December sparks feelings of joy as people spend time with loved ones, exchange gifts and celebrate the holidays. Many employees take time off due to office and school closures. They often seek fun activities for themselves and their children, which can be challenging especially for newly relocated employees who are unfamiliar with their new home and surrounding area.
If you live in or have relocated to Europe, one of the most popular seasonal activities are the spectacular Christmas markets. Regardless of whether you are shopping for gifts, looking for stunning architectural views or are just in the mood for a sweet treat, these markets are the perfect way to spend an afternoon over winter break, as they foster festive family-friendly environments. Here are our three favorite Christmas market:
It’s not all about fast cars in Nuremberg! Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt is one of Germany’s oldest and most famous Christmas markets. With over 400 years of history, it offers a truly traditional experience, with cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses that transport you to a bygone era. While there, try the famous Nuremberg sausages, gingerbread and mulled wine. If you’re able to arrive for the official opening of the market, the city hosts “Christkind,” a tradition that sees one child, dressed as a Christmas angel, open the market with a prologue. It’s a scene straight out of a storybook that the kids are sure to enjoy.
Prague’s Old Town Square transforms into a winter wonderland during the Christmas season. The Gothic and Baroque architecture surrounding the square adds to the enchanting atmosphere. This market is the perfect location for your last-minute Christmas shopping, with vendors selling beautiful, handcrafted gifts, ornaments and a host of local goodies. Be sure to try some of the market’s festive foods like trdelnik, a sweet pastry that’s a local favourite as well as goulash and hearty Czech sausages. While you’re there, don’t miss the stunning Prague Castle, beautifully illuminated with lights and the iconic astronomical clock as it strikes the hour. These are the perfect places to gather the family to take a photo for your next holiday card.
Vienna’s Rathausplatz hosts one of Europe’s most famous Christmas markets, the Viennese Dream. This magical market is surrounded by the neo-Gothic city hall and is equipped with an ice-skating and curling rink where you can (somewhat) gracefully glide (depending on your talents!) under the city’s historic architecture to the sounds of enchanting classical music. Be sure to indulge in traditional Austrian dishes like schnitzel and Sachertorte at Café Demel, a must-visit spot for a slice of the area’s world-famous chocolate cake. And before you leave, be sure to hop on one of the market rides like the ferris wheel, which provides scenic views of the surrounding area.
If you haven’t decided which one of these markets you would like to visit, then check out seven more fabulous European Christmas markets here and here. Wherever you choose for your Christmas market experience this year, we hope you have a magical trip!
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