Travel to Germany, the home of Christmas markets.
Christmas markets are generally held in European countries from the last weekend of November through Christmas, but the most famous of them all are in Germany. During this time in Germany, over 2,500 Christmas markets are held in many squares in major cities alone, and they are bustling with people. Germany's Christmas markets have a long history, with the first one in Frankfurt am Main having been held in 1393. It was only in the 19th century that the city began to be decorated in the colorful way that it is today's Christmas markets. If you visit Germany during Advent today, you can enjoy a trip around the various Christmas markets with their own unique characteristics.
Germany is home to a wide variety of Christmas markets, but there are a few that are particularly noteworthy. For example, the Dresden Christmas market, said to be the oldest in Germany, is a traditional market that has been held since 1434. Dresden, where many markets are held around the city's Altmarkt Square, is also known as the home of the Christmas sweet stollen. In addition to stollen, the market is lined with shops selling attractive locally made crafts, bringing excitement to the traditional Christmas market.
Augsburg's Christkindlesmarkt is one of the long-standing Christmas markets. The market, held in front of the Renaissance-style town hall, is also impressive with the illuminated historical buildings. On weekends, when the Engelspiel (Angel Performance) takes place, the market is filled with romantic sounds. In addition, Christmas markets are held in other cities such as Stuttgart, Frankfurt, Hamburg, etc., so be sure to enjoy the diversity.
Australia, Czech Republic, France... Beautiful Christmas markets held in European countries
Germany is said to be the home of Christmas markets, but of course there are also attractive Christmas markets in other countries. In Vienna, Austria, various Christmas markets are held in places such as the Town Hall Square, Schönbrunn Palace, Belvedere Palace, and the Ferris Wheel Square. In addition to food stalls and illuminations, Christmas concerts are also held, allowing you to enjoy an elegant time befitting the "City of Music." Christmas markets are held all over Austria, including Salzburg, Oberndorf, Innsbruck, and Graz.
The Christmas market in Prague, Czech Republic, is also known as one of the most beautiful winter scenes in Europe. When you see the cute stalls lined up in front of the Tyn Church in the Old Town, you will feel as if you have wandered into a storybook world. Another big attraction is the opportunity to taste local delicacies such as the traditional Czech sweet trdelnik.
Strasbourg, located in the Alsace region of France, is also known as a city where you can enjoy a romantic Christmas market. The Christmas market, said to be one of the largest in Europe, has over 300 stalls lined up in 11 locations across the city, including Brogil Square, Cathedral Square, and Austerlitz Square. Located close to the German border, this city has been heavily influenced by German culture, and its unique scenery created by its cute wooden buildings is an attractive feature. During Advent, the streets are illuminated with lights, creating a fantastical atmosphere like a fairy tale land.
In addition, cities famous for Christmas markets are scattered throughout the countries, such as Brussels in Belgium and Zagreb in Croatia. If you are visiting Europe in the winter, we recommend visiting multiple countries and cities and comparing the charms of the markets with different atmospheres!
Comment
Christmas markets are held all over Europe, mainly in Germany. These markets, which are full of a variety of attractions such as craft and Christmas sweets stalls, illuminations, and music concerts, are generally held for four weeks before Christmas. However, depending on the year, some start in mid-November and some can be enjoyed even after Christmas, so once you have decided on your travel plans, be sure to check the information on the official Christmas market websites.
The contents published are accurate at the time of publication and are subject to change.
