That festive, cosy feeling of the Christmas market is something millions of us all around the world look forward to every year. As soon as the clocks go back, the countdown to the Christmas market stalls opening begins in earnest, with all of us planning gifts and decorations we want to secure for loved ones and our home.
Then there’s the food and drink. The run up to Christmas just wouldn’t be the same without indulging a huge bratwurst, a crêpe with all the toppings and a stein or two of strong German wheat beer. Then maybe a glass of mulled wine and an Irish coffee nightcap. These treats are almost as important as roast potatoes and stuffing in the Christmas culinary calendar.
A Tour of the World’s Best Christmas Markets
So, if you’re rubbing your mittened hands in excitement at the prospect of the Christmas markets opening in the coming weeks but don’t know whether to venture to the local offering, the nearest big city or explore further afield – we’ve got your covered. We’ve looked far and wide, and compiled this list of the very best Christmas markets the world has to offer.
From the traditional Christmas markets of Central Europe to the more unusual versions found in Asia’s mega cities, we’ve covered the best, brightest and weirdest.
Here are the best Christmas markets from around the world: