Christmas fairs throughout Europe delight us every year. The smells of pastries, cinnamon and mulled wine wafting through the city, the twinkle of lights and Christmas decorations on the prettiest wooden houses. Getting together with friends and family is what creates the holiday atmosphere we love so much. That is why we are already starting to plan the Advent trips we will visit this year.
Although we still don't know what Advent will look like in Europe this year, i.e. in which cities and in what form it will be, we have highlighted the ones we are looking forward to. Classic Advent destinations include German and Austrian cities, which over the years have perfected their Christmas markets to such an extent that we are always happy to return to them.
Tallinn, Estonia
In winter, the town hall square becomes a magical Christmas fair with a magnificent Christmas tree. The tradition of celebrating Christmas dates back to 1441, when the first Christmas tree in Europe was erected on this square. At the fair, you can enjoy traditional Estonian Christmas cuisine and buy gifts for your loved ones.
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Budapest, Hungary
Advent in Budapest is getting more and more popular every year. At the Christmas fair in front of the Basilica of St. In Štefana, you will find delicious Hungarian and international specialties and various attractions, such as a children's ice rink surrounded by a beautiful Christmas tree. The fair is known for its spectacular lighting.
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Vienna, Austria
Vienna is probably the most famous, but also one of the most beautiful Christmas destinations, where you will enjoy the festive magic with your family, friends or a loved one. Vienna, as a city of culture and tradition, shines every year in the most beautiful colors of Christmas. The Christmas market is a place of gastronomic hedonism, where you can enjoy the smells and tastes of Christmas pastries, gingerbread, punch and mulled wine. On weekends, various events and concerts are held in front of the town hall.
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Hallstatt, Austria
Hallstatt is a small town by the Austrian lakes and it's really hard to decide when it's prettier, spring or winter. Still, it's especially magical at Christmastime. This beautiful town with its narrow streets full of fishermen's houses will amaze you. You can go on a day trip to Hallstatt or choose it as a weekend destination. If you choose the second option, we suggest you check out other picturesque towns nearby, such as St. Gilgen and St. Wolfgang, but you can "jump" to Salzburg, which boasts one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe.
Strasbourg, France
The Strasbourg Christmas Fair is the most famous fair in France and one of the oldest in Europe. There are about 300 wooden houses in the center of the city, where you can find everything from treats to Christmas decorations. The 30-meter-high Christmas tree stands out, crossing the tops of the houses with its height, and the multitude of lamps and balls create a special light.
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Leipzig, Germany
The oldest Christmas fairs are located in Germany, the market in Leipzig has nurtured its tradition since 1458. Every December, the historic center of the city dresses up in a Christmas costume. At the fair, you can buy many goodies and gifts for your loved ones and enjoy the wonderful atmosphere.
Erfurt, Germany
The medieval German city of Erfurt is home to one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe. It is located in the square in front of the cathedral. At the fair, you will be able to taste various delicacies and specialties and enjoy the decorated city.
Prague, Czech Republic
Prague is beautiful at any time of the year, but at Christmas time this city has a very special atmosphere. The Christmas market in the old town square is very popular among tourists. In the huts you will find a typical range of food, desserts and souvenirs, but definitely enough to enjoy the beautiful city.
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Brussels, Belgium
Advent in Brussels is called Winter Wonders and it really looks amazing. The main Christmas market is located on the Sainte-Catherine square, and there are around 250 wooden houses throughout the city, where you will find various specialties, original gifts and the best chocolates, as well as other interesting and fun activities.
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