Love Christmas Markets? Plan a City Break to One Of These
We have to admit to being very fond of Christmas markets which have become increasingly popular in recent years. Mulled wine, fresh cakes, hot food and all manner of gifts; what’s not to love? If you share our delight about all things festive, why not combine that with a few days’ relaxation in a new (or old favourite) European city? Never mind fighting the crowds in London, Edinburgh or another British city; pack your bags, grab your passport and make a weekend of it.
Lucia Christmas Market, Berlin
Berlin’s traditional Christmas markets (all 50 or so of them) are widely regarded as amongst the best. Nestled amongst the picturesque buildings of the Kulturbrauerei, the Lucia Christmas market offers Nordic and Scandinavian music, log fires, festive cheer and the “coat-heating” service. You’ll need to visit to find out what that actually is… It runs from 25th November until 22nd December. Santa Claus, a Knight’s Castle, carousels and a whirligig are also planned for market visitors. Berlin itself has plenty to offer too, have a look at our recent travel blog for some suggestions.
If you’ve already done Berlin, how about a trip to Denmark? Those wishing to escape from the commercialism of modern Christmas and immerse themselves in a more traditional celebration are bound to enjoy a visit to the Tivoli in Copenhagen. For the second half of November and the entire month of December, the venue is transformed into a Christmas grotto, featuring a replica of St Peter’s Basilica, traditional Father Christmas, ice-skating and theme park rides alongside the usual craft and gift stalls. Have a look at the theatre programme too; there’s plenty going on to entertain you.
Twelve Days of Christmas, Dublin Docklands
While the Dublin Christmas Festival is considerably younger than most of its European counterparts, it offers an equally magical atmosphere. The 12 Days of Christmas takes place in Dublin’s Docklands area from 12th-23rd December, bringing a Victorian Carnival, story tellers, carol singers, mulled wine, hot food and Santa Claus himself to visitors to the financial district. A little birdy tells us that Santa has been known to wander amongst the crowds bringing much excitement to the younger festival-goers. The nightlife at the festival is also fantastic.
The three markets we’ve mentioned above are just a tiny sample of what’s happening across the continent over the festive season. If you like the idea of a visit to a Christmas market but the suggestions don’t seem quite right, just get in touch and we will find your perfect destination.
Let us know what your favourite Christmas market.
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