The most beautiful places for Christmas in Europe. Christmas fairy tale and New Year's miracle in Europe. Christmas markets in Europe
Christmas and Advent (pre-Christmas 4 weeks) plan ahead. There is nothing better than this time in Europe. The Christmas tour is the perfect combination of shopping, culture and just having fun. So, where to go for Advent and Christmas in Europe?
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Strasbourg: the most beautiful bazaar in Europe
In the capital of Alsace, the most beautiful Christmas market in France, it is also the oldest - it first appeared in 1570! Street orchestras, mummers and very exquisite decor: huge gingerbread men, balls, bears... Up to 2 million tourists come here every year to look at all this magnificence. Therefore, it is better to get to Strasbourg on weekdays and without a car, so at least you will avoid problems with parking. Pay attention to pastries - pies, pretzels, buns. In one of the pavilions, they are cooked right in front of your eyes. Try sausages, sausages, pork shank. And don't forget the traditional Christmas drink - hot wine.
Berlin: welcome the New Year!
London: the most beautiful shop windows in Europe
At Christmas and New Year's, shopkeepers in London compete with each other in the luxury of decorating holiday windows. Sometimes the decor is so magnificent that it can compete in popularity even with the most famous sights of the English capital. Before Christmas, shopping is everything! It is worth coming to London at least to choose a great gift. If traditional shopping centers are fed up, take a stroll through the markets. The most famous ones are Old Spitalfields Christmas Market, Southbank Center Christmas Market, Leaden Hall Christmas Market… And be sure to admire the country's main Christmas tree in Trafalgar Square.
Prague: Christmas in the Fairy KingdomThe Czech capital resembles a fairy-tale kingdom in winter. Santa Claus, Mikulash, Ezhishek and Father Frost congratulate the children on the holiday. Fairs are held on two squares located in the neighborhood - Old Town and Wenceslas. Look out for local Christmas treats: small biscuits called zukrovi. They are sold everywhere. The Czech Republic lives off tourism, so there are a lot of entertaining pre-Christmas events here. You can, for example, go to a master class on cooking a real Christmas dinner, a medieval show in Detenice or a tour called "Mystical Prague".
Salzburg: Europe's oldest Christmas market
The local Christmas market is considered one of the oldest in Europe. Back in the 15th century, some townswomen began to go out with their goods to the main cathedral closer to Christmas. Demand was for things directly related to the holiday. This is how the Christmas assortment gradually formed, and solid pavilions appeared in place of the hawkers. The smell of roasted chestnuts and almonds, the aromas of mulled wine and punch... Visit the Cathedral Square and the Residenzplatz, stroll through the narrow streets, look at the Hellbrun Palace, listen to Christmas melodies, take part in entertainment programs. Salzburg has a fantastic atmosphere: a real Christmas in Europe!
Rome: the main Christmas service in EuropeA shot of the famous Colosseum in front of an ornate Christmas tree can be a hit in your photo collection for years to come. Here it is customary to celebrate Christmas at home with the family, so the Italians do not attach any importance to the external decoration of the streets. The center of the celebration is traditionally shifted to the Vatican. A Christmas tree is set up in the middle of St. Peter's Square, and a nativity scene is always present nearby. Inside the cathedral there is another nativity scene, striking both with the subtlety of work and special illumination: during the day the sun rises here, in the evening the stars light up. The Christmas service is conducted by the Pope himself - this is the main service for the whole of Catholic Europe.
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Berlin is a very party place. It is worth going here to celebrate the New Year and see with your own eyes how thousands of people gather at the Brandenburg Gate. Every year, on a festive night, the capital of Germany hosts the most grandiose fireworks and the largest outdoor disco in Europe with the participation of world-class stars and famous DJs. However, you can also come to the Christmas markets. One of the most beautiful markets is located on the Gendarmenmarkt. Here is one of the largest ice rinks in Europe. The fair is designed in the style of the turn of the 18th-19th centuries: the stalls are stylized as wooden houses of that time. Especially for those who dream of tasting a traditional Christmas in Europe. Nuts, chestnuts, chocolate-covered fresh fruit… Try the Berlin curry sausage (Carrywurst) too!
Before Christmas, the cities of Europe are transformed: streets, shops and just office buildings and houses are decorated with multi-colored garlands and thousands of flashing lights. Christmas markets create a special festive atmosphere, where you can not only buy colorful toys for the Christmas tree and gifts for friends and relatives, but also taste traditional Christmas sweets and warm yourself with a glass of hot mulled wine or punch. Wherever you are - in Germany, Austria or France, at Christmas you will always be treated to ginger or honey gingerbread, marzipan and drink wine with spices.
Vienna, Austria From mid-November until Christmas, Vienna's most beautiful squares turn into fabulous Christmas markets. The aromas of Christmas pastries and hot punch create a pre-Christmas mood. Winter holiday traditions in Austria are so original that the bearded Santa is replaced here by a rather unexpected character - the beautiful blond German maiden Weiner Christkindl. The Vienna Christmas market opened its doors on November 15th on the square in front of the City Hall, crowned with tall towers. Here, in the concert hall, the Viennese Catholic choir and the city orchestra give festive performances every day. A cozy city park is also adequately prepared for the celebration of Christmas: each tree is decorated with balls that emit soft matte light. Walking along the narrow park alleys, you find yourself on the pages of Christmas fairy tales. Nearby restaurants offer roasted Christmas carp and tea with marzipan stollen. The Cultural and Christmas Market in front of the Schönbrunn Palace offers Christmas romance against a regal backdrop, and after Christmas it transforms into a New Year's Market. In a regal atmosphere, there is also a Christmas market in front of the Belvedere Palace. Open: November 22 - December 26
Velden, Austria The main and brightest moment of the fair in Velden is the lighting of a huge wreath, decorated with 80,000 lights, which create the atmosphere of a real fairy tale that comes to Lake Vers on Christmas Eve. Official opening: December 7
Berlin, Germany Germany is a classic Christmas destination. Only in Berlin alone November 23 to December 31 there are 60 Christmas markets. The best of them is located in the Wilhelm Gedächtniskirche - it attracts about a million visitors. Other popular Berlin bazaars are located near Charlottenburg Castle and on the Gendarmenmarkt. Cologne, Germany
November 27 to December 23 six large Christmas markets operate in Cologne - the largest of them will open on Neumarkt (Neumarkt). One small medieval fair is located in front of the Lindt chocolate museum, and the other is on a boat moored off the banks of the Rhine. Nuremberg, Germany The Nuremberg Christmas market has been held since 1682 and is considered the largest and best in Europe. Here you can taste delicious gingerbread cookies - a specialty of the region, as well as Christmas sausages. In the evenings, the market is softly lit with garland lights, while guest musicians play jazz to entertain the crowd. Fair will continue from 1 to 24 December.
Munich, Germany In Munich from November 27 to December 24 The fair takes place on the Christkindlmarkt square. By tradition, during its work, Christmas carols are heard and snowball championships are held. Paris, France French Christmas markets are not as old and popular as in Germany, but they are recognized as the most romantic. It's amazing how Paris changes in December. Coquettish streets are transformed one after another, they are strewn with small log cabins twinkling with New Year's lights. An incredible Christmas market grows in the heart of the futuristic La Defense district, its area reaches 10,000 m². There are small souvenir tents around the spacious skating rink, and the guests of the bazaar actually do shopping on skates. A more traditional and relaxed atmosphere reigns at the second Parisian Christmas market, which occupied the Champs Elysees. Here, according to tradition, people from Alsace rule the ball, descending from the Germans, famous connoisseurs of Christmas celebrations. Be sure to drink a cup of French coffee with bredele - a spicy sugar biscuit, and buy a crispy package of gingerbread - surrounded by sweet aromas, your appetite will not leave you for a second. For those who like to have a hearty dinner, tender duck meat with a potato side dish and a piece of birewacke pie stuffed with fruits and nuts in liquor syrup are waiting for you. Strasbourg, France The fair has been taking place at the foot of the Strasbourg Cathedral since time immemorial. The temperature here rarely drops below zero, but despite the absence of snow, the aroma of cloves, almonds and hot mulled wine reminds of the upcoming holiday - it is sold everywhere. Performances and concerts of choirs and chamber orchestras are held every day in temples and exhibition halls. A 30-meter Christmas tree is installed on the main square of the city. Open: November 28 - December 31
Mulhouse, France Mulhouse, the second largest city in Alsace, is famous for its textiles. During the New Year period, textiles are of particular interest, both for residents and guests of this city. In Mulhouse, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of rare museum collections. There is a unique in Europe exposition of wallpapers of the 18th - 19th centuries and, of course, a car museum, with its one-of-a-kind collection. Walking along a wide avenue with 500 exhibits, you can take a journey through more than a century of automotive history, from the Jaco steam-powered car of 1878 to the present day. Period of work: from November 24 to December 29.
Brussels, Belgium In a city renowned for its cuisine, the Christmas Market is a gourmet paradise. The Brussels Christmas Market stretches through the city center and includes wooden stalls, fairground rides, slides and more. During the fair period, a light show is arranged on the Grand Place. Considered one of the largest Christmas markets in Europe, the Brussels Fair offers seasonal gifts and goodies, including Belgian chocolate. The ice skating rink with an area of 1050 square meters, located against the backdrop of an illuminated Ferris wheel, gives a special charm to the fair. Belgium, Bruges Medieval Bruges from November 20 to January 3 hosts one of the prettiest fairs in Europe. Perhaps its main feature is a colossal selection of local beer. Valkenburg, The Netherlands One of the most interesting fairs takes place in the Dutch town of Valkenburg from November 20 to January 3. She is located in Fluweelengrot - the so-called "velvet cave" under the Old City. The corridors, lit with many candles, instantly create a festive mood. Barcelona, Spain The annual Fira de Santa Lucia Christmas market in Barcelona is an explosion of festive mood around the Sagrada Familia, inexorably stretching jagged towers, as if melted from sand, into the distant sky. Christmas in the birthplace of bullfighting and flamenco, what could be more exotic? Only here in the bazaar you will find fragrant olive wood dishes and soft bags made of fine leather. Typical Spanish souvenirs include skillful clay figurines, among which there are typical representatives of a kind of Catalan humor, for example, the famous canager - a figure of a shepherd defecating his natural needs - a symbol of fertility and harvest. However, such humor does not spoil the Spanish people's love for delicious and luxurious food. While at the fair, be sure to check out Can Culleretes, a restaurant founded in 1786 that serves juicy young goose stuffed with fresh pears. Tallinn, Estonia Tallinn itself is a charming city, but in winter, when it dresses up in a fluffy snow coat, and hundreds of garlands and Christmas decorations glisten on the streets, it completely becomes like a fairy tale. Already by the beginning of December, the streets and shop windows of the city are beginning to be decorated with Christmas trees in every possible way. The tradition of Christmas markets is relatively new to Tallinn. Fair towns in the old part of the city appeared in 1991. But they have already gained popularity among residents and visitors of the city. The Tallinn Fair takes place on two squares. The fair on Old Town Square is surrounded by picturesque cobbled streets, medieval buildings and Gothic spiers, while the still “young” market on Rotermann Square is nestled among old brick warehouses and modern glass offices. Both fairs sell Estonian handicrafts. Here you can buy felt boots, pillows stuffed with buckwheat, patchwork quilts and knitted sweaters, as well as traditional Christmas products, including black pudding, gingerbread, marzipan and honey. Rovaniemi, Finland And yet, Christmas in Europe is unthinkable without the main "instigator" - the old Santa Claus, whose homeland, as you know, is far to the north, in frosty Lapland. Right on the Arctic Circle is his workshop, around which a whole village has long grown, with an amusement park, many restaurants and cafes, and, of course, a huge Christmas market. Are you looking for exclusive gifts for the fair sex? A unique northern-themed jewelry store-gallery is open especially for you, and Finnish chocolate boutiques are open until late in the evening. Need to choose a souvenir for a real man? Take a look at the Finnish hunting knife store and the Lapland fishing tackle shop. 
Children will always find something to do here, whether it's a walk through the fabulous elf factory, riding a reindeer sleigh or playing catch-up along the line of the Arctic Circle. And a family lunch at Napatapuli Restaurant is a celebration in itself, serving hot potato casserole, crispy turkey meat and an unusual Christmas dessert of sweet rice porridge with a dash of roasted almonds. Moscow, Russia The Hermitage Garden hosts a traditional Christmas market inspired by the atmosphere of the best European fairs. Here you can buy gifts, choose a Christmas tree, toys, watch the performances "Christmas Nativity Scene" and "The Nutcracker", and spend time with children.
