Meeting of Christmas in the countries of Europe. A Christmas tale and a New Year's miracle in Europe Where is the most beautiful Christmas in the world
Huge sparkling Christmas trees, the smell of citrus and spices, fairs with toys and souvenirs, festivities with traditional treats - this is what Christmas in Europe looks like.
Do you want to get into a Christmas fairy tale with bright decorations and unforgettable impressions? Then you need to choose the right direction - and "Cleo" will help you with this!
Germany, Cologne and Nuremberg
Germany is always preparing to celebrate Christmas on a grand scale, and already from late November to December 23 one of the best fairs in Europe opens its doors.
V Cologne as many as 6 festive markets appear on the eve of Christmas! The main events of the city take place near the Cathedral in Domplatz. It has everything your heart desires: souvenirs and Christmas decorations, tents with gingerbread and hot mulled wine, the famous ice rink, exhibitions, shows and concerts.
And if you want to get to the Middle Ages - welcome to the market at the Chocolate Museum! Here people are amused by glass blowers, buffoons and fakirs, and whole carcasses are fried on spits.
Christmas market in Nuremberg became famous for its opening ceremony. Every year, the “Christmas Angel” appears on the balcony of the Church of Our Lady, accompanied by choristers and an orchestra, to announce the beginning of the holiday.
Nuremberg is also famous for its gingerbread cookies, which are made from almonds, honey and chocolate. Delicious nut-headed figurines, gingerbread houses with dried fruit men and sweet new Year decoration… All these branded sweets can be found at the fair in red and white tents.
Czech Republic, Prague
Late November to mid-January The Old Town Square is a real "scenery" for your favorite Christmas movies! Decorated balls and garlands, music and treats are everywhere - hot pretzels, baked chestnuts, pouring beer and mead.
It will be interesting to walk along Wenceslas Square, where folk festivals are also held and all kinds of sweets are sold.
And also everywhere there are betlemes - the cradles of the baby Jesus with other characters in the Bible. An incredibly touching sight!
Austria, Vienna and Salzburg
Vein extraordinarily beautiful on the eve of Christmas, and Vienna's fairs are considered among the best in Europe. All squares of the Austrian capital are decorated with garlands and saturated with the aroma of hot punch and fresh pastries.
The main bazaar is set up in front of the City Hall - here you can taste all kinds of sweets, buy nutcracker toys in the form of Nutcrackers and other souvenirs. And the kids will enjoy a ride on a fabulous train and a visit to the Christmas Workshop, where they will be taught how to make Christmas gingerbread.
Salzburg Is another Austrian city worth visiting for the Christmas spirit! From late November to 24 December Cathedral Square and Residenzplatz turn into a huge Christmas market. This year it was divided into sectors, so find desired gift or a treat will be very simple.
In addition to shopping, Christmas Salzburg will delight you with concerts, costume performances and nativity scenes.
France, Strasbourg
In Strasbourg, you can see and feel all the delights of a traditional French holiday. A 30-meter spruce has been installed on Kleber Square, around which festive events and folk festivals are held every day.
And on Cathedral Square and Brogley Square from late November to 31 December there is a Christmas market. There are about 300 wooden stalls with gifts and souvenirs for every taste. And of course - traditional treats: baked potatoes with meat, foie gras, pork sausages and sauerkraut choucrut, nougat and apple pies.
Denmark, Copenhagen
Copenhagen hosts several Christmas markets every year with folk festivities. However, a special place is occupied by amusement park Tivoli- not even a week is enough to experience all the local entertainment!
Christmas entertainments are held here from late November to 23 December. Visitors will see elegant Christmas trees, thousands of garlands, a fountain show, a huge skating rink, and also fairy elves led by Santa Claus. Here you can ride carousels and ponies, try gleg (hot wine with spices) and fragrant donuts, choose gifts for your family. Warm sweaters and hats are especially popular with tourists.
Italy Rome
It is here on St. Peter's Square in Vatican, is the heart of the entire Catholic world and Christmas. Exactly at noon, December 25, the Pope will go out on the balcony of his residence to congratulate everyone on the holiday and read the Christmas sermon "To the City and the World."
A 25-meter beautiful fir tree has already been installed on the square - a 70-year-old tree was brought from the Italian province of Calabria.
Also from 1 to 25 December on the Piazza Navona the largest Christmas market in the Italian capital awaits you. Traditionally, there are disguised old women Befana, and the carriage of Santa Claus, and the famous Italian sweets - torrone, panettone and apples in chocolate glaze.
Well, on December 25, Catholics around the world will celebrate Christmas. Behind a large festive table the most dear people will gather, have fun, give each other gifts, eat all kinds of treats ... After all, Christmas is the brightest and most joyful family holiday!
Whatever one may say, we are all children of the media space and victims of advertising campaigns: who, with the phrase "Christmas in Europe", does not imagine a fairy tale, as in the cartoon about "The Nutcracker" with obligatory markets, Christmas trees, fluffy snow and hot mulled wine?
In today's article I will talk about some of the nuances of the Christmas period that many people miss, and as a result either arrive at the holiday of life when everything is over, or they are disappointed in the idea itself, and then they say: "Well, we expected something completely different!" How to avoid disappointment, things to consider when planning your trip and the best affordable Christmas destinations in Europe - in today's article.
MOST IMPORTANT: CHRISTMAS IS NOT AS INTERESTING AS ADVENT
The main mistake that most tourists from Russia make is confusion with dates. No, everyone knows that Christmas in Europe is celebrated on December 25, and therefore they are guided by this number in the calendar. But they miss the main thing. December 25 is a family holiday, when Europeans gather at the table with relatives and friends and often don’t even show their nose to the street.
But bazaars, Christmas trees, Christmas decorations and chants in churches are signs of Advent, the pre-Christmas period, when a festive atmosphere really reigns in towns, villages and villages, lights are lit, houses are decorated with illumination, and ice rinks are flooded in squares. That is, unlike the Russian New Year, which kicks off the holiday season, Christmas in Europe brings it to a close. This is the final point, not the starting point, and therefore all the fun in most cities just ends on December 25th. The exception is the Baltic countries, Croatia, Slovenia, Hungary, Czech Republic and Belgium. There, Christmas markets are open until January 6-7, but still the atmosphere of the holiday is not as bright as on Advent days.
Conclusion: for a Christmas fairy tale in Europe, you need to go from December 1 to December 24. You will just have time to recharge yourself with a festive atmosphere and buy gifts for your family for the New Year.
WE DRESS UP WARM!
The second mistake that most Russians make is choosing unsuitable clothes. Well, that's understandable. You look at the weather forecast in some Verona or Berlin, and there it is + 14. “Wow,” the tourist thinks, “I’ll probably manage with an autumn jacket”. Stop. This is another snag for Russians.
Yes, in Europe in the pre-Christmas period the air temperature rarely drops to zero, but the cold here is felt in a completely different way. The reason for this is the high humidity. So at 0 you will be freezing, as in Moscow at -10. Add to this the wind, fine rain, which can charge early in the morning, and you get an approximate picture. Hence my advice to you: choose warm waterproof down jackets for your trip.
In terms of shoes the best way in the absence of rain - ugg boots cursed by all fashionistas in the world. Or just insulated boots. You should also take warm pajamas with you, because (surprise!) In Europe there is no central heating at such humane prices as in Russia, and therefore the average temperature in hotel rooms in winter is around 20-22 degrees. If you rent an apartment, keep in mind that there may be only + 17, because the owner saves. And you don't need to think badly about him! If you received heating bills of this size, you would also be sitting at home in woolen socks.
HOW MANY DAYS TO PAY FOR THE TRIP?
Wherever you go in search of a Christmas fairy tale, it makes sense to spend about 3 days on the trip. A full weekend to enjoy and not get tired of the fairs. Then you should either come up with other entertainment, for example, sightseeing and trips around the area, or go home with a clear conscience.
WHERE TO FLY: BEST AVAILABLE CHRISTMAS DESTINATIONS
Well, now let's move on to the main thing: where can you go for the weekend to recharge yourself with the Christmas atmosphere, visit the bazaars and not spend too much time on the flight. I'll make a reservation right away that the directions were chosen meticulously and personally checked, and when compiling the list, I took into account an important geographical factor, because, for example, the Fair of the Infant Christ in French Strasbourg is wonderful, but direct flights to reasonable price in this direction I have not found. And - also a whole story.
1. ZAGREB (CROATIA)
I do not get tired of scattering in compliments to the capital of Croatia: this is where they know how to arrange Christmas markets for everyone to envy! There are so many fairs in the city center that they just smoothly merge into one another.
The bazaars sell not only sausages, mulled wine, donuts and gingerbread and Christmas souvenirs, but also things from Croatian designers. In general, handmade is very popular here: you can find incredibly cute accessories or toys self made.
Another feature of Zagreb is the giant ice rink, which is poured into King Tomislav Square. It is the largest in Europe, and you do not need a reservation to visit it: you just buy a ticket, take skates for rent and good luck! By the way, its entire ice zone is very beautifully illuminated. Is there snow in Zagreb? Here, as luck would have it, but on the square of Ban Josip Jelacic, decorations in the form of Christmas trees, powdered with artificial snow and frost, are invariably installed.
And in general, in terms of decoration, the capital of Croatia in the pre-Christmas period is beautiful: illumination is everywhere, and in city squares every other tree is buried in shining garlands. ...
2. BUDAPEST (HUNGARY)
There are only two bazaars in Budapest, and the main one is located on Vörösmarty Square in the center of the pedestrian zone of the capital of Hungary. But here it is sincerely! You can not only taste mulled wine, fried chestnuts and delicious sausages, but also see the work of Hungarian glassblowers, buy gifts for family and friends wooden Toys, items of national clothing, and at the same time listen to live concerts: they are held here in the evenings.
The second fair is located near St. Stephen's Basilica. It's pretty good there too. Nicely, the Christmas markets are open until January 1st.
3. DRESDEN AND BERLIN (GERMANY)
Although the oldest and most famous fair in Germany, the Striezelmarkt, is held annually in Dresden (it is not for nothing that the stollen sweetness was invented there!), It is still easier to get to Berlin. Plus the city is big, and therefore there are "many different" bazaars here, they are, as they say, for every taste.
The largest is located in the Charlottenburg district, another miniature and elegant fair is on the Gendarmenmarkt cathedral square, and an ice rink is flooded near the Berlin TV tower and Alexanderplatz at the end of November. By the way, an interesting feature of Berlin Christmas markets: not only traditional sweets, gingerbread, mulled wine and hot dogs are sold here, but also Arab and even Vietnamese dishes. Globalization, sir!
4. VERONA (ITALY)
In fact, the best Italian Christmas markets are in the towns of Trento and Bolzano, but getting there is difficult. But Verona is not bad either. Sometimes mercatini natale is opened right in the city Arena - inside the antique amphitheater, but mostly people spend time at the fair in Piazza della Signoria.
She is small, but sincere. They trade here not only hot wine and sausages, but also pretzels stuffed with speck (they are brought just from Trento). You can also taste dishes straight from the fire: polenta with venison or kanederli - an Italian variety of dumplings.
5. VIENNA (AUSTRIA)
The tradition of Christmas markets in Vienna is excellent. It is believed that the first Krippenmarkt took place here in 1298. This year, 20 fairs will open in the Austrian capital, and the largest one will be located near the city hall.
Young and creative people should visit the Museum Quarter of the city. They promise live music, DJs, and the assortment of stalls here will be special: in addition to traditional gingerbread with mulled wine, guests can find designer pieces from young fashion designers and local hand-made masters.
And, of course, skates! From 18 November until 3 March, the Town Hall Square will be converted into a huge ice rink of about 8,000 m² called the Vienna Ice Dream. Riding there is a real pleasure, especially at nightfall, when the town hall is beautifully illuminated and the tree branches sparkle with garland lights. At the same time, since the skating rink is huge, there is no crowd on the ice. We were two years ago during new year holidays Vienna got into the habit of going there every day.
The smaller skating rink - "Small Ice Dream", with an area of about 3,000 - will open on November 16, together with the Christmas market. It will work until January 6, 2019, then it will be closed for a minor reconstruction to start working again on 01/18/2019.
6. LAUSANNA (SWITZERLAND)
The option when you want something non-standard. In Lausanne, in the pre-Christmas period, you will find installations of the Lumières Festival, a city run dressed in Santa Claus costumes, and, of course, fairs.
But again, not simple! In addition to mulled wine with raclette, oysters are also served on them, which are recommended to be washed down with white Chasselas wine, which is done in the canton of Vaud. By the way, we do not miss the opportunity, because Swiss wines are excellent, but they are not exported, so you can taste them only during a trip to the country.
There are also two skating rinks in Lausanne: a regular ice rink and one for roller skating, and sometimes street tents are set up near the Chateron bridge, where you can taste fondue and listen to the game on the Alpine horns: this is such a hefty wind musical instrument. ...
7. STOCKHOLM (SWEDEN)
In the Swedish capital, Christmas is treated with reverence: how else to overcome seasonal depression if you don't see the sun until next spring? There are several fairs in Stockholm. The central one is located on Stortoriet Square, it has been organized every year since 1837.
There is everything here: and glög - a vigorous Swedish analogue of mulled wine, when vodka is added to warmed wine for fortress, and nuts with dried fruits for taste, and traditional Swedish cookies. But the most curious should go to the Skansen open-air museum, which is a kind of Sweden in miniature: traditional houses from different parts of the country are collected here.
On the eve of Christmas, Skansen is completely transformed: all buildings are decorated with garlands, and festive pastries are served in restaurants. In short, Skansen is the place where you can easily feel like a child again.
8. BRUSSELS (BELGIUM)
The Brussels Fair is huge: it starts at the Grand Place and stretches to St. Catherine's Square. What is its peculiarity? Firstly, there are many chalet stalls: there are more than 200 of them in total.
The second is a consequence of the first. It is satisfying here. Waffles, french fries, cheeses, sausages, mussels, gingerbread, chocolate, local vin chaud mulled wine and a lot, a lot of strong beer (by the way, it is more popular at the fair than any other drinks). The entertainment component is also in full order: there is a giant Christmas tree, a Ferris wheel, a skating rink and slides with carousels.
10. BASEL (SWITZERLAND)
The main feature of Basel's Christmas market is the thirteen-meter pyramid, near which couples usually meet to drink mulled wine and enjoy raclette, grilled sausages and waffles with jam or hot chocolate. In the courtyard of the City Hall, a Book of Wishes is always installed, in which anyone can write down their most cherished wish or congratulations to family and friends.
Children in Basel are also happy, for them in the pre-Christmas period they arrange a fairy forest on the Münsterplatz square. There are numerous clubs where kids are taught to decorate gingerbread, make candles and Christmas decorations, well, or simply entertained: they ride on a children's train and treat them to hot chocolate and sweets.
11. COPENHAGEN (DENMARK)
Tivoli Gardens is the oldest amusement park in Europe and is home to Copenhagen's main Christmas market. By mid-November, the spruce trees of the park are decorated with garlands and bells, Santa Claus is registered in the local theater, who in Denmark is simply called Father Christmas, and a skating rink is arranged on the frozen lake.
In addition, themed shows dedicated to Scandinavian fairy tales and legends are held here. Two downsides: Copenhagen is very expensive and very cold. Scandinavia, what did you want?
WHERE IS IT STILL WORTH OR NOT WORTH TO GO?
However, you will find the right fairs in all cities of Germany without exception, in the Austrian Innsbruck, Ljubljana, as well as in small towns near the ski resorts of France or Italy. They are small, but cozy, focused more on having a tasty meal and taking a walk, but on the 25th they all close without exception.
If we talk about Prague, then, for my taste, their bazaar on the Old Town Square is greatly overvalued. Well, yes, there are kiosks with red roofs selling the same mulled wine and gingerbread, but over the past 10 years, no appearance fair, nor its assortment has not changed at all.
And I can't help but warn you. Perhaps this year something will change, but in the past in Paris, Christmas had to be purposefully looked for in expensive hotels and restaurants. There, yes, everything was in the most beautiful holiday decorations, but the streets of the capital of France were decorated in an extremely ascetic manner. We found only one bazaar - near North Dame. He was small, and all the guests there walked like ponies in a circle, sadly moving between the stalls with Spanish ham and German gingerbread.
The passage to the Christmas market by Eiffel tower was difficult due to constant searches, and at nine o'clock in the evening it was closed. They say it's all about the desperate struggle of the French against terrorism. I reacted to this circumstance with understanding, but I could not find a Christmas fairy tale in Paris. You can, of course, try your luck, but I can’t guarantee you success.
