With the end of year silly season approaching, it’s starting to really feel like Christmas. While Aussies are spoilt with sunny weather in December, many of us actually dream of experiencing the Christmas magic under the snow. Put those dreams into reality by swapping your beach cricket tradition with an unforgettable holiday visiting European’s top Christmas markets. Now is the time to book your long-haul flights before prices skyrocket!
Christkindelsmärik in France
Strasbourg, France
23 November – 30 December 2018
Set in front of a breathtaking gothic Cathedral, Strasbourg’s world-famous Christkindelsmärik is not only one of the oldest but also the largest Christmas markets in Europe (held since 1570!). Take time to stroll through the stalls on Place Kléber, which is home to an impressive 30 metre high real Christmas tree. Don’t forget to go ice skating on Place du Château and visit La Petite France, an area of picturesque buildings with Christmas shops and a gingerbread bakery.
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Tallinn Christmas Market in Estonia
Tallinn, Estonia
16 November 2018 – 7 January 2019
Tallinn’s Town Hall Square is a pretty special place to visit under the snow as it is home to the most important Christmas tree in Estonia, surrounded by market stalls selling handcrafts, hot wine and souvenirs. Fun fact: the first Christmas tree was erected here in 1441 by the Brotherhood of Blackheads, making it one of the earliest cities with a tradition of decorated trees for the Yuletide season.
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Frankfurt Christmas Market in Germany
Frankfurt, Germany
26 November – 22 December 2018
Every year during the advent season, the scent of roast chestnuts, mulled wine and grilled sausages fill the air above the Roemerberg in Frankfurt. The German city’s markets are famous for traditional Christmas delicacies, such as Bethmännchen (small almond biscuits) and the delicious Quetschemännchen (edible figurines made of nuts and dried plums).
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Tivoli Gardens in Denmark
Copenhagen, Denmark
17 November – 31 December 2018
Located in Copenhagen, the best thing about the Tivoli Gardens is the myriad of fairy lights, wooden houses, and snow-covered trees that create an unforgettable Nordic Christmas atmosphere. Santa Claus will be there to welcome you to the 27 fun rides and Christmas market filled with gifts, decorations, and more treats than you could have ever imagined.
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Stockholm Old Town Christmas Markets in Sweden
Stockholm, Sweden
24 November – 23 December 2018
The beautiful city of Stockholm is particularly magical in December, with plenty of Christmas activities on offer. Make your way to the main Christmas markets, which are held in the colourful medieval maze of the old town known as Gamla Stan. The weekend market at the Skansen is also a must-visit, where the world’s oldest open air museum on Djurgården island has been running since 1903.
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Prague Christmas Markets in Czech Republic
Prague, Czech Republic
29 November – 3 December 2018
Prague’s markets are a complete winter wonderland. Open daily at the Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square (including Christmas Day and NYE), it is a magical place to wrap up, and snap up some festive bargains! Sing along to the Christmas carols and try delicious local food such as klobása (barbequed sausage) and trdelník (a hot sugar coated pastry).
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Budapest Christmas Fair and Winter Festival in Hungary
Budapest, Hungary
9 November – 31 December 2018
In the heart of Hungary’s capital, Vörösmarty Square hosts incredible Christmas markets positioned right in front of the prestigious Café Gerbeaud It’s the perfect place to buy something special for your loved ones from the many craft stalls that sell artisanal products. Be sure to also treat yourself with delicious gingerbread, bubblegum marzipan, or the local blackcurrant rum punch! From Advent to New Year, you can find another Christmas fair at St. Stephen’s Square. With a charming 3D mapping show lighting up the beautiful St. Stephen’s Basilica at night, this eco-conscious Christmas fair also features folk dance performances, charity concerts and a free ice-rink open for children below 14.
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Note: These rates are based on search queries made on nz.KAYAK.com on 27th November, 2018. The prices are quoted in NZD. Flight prices are based on results for a return economy flight search. Hotel prices are for double occupancy and include taxes and fees. Prices are subject to change, may vary, or no longer be available.
