Merry and Bright: Exploring Europe's Finest Christmas Markets in 2023-24
Embark on a festive journey through the heart of Europe as we unveil the crème de la crème of Christmas markets for the upcoming 2023-24 season. A testament to the magic of the holiday season, the European Best Destinations (EBD) organization has leveraged the opinions of a staggering 600,000 global travelers hailing from 168 countries. This collective wisdom has culminated in a meticulously curated list of 'the most beautiful Christmas markets to visit.' Collaborating with over 350 European tourist offices and the Eden network, an initiative fostering Sustainable Destinations by the European Commission, EBD is at the forefront of promoting the rich tapestry of tourism experiences Europe has to offer. Join us as we explore the enchanting destinations that have secured their place on this prestigious list, promising a winter wonderland experience like no other.
1. Budapest, Advent Feast At The Basilica
Budapest’s Christmas market has once again claimed the title of Best Christmas Market in Europe for the fourth instance, securing previous victories in 2023, 2021, and 2019.
Under the banner 'Where love takes your hand,' the Advent Basilica, Budapest's exceptionally charming Christmas fair, welcomed visitors from November 17, 2023, to January 1, 2024, situated in front of St. Stephen's Basilica on one of the most remarkable squares in the Hungarian capital.
Staying true to its time-honored customs, the market guarantees a distinctive festive ambiance featuring around 100 local craft vendors, authentic gastronomic delights showcasing traditional Hungarian dishes, an ice-skating rink, and a variety of heartwarming musical and charity events as part of its diverse program offerings.
2. Craiova, Romania
Experience the enchantment of childhood this year at the Craiova Christmas Market, recommends EBD. This destination has achieved the honor of being chosen among the top Christmas markets in Europe for four consecutive years.
Featuring an outstanding cultural agenda and entertainment suitable for all ages, an ice rink recognized as one of the most beautiful in Europe, charming Christmas cottages that have earned Craiova the title of the Most Magical Christmas Market in Europe, and an innovative Christmas tree, also acknowledged as the Most Beautiful Christmas Tree, Craiova provides the ultimate Christmas experience for a delightful family adventure.
3. Metz, France
Metz has secured its place on the podium of the Best Christmas Markets in Europe for the second time. This Christmas destination has not only earned the prestigious title of Best Christmas Market but has also been recognized as the Best Christmas Market for Families and the Best Christmas Market in France.
Immerse yourself in the festive ambiance and explore the Christmas markets spread across the city's main squares. Discover handcrafted treasures in the Christmas pyramid and indulge in the delectable flavors of the finest gingerbread. Adjacent to the Cathedral, the grand wheel enhances the recreational options for both the young and the old, while the essence of Christmas is readily available at the gourmet food market on Place de la Comédie.
4. Poznań, Poland
The Poznań Christmas Market, hailed as the Best Christmas Market in Poland and currently holding the distinction for the Best Christmas Ice Skating Rink in Europe, is situated at the heart of the city, opposite the Dworzec Zachodni Railway Station, on the historic Plac Powszechnej Wystawy Krajowej Square. Enveloped by the most emblematic structures of the MTP Poznań Expo, the market at the Fair radiates a distinctive ambiance with over 43,000 luminous holiday decorations and lights. Anchored by a 16-meter Christmas tree, a traditional Ferris wheel towering over 30 meters, the city's sole outdoor ice rink, and an extensive array of more than 70 shopping and gastronomic choices, the Christmas Market promises a unique festive experience. This vibrant scene invites all visitors to enjoy complimentary concerts, performances, and delightful rides for children.
5. Montbeliard, France
For the third consecutive time, Montbéliard secures its position among the leading contenders for the esteemed Best Christmas Markets in Europe accolades and has additionally been honored with the designation of the Most Beautiful Christmas Market in Europe. Renowned globally for the splendor of its illuminations, this Christmas market embodies tradition and authenticity. Nestled in Franche-Comté, in Eastern France, the town of Montbéliard, celebrated for its warm hospitality, transforms into an enchanting Christmas wonderland.
6. Riga, Latvia
The Riga Christmas Market has secured its position among the top 10 Best Christmas Markets in Europe, and its Christmas light trail has garnered the esteemed title of Best Christmas Lights in Europe. Furthermore, Riga has been acknowledged as the Most Authentic Christmas Destination in Europe.
Adorned with radiant light decorations and filled with the enticing scents of mulled wine, cinnamon, ginger, and roasted almonds, the market situated in the heart of Riga's Old Town at Doma Square transforms into a captivating winter wonderland. A stroll through Opera Square, Bastejkalns, and Kronvalda Park allows visitors to immerse themselves in various Latvian fairytales, accompanied by enchanting music that weaves through these tales and trails, creating new and unforgettable memories.
7. Govone & Asti, Italy
Govone proudly holds the titles of the Most Beautiful Christmas Market in Italy and the Most Romantic Christmas Market in Europe. The enchanting 'Magico Paese di Natale' unfolds in the quaint village of Govone, nestled in the hills of Langhe-Roero, a UNESCO World Heritage Site within the Piedmont wine region.
Throughout the festive season, the neighboring villages of Govone and Asti transform into a magical realm of Santa Claus, featuring numerous cultural and gastronomic attractions. The Christmas markets showcase handpicked crafts from across Italy, accompanied by a street food area and a Magic Kingdom wine shop where visitors can indulge in traditional local delicacies.
8. Birmingham, England
Nestled against the magnificent backdrop of Victoria Square's grand municipal buildings and the lively New Street shopping district, the Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market stands as the largest authentic German Christmas market outside of Austria and Germany. Arranged by Birmingham's sister city, Frankfurt, this market boasts over 100 picturesque stalls offering a delightful array of traditional toys, ornaments, and arts and crafts.
A brief stroll away, Christmas in Cathedral Square unfolds with charming wooden chalets showcasing artisan gifts, delectable food, and beverages crafted by Birmingham's finest local vendors. Visitors can also partake in the festive atmosphere with the popular ice rink and big wheel located in Centenary Square.
9. Madeira, Portugal
Across the calendar, the islands of Madeira and Porto Santo, forming part of the Madeira archipelago in Portugal, consistently attract numerous visitors due to their unique and exquisite beauty.
During the year-end celebrations, adorned with thousands of lights, these islands undergo a magical transformation. Madeira, distinguished as the Best New Year's Eve Destination in Europe, has also received recognition as the Best Sunny Christmas Market in Europe.
10. Valkenburg, The Netherlands
Valkenburg is regarded as the Preferred Christmas Market in The Netherlands and hosts the Best Christmas Parade in Europe.
According to popular belief, Santa is said to originate from Valkenburg aan de Geul. As the daylight dwindles, Valkenburg, nestled in the charming Heuvelland region in the southern Netherlands, transforms into a warm and charming 'Santa town' from November 17 to January 7, 2024.
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