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Yulia Malkova- Yulia Malkova - founder of the site project. In the past, the chief editor of the internet project elle.ru and the chief editor of the website cosmo.ru. I'm talking about travel for my own pleasure and the pleasure of my readers. If you are a representative of hotels, tourism office, but we are not familiar, you can contact me by email: [email protected]
Every year at the end of November, Europe becomes kind and cheerful. Christmas markets open one month before Catholic Christmas and close on Christmas Eve (December 24). Travel Channel has made the top ten of them, reports TODAY
Vein
Welcome to Town Hall Square. There is an exhibition of nativity scenes, a puppet theater and a lot of children's entertainment. And in the Town Hall there are concerts of classical and Christmas music.
The English town of Somerset is a bishop's residence and thermal spa. Just 1.5 hours from London - and full immersion in the Georgian era. The fair is held next to the Abbey and the Roman Baths.
Dresden
In the center of the Old Town, they put a carousel, a children's railroad, ferris wheel. The city is proud of the world's tallest (15 m) Christmas pyramid with figures on six floors: nutcrackers, snowmen, chimney sweeps, etc. It was here that the stollens were invented, and beer is served like mulled wine - hot and spicy.
Pyramid in Dresden. Festive figures on six floors
Tallinn
Here Santa receives guests at his residence. By the way, city tree in Estonia, they began to dress up as early as 1441, long before the initiatives of Martin Luther.
Strasbourg
This city is considered the "capital of Christmas" in France. The fruits of the labors of the Alsatian artisans are located at the foot of the Cathedral. With your children, go to St. Thomas Square - there is a Children's Village, which even has a circus.
Stockholm
The Scandinavians are so harsh that they brew mulled wine from brennivine (“burnt wine”, 37.5 degrees) and cognac, with the addition of almonds and dried fruits. The best appetizer for it is smoked venison and dried bear meat, which gourmets will always find at the fair. And also author's Christmas tree decorations, gnomes and trolls: their figures are waiting under the trees, on poles and on trees.
Budapest
Every year, designers develop a new design of mugs for the fairground mulled wine. This year they will be red and white. The highlight of the fair is a huge Advent calendar on the facade of the Gerbeaud coffee shop. Every evening, music plays here, the backlight turns on and a calendar window opens.
Edinburgh
Here they arrange an ice wall and a snow slide, skating rinks and a Ferris wheel. A Children's Fair opens in the city park, which Santa himself attends. And adults go to admire the "Street of Lights": every evening in December, more than 60,000 lights are lit on Royal Mile Street, forming a dome of light. You can also watch the Santa Claus race and the torchlight procession.
Street of Lights. More than 60,000 lights form a luminous dome
Madrid
In the capital's Plaza Mayor, the first thing to try is the turron - a dessert made of honey, eggs, fried almonds and candied fruits. And then they watch henbane - Spanish nativity scenes.
Copenhagen
All Christmas magic is concentrated in the Tivoli Gardens. This is such a winter park with attractions and fountain shows. Everything from the Chinese Pavilion to the last tree and hill is fabulously illuminated. There is a "Trojan" wooden deer and moving figures, melodies from "The Nutcracker" are playing.
At the neighbors: parade Snow Queen
Wrocław is considered the best Polish fair. Here it is customary to lead the Fiery round dance of elves and cut the sleds of St. Nicholas out of ice, arrange parades for Santa Claus and the Snow Queen, and on Christmas Eve - a procession of carols. In Krakow, on the square in front of the cathedral, where there was a large bazaar in the Middle Ages, they sell fried cheese and steaks, chocolate-covered fruits and aromatic sausages. In Warsaw, the emphasis is placed on the goods of needlewomen, artists, clothing designers and jewelers. And in Gdansk, St. Nicholas will have to ride through the entire city in a sleigh to Coal Square and light the holiday lights.
Prague always seems to be out of a fairy tale, and in the period of sweet anticipation it is completely magical. Only here, for Christmas, glazed gingerbread cookies with cinnamon in the shape of hearts are baked, they are fed hot pancakes and Prague fried carps with honey liqueur at the fair. They love straw decorations, ceramic souvenirs and wooden nativity scenes, porcelain dolls and live animals. On Christmas Eve, a divine service is held on the Old Town Square. And the Czech Santa Claus - Mikolash - walks among the guests, accompanied by a Demon and an Angel.
Prague fairy tale. These houses sell gingerbread hearts, fried cheese and chocolate covered fruits.
Details: outdoor chandeliers and a sweet log
Andrey Kochetov, guide of the tour operator "Inkomartur 93", of all the Christmas markets he saw, were amazed by those in the north of Italy, and Christmas in Como took the first place in the personal rating.
“Few people have heard of this town: Christmas markets are more typical of Germany, Switzerland, Austria,” he says. “But the combination of mountains, a lake, the atmosphere of an old town, Italian love of life and color really captivated me and turned out to be more important than the prestige of the oldest Dresden or the scale of Strasbourg fairs.”
On the main square, right on the shore of the lake, there is a city skating rink and pavilions with Italian delicacies. And the laser light and music show on the facade of the main cathedral causes a storm of delight.
Angels and burgomasters
Tatiana Voytekh, deputy director of the travel company "Selena-tour", considers German fairs to be the most spectacular and at the same time sincere.
