Immerse yourself in the Christmas spirit at a Christmas market this year.
It’s magical finding yourself in the middle of a Christmas market with the snow lightly falling, Christmas carols being sung, mulled wine being enjoyed and twinkling lights as far as the eye can see. We believe that there is no better shopping experience than a shopping experience at a seasonal Christmas market.
When we think of the world’s top Christmas markets, Germany often comes to mind. While Germany does have some of the oldest and most elaborate Christmas markets, there are many others around the world that are also worth a visit.
In this blog, we compiled our top 20 Christmas markets that are worth a visit during this time of year.
Top 10 Christmas Markets from around the world
Christkindelsmärik – France
This magical market dates all the way back to 1570! Today, the market stands proudly with over 300 stalls that spread across 11 cities. Be sure to bring your walking shoes and an appetite as you will want to try some of the many French baked good as you slowly peruse the many stalls.
Old Town Square – Czech Republic
Located in the heart of Prague, this Christmas market has style. Red wooden huts line the Old Town Square where snow is falling, and the smell of sweet honey wine fills the air. Old Town Square Christmas Market has many stalls to choose from and a wide assortment of crafted goods. Once you are shopped out at this market, explore some of the other smaller Christmas markets all around the city.
Ljubljana Christmas Market – Slovenia
The Ljubljana Christmas Market takes place along the Ljubljana River, which gives it more open space than a typical Christmas Market and a scenic walking path. You will find many stalls, singing choirs and twinkling lights decorating the trees that line the path. At the City Centre, there are more market stalls and a festive ice rink that you can enjoy, for the perfect ending to your Ljubljana experience.
German Christmas Market – Japan
The name “German” is a bit misleading, as this fantastic market takes places in Sapporo, Japan. Located at Odori Park, this market has it all: market stalls, live performances, tasty food and indoor workshops. On November 22, the Sapporo White Illumination begins with the lighting of over 520,000 bulbs throughout Odori Park, for a truly dazzling Christmas presentation.
Christkindlemarkt – Germany
Christkindlesmarkt Christmas Market is one of the oldest and most well-known Christmas markets in Germany. The red and white striped stalls are something out of a fairytale and, when placed within Central Square, it’s both a magical and historical site to see. Enjoy gingerbread, grilled sausage, local beers and mulled wine.
Helsinki Christmas Market – Finland
If you are hoping for a Santa sighting, this market may be your best bet. Some say that Santa is from Finland, which gives reason to his daily appearances at the Helsinki Christmas Market – to bring cheer to all in the lead up to his biggest day of the year. With over 130 stalls there is plenty to see (and eat!) at this wonderful market.
The Red Square – Russia
The Red Square Christmas Market is located within Moscow, right at the entrance of the St. Basil’s Basilica. This unique basilica gives the market an amazing backdrop and really sets the mood. The Red Square is a smaller market with fewer stalls than most. However, it is packed with festive fun including a central skating rink and a food market area serving local delights, including baked potatoes, pancakes, wine and more!
Tivoli Gardens Christmas Market – Denmark
In the heart of Copenhagen lays Tivoli Gardens, one of the world’s oldest amusement parks. If you Google search images of Tivoli Gardens Christmas market, you will find yourself easily sold on the idea of visiting. The lights, the setting, and the falling snow all add to the ambiance of this Christmas market. Enjoy market stalls, food stalls, amusement rides, ice skating, or simply exploring the beautiful grounds at this massive Christmas celebration.
Plaisirs d’Hiver – Belgium
Plaisirs d’Hiver has been labelled the “perfect blend of traditional and modernity”. This large market stretches from Grand Place to Place St. Catherine. There are over 250 market stalls and food experiences to explore from all over the world. Enjoy ice skating, Christmas light decorations, musical performers, shopping, eating and spending quality time with loved ones at this large, yet cozy market.
Bryant Park Winter Village – USA
You don’t have to travel far to experience a festive Christmas market. New York really shines at Christmas, and it’s only logical that the city would host an amazing Christmas market. Bryant Park Winter Village features market stalls, food trucks, free ice skating, musical performances and, of course, a visit from Santa during his busiest time of year.
What would your ideal Christmas market consist of?
At TierOne Travel, we are committed to finding the perfect destination to match our customers’ needs, and that is no exception during the holiday season.
If you have some ideas in mind but are not sure which destination to choose, or are simply looking for a unique kind of getaway, contact one of our travel specialists today to be paired with your ideal destination, vacation and budget.
