10 of the best Christmas markets
Are you looking for shopping inspiration with a twist? ELEANOR O’KANE rounds up 10 of our favourite Christmas markets in Europe
Mulled wine, ice skating and illuminated wooden cabins… H&A picks the most heart-warming shopping experiences you can have around Europe this winter
G
etting through your list of preparations for the looming festive season can sometimes feel like a chore, which is why combining a short break with a Christmas market trip is such an attractive prospect – especially when you throw some local gastronomy into the mix. A winter city break also gives you the chance to discover a place in a completely di erent way, wrapping up warm and ducking into cosy cafes as you go. Here, we’ve rounded up some of
the best Christmas markets to visit in the UK and beyond – each of them o ering unusual and original gifts while providing a snapshot of how the festive season is celebrated elsewhere. Every city has its own traditions and character and so we’ve given suggestions for a dash of culture, vintage shopping or interiors inspiration while you’re there. From Nordic twists to gingerbread- scented shopping and heritage experiences, there’s something for everyone. What are you waiting for? Pack an overnight bag, grab your list and go!
1 COPENHAGEN
Christmas in the Danish capital comes with added thrills when historic Tivoli Gardens holds its festive market. This 19th- century theme park has a place in the hearts of residents and was a favourite of Hans Christian Andersen. Prepare yourself for a ride on the 1914 roller coaster – one of the remaining few in the world to still have a brake man – with a glass of local schnapps. Elsewhere, the display of Christmas tables at Royal Copenhagen’s flagship store (right) are another seasonal highlight. Created by artists using pieces from the porcelain maker’s historic collections, they provide inspiration for creating your own Nordic Christmas cheer.
* From 18th November to 31st December; tivoli.dk/en
2 FLORENCE
A German market in the Renaissance Italian city sounds like a curious mix but a visit to Florence’s Christmas market in the Piazza Santa Croce lets you experience the best of both worlds. The market is held in front of the distinctive 13th- century Saint Croce Church, which means you have an opportunity to appreciate one of the city’s best treasures. Behind the polychrome marble facade discover important frescoes and the tombs of Michelangelo, the diplomat Machiavelli and astronomer Galileo. Although you can find gingerbread and strudel in the market, fear not, there will be plenty of Tuscan treats, panettone and traditional handicrafts, making this a truly Italian experience.
* From 28th November to 17th December; visitflorence.com
3 STRASBOURG
The self-titled ‘Capital of Christmas’ has held a festive market since 1570. The city literally and metaphorically lights up for a month, as a collection of markets around the city are accompanied by traditional storytelling, dazzling street decorations and a huge Christmas tree. On the fringes of eastern France, Strasbourg blends French and German culture, so expect Alsatian goodies such as gingerbread, local beers and bredeles, the cookies that double as lip- smacking tree decorations. One of the most popular markets takes place in the shadow of the city’s famous Gothic cathedral, which is definitely worth a visit before hitting the markets as dusk falls.
* From 24th November to 24th December (some sites remain open until 30th December); noel.strasbourg.eu