“The Germans are generous with party paraphernalia: gnomes, elves, nutcrackers, honey with cinnamon and cloves, marzipans, candied apples,” she lists. - And in Germany it is customary to choose a Christmas angel among young people. He solemnly opens the fair, and then for a month delivers gifts and congratulations to schools, kindergartens, and nursing homes. Once in Nuremberg, walking around the city late at night, I met an angel with white wings and a golden crown right on the street. It was like a magic sign from above! We hugged her, and I made a wish - Angels can do anything ”.
The townspeople give all their best on such city holidays 100%. Once at the Dresden fair, Tatyana got to a brass band concert. It turned out that ordinary people were playing - teachers, notaries, doctors.
“For half a year, these people rehearsed after work to perform at the fair,” she says. “It’s a common thing to meet the mayor of the city, the burgomaster in the fairground crowd.”
German fairs are also famous for their holiday huts. They are even the size of a matchbox, even a box, with a “population” and furnishings inside, and always a candle.
“All tourists lick their lips at them. But it's a little expensive: manual work - from 20 euros and up to 100 on average, - says Tatiana Voytekh. - There is an alternative - carved wooden candlesticks in the form of a rocker arm. They are placed on the windowsill and festively illuminate the whole house. "
For real miracles, you need to go to the city of "Eternal Christmas" - Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
“The town is a continuous decoration for Andersen's fairy tales. There are shops where Christmas tree toys are sold all year round, ”says Tatiana. - It is worth bringing from there a crystal angel on a pendant.
In Hamburg, miracles happen three times a day: Santa Claus in a sleigh sled flies over the red rooftops of the bazaar and the heads of guests. Every Advent (the Sunday before Christmas) there is a Christmas parade with angels, fairies, elves and deer. In Erfurt, they don't save on a Christmas tree - usually it is 6-7-storey high! Although she is far from the Dortmund spruce, where to spend more than 1,500 trees to build a 50 m high holiday tree, this is normal.
Nuremberg is the capital of wooden toys. Here they buy nutcrackers of all styles and sizes (they can be as tall as a person).
“It is imperative to buy a 'little man' made of dried fruits and eat it symbolically for good luck,” advises Tatiana Voytekh.
With Franco-Spanish charm
The capital of European Christmas is now Strasbourg.
“You need to book a hotel for December in the spring,” says Taras Chernov, guide of the Fairy tour company. - Here every year they publish a whole newspaper with a schedule of all the festive events and tips for guests. The largest Christmas tree in France is being erected on the city square, and the streets are decorated with crystal chandeliers, which are more than a hundred years old! "
For the spirit of Christmas, you can still go to Flamand, to "gingerbread" Bruges: in November-December, the degree of "gingerbread" goes off scale!
“Add Belgian beer, chocolate, lace, waffles to that and you have the perfect fair,” says Taras.
But in Barcelona, there is not even snow, but there are enough Christmas quirks. So, here children are given gifts for Christmas "kagatio", literally - "pooping log". "It's hard to believe, but this is an old custom: before the holiday, children beat a log, and sweets fall out of it." Catalans generally approach the preparation of fairs in a peculiar way, with jokes. And from here, tourists are not bringing angels, but figurines depicting Queen Elizabeth, Donald Trump, Messi or Michael Jackson with his pants down.
Wonders. Santa flies in a sleigh over the rooftops and heads of guests
Stollen is the head of everything
These are traditional Dresden Christmas pastries. She symbolizes the baby Jesus, who was swaddled and put in a manger. A real Dresden stollen is a dense cake with several types of nuts, dried fruits (soaked in rum or cognac), zest and a sea of spices. They bake it at the beginning of Advent and cherish it until Christmas: the stollen does not deteriorate in the refrigerator, but is aged to the desired condition. Every year in Dresden, the homeland of the Stollen, a festival and competition for the best cupcake is held. Giant stollens of 3-4 tons are baked and taken out to the people on a cart pulled by horses. This year, the 25th Stollen festival will be held on December 8th. There will be a parade of bakers and pastry chefs in the Old Town and a competition with 500 participants.
Stollen the giant. Some muffins weigh 3-4 tons
It is difficult to argue with the charm of winter - the air itself seems to be filled with magic and a fairy tale. The smell of tangerines, garlands, flying snowflakes, Christmas trees, buying gifts and waiting for a miracle. In the usual gray everyday life, all these sensations are erased. But the spirit of Christmas and New Year is felt in Europe. Traditional Christmas markets captivate with beauty and conviviality. Ancient cities are plunged into the light of lanterns and the smell of fir trees, turning into a large-scale stage for street performers and musicians. Delicious delicacies are sold on every corner and local craftsmen are fascinated by crafts. Everyone should visit such a place at least once in their life. Why not do it in 2017? We have collected the most full list all the Christmas events in the world that are worth paying attention to. Please note: the most important events take place even before Catholic Christmas, and Europeans spend at home on December 24-26. Therefore, do not plan your trip exclusively for these dates, as many establishments will be closed and activities are temporarily suspended.1. Germany
The Germans love holidays - this is noticeable at least by the number of Christmas markets that take place in the main cities of the country. People walk here from November almost to February, on a grand scale, with German hospitality and love for delicious food. Germany can easily compete with the most popular tourist destinations during the Christmas period.Nuremberg
The fair in this city perfectly reflects the German approach to the traditions of Christmas. The Kriskindelsmarkt fair has been held since the 17th century. Flights to Nuremberg are slightly more expensive than to Berlin or Munich, but you will be more than rewarded for your spending. Here they treat with trepidation the ancient customs. The bazaar begins with a grand opening by the Christmas angel, who in between times also gives out gifts to children. Adults, on the other hand, will be delighted by another tradition - the preparation of Fire Tooth punch in a huge barrel. Then it is poured into bowls and handed over to those who wish. By the way, Nuremberg is ideal for a family trip - it is one of the quietest and most peaceful fairs in Germany. Be sure to try The Plum Man, the gingerbread symbol of Christmas in this city.Time spending: 01.12.17-24.12.17
Location: Nünberg, central Haupmarkt
Dresden
One of the most popular holiday markets is located in Dresden. The whole city seems to be engulfed in a magic fever. Flights to Dresden are also not very cheap, but the scale of the festivities is amazing. The main square hosts a fair that attracts nearly 3 million tourists every year. For six centuries, traditions have not changed, so in 2017 your market awaits, where 200 artisans will sell their crafts made of wood, fabric and glass. Here you can find world-famous Christmas tree decorations, lace, and handmade ceramics. During the fair this year, the organizers promise a traditional Stollen of 300 kilograms, which they will cut into many pieces and give everyone a try. This spicy raisin and dried fruit cake is best served with mulled wine and, of course, German beer.Time spending: 30.11.17-29.12.17
Location: Dresden, bank of the Elbe river, Altmarkt square.
Koln
Two million people rush to this city before Christmas. One of the most popular fairs in Germany takes place here. In front of the cathedral, on the main square, a festive spruce and a stage are erected, and 170-180 stalls with souvenirs and treats are located around them. Christmas decorations, gingerbread cookies, ceramic dishes of local craftsmen - you won't leave here empty-handed. Since the city is very popular during this period, flights to Cologne are quite cheap. The number of tourists is quite justified - in 2017, 100 concerts for adults and children will be held here. Street musicians, nativity scenes, performances for the little ones, exhibitions of contemporary artists and artisans - all this is on the program. Be sure to try the traditional food of the Christmas markets in Germany - sausages and roasted chestnuts.Time spending: 27.11.17-23.12.17
Location: Cologne, Ronkalliplatz main square
Berlin
The Germans themselves believe that the Christmas market at the Red City Hall in Berlin is one of the best festive events of the year. Firstly, nobody canceled the metropolitan scope. Secondly, among 60 Berlin bazaars in winter this is the largest and most famous one. The Red City Hall is the seat of the government, where a fair has been built since the 19th century during the period of Christmas and New Years. The organizers tried to preserve the flavor and design of the trays from the early 20th century. In addition to the fact that there are many stalls with souvenirs, food and drinks, the fair is famous for its 600-meter ice skating rink, where every tourist can ride - the price is 4 euros, and for children it is generally free. The younger members of your family will also appreciate the extensive petting zoo and the daily nativity scene. So you can safely buy air tickets to Berlin if you want to give your children a wonderful holiday itself.Time spending: 27.11.17-2.01.18
Location: Berlin, Alexanderplatz square at the Red City Hall
Price issue: two tickets to Berlin from Moscow will cost 100 euros.
Munich
Another oldest Christmas market in Germany. Buy tickets to Munich if you love the spirit of antiquity. It is not only the scale and mood that amazes us, but also the beautiful and ancient buildings that surround the fair. This option is good for those who want to plunge into the Christmas mood early and New Year return to their native land. Traditionally, a thirty-meter Christmas tree is erected on the main square of the city, for the right to decorate which the best European designers fight every year. The market is famous not only for its mulled wine and snacks, but also for the performances of artists - the children are simply delighted with them. Here you will see St. Nicholas, Krampus, fauns, and many other characters in myths and fairy tales.Time spending: 24.11.17-25.12.17
Location: Munich, Marienplatz in the city center
2. Italy
Italy, because it has a mild climate, sea air and sunny weather. But pay attention to Christmas in this country too. Friendly and appreciating the scale, Italians celebrate Christmas, New Year and a bunch of interesting and magical days throughout the season. There are festivals and fairs in every major city.Rome
Naturally, the largest scale occurs in the capital. Rome flights and hotel reservations are all you need to unforgettable holiday... Bazaars occupy almost all of the city's squares, but it is best to get to Piazza Navona. On the main square of Rome, surrounded by world-famous buildings and fountains, trays with treats, souvenirs from the best masters(ceramics, carved toys, masks and dolls). There are nativity scenes here, puppet theaters in the open air. Try hot chocolate, chestnuts and of course pizza. The plus is that, unlike Germany, the holidays in Italy also last in January. By the way, don't miss the traditional bagpipe procession in the main square.Time spending: 8.12.2017-8.01.18
Location: Rome, Piazza Navona
Bolzano
One of the most famous bazaars in Italy at Christmas is located in the city of Bolzano. There is no airport here, but people get here by buses from Rome. Believe me, the healing climate and architecture preserved from the Middle Ages attracts tourists from all over the world. By the beginning of the holidays, 80 wooden houses are being built here, decorated with lights, spruce branches and balls. Bolzano is famous all over the world for its glass - buy figurines of angels or Christmas tree decorations as a souvenir. In the nearby cathedral, you can listen to Christmas songs and watch traditional nativity scenes next to the building. For children, there is a real paradise here - every day there are contests and performances, local sweets are sold, you can appear on a sleigh pulled by horses.Time spending: 24.11.17-6.01.18
Location: Bolzano, main square
Milan
It is believed that the first fairs on the occasion of the New Year began to be held here in the 13th century. Today they are still celebrated on a grand scale. In the Italian capital of shopping, not only squares are adorned, but also the station, and all shopping centers, and just streets. The most famous market is called Oh Bej! Oh Bej! It is better to buy air tickets to Milan in advance, because then they simply may not be available - tourists from all over the world flock here. Almost 400 stalls with food, drinks and souvenirs will be built on the most beautiful square. Traditional treats include dozens of nuts in caramel and other fillings, chocolate, dried meat and cheeses. All this is washed down with mulled wine. Free performances are held for children - 100 concerts of musicians and artists. And for adults - excursions, which tell not only about the architecture around, but also about the history of Christmas in Italy.Time spending: 2.12.17-7.01.18
Location: the main celebration takes place in the square near Castello Sforzesco
3. Hungary
The spirit of old Europe is felt in Budapest at Christmas. Ancient streets, every showcase and cafe compete for the title of the most beautiful jewelry, dozens of fairs are opening throughout the city. Yes, there are other places in Hungary for the holidays, but only Budapest can boast of such a scale. Festivities here begin in November, and every day can be spent magically and uniquely. So you can book tickets to Budapest right now.Budapest
To explore all the interesting places in this city,. But the most famous fair takes place on Vörösmarty Square, in the center, next to Modnaya Street. This year, the organizers promise to diversify the holiday by building a sled train - every child will want to ride in sparkling trailers in the city center. A large stage will be built near the source with a lion, where children's shows and street musicians perform all day long. A master class on creating Christmas tree decorations will also be held nearby. And so everything is unchanged - hundreds of wooden stalls, traditional food and drinks. Among them, he advises to try grilled sausages, mulled wine with spices, potato pancakes, Hungarian duck, cakes with poppy seeds.A snow slide will be installed in the Town Hall Park, where everyone can ride a sleigh. Look here for a winter house made of ice and snow, although it looks more like a palace. By the way, it is in the City Hall Park that the largest Christmas tree in Budapest is traditionally installed.
If you are looking for a free skating rink and the maximum number of family entertainment, then you are on the main square in Obud. In addition to the skating rink, here you can ride horses, show performances and give you hearty food.
Time spending: 6.11.17-7.01.18
Location: Vörösmarty Square, Town Hall Park, Obud Square
4. Denmark
For some reason, this country is not often chosen for tourism at Christmas, meanwhile, there is something to see and not so many tourists as in Vienna or Budapest. Definitely the largest swing in Copenhagen. Although other cities hold their own fairs, they are small and intimate, and the real fun and celebration is in the capital.Copenhagen
The most beautiful, beautiful and mesmerizing holiday in Copenhagen is held, of course, in the Tivoli Gardens. This huge amusement park in the city center is turning into a Christmas extravaganza. 5 kilometers of the fair, an alpine village on the territory, millions of lamps and hundreds of installations, a huge free skating rink, a stage where the Nutcracker ballet is shown and nativity scenes are performed, and much, much more. Are you still thinking about buying tickets to Copenhagen? Perhaps this is one of the most beautiful places in Europe for the New Year. Here you can also taste delicious traditional dishes. For example, rice pudding, open pork sandwiches, dozens of types of fish, tapas and beer. Plus, don't forget that Tivoli Gardens is primarily the largest amusement park in Denmark.Time spending: 18.11.17-31.12.17
Location: Denmark, Tivoli gardens
5. United Kingdom
, festive and mesmerizing, prim and unusual, filled with the largest number of attractions per square meter, Great Britain simply falls in love with itself during the Christmas period. Large-scale fairs, holidays, festivities are held throughout the country.London
Of course, London has the most fun this season. The most famous fair is located on the two banks of the Thames, from the side of Hyde Park. 200 wooden houses with treats and souvenirs, several themed zones, from Bavarian to Alpine villages, handicrafts, the largest ice skating rink in London, a Ferris wheel in New Year's garlands that overlooks the city, night parties with the best DJs in the country - all this in the "Winter Land of Fairy Tales" in 2017. Another Christmas market opens between the Tate Modern and the Thames. There is a huge selection of decorations, toys, souvenirs and New Year's paraphernalia. So buy your tickets to London for a stylish and beautiful Christmas.Time spending: 30.11.17-03.01.18
Location: the entire center of London, including the banks of the Thames, Hyde Park, Tate Modern
Edinburgh
The Scottish-style New Year is no less wonderful. Who, if not the locals, appreciate loud celebrations and good booze? Throughout December, not even fairs are held in the center of Edinburgh - whole festivities with fireworks and concerts. Scotland's largest Christmas market opens in East Princes Street Gardens. The plus is that the kiosks here are open until late at night, illuminated with garlands and bonfires. Here you can buy carved jewelry and souvenirs, as well as, of course, delicacies. It is here that tourists buy Scotch whiskey back home as gifts, and they themselves drink hot drinks based on it. And the little George Street turns into a carnival procession with musicians and attractions. A skating rink is also installed here. Buy your tickets to Edinburgh in advance, otherwise you will easily find yourself without them.Time spending: 17.11.17-7.01.18
Location: Edinburgh, East Princes Street Gardens, George Street
Manchester
A huge fair is also taking place in Manchester. 9 million people visit it every year! Here you will find an exhibition of luminous huge figures, a market with souvenirs and delicacies, and performances by musicians and artists, and excursions, and a skating rink for children, and 10 thematic zones, and art exhibitions, and much more. In total, there are about 300 kiosks here for the delight of tourists. Tickets to Manchester are sold out like hot cakes, and the holiday begins in mid-November.Time spending: 10.11.17-24.12.17
Location: Manchester, Albert Square
6.Switzerland
Switzerland seems to be very intimate and prim, but every little thing is appreciated here, from which a unique Christmas mood... The Swiss are calm and their Christmas markets are more suitable for a cozy, family holiday.Basel
Oddly enough, the largest holiday market opens in this city, not Zurich. In November, Basel, located on the River Rhine, turns into a fairy tale come to life. Due to the proximity of the mountains, there is almost always snow at Christmas time. The cozy market in the main square is made up of hundreds of wooden stalls. Here they sell Swiss chocolate, gingerbread, souvenirs. The old town, where the market is open, is being transformed, the facades of ancient buildings are decorated with garlands. Flights to Basel are good gift for family people who value peace and comfort.Time spending: 23.11.17-23.12.17
Location: Basel, Barfusserplatz
Zurich
If you want to know where the most garlands are spent on decorating the city, then we have the answer - in Zurich. Everything sparkles here: houses, squares, kiosks, even the air - the bulbs are stretched straight from building to building. You don't have to look for the main fair either - it is arranged right in and next to the station building. In front of it there is an ice rink and many stalls with treats. They put a huge spruce inside and decorate it with 6000 crystal balls from Swarovski. This tree is deservedly considered one of the most beautiful in Europe. If you want to see this sparkling miracle, then buy air tickets to Zurich.Time spending: 23.11.17-24.12.17
Location: Zurich main station
7. Czech Republic
Of course, the main festivities associated with Christmas take place in Prague. It is one of the most beautiful cities during this period. Tourists from all over the world tend to get here. Snow, garlands and decorations and the very walls of ancient palaces and narrow streets create a unique magic of the place. Flights to Prague will become the best gift for Christmas.Prague
In principle, the entire old city turns into an arena for the New Year's festivities during the holidays. But the peak of the festivities falls on the Old Town Square. Many shopping kiosks are built in a circle around a huge spruce and installations on the topic catholic christmas... Directly from the square you can go to the cathedral, where in the evenings the organ plays and the choir sings, and the mummers arrange whole performances inside and outside. Try the traditional Czech dish - baked carp and wicker cookies with different fillings. Naturally, the kiosks sell the famous Czech crystal (including Christmas tree decorations), gingerbread and wooden toys.Time spending: 2.12.17-7.01.18
Location: Prague, Old Town Square
Christmas markets in European culture are an integral and traditional attribute before Christmas, which is dedicated to the beginning of the holiday. Against the backdrop of a sincere atmosphere, the central streets and squares of cities turn into magical festivals, with their own flavor and charm. It not only sells items, but also prepares drinks and meals, hosts entertainment and concerts. Which Old World cities host the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe?
Zagreb (Croatia)
For two years in a row (2016-2017) the capital of Croatia, the city Zagreb were chosen as the winner of the "Best Christmas Fair in Europe" competition. Of course, its landscape surroundings with sparkling lanterns, ancient architecture inspire the tourist with an atmosphere of New Year and Christmas magic. Thematic events, cultural programs in the open streets and squares of the city center create a special flavor.
Christmas markets in Zagreb have been recognized as the best in Europe twice 
More and more tourists come to Zagreb every year to celebrate new year holidays... There is fun at every turn: singing, dancing, family entertainment, traditional food and drinks (especially the delicacy alfresco). And in terms of the colorfulness of the event, the last few years he has no equal! So other European cities have a new and worthy competitor.
Kiosks sell gifts and other Christmas-themed items Strasbourg (France)
The city has been selected as the winner of the Best Christmas Fair in Europe (2014-2015) competition for two years in a row. Long ago Strasbourg is the capital of Christmas in France. The oldest Christmas fair in Europe called "Christkindelsmärik" was established here in 1570. With its 300 stalls scattered across the 12 blocks of the main street, an authentic, warm and generous Alsatian tradition of celebrating Christmas is taking shape. Since then, it has been successfully supported.
Strasbourg - the capital of Christmas in France 
A sincere atmosphere and traditions of a bright holiday have always been present in Strasbourg. Four concerts are held here, live authentic music sounds, various cultural events for leisure and family. Of course, Strasbourg is famous for being a key destination for a New Year's cultural trip.
Aachen (Germany)
Every year before Christmas squares and streets in the vicinity of the Cathedral and the Town Hall Aachen transform into an impressive play of light and color, festival melodies and mouth-watering aromas. The glorious fair in Christmas Town, built with trepidation and feeling, captivates young and old alike. A wide choice between original, stylish and valuable products makes dreams small and big a reality.
No wonder why Christmas market in Aachen has become a must for winter tourists. The town's generous market has become famous far beyond the Aachen region. This is due to its welcoming and iconic atmosphere. People from all over Germany come to the Christmas event to relax with family, friends, acquaintances and colleagues.
The most unusual souvenirs are sold at the Christmas market in Aachen Vienna, Austria)
Picturesque squares from the second half of November until Christmas Veins transform into enchanting Christmas markets. The aroma of baked goods and hot punch recreates a wonderful festive atmosphere. One of the most legendary fairs is the old and traditional "Christkindlmarkt" that transforms the Town Hall Square into a vibrant, fairytale area.
Christmas gifts, wooden decorations, desserts and warm drinks await visitors, as well as carousels and fun Christmas workshops for children. The trees surrounding the City Hall park are garlanded and emit a sea of luminescence - a vintage Viennese experience that the curious tourist won't want to miss!
Helsinki (Finland)
In addition to Finnish Lapland, where he lives fabulous grandfather Frost (Fin. Joulupukki), celebrations with a fantastic color can be seen in Helsinki... Everyone here is relaxed and happy, enjoying culinary delights and drinks, spending time with family and friends. The Christmas Market has about 140 shops in cute little huts offering gifts for all tastes, including handicrafts and designs.
The stalls also feature traditional ingredients for the Christmas table. And the food courts serve excellent food and, of course, mulled wine with other hot drinks. To top it off, a beautiful old carousel will be re-installed in the center of the market square.
The most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe, video: