During this magical season, one experience you simply cannot miss is a trip with family and friends to a Christmas market. These charming spots, brimming with exquisite crafts, delicious treats, and local traditions, are the perfect places to embrace the true spirit of Christmas. Today, we invite you to explore some of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe.
Cologne, Germany: festive Cheer by the Rhine
Cologne boasts several Christmas markets, each with its own unique atmosphere: the Angels Market, the Gnomes Market, the market with the giant Ferris wheel, and more. The most famous and largest of them all is the one located next to the magnificent Cologne Cathedral. With over 150 stalls, this market stands out for its high-quality craftsmanship, including handmade jewelry and wooden toys. One of its main attractions is its food and drink stalls—don’t miss the chance to try Glühwein (hot mulled wine), a classic treat that will keep you warm as you explore.
Strasbourg, France: craftsmanship and Alsatian specialties
Known as the oldest Christmas market in Europe, the Christkindelsmärik (Market of the Christ Child) in Strasbourg dates back to 1570. Here, you’ll find beautiful crafts such as aromatic candles and Alsatian specialties like spätzle (a type of handmade pasta often served with cheese) and flammkuchen (a thin, crispy pizza-like dish). Be sure to visit the giant Christmas tree in Kleber Square, an iconic symbol of the city during the festive season.
Vienna, Austria: imperial Christmas markets and history
Vienna’s Christmas markets blend the city’s imperial history with festive cheer. First held in 1772, these markets today offer everything from handcrafted decorations and crystal ornaments to traditional nativity scenes and pottery. The most famous market is the Christkindlmarkt in front of the City Hall, featuring over 150 stalls selling a wide variety of items, including fine glassware and traditional Viennese pastries.
Tallinn, Estonia: a medieval Christmas market with charm
Tallinn’s Christmas market takes place every year in the Town Hall Square (Raekoja Plats). Surrounded by medieval buildings, this market offers unique handcrafted items such as hand-knitted woolen garments and Christmas decorations. You can also savor local dishes like roasted pork, sausages, and saiapätsis supp (a traditional mushroom soup). Despite the often sub-zero temperatures, the market’s enchanting atmosphere and the city’s picturesque streets make it well worth the visit.
Christmas markets go far beyond being mere shopping destinations; they are vibrant celebrations of local traditions and customs, where culture, flavor, and warmth come together. We’re confident that, as lovers of fine Cuban cigars, you’ll appreciate and fully enjoy this enchanting experience.
With that in mind, we wish you a holiday season filled with magic, joy, and unforgettable moments. Merry Christmas!