In Christian countries, Christmas is the brightest and most important holiday of the year. And it lasts not one day, but as much as 4 weeks. Actually, Christmas in Europe is a month of preparation. Fairs, performances, music, colorful national traditions and food. And the day of Christmas is celebrated quietly. At home. In the family. The holiday teaches love and care for loved ones.
We were lucky! We got Christmas!
Most countries in Europe profess Catholicism, there are Lutherans, there are Anglicans, there are Huguenots, there are other branches of Christianity, but Christmas itself in Europe in most countries is the night of December 24-25. If you want to relax, get impressions, stare at the sparkling streets and buildings decorated with original illumination, buy souvenirs and get good discounts in stores, then you need to go to Europe from November 20 to December 25. According to a tradition that originated in Europe back in the 13th century, 4 weeks before Christmas, Christmas markets begin.
Fairs are especially widely represented in big cities. Stockholm, Brussels, Paris, Prague, Cologne, Munich, Berlin.
Even small towns are being transformed. Moreover, it is in these small towns and interesting to visit.
According to an old religious tradition, there is a special time before Christmas Eve - Advent. These are 24 days, which include special behavior - first of all, fasting and living on the days of the Gospel story. This is the manufacture of toys and decoration of the Christmas tree. In many European countries, the family makes a wreath from spruce branches. This wreath is decorated with 4 candles. On the squares, streets and inside churches, sculptural groups depicting gospel scenes are installed - shepherds following a star, wise men bringing gifts, King Herod and his soldiers, the flight of the Virgin, the birth of the baby Christ, Joseph and, of course, angels.
The week of preparation includes the selection and purchase of gifts. These Christmas Eve gifts are placed in a sock and hung from the baby's bed or placed under the Christmas tree.
Advent ends with a festive divine service. And at noon on December 24, people rush home to prepare to celebrate Christmas with their families. This is a family holiday about the joy of being with loved ones, about happiness and caring for loved ones.
Which country to go in December to catch Christmas in Europe
In Europe, the Christmas holiday is from December 24 to 25, except for Orthodox countries. In them, Christmas is celebrated, as in our country, from January 6 to 7 according to the Gregorian calendar.
The Gregorian is our regular state calendar. The Orthodox Church uses the Julian calendar. According to the Julian calendar, Christmas is also from December 24 to 25, but due to the time lag of the Julian calendar, Julian December 24 falls on January 6 of the Gregorian calendar.
So be careful when choosing a country to travel. If you arrive on January 6 in a Catholic country to participate in the Christmas holiday, then you will not find anything.
Even the New Year's Eve is celebrated quietly and calmly: a couple of pitards and - bainki. All Christmas trees, gifts, holiday sweets and goodies ended on December 25th. Those. you will see calm winter Europe.
Christmas from December 24 to 25 in: England, Austria, Germany, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, France, Czech Republic, Poland, etc.
There are also Muslim countries in Europe. They have different traditions.
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Christmas markets in Europe
Christmas markets in Europe start in November and last 4 weeks. On the 24th of December they fold. The squares are empty. The people go home. Only traces of the past feast remain on the streets and squares.
Galka and I were lucky. We took part in the holidays, and ate gingerbread, and got drunk on punch, and visited the service, bought souvenirs, and even on December 29, having reached Göttingen, we found the Christmas Fair! The locals said that this does not happen) Usually these days everything is already closed and stacked.
Although, in fact, not all European cities adhere to the rule of closing fairs on December 24th. For example, in Berlin this year the fair will begin on November 25 and end on December 29. In Strasbourg, the fair will last from November 26 to December 31. By the way, this city is considered the birthplace of the first Christmas tree. So, if you didn’t manage to get to the markets before December 24, run to Strasbourg to the Place Kléber square.
But in 2019, the fair will last from November 30 to January 6, 2020. You will have time to buy handmade puppets, Bohemian crystal, Czech glass. On Republic Square, the fair will delight you from November 25 to December 24.
Who brings presents at Christmas
In many countries, according to tradition, gifts are brought by St. Nicholas - Santa Claus. Images of Santa are part of the decorations; on the streets, street musicians, sellers, couriers wear red caps. Pet owners wear red hats for their pets. So on the streets you can meet funny dogs and even cats in Santa hats.
Santa's Swift Reindeer
But there are other traditions as well. So in Austria, gifts are given not by Santa Claus and Santa Claus, but by the golden-haired baby Christkindl - a charming baby in a white robe.
In France, things are much more complicated. In my opinion, even here, during the holiday, one can see the tendency of the French to bureaucracy. In France, there is "Santa Claus" - Pere Noel, "baby Jesus" - Petit Noel, the Magi: Caspar, Balthazar and Melchior, as well as another stern and angry character, "keeping order" - Per Fuetard. He walks around with rods and watches how the children behave. He also tells Per Noel about how the child behaved, whether he deserves a gift or punishment, and what gift should be given to the baby.
In Italy, a custom has been adopted: children write letters not only to Santa, but also to their parents, about how much they love them.
I really like this kind of preparation for Christmas. I would like to see some of the traditions in our country. As for the old old man with rods - I don’t know, perhaps - I don’t want to) But - the tradition of writing a letter of love to your parents, in my opinion, is wonderful.
Where to celebrate Christmas in Europe
Is it necessary to go to the capitals of states to see and plunge into the atmosphere of a universal holiday?
No. Not necessary. In Europe, there are not as many territories suitable for living as we have, and the structure is not imperial, there is, of course, the capital of the state, but the world has not converged on it like a wedge. The whole of Europe is dotted with many well-groomed hearts of which are the central cathedral, the town hall and the square. There are castles and castles with squares. They are also getting ready for the holidays.
In small ancient cities, everything is the same as in large ones. In my opinion, they have even more charm.
In our opinion, Germany is in first place in celebrating Christmas. In every corner of this country you will find a square, a town hall, a Christmas tree and Christmas markets. And lots of happy people on the streets eating sausages and drinking hot gluwine or punch.
Taking care of their history, the Germans are restoring not only temples, but also residential buildings. It is amazing to walk along the street where there are neat fresh picture houses with flowers on the windows and balconies (but this is not in winter, of course) and read the year of his “birth” on the house. Houses are not simple - some are 300 - 400 years old! There are more!
Christmas Impressions
Now imagine walking down the street of a medieval city at dusk, snow crunches under your feet, snowflakes melt on your cheeks, and the aroma of food and spices spreads in the air. From somewhere in the streets comes the noise of the holiday and laughter.
You turn the corner... and in front of you is a sea of lights - in the center of the square, not far from the famous sculpture in the city (almost in every city there is some kind of sculpture associated with a local legend on the square) there is a beautiful Christmas tree.
Rows of tents with Christmas souvenirs, toys, balls, angels shimmer with sparkles and tinsel. Row after row of merchants displayed their "gifts for the Magi". And the “wizards” crowd right there, choosing the most beautiful, most tender, most touching gift for their relatives. “At Christmas, everyone is a little wise…”
A strange thing, but at different times of the day, Christmas in Europe dictates a different mood ...
Not even so, in one day of Christmas you have time to be in all ages!
In the morning - it's just aching joy from the anticipation of the holiday. “Life ahead is like an unopened book!”
The day is early childhood. There is a modest ribbon of a labyrinth in the snow - someone rolled three cherished balls for an eternal sculpture. And around her there are rare large footprints and everything is trampled down by small ones - the father taught his child to sculpt a snowman? And here is the creation itself - it stands, raising its hands up and bulging black eyes into the bright winter sun.
Then - such a childhood when parents are not afraid that you will fall off the carousel, so they allow you to saddle a wooden horse on your own and spin on it until you get bored. And behind the carousels are old rides. And the most important is the test of strength. And behind them is a scene where the eternal magician takes out an immortal rabbit from an old black top hat. And no matter how many years pass, every time - well, where did this rabbit come from!
The merry-go-rounds and the magician are followed by adolescence: meetings with the first friends and first love. There are sticky lollipops and candied nuts in a bag, and roasted chestnuts in a paper bag, and tart candied fruit and colorful gingerbread on ribbons ... and on gingerbread such important first words - “Happiness”, “Merry Christmas!”, “I love you! »
And, of course, a special Christmas apple pie, dusted white with powdered sugar. The layer of powder symbolizes the snow-white covers of the Christ child.
The hands are approaching 16 o'clock - youth begins. At this time, the doors of temples are open, preparations are underway for the festive service and evening concerts.
Evening is the time for meetings. Dozens of glowing and iridescent tents with national Christmas food. Cabbage pies, tartlets, fried ribs, Vienna sausages.
Viennese sausages, a rather strange phenomenon, are akin to a roller coaster. In Russia, the attraction is called Rollercoaster, and in the USA - Rollercoaster. It is the same with sausages: in Germany they are called Vienna sausages, and in Austria they are called Würzburg sausages.
I wonder at what border the names change so dramatically?
Performances of choirs and groups are also held on the street, at the foot of the temples, on the square. Crowds of people, but there is no feeling of a flea market. There is a holiday.
National features of Christmas
Of course, every country in Europe has its own national characteristics of Christmas. It all depends on national color and traditions. In the Czech Republic and Austria, horse-drawn carriages ride through the streets.
In Vienna, the best operas are broadcast on the street.
In Nuremberg, on the balcony of the cathedral beloved by the Germans - Frauenkirche, dedicated to the Virgin Mary (in our opinion - the temple of the Virgin) - an angel appears and blesses everyone who came to the square.
In England, on Christmas Eve, it is customary to put lit candles on the windows. Therefore, the night bears its name - the night of candles.
In Germany, there is a funny tradition: after the family has celebrated Christmas in their warm, narrow circle, the time for the next close circle begins - the circle of friends. Therefore, the Germans visit friends on December 26. And here, according to tradition, the owners of the house show their Christmas tree, and the guests should praise it, say: "what a beautiful tree." After this touching ceremony, the owners of the house bring a glass of alcohol to the guests.
In Italy, shepherds from the mountainous regions of the country appear on the streets of cities a week before Christmas. They play national music on national instruments. The coming of the shepherds to the city symbolizes the gospel shepherds who came for the star to the newborn God-child.
In the coastal regions of Greece, it is customary to decorate a spruce with a ship.
Every European country celebrates Christmas in its own way. But the common features are the same: joy, winter sales of goods, fairs (markts), gifts, performances, national cuisine and the obligatory gluwine (mulled wine) and hot punch.
This is the tradition of Christmas in Europe.
And it was Vienna that laid the foundation for such noisy and cheerful celebrations. In 1294, the first Christmas market was held in Vienna. Then this tradition was picked up by large trading cities.
An 800 year old tradition! It sounds respectful.
If you still have doubts, then leave doubts - go to Europe for Christmas. Any city will give a feeling of the most touching and memorable holiday. And, if you visit more than one country, but have time to ride through several European countries, then you can find out the national flavor, and get a boost of happiness, and become a specialist in national cuisines!
Sincerely, And.
The holiday is coming to us: 10 most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe
Christmas in Europe is a magical time. Decorated Christmas trees appear on the central squares, garland lights light up the streets, music sounds, dizzying aromas of mulled wine, fresh pastries and meat baked on a spit hover in the air. And fairs also open, from where it is almost impossible to leave empty-handed and with a full wallet. We have selected for you 10 Christmas markets that you should visit at least once!
1. Prague, Czech Republic
The most famous fair of the capital is located on the Old Town Square, next to the Town Hall, which has recently returned after the reconstruction of the Orloj astronomical clock. It is noisy and crowded here, the main Christmas tree of the country shines with lights, in the evenings there are concerts and theatrical performances. The smells of baked meat, sausages, traditional sweet pastries called trdelnik, mulled wine, grog and mead waft from the numerous food stalls, while souvenir stalls sell puppets, Bohemian glassware, paintings and Christmas decorations. We recommend paying attention to the latter: among the faceless consumer goods, there are worthy handicrafts that are not ashamed to bring as a gift to relatives. Or yourself ;)
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Please note that on the evening of December 24, most of the tents are closed, and queues line up in front of the rest. Between money and the opportunity to celebrate Christmas with their families, the Czechs definitely choose the latter. But the last fair is curtailed, delighting tourists until the beginning of January.
Schedule:
from 12/1/18 to 01/6/19, from 10:00 to 22:00 (food stalls are open until midnight).
Alternative: if you don’t like crowds, look for fairs “for your own”. It is not necessary to go far from the center: take a look at Peace Square (20.11-24.12.18) or the platform near Anděl metro station (24.11-23.12.18). In such places, there are less crowds, the atmosphere is more soulful, the food is tastier, and the prices are lower than in the Old Town and Wenceslas Squares.
2. Vienna, Austria
The biggest fair is on the Friedrich-Schmidt-Platz, in front of the City Hall. This year, there will be 152 tents with sweets, food, drinks and souvenirs, as well as a 3,000 m² ice rink (by purchasing tickets online, you will save 10% of the regular price and will not queue to enter).
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Master classes on Christmas baking, decorating toys, weaving a “dream catcher” and creating Christmas tree decorations are planned for parents with children. They will take place in the building of the Vienna City Hall, participation costs €2-4, you do not need to register in advance.
Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, guests of the fair will be entertained by carol performers from different countries, who can be listened to for free. Be sure to try the famous Viennese sausages, mulled wine (here its name sounds different - gluwine) or punch. Hot drinks are poured not only into disposable dishes, but also into souvenir cups, which can be left as a keepsake for €4-5.
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Schedule:
from 11/16 to 12/26/18, from Sunday to Thursday from 10:00 to 21:30, on Friday and Saturday from 10:00 to 22:00. On December 7, the fair will be open from 10:00 to 22:00, on 24 - from 10:00 to 18:00, on 25 and 26 - from 11:00 to 21:30.
Alternative: From 11/23 to 12/26/18, the Belvedere Palace (Prinz Eugen-Straße 27) will host a craftsmen's village where you can buy handicrafts and traditional delicacies.
3. Nuremberg, Germany
Christkindlesmarkt, held on the Hauptmarkt square next to the Church of St. Sebaldus and the Town Hall, is one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe (first mentioned in 1628). His symbol is the baby Christ (Christkind), a charming creature with white curls, in golden robes. The performer of this role is chosen from among the young townspeople once every 2 years, she opens the fair on the Friday preceding the first Sunday of Advent.
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Hungry, go in search of Nuremberg sausages. They are made from minced pork with marjoram, served by 6, 8, 10 or 12 with horseradish or mustard, or put in 3 pieces in notched buns (this dish is called Drei im Weggla or “Three in a bun”). The recipe and format of these miniature (7-9 centimeters, 20-25 grams) sausages has not changed since 1497!
Another local specialty is the Lebkuchen gingerbread, which has been baked here for over 600 years. About 70 million of these gingerbread are sold in Nuremberg every year.
If you get cold, mulled wine will warm you up, which can also be poured into a souvenir mug (its design changes every year). According to statistics, 80% of mugs are taken by visitors.
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Hans-Sachs-Platz will host a children's fair, where carousels, a train and communication with the Christmas Angel, master classes in baking gingerbread (€3), decorating candles or glassware (€2), making cards and Christmas gifts are waiting for kids (from €1), creating sand paintings (€5). You can also send a letter to your family, visit St. Nicholas and warm up in the free game room from Bruder.
Schedule:
Alternative: The flip side of the Christkindlesmarkt's popularity is the crowds, with around 2 million visitors each year. You can escape from the influx of tourists in one of the neighboring small towns: Bamberg, Erlangen or Forheim.
4. Budapest, Hungary
The oldest fair in Budapest is located on Vörösmarty Square. This is a paradise for gourmets, it is unlikely that you will be able to leave here hungry. Sweet tooths will like Kurtoskalacs cinnamon pastry, similar to the Czech trdelnik, meat-eaters will appreciate sausages or goulash in bread, dodolle potato dumplings, langos or roasted chestnuts are suitable for a light snack. Not without traditional mulled wine.
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In the evenings, there is a light show on the facade of the Gerbeaud Café and free concerts of folk, jazz, indie, blues and pop music.
Schedule:
from 9.11 to 29.12.18, from Sunday to Thursday from 10:00 to 21:00, on Friday and Saturday from 10:00 to 22:00. Food stalls will be open until January 1st.
Alternative: on the square in front of St. Stephen's Basilica, the fair will run from 11/23/18 to 01/01/19, from Monday to Thursday from 10:00 to 21:00, from Friday to Sunday from 10:00 to 22:00. Here you can buy souvenirs made by Hungarian craftsmen or go on a skating rink, and every hour from 16:30 to 22:00 you can see how a video sequence is projected onto the facade of the basilica, this year for the first time in 3D format.
5. Helsinki, Finland
The St. Tuomas Christmas Market in the center of the capital, on the Senate Square, is an integral part of Pikkujolu, “little Christmas”. In 2015, she was included in the list of the 15 most popular in the world according to the Huffington Post.
This is a paradise for lovers of stylish gizmos: 120 stalls sell jewelry, dishes, toys, garlands and much more. In the central part of the fair, there is an old carousel that delights visitors of all ages.
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At the fair, you can meet Joulupukki, the Finnish "Christmas grandfather", buy yourself or your loved ones a sweater with reindeer and warm up with spiced tea or glög (this is an analogue of mulled wine, in which vodka or Madeira is sometimes added for strength). When you get hungry, stop by one of the stalls to buy a sausage or youlutortta, a pastry made from puff pastry with jam.
Schedule:
from 1 to 22.12.18, from Monday to Friday from 11:00 to 20:00, on Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 to 19:00.
Alternative: From November 26 until the end of December, you can visit the fair in the medieval town of Porvoo, located half an hour from Helsinki. Vendors dressed in old costumes offer the works of local craftsmen, residents go skiing and traditional sleigh rides, small houses are decorated for Christmas... Walking along the narrow streets, you will be transported back in time, take a break from the noise and crowds.
6. Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen's #1 Christmas Market is located at Tivoli Gardens (Vesterbrogade 3), the third most visited amusement park in Europe. On Advent days, the historical park is filled with decorated wooden houses, Santa's deer (he will also drop in on the celebration), snow-covered trees and lit up with lights of garlands. There are many cafes, both closed and open (they usually have heaters, and guests are offered blankets).
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A wine-based warming drink here is called glög, glogg or glitch. Red wine is taken as the basis, to which raisins, cinnamon, almonds, cloves and a little schnapps or aquavit are added. If you prefer beer, look for Christmas beers that Tuborg and other producers start brewing as early as November.
Those with a sweet tooth will appreciate the traditional Æbleskiver pastry - something like powdered sugar donuts, often served with jam. Also on sale at the fair are rye bread sandwiches with pickled Smørrebrød herring, baked duck meat sandwiches, roasted chestnuts and almonds.
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Entrance to the park is paid (120 DKK=€16). Before Christmas, it is better to buy tickets in advance online to avoid queues.
Schedule:
from 17.11 to 31.12.18, from Sunday to Thursday from 11:00 to 23:00, on Friday and Saturday from 11:00 to 24:00.
Alternative: From 8 to 20 December you can visit the fair in Christiania, a partially self-governing "state within a state". In addition to the atmosphere of the area itself, the event is interesting for the opportunity to buy handmade souvenirs, including jewelry, mirrors, candlesticks, Christmas decorations, clothes, leather goods and other interesting gizmos. The fair is held in the concert hall Gray Hall (Refshalevej 2).
7. Tallinn, Estonia
The fair takes place on the Town Hall Square (Raekoja plats), where since 1441 the main Christmas tree of the country has been installed. Wooden houses sell handmade souvenirs, sheepskin products, local honey, mulled wine and hot spiced beer. When you're hungry, try verivorst black pudding, also called black pudding, sauerkraut, and gingerbread for dessert.
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The entertainment program for adults and children includes carousel rides, concerts with Estonian and foreign performers on weekends and the opportunity to visit the house of Estonian Santa Claus (here he is called Jõuluvana), where each young guest will receive a gift from the hands of a living symbol of Christmas.
Schedule:
from 11/16/18 to 01/07/19, from 10:00 to 20:00. Drinks are sold from Sunday to Thursday until 22:00, on Friday and Saturday - until 23:00. Accompanying program: Friday from 17:00 to 19:00, Saturday and Sunday from 12:00 to 14:00.
Alternative: On December 15, in the village of Vanamõisa, located near Tallinn, you can visit the Christmas market for children aged 3-5. A festive show program, craft workshops, steam locomotive rides and communication with animals are planned, and if the weather is favorable, the construction of a snow town, sleigh rides, skiing and skating. Admission for an adult costs €8, family ticket - €24.
8. Stockholm, Sweden
Stockholm's main Christmas market operates at Stortorget Square in Gamla Stan, a few steps from the Royal Palace. The red-roofed houses that surround the ornate Christmas tree showcase the work of Swedish craftsmen, such as hand-painted Christmas decorations, angels and straw gnomes. Here you can also buy ceramics, jewelry, spices, soaps, clothes, cheeses and other delicacies. Food and drink stalls offer waffles, gingerbread and hot chocolate, while those who don't like sweets can order sausages or venison. There is, of course, glög, a Scandinavian counterpart of the beloved mulled wine, as well as hot beer with spices.
Christmas is one of the most beautiful holidays in Europe. Unlike the New Year, it is celebrated on a grand scale and prepared for it in advance. Vestnik ATOR will tell you where to go for Christmas in Europe, what to buy and try at fairs, and how much the tour will cost.
WHEN TO GO TO EUROPE FOR CHRISTMAS
For those wishing to fully enjoy the spirit of Christmas, tour operators recommend purchasing tours with departure dates at least a few days before December 25, when Catholic Christmas is celebrated in Europe (although Christmas is celebrated on the same dates in Protestant countries, so it’s more correct to call it “Western” Christmas ).
It should be borne in mind that most often, Christmas markets open at the beginning of the 20th of December and are already closed after the holiday. However, in some cities, Christmas markets continue to work on New Year's holidays - it is better to clarify this point when booking a tour.
You also need to take into account that directly on the eve (December 24) and on Christmas Day itself (December 25), and sometimes on December 26, even in large European cities, most commercial enterprises, including shops, are closed. Often on Christmas there are no festivities on the streets of European cities - this holiday, unlike the New Year, is considered a family holiday and is celebrated at home.
All this does not exclude the festive decoration of cities. In the UK, for example, on the eve of Christmas, the windows of houses and churches are decorated with candles, in Spain people in national costumes take to the streets and sing songs, and in Italy, shepherds from the mountainous regions play national musical instruments, sing songs, stage performances. By the way, in some small towns in Italy, an old tradition is still observed - on Christmas day, throw old things out of the window.
Christmas is one of the biggest holidays in Europe. “It is celebrated everywhere in Europe, wherever tourists go - in a small village, in a big city or the capital of the country. Smartly decorated houses, streets, shop windows, Christmas markets - this is exactly what this part of the world looks like at least a week before Catholic Christmas (in some places even earlier) and at least a week after, ”says the specialists of the tour operator ICS Travel Group.
WHERE TO GO FOR CHRISTMAS. CHOOSE COUNTRIES
CZECH
The capital of the Czech Republic is one of the most popular destinations for Russians for Christmas. Prague is transformed and sparkles with thousands of lights, Christmas trees are decorated. Many stores have Christmas sales.
What to buy and try
At Christmas markets, you can try punch, mulled wine and mead, buy traditional local sweets such as honey gingerbread, vanokva (a braid of nine "strands" with raisins), vanilla bagels and "nut nest" cookies, Prague ham, roasted chestnuts, trdelnik , fried cheese, hot pancakes, etc.
Christmas markets are open in Prague from December 2 to January 6. Tourists are advised to come to Christmas Prague in advance - December 20-21 - then there will be more choice of places in hotels.
How much does a Christmas tour to the Czech Republic cost?
You can book these options for celebrating the New Year as part of the LEAD TOURGROUP package tours with flights on charter or regular flights.
ITALY
Italy is another great option to celebrate Christmas (here you can meet both Catholic and Orthodox Christmas) and New Year holidays. You can go on popular routes - Rome, Milan, Venice, Bologna, Rimini, or you can try something new - in any corner of the country, tourists are waiting for the Christmas mood and their own traditions.
A very interesting option is to go with children to the Italian holiday Befana. Befana (Baba Yaga) is one of the most beloved children's characters. She arrives at night on her broom and descends through the chimney into the fireplace and leaves stockings with sweets and gifts for obedient children. On the day of the Epiphany (or, as it is also called in Europe, the Day of the Three Kings), on January 6, in the ancient town of Urbania (the Marche region), the national day of Befana is held and festive fairs are organized on the streets. This is one of the most beloved children's holidays of Italians and will surely appeal to little Russians.
What to buy and try
Visitors to Italy's Christmas markets are advised to pay attention to very original local souvenirs made from various types of wood, try nougat sweets, fresh cheeses, horsemeat sausage, tortellini. And of course, visit the Christmas sales in local clothing and footwear stores.
Christmas markets operate in Italy mainly from November 23-24 to January 6 (depending on the region, the dates may vary).
How much is Christmas Italy
Offers a trip to the Befana National Day in Urbania 03-10/01/18. In addition to visiting the festival itself in Urbania, the tour includes a visit to the medieval fortress in Gradara and San Leo, the ancient republic of San Marino, Pesaro - the birthplace of the composer Rossini. Adults will be interested in visiting the winery with tasting and the opportunity to purchase their favorite varieties. The cost of such a tour from "Russian Express" (per person) is 1109 euros with a full individual service (excursions, transfers, etc.).
Tour operator ICS Travel Group offers tours with a flight to Rimini from 64,895 rubles (for 2 people for 7 nights, 3* breakfast, flight by Ural Airlines). Tours with flights to Rome, Venice, Milan, etc. on regular flights lasting from 3 nights, they cost in the company from 71,350 rubles (for 2 people, 3 * hotel for breakfast).
FRANCE
Traditionally, the majority of Russians traveling to France for the winter holidays choose Paris. This, of course, is far from the only holiday destination in the country: as an alternative to Paris, tour operators recommend paying attention to Alsace - after all, it is here that the most iconic and most beautiful French Christmas markets are located. The journey from Paris to Strasbourg takes less than two hours by train.
What fairs to visit in France
Strasbourg is the "Christmas Capital" in France. The city twice (in 2014 and 2015) received the award for the best Christmas market in Europe. Here is the oldest fair in Europe - Christkindelsmärik - was first opened in 1570. Now the fair consists of 300 kiosks located at 12 sites in the city center. Here you can taste not only local products, but also listen to live music, attend various cultural events.
Not far from Strasbourg is a small but very beautiful town of Colmar. For six weeks, the city is bathed in the lights of five local Christmas markets at once. Each market is actually a mini-village, where visitors are offered products of local craftsmen. Most of them are from Alsace and were chosen for the quality and uniqueness of their products.
In Strasbourg, the fairs will be open from November 25 to December 31, in Colmar - from November 24 to December 30.
How much is Christmas France
Tour operator ICS Travel Group offers to come to France in advance and celebrate Christmas with the Parisians. A tour lasting from 4 nights with departures from December 21 to 23 starts from 60,405 rubles for two (2 * hotel with breakfast, regular flights with connecting flights, without transfer).
If you want to celebrate the New Year in Paris, ICS Travel Group offers a 7-night tour with a departure on December 26 (direct flight by Air France, 2* with breakfast, transfer included) at a price of 98,430 rubles for 2 people.
NORWAY
The Scandinavian countries have a special attitude towards Christmas. In Norway, they begin to prepare for the holiday in advance, and by the beginning of December, a festive mood reigns everywhere, the country is changing.
In addition to visiting the Scandinavian capitals, there are options for tourists who are fond of sports. So, he invites you to celebrate the New Year and Christmas at the largest ski resort in Norway, Trysil.
Trysil is ideal for families with children: special ski areas with plenty of entertainment have been created for young skiers. In addition, there is a family snow park, a children's club "Troll", a ski school and a garden for kids, sledding and dog sledding.
What to buy and try
As in many European countries, traditional Christmas markets are held in most Norwegian cities on Christmas Eve. Visitors are advised to pay attention to the traditional Christmas types of cookies: "goro", "krumkaker", "berlinekrans".
It is worth noting that many shops and restaurants in Norway close at noon on December 24th and only reopen on December 27th. Exceptions can be found in mountainous areas and in large cities.
How much is Christmas Norway
The cost of the tour "Christmas in Trysil" (arrival on January 2) for 7 nights at PAC GROUP starts from 83 thousand rubles (flight Moscow - Oslo - Moscow on Aeroflot).
Tour "Weekend in Oslo" lasting 2 nights can be bought at a price of 15 thousand rubles. If you plan to visit Finland during the New Year holidays, tour operators offer to go to Lapland.
FINLAND
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Christmas is one of the most beloved holidays in Finland. They start preparing for the holiday here in early December, when “little Christmas” or “pikkujoulu” is celebrated. In Helsinki, Aleksanterinkatu, the official street of Christmas, is decorated with Christmas illuminations. The tradition began in 1949. Thus, the townspeople wanted to light a flame of hope and joy in the harsh post-war years.
What to buy and what to try
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In December, fairs are already opening in the cities of Finland, offering guests delicious treats and Christmas gifts and a warm glög. The oldest and most popular fair in Helsinki is held in Senate Square (Saint Thomas Fair).
There are about 140 stalls at the fair where you can buy both Christmas decorations and traditional delicacies - fish, meat, ready meals and, of course, warming drinks. Guests of the fair will not be able to pass by such traditional treats as smoked salmon, marinated herring, fried vendace, sea buckthorn jam, mustard with cognac or homemade grilled sausages and much more. Santa Claus visits the fair every day. In addition, this year a beautiful old carousel will be recreated for children in the center of the fair this year, on which children can ride for free.
How much is New Year's Finland
According to the Sletat.ru package tour aggregator, a tour to Helsinki (3 nights, accommodation in a 4 * hotel, air flight from Moscow) costs from 50 thousand rubles.
If you are planning to visit Finland in new year holidays, tour operators offer to go to Lapland. This year, ICS Travel Group has delivered a special charter program with a flight from Moscow to Lapland (Kittel airport near Rovaniemi) with departures on December 29 for 5 nights and on January 3 for 7 nights.
ICS Travel Group offers tourists guaranteed accommodation in hotels and cottages. The cost of tours to Lapland today starts from 131,333 rubles for two people (5 nights, 4 * hotel with breakfast, full package - including flights and transfers).
EUROPEAN CHRISTMAS CRUISE
One of the most original ways to visit Europe for the holidays is to take a river cruise. This is not only an opportunity to see Christmas Europe from an unusual angle, but also a way to visit several festive European cities at once. Not surprisingly, the demand for such cruises is growing rapidly. This year, among the offers for Christmas, there are already a sufficient number of cruises with guaranteed Russian groups. And this applies to the dates of both Catholic and Orthodox Christmas.
Offers several options for routes on the eve of Catholic Christmas. Three cruises at once start on December 20 (until December 27), and two more on December 23. All prices below are for the cruise itineraries themselves (excluding flights from Russia and back).
Motor ship Bellejour with a guaranteed Russian group goes along the route Düsseldorf (Germany) - Koblenz (Germany) - Mannheim (Germany) - Kehl (Germany) / Strasbourg (France) - Speyer (Germany) - Mainz (Germany) - Boppard (Germany) - Bonn (Germany) ) - Cologne (Germany) - Düsseldorf (Germany). The cost of such a tour starts from 88.8 thousand rubles per person.
Motor ship Amastella will follow the route Budapest (2 days, Hungary) - Vienna (Austria) - Melk (Austria) - Passau (Germany) - Regensburg (Germany) - Nuremberg (2 days, Germany). Price - from 167 thousand rubles.
Motor ship Fidelio with a guaranteed Russian group will go along the route Vienna (2 days, Austria) - Melk (Austria) - Dürnstein (Austria) - Budapest (Hungary) - Esztergom (Hungary) - Bratislava (Slovakia) - Vienna (Austria). Price - from 64 thousand rubles.
Cruise on a boat River Discovery II starts December 23rd and ends December 28th. Route: Vienna (2 days, Austria) - Dürnstein (Austria) - Melk (Austria) - Bratislava (Slovakia) - Budapest (2 days, Hungary). The price of the tour starts from 53.5 thousand rubles per person.
Motor ship Amazonata goes on a cruise from December 23 to December 30 on the route Basel (Switzerland) - Breisach (Germany) - Riquewihr (Germany) - Strasbourg (France) - Speyer (Germany) - Heidelberg (Germany) - Rüdesheim (Germany) - Koblenz (Germany) - Cologne (Germany) - Amsterdam (2 days, Holland). The price of the cruise is from 167 thousand rubles.
WHAT OTHER CHRISTMAS FAIRS SHOULD YOU VISIT IN EUROPE AND WHEN
IN Croatia The best choice for Christmas is, of course, Zagreb. The capital of Croatia has twice received the award for the "Best European Christmas Market".
It will be beautiful and fun here on Christmas days literally at every step. At the fairs in the city center, you can try traditional Croatian delicacies in the open air or participate in local quite diverse interactive outdoor programs.
Every year before Christmas the squares and streets around the Cathedral and Town Hall Aachen turn into a celebration of light and color, a festival of music and seductive scents. The local fair has become known far beyond the Aachen region and offers tourists a wide selection of goods - from delicacies to souvenirs.
On the streets Dresden on Christmas there are a total of eleven completely different Christmas markets. Striezelmarkt first opened here in 1434 and is waiting for guests again this year. The sounds of the holiday fill the air throughout the city. From everywhere you can hear the organ and concerts of church music. Christmas stories also come to life in the city's theaters, special exhibitions are held in museums, and light-decorated boats sail down the Elbe.
The magic of Christmas will be felt in the festively decorated cologne. The aroma of baked apples, cinnamon cookies and mulled wine will "float" along the alleys. Large Christmas markets will be located in the center of Cologne, but there will be small bazaars that can be seen in other areas of the city.
IN Austria at Christmas, you should definitely see the fairs in Vienna and in Graz.
From mid-November until Christmas, the main squares Vienna turn into fabulous Christmas markets. The aroma of holiday baking and hot toddy creates a pre-Christmas mood. One of the most famous Christmas markets in the city is the traditional fair. Christkindlmarkt, which is located on the Town Hall Square. Guests of the fair will find various local delicacies, souvenirs, warming drinks, as well as a carousel and Christmas workshops for children. If you decide to go to Vienna for Christmas, be sure to try the local gingerbread and mulled wine.
Several Austrian Christmas markets city of Graz conveniently located within walking distance of each other. The oldest Christmas market is located near the Franciscan church. Tourists will find here Styrian artisans, regional farm products, hot punch and mulled wine. nearby, near the town hall, there is another Christmas market - with a giant elegant Christmas tree and old carousels for children.
Estonia- one of the few European destinations where you can find Christmas markets not only on the eve of Catholic Christmas. Holiday markets in Tallinn are open here until Orthodox Christmas, and this is undoubtedly very convenient for Russian tourists who go on vacation on a long New Year's weekend. Annual Tallinn Christmas Market- a real corner of a fairy tale, located on the historical square of the city, surrounded by elegant houses, shining lights. Christmas delicacies, souvenirs, various handicrafts are sold here, a tall and very beautiful Christmas tree is set up in the center of the square. Children will love the fun carousel and Santa Claus. Hundreds of singers and dancers will perform on the main stage.
If you are traveling to Hungary well worth a visit Budapest and its Christmas and New Year's fair on the square in front of St. Stephen's Cathedral. Every night there is a festive illumination. In the fairy-tale houses on St. Stephen's Square, you can buy wonderful products from almost eighty craftsmen, as well as find unique handmade folk and applied arts, textiles and leather products, ceramics and jewelry, along with designer clothes and accessories.
Of course, it will not do without gastronomic impressions. A variety of Hungarian cuisine can be found at the Christmas Market in Budapest at Veresmarty Square: fresh pastries, fried sausages, sweets, fruit marshmallows and much more. Be sure to try the traditional Hungarian pie kurtoskalacs - dough wrapped around a "pole", baked, covered with sugar and cinnamon.
And at Christmas you can visit Portugal. Here, except for Lisbon, we strongly advise you to take a closer look at the Christmas Madeira: Holiday markets on this island are open until January 7th. Such a period, of course, is not at all because they celebrate Orthodox Christmas, but because the Day of the Three Kings (Epiphany) falls on January 6 in the Western tradition - and this is the main holiday when in Spain and Portugal they give Christmas gifts to children (similar to the three "Kings" - Magi who brought gifts to baby Jesus).
The Christmas market in the heart of the capital of the island of Madeira, the city of Funchal, will be located along Avenida Arriaga. Fair visitors will find a variety of local delicacies, sweets, wine, port wine, exotic flowers and traditional souvenirs. Here you can also take part in the festivities, see the Portuguese Christmas carols and performances of folklore groups.
MERRY CHRISTMAS!
