Thursday, November 4, 2010

7 of the Best Christmas Cities in Europe!

The enchanting atmosphere of the traditional Christmas Markets scattered throughout Europe is attracting more and more visitors every year. Under the spell of mulled wine, hot chestnuts, grilled sausages and marzipan sweets, it is hard to resist the various types of hand - made gifts. Half-timbered buildings are festively lit and the aromas of mulled wine out of the local vineyards and cinnamon permeate the air at traditional Christmas markets and the festive decoration of the towns and cities provide an idyllic setting for a romantic winter break. Snuggle up at your private home, tucked away in the labyrinthine of old quarters, mediaeval market squares and striking cathedrals. Buildings steeped in history are illuminated by thousands upon thousands of fairy lights, while the aroma of gingerbread wafts through the air.

Vienna, Asutria#1. Vienna, Austria

The Alpine towns and villages in Austria, invariably host markets, which although are not that large are buoyant in character and atmosphere. But with its 25 markets, ranging in size, the capital Vienna is unraveled in the festive atmosphere that all the seasonal decoration and lights create around the city. No wonder that three million visitors flock here each year for beeswax candles, wooden toys, and glass ornaments. Shoppers snack on cream-filled pastries, candied fruit, roasted chestnuts, and Weihnachtspunsch .

Prague, Czech Republic#2. Prague, Czech Republic

Christmas is a special time of year in Prague and the Christmas markets are a key ingredient in the Czech festive magic.  Visitor s and locals are brought together around the brightly decorated wooden huts, selling Czech handcrafted toys and Bohemian glass souvenirs, hot sausages  and hot wine (to make outdoor shopping much easier, you see)!The two best Christmas markets are on the long slope of Wenceslas Square and in the medieval set of the Old Town Square formed around a giant Christmas tree. Get into a Christmas mood with the delicious aroma of punch, traditional gingerbread, vánocvka, vánocvka (a braided pastry studded with raisins), and vosí hnízda' ("wasps nests," nutty cookies heavy with rum).

Paris, France#3. Paris, France

Renown for its colorful markets, Paris festive atmosphere, spiced up with enticing stalls laden with unique handcrafted gifts and delectable goodies to make your Christmas recipes sensational, is a unique experience. You can also find unusual decorations and ornaments for your Christmas tree and if you're looking to send something different to your friends this year.

Berlin, Germany#4. Berlin, Germany

The German capital and its 50 Christmas Markets have been a true temptation for visitors from around the world. The seasonal aroma of mulled wine and baked cinnamon stars, draw tourists and locals to more than 100 handicraft stalls, refreshment stands and amusements at the famous market next to Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church, amidst the bustle of shoppers on the high street between the Kurfüstendamm and Tauenzien. This is probably one of the most popular markets in Berlin and is well sited in terms of nearby apartment accommodation. Here, they are sure to find the right Christmas gifts amongst the yuletide decorations, ornaments, toys and pretty accessories on sale.

Naples, Italy#5. Naples, Italy

Although you'll find Christmas celebrations all over Italy, these are some of the most unusual or most popular Christmas celebrations, events, and decorations. The Italians pride themselves on the elaborate crib displays and nativity scenes on display at many Italian Christmas Markets. As with any Christmas Market the Italian stallholders will have mouth-watering displays of local food and drink plus of course the usual array of locally manufactured seasonal gift items. Naples is one of the best cities to visit for Nativity Cribs.

Barcelona, Spain#6. Barcelona, Spain


Spend a week relaxing in Barcelona and make sure you don't miss visiting the Christmas markets. Spend some time wandering the stalls of Barcelona's Fira de Santa Llucia Christmas market. Linger here, or head down La Rambla, to walk and wander, window shop and enjoy the unique atmosphere of the Barcelona's most famous street.

Montreux, Switzerland#7. Montreux, Switzerland

Looking for a ‘white Christmas Market experience’ - visit the Christmas Market in Switzerland and its most beautifully decorated 150 stalls, arranged on and around the 'Quai de Noel'. Offering a vast array of locally produced goods, interesting items from across the Alpine passes and of course the festive staples of vin chaud and cinnamon crepes. You can visit Santa, who comes directly from faraway Lapland to his house at the Rochers de Naye, discover an authentic Christmas Village in Caux, or stroll through a medieval market and attend a story festival within the walls of the legendary Château de Chillon.

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