It’s fast becoming the most wonderful time of the year and with that comes an amazing selection of Christmas themed markets to visit. Here at Holiday Numbers, we think there’s nothing better than wrapping up warm and wandering around the stalls clutching a cup of hot chocolate, perhaps taking a break to ice skate or ride a ferris wheel. Take a look at our list of the best Christmas markets and get festive!
Manchester, UK
Manchester’s Christmas Markets have just been named the best in the UK and with good reason. With a Bavarian theme, the markets are spread across the city. They’re extremely popular, with millions set to visit this year. With more than 300 beautiful stalls and chalets, you can soak up the atmosphere whilst you choose a unique gift for friends and family. The Manchester markets are famous for their Bratwurst, but you can choose from a wide range of cuisines such as Spanish and Hungarian.
When: The 2015 Christmas markets will be open between Saturday 14 November and Monday 21 December.
How to get there: Manchester is easily accessible by train from the rest of the UK. Contact National Rail for times and tickets.
Cologne, Germany
Sticking to the German theme, the city of Cologne offers seven Christmas markets in total. Every year, the main four markets attract 2 million visitors. The market located at the Cathedral is the most stunning. Beneath it, you will find 160 stalls where you can watch artists at work, enjoy a mug of mulled wine or delicious sweets. Children will find lots to do, with a roundabout and a puppet theatre just some of the attractions.
When: All Christmas Markets in Cologne will start on the 23rd November 2015, with the exception of the Cologne Harbour Christmas Market which starts earlier on the 20th November (closed for “Remembrance Day” on the 22nd November).
How to get there: Ryanair can fly you to Cologne direct from London.
Lincoln, UK
Lincoln Christmas Market is located in the Cathedral quarter, with more than 280 stalls nestled around the castle. There’s something for everyone from unusual gifts to festive food and drink and a true atmosphere of merriment in this historic city. This market runs for less time than the others, but a flying visit is totally worth it!
When: Thursday 3rd to Sunday 6th December.
How to get there: There’s no parking near the market, so why not get the bus if you live locally? Contact First Bus or Stagecoach.
Vienna, Austria
During Advent Season, Vienna is a city of nostalgia and romance, with lots of concerts and traditional Nativity displays. The traditional Christmas markets are spread across the city, with classics including the market in front of City Hall. Enjoy the tempting aromas of candied fruit, candy floss and roasted chestnuts. Next to the markets you’ll find an enchanting park where you can take part in pony rides or take a trip on the Christkindl Express.
When: The Vienna Christmas Markets run from 13 Nov 15 to 26 Dec 15.
How to get there: Enjoy a short flight to Vienna with Easyjet.
London, UK
As the capital of the UK, London has several Christmas markets to choose from. It begins with the Tate Modern Christmas market, where you can browse handmade wooden toys before tucking into a warming cup of glühwein. Then, the Barbican will host 10 days of seasonal shopping, with 35 independent designers, artisans and makers setting up shop in the foyer. You could double up on your trip to London by visiting Winter Wonderland.
When: The London Christmas market season begins on November 20 at the Tate Modern, with the Barbican’s opening on the 12th December.
How to get there: The easiest way to get around London is the tube. Contact TFL for help.
Stockholm, Sweden
For a genuine Swedish Christmas, the Christmas market in the Old Town is a must see. The little red stalls sell a range of delights such as Swedish sweets, smoked sausages and other Christmas delicacies, as well as a range of Swedish handicrafts. Plus, snow is pretty likely to happen, which is a bonus.
When: The market runs from November 21st to December 23rd.
How to get there: British Airways has flights to Stockholm from London.
Bury St. Edmunds, UK
The 12th Bury St. Edmunds Christmas fayre is going to be bigger than ever in 2015, with over 300 stalls. There will be a fairground and entertainment, and the markets will kick off with a fireworks display for locals.
When: The Christmas market runs from November 26-29, 2015.
How to get there: Why not hire a car and drive to Bury St.Edmunds? Check out Avis car hire.
Budapest, Hungary
The Budapest Christmas fair’s location is ideal, in the centre of the city. Filled with cottage style wooden stalls and two outdoor stages, the area is a true delight to all of your senses. On weekend mornings, puppet shows take place for children and Santa Claus is due to visit on the 6th December.
When: 13. The Budapest Christmas Fair runs from 13th November 2015. – 06. January 2016.
How to get there: KLM operates flights to Budapest.
Prague, Czech Republic
Christmas markets are a key element of festive magic in Prague. They light up the city, bringing locals and tourists together. The markets consist of little wooden huts selling traditional handicrafts such as glassware and jewellery. Most impressive of all is the Old Town Square Christmas tree, shipped in from the Krkonose mountains in the north of the Czech Republic, switched on every night around 5pm.
When: The Prague christmas market runs from the 28th November until the 1st January.
How to get there: Make your festive trip to Prague affordable with a budget airline flight and accommodation through Laterooms.com.
Bruges, Belgium
The cosy atmosphere of Bruges Christmas Market makes it one of the most vibrant in the country. Enjoy a trip round the stalls followed by a skate around the ice rink in the nearby square. It is, of course, compulsory that you indulge in Belgian chocolate and waffles.
When: The market begins on the 20th November and ends on the 3rd January 2016.
How to get there: Why not get the Eurostar to Belgium and stop off in France along the way.
We hope that this article has got you feeling suitably festive. Merry Christmas!
