With Christmas around the corner, if you are one of those heading to Europe to celebrate the festival and ring in the New Year, here are some festive markets that you can make a stopover at. While some of them wrap up around X’Mas, there are some that continue to welcome tourists right up to the first week of January.
Fairytale land in Montreux
(Montreux)
Montreux has a complete fairy-tale ambience and is one of the most beautiful Christmas Markets. Situated on Lake Geneva, this town is nestled between steep hills and the lakeside. It also has a magnificent view of the snow-capped Alps. More than half a million visitors flock there each year for its wide variety of Christmas souvenirs and delicacies. The main attraction for children is Santa’s House, which can be visited on Rochers-de-Naye — a special cog-wheel train that goes from Montreux to the top of the Alpine peak overlooking Lac Léman.
When: Till December 24, 2017
A lot to choose from in Zürich
(Zürich)
Come December, Switzerland’s largest city, Zürich, transforms from a financial hub into an enchanting winter wonderland filled with lights and music. Zürich plays host to quite a few Christmas markets every year like the one in the Old Town, by the Zürich Opera House, the Romantic Rappers and the Einsiedeln markets. But the most attractive of the lot is the Christmas Market from the main train station as it is one of the largest indoor markets in Europe. Its pride and joy is the massive Christmas tree, which is adorned with more than 7,000 Swarovski crystal ornaments.
Welcome to the Christmas city
(Basel)
Basel is known as the largest and most beautiful ‘Christmas City’ in Switzerland. Buildings and bridges are magically lit up during this festive period and numerous pine trees are decorated. The two main Christmas markets here are at Barfüsserplatz and Münsterplatz, which are right in the centre of the city. Over 180 traders and artisans offer their goods for sale in small, rustic wooden chalets along with an array of delicious snacks such as waffles and sausages, and of course, a warm glass of mulled wine to enjoy this festive atmosphere. There’s a Christmas exhibition at the Toy Museum, a special performance at the Puppet Theatre, and a musical Advent door opened each day at the Basel Theatre.
When: Till December 23, 2017
Leuven — a foodie’s delight
Monseigneur Ladeuzeplein and Herbert Hooverplein serve as the enchanting backdrop for Leuven’s Christmas market, one of the oldest in Belgium and also the cosiest one. Here, you can find the nicest Christmas and decorative items, gifts, and sampling stands for your culinary enjoyment. Make sure to visit Santa’s enchanting houses as well.
When: Till December 21, 2017
Christmas market and ice skating rink
(Bruges)
Experience a cosy Christmas atmosphere in Bruges. This is one of the most picturesque and vibrant markets of the country. At the same time, you get to know the beautiful historic centre of Bruges and visit a museum.
When: Till January 2, 2018
Winter Wonderland in London
Winter Wonderland is held in Hyde Park from 10 am to 10 pm until January 1, 2018, except for Christmas Day (December 25). The nearest tube stations are Marble Arch, Green Park, Hyde Park Corner, Victoria and Knightsbridge. The entry to Winter Wonderland is free, though some attractions inside are ticketed and can be booked in advance.
When: Till January 1
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