritters) and Bratwurst. Don't forget to sip on Kölsch, Cologne's famous beer, to warm your spirits in the chilly winter air.

Budapest, Hungary – The thermal baths and beyond

Budapest's Christmas markets offer a unique twist – they're often hosted at the city's famous thermal baths. Just imagine sipping mulled wine in a steamy outdoor pool with snowflakes gently falling around you!

One of the most renowned markets is at Vörösmarty Square. Here, you can find a wide array of handcrafted gifts and Hungarian street food. Be sure to try kürtőskalács, a spiral-shaped pastry that's cooked over an open flame and coated in sugar. And don't miss the Budapest Christmas Tram, adorned with thousands of fairy lights, for a whimsical ride through the city.

Copenhagen, Denmark – hygge in the holidays

Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark, is known for its concept of "hygge," which roughly translates to coziness and contentment. This feeling is in full swing at the city's Christmas markets.

The most famous market is found in the Tivoli Gardens, which are transformed into a winter wonderland with twinkling lights, amusement rides, and stalls selling Danish holiday treats. Tuck into æbleskiver, a traditional Danish pastry, and savour a cup of gløgg, the Danish version of mulled wine. Enjoy the festive atmosphere in the heart of Copenhagen.

Tallinn, Estonia – A medieval Christmas

Tallinn's Old Town is like stepping into a medieval Christmas storybook. The Christmas Market on Town Hall Square is the centrepiece of this enchanting city, with its beautifully decorated tree and quaint, wooden huts selling traditional Estonian crafts.

Warm up with a cup of spicy mulled wine and try black pudding, a local delicacy. Explore the cobbled streets and medieval architecture of Tallinn, which are beautifully lit during the holiday season. The city's rich history and unique charm make it a hidden gem among European Christmas destinations.

Brussels, Belgium – the capital of chocolate and charming markets

Brussels, known for its chocolate, hosts a charming Winter Wonders Christmas market. The stunning Grand Place is the main stage, where a sound and light show dazzles spectators every evening. Surrounding the square are quaint market stalls offering a wide variety of gifts, decorations, and treats.

Indulge in Belgian chocolates, renowned worldwide for their quality and flavour. Savour a warm waffle topped with whipped cream or chocolate sauce, and wash it down with a cup of Belgian hot chocolate. The combination of historic architecture and festive lights makes Brussels a magical place to celebrate the holiday season.

Edinburgh, Scotland – A Scottish celebration

Edinburgh's Christmas markets offer a Scottish twist to the festive season. The city's Princes Street Gardens are transformed into a festive village with an ice rink and a big wheel offering panoramic views of the city.

Warm your hands with a cup of mulled wine as you explore the charming market stalls. Scottish delicacies like haggis and shortbread are waiting to tempt your taste buds. Don't forget to visit the Street of Light, an immersive light and sound installation on the Royal Mile.

Rovaniemi, Finland – Santa's hometown

For the ultimate Christmas experience, head to Rovaniemi in Finnish Lapland, often called the official hometown of Santa Claus. The Arctic Circle Christmas Village is where you can meet Santa himself, go on a reindeer sleigh ride, and witness the enchanting Northern Lights.

Rovaniemi offers a truly unique winter wonderland experience. You can even cross the Arctic Circle and receive a certificate to commemorate the occasion. It's a destination that will make you feel like a kid again, however old you are.

Remember to check the specific dates for each market before planning your trip. These European Christmas markets offer a blend of tradition, culture, and holiday spirit that will leave you with cherished memories for years to come. So, bundle up, bring your Christmas spirit, and embark on a winter adventure across Europe's most enchanting destinations.