Can you smell that? It’s the delicate blend of festive mulled wine spices wafting through city centre Christmas markets across the globe. There’s a hint of gingerbread that lingers after.
If you feel like you have been round the ice rink on Edinburgh‘s George Street enough times, and memorised the number of string lights that adorn the front of Frasers on Glasgow’s Buchanan Street, why not go further afield this December?
It’s not too late to book a flight and scoop up a last-minute hotel deal to explore a new Christmas market. Here is just some of the festive fun just waiting to be had across Europe.
Naples, Italy
Handcrafted nativity scenes stretch the whole way along the Gregorio Armeno, a picturesque street in the heart of Naples that has become famous both locally and internationally at this time of year. Admire the craftsmanship while wandering between the wooden houses and below the festive lights, listening to the street musicians play the day away. Of course, you can’t end a day in the city in any other way than with a pizza.
December 2 to January 7.
© ShutterstockBruges, Belgium
The scent of waffles wafts through the air as Winter Glow takes over Bruges throughout the winter months, highlighting the magic of the season rather than just Christmas. The classic markets you would expect are on offer, but you can also enjoy a new lights trail, ice skating, a cosy winter bar and decorations spread across the city. loveholidays is offering a three-night trip with flights and a stay at the 4* Martin’s Relais right by the canal. Head to loveholidays.com for more information.
November 22 to January 5.
Cologne, Germany
Cologne didn’t host its first Christmas market until 1820 – which is classed as very late in German Christmas market terms. They are making up for it now though, with a sparkling array of markets and attractions across the city. Right by the water, the white tents of the Harbour Christmas Market resemble sails. The market at Cologne Cathedral boasts one of the biggest and most impressive trees in the city. Heinzels Winter Fairytale market focuses on the legend of Cologne’s brownies – friendly household spirits called Heinzelmännchen. You must enjoy a hot drink in a boot-shaped mug in the aptly named Rudolfplatz too.
Various dates from November 14 to January 5
© ShutterstockStrasbourg, France
Strasbourg is known as the Capital of Christmas for its markets that date back to the 16th century. More than 300 chalet-style stalls are scattered across the city, drawing around 2million visitors each year to it. Every street and building is illuminated and the 30-metre-tall tree stretches up into the sky Place Kléber as the tallest decorated tree in Europe. It’s just under two hours on the train from Paris, so easily accessible too.
November 27 to December 27.
Kitzbühel, Austria
Tyrolean delicacies, roasted chestnuts, fresh crepes and plenty of mulled Uhudler await you at the annual Advent Market in Kitzbühel. House facades are decorated with colour and lights as stalls fill the historic city centre. Local musicians and performers keep locals and tourists entertained, but make sure to keep an eye out for the dreaded Krampus. If you are looking for somewhere to stay, check out the cosy family-run Hotel Garni Entstrasser.
November 20 to December 26.
Rhine River Cruise
If one Christmas market just isn’t enough for you, Solos Holidays’s Rhine Christmas Market River Cruise might just be the answer. This festive journey along the picturesque Rhine Valley includes stops in iconic cities such as Cologne, Koblenz and Strasbourg. By day, guests can explore famous attractions and join optional tours. By night, they can immerse themselves in the holiday spirit before heading back onboard the elegant MS Vivaldi. Find out more at solosholidays.co.uk.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen are beautiful at any time of year, but around Christmas time, they are extra special. Adrenaline-seekers can enjoy thrilling rides at night, soaring over the twinkling lights, and there are calmer thrills to choose from for those less daring. Beyond Tivoli, the brightly coloured houses of Nyhavn are reflected in the markets there and other events sparkle across the city. There are plenty of seasonal nibbles to choose from too, from aebleskiver (deep-fried apple fritters) to pebernødder (spiced pepper nuts).
Various dates from November 15 to January 5.
© Shutterstock / legosthesBudapest, Hungary
Budapest’s largest and longest-running Christmas market – with more than 100 stalls – is held in Vörösmarty Square. There are other smaller ones across the city if one isn’t enough. Along with the usual haunts like light displays, huge Christmas trees, ice skating, handmade craft stalls and even a free Christmas train ride for children, it’s the perfect time of year to enjoy an iconic chimney cake. These handmade treats are baked around a wooden spit then doused in butter and cinnamon sugar. The ultimate winter warmer.
November 15 to January 1.
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