It’s time for us to get in the Christmas spirit, so the girls at HCX have found the best Christmas markets for you to visit this festive season! So grab that Santa hat out of the cupboard, dust off your mulled wine glass, and take a trip around Europe with us…
1. Dresden, Germany
Why not experience the romantic charm of the oldest Christmas market in Germany? You will find a treasure trove of trinkets, be it a candle or enough gingerbread to last the whole year, Dresden Christmas Market will not disappoint!
2. Brussels, Belgium
Take your pick of the winter wonders of Brussels: with a magical illumination display on the Grand-Place, the chance for you to wander around the traditional Christmas Market in the city centre, a spin on a merry-go-round at Place Sainte-Catherine, and a large ice rink at Marche aux Poissons, you won’t be short of Christmas experiences.
3. Budapest, Hungary
Take a break from your Christmas thermal pool party and enjoy the Christmas Market on Vorosmarty Square. This market is the oldest, richest and the most spectacular in Budapest. With a glass of mulled wine in hand, stroll from stall to stall, from market to market, and see the enchanting handmade gifts the local Hungarians make to keep their traditions alive.
4. Manchester, England
Grab your most festive jumper, and mosey on over to the Manchester Market. Perhaps an overlooked Christmas gem, this market offers over 300 stalls with mouth-watering delicacies from all over Europe, as well as crafts, clothes, and even bonsai trees.
5. Paris, France
Although a romantic destination all year round, you can’t beat Paris at Christmas. The largest market is on the Avenue des Champs-Elyees, which is lit up with stunning illuminations and 160 stalls to help spread the magic of Christmas. It’s perfect chance for you to catch up on Christmas shopping and replenish your much loved (and needed!) wine stock.
6. Vienna, Austria
Get a whiff of the tempting cotton candy and roasted chestnuts aromas wafting around the wooden market stalls in Vienna’s Magic of Advent Market. 150 stands offering you gifts, tree decorations and, of course, mulled wine – it’s not to be missed.
7. Berlin, Germany
Perhaps one of Europe’s most famous Christmas markets, the Berlin Christmas Market is always festively lit and the comforting smells of mulled wine and cinnamon fill the air. You can snuggle up at a cosy hotel and enjoy the friendly and relaxed Christmas cheer.
8. Dublin, Ireland
2015 is only the second year of ‘Dublin at Christmas’, so you’ll be ahead of the crowds. With more than 60 stalls crammed with uniquely Irish made gifts and seasonal foods, you’re sure to find something in this winter wonderland.
9. Barcelona, Spain
The old buildings, narrow streets of the old town make it an atmospheric winter destination. The beautiful squares are filled with small markets, offering an interesting place to stroll around and find some unique Christmas presents for your friends and family.
10. Exeter, probably the best place on Earth
But why travel, when Exeter has its very own Christmas market for you to enjoy? Cathedral Square is lit up and filled with traditional wooden stalls for you to peruse. Opening Thursday 19th November this year, you can spend many an evening munching on crepes and sipping on hot cider. With everything from local cheeses to European favourites, everything you could want is right on your doorstep!