Best Christmas markets to visit around the world

As the festive season approaches, Christmas markets pop up all around the world, creating a magical atmosphere of holiday cheer. From traditional wooden huts selling handcrafted gifts and delicious treats to fairground rides and ice rinks, there is something for everyone at these markets. Here are some of the best Christmas markets to visit around the world.

1. Strasbourg, France Strasbourg’s Christmas market is one of the oldest and largest in Europe, with over 300 chalets lining the streets. The market is famous for its traditional Alsatian crafts and delicacies, such as bredele (small, festive biscuits) and mulled wine.

2. Vienna, Austria Vienna’s Christmas market has been around since the Middle Ages, and it is still going strong today. The market is located in front of the city hall and features over 150 stalls selling everything from handcrafted ornaments to roasted chestnuts.

3. Copenhagen, Denmark Copenhagen’s Christmas market is located in the Tivoli Gardens amusement park, which is transformed into a winter wonderland during the festive season. Visitors can enjoy rides, ice skating, and shopping for traditional Danish crafts and food.

4. Dresden, Germany Dresden’s Striezelmarkt is one of Germany’s oldest Christmas markets, dating back to 1434. The market is named after a traditional Christmas cake called Striezel, which is still sold at the market today. Visitors can also enjoy the famous Dresdner Stollen (fruitcake) and shop for handmade crafts.

5. Prague, Czech Republic Prague’s Christmas markets take place in the Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square, with over 70 stalls selling traditional Czech products and food. Visitors can enjoy live music and performances, and children can take a ride on the Christmas carousel.

6. Brussels, Belgium Brussels’ Christmas market takes place in the Grand Place, with over 200 chalets selling crafts and food from around the world. The market is known for its giant Christmas tree and its spectacular sound and light show.

7. Toronto, Canada Toronto’s Christmas market takes place in the historic Distillery District, which is transformed into a winter wonderland with lights, music, and a giant Christmas tree. Visitors can shop for handmade crafts and enjoy festive food and drinks.

8. Osaka, Japan Osaka’s German-style Christmas market takes place in the Umeda Sky Building, with over 100 stalls selling handmade crafts and German food and drinks. Visitors can enjoy the festive atmosphere and take in the stunning views from the building’s observation deck.

9. Tallinn, Estonia Tallinn’s Christmas market takes place in the Town Hall Square, with over 60 stalls selling traditional Estonian crafts and food. Visitors can enjoy live performances and take a ride on the Christmas carousel.

10. New York City, USA New York City’s Christmas market takes place in Bryant Park, with over 170 vendors selling handmade crafts and gifts. Visitors can enjoy ice skating, festive food and drinks, and a holiday shopping experience like no other.

Whether you’re looking for traditional crafts, festive food, or a magical atmosphere, these Christmas markets around the world have something for everyone. So grab your scarf and gloves and get ready to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit!