Stay home at Christmas? Who said it? You can too take advantage of for a getaway, even if it's just a few days. Just enough to immerse yourself fully in the Christmas spirit that fills the most famous markets in Europe.
I know that it may be tempting to take a plane to warmer areas... but you can also be one of those who, at this time of year, prefers to wrap yourself in a scarf, put on a warm hat, and go out to get into the special Christmas atmosphere of most European capitals.
With good warm clothes and a hot chocolate, any of these options is a great choice. You sign up?
Music, lights and Christmas crafts in these 5 traditional markets
Virtually all capitals and major cities They have their own Christmas market. But since you have to choose, I have decided on these 5 markets that have all the ingredients for a perfect Christmas getaway.
Go?
1. Prague (Czech Republic)
At Christmas the city puts on a gala. More, if possible, because It is wonderful every day of the year. But the lights, the decorated streets, the music... The best thing you can do is let yourself be carried away by the magic.
There are many markets scattered around the city, but without a doubt the one in the Old Town Square is the best. In addition, it is where the famous astronomical clock is, so you take advantage of the visit to know emblematic places de la ciudad.
As it will be very cold, I recommend that you gather strength at one of the many street stalls. A bit of roasted ham and mulled wine It will be enough to bring your body back to life and you can continue walking through the craft stalls.
2. Nuremberg (Germany)
In Germany, Christmas markets are practically an obligation. They are available in most major cities, but since you have to choose, I'm going to recommend the one in Nuremberg.
You'll start taking photos even before you get close to the stalls, because The view from the outside is beautiful. All the same, made of wood and decorated for Christmas…
Again I am going to recommend that you go to the market with a little hunger, because you will want everything you see. Here you have to try, yes or yes, the gingerbread with a glass of Glühwein, a wine also spiced to warm the spirit.
This market boasts of being the most famous in the world. I don't know if it will be that much, but of course it's worth getting to know and bring home a handmade nutcracker.
3. Tallinn (Estonia)
A country that falls in love, you have already been warned. And her Christmas market, even more so. So if you didn't already have this European capital on your travel bucket list, I think you should add it now.
Also, it may not be as well known as the other places on this list, so hopefully You avoid large crowds.
The scenery of the entire city could not be more magical. And the market lasts a long time, so You have flexibility to choose dates. It is usually set up a month before Christmas and lasts until the beginning of the following year.
It is located in Raekoja Plats, which is the Town Hall square, in the historic center.
Get ready to taste typical sweets and enjoy the live choirs with traditional dances, that liven up the walk between the market stalls.
5. Budapest (Hungary)
Since November you can enjoy the Christmas markets in Budapest. They are all over the city center and every street is a party The best known of all is the one in Vörösmarty Square.
What do I recommend you try? Here the Kurtoskalacs, or chimney cake. It is a cylindrical, crunchy pastry with a delicious flavor of cinnamon, vanilla, walnut... depending on the final coating it has.
In addition, at the market you can see samples of local crafts, see concerts in the open air and simply enjoy the Christmas atmosphere that permeates the city.
Have you already chosen? I hope yes.
I already know that in this year 2021 it can be difficult to travel, because There are countries with restrictions.
But if it can't be these, I hope visit some other Christmas market of the many that exist in Europe (there are also beautiful ones in Spain), and then tell me how it goes. You dare? I'll put it on my list for next year 😉