CHRISTMAS is a beautiful, cosy and exciting time of year across a lot of Europe. If you’re heading out of the UK over the next month or fancy booking a last-minute trip then take a look at this list of the ten best Christmas markets in Europe.
Nowhere does Christmas quite like Germany. European designer shops share high street space with the sixty or more markets that scatter Berlin each year. The main market is held underneath the beautiful Gedächtniskirche (Memorial Church) Each market in Berlin offers something different, from culinary masterpieces to circus performers and a live Nativity scene at the Spandau Market.
The best hostel in Berlin (according to Hostelworld) is Circus Hostel, it has a 9/10 rating and is just 1km from the centre.
Dresden is home to the eldest Christmas markets in Germany and it dates back to 1434. Each year the city is turned into a beautifully romantic winter wonderland. Traditional craftsmen and women sell their wonderfully eclectic array of crafts to tourists and locals alike, expect to find glassblowers, woodworkers and bakers.
Kangaroo Stop is the hostel of choice for this lovely city.
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The markets are open daily at the Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square. As is traditional across Europe, the markets consist of hundreds of wooden huts all lined up side by side selling local produce, handmade gifts, cards and food and drink. Carol singing is also popular in Prague which adds to the atmosphere.
There are lots of hostel options in Prague and Airbnb can be an affordable option for a group too.
Another lovely example of Christmas done well, why not include the markets into a weekend of exploring the museums and the thermal spas?
Check out some hostel options in Hungary
On Place Rihour, more than 80 chalets are filled with gifts, nativity figurines, Christmas decorations and festive food. Local produce is everywhere but it is also a good opportunity to try many European traditional foods.
Various hostels in France are listed on this website
Voted two years in a row "European Best Christmas Market”, Zagreb at Christmas is definitely somewhere to add to your bucket list. You’ll soon learn that Croatia isn't just a summer time destination, this city really is filled with magic each advent. Locals and tourists alike are encouraged to let their hair down and relax in the many squares dotted through the city. The atmosphere is truly unrivalled.
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Each year City Hall Square is transformed into a wonderful fairytale land filled with stalls, singing and the smell of freshly baked goods.
Looking for budget accommodation options in Vienna?
Another lovely example of Northern European Christmas tradition in a postcard-pretty market. The Christmas tree takes centre stage.
The Monk’s Bunk is a good hostel option in the city
Check out this video from World Top 10 on the Top Most Beautiful Christmas Markets in Europe:
The St Thomas market brings the city to life each November. Due to the Northern location the sun doesn’t rise in Helsinki for most of the winter but don’t let this put you off if anything the cold darkness adds to the festive atmosphere!
The main market in Graz is described as a welcoming village of stalls by the website. The advent market takes place in front of the City Hall, be sure to try the local festive tipple: "Feuerzangenbowle" - a blend of wine and rum set on fire!
Check out more tips over the Christmas period, check out our Student Life section or follow us on Instagram for festive cheer!
