As winter approaches, my thoughts have been on the holidays. Questions like, “What will I cook?” and “Who will I need to invite?” are floating in and out of my mind. Then I thought, “Hold on, it’s been a tough few years and I need a break!” It dawned on me, why not see the Christmas markets or maybe go on a Christmas market river cruise? I envisioned floating down scenic rivers, sipping hot mulled wine and strolling through beautifully decorated streets with festive Christmas décor. Visiting the bustling markets with the family and returning to the ship with all the special holiday meals and drinks already prepared. All we would have to do is enjoy! My panic subsided and the decision was made. While I do love to cook and entertain, it has been a crazy busy — not to mention stressful — few years and who doesn’t need a break? Christmas markets it will be.
Which Christmas Market to Choose?
My first challenge was where? Which one? Europe’s Christmas markets are breathtaking and to narrow it down was going to be a challenge. Do we choose by the type of food we like, culture or accommodation type? Something familiar or something completely different? The markets below were the ones that I think have the most promise. You tell me which one(s) you like best on this list.
Italy’s Govone and Asti Christmas Markets
One of the most important events in Italy, the Govone and Asti Christmas markets are a magical experience in a very special place. Located in the wine region of Piedmont — which btw, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site —, the entire village turns itself into the magic kingdom of Santa Claus which sounds like the place to be especially if you have kids and for wine enthusiasts like myself. There is a street food area and a Magic Kingdom Wine shop where visitors can find all the traditional local delicacies. But the unique experience that sets this incredible Christmas village apart is its amazing musical showing of ‘Santa Claus’ at the scenic and historic Savoy Castle of Govone.
Inside the market, the setting resembles a fairy tale with one hundred wooden stalls exhibiting Christmas tree decorations, nativity sets, hot chocolate, nougat and truffles and the ever-present mulled wine. Try the traditional delicacies from the Provence of Cuneo while you shop for books and arts and crafts to your heart’s delight. The streets are filled with perfumes and flavors of all kinds of food such as pizza – what else, this is Italy after all — and roasted chestnuts. But that’s not all, here you’ll also find Santa’s House, and wait for it, the Academy of Elves. If you have kids in the family, this is the Christmas market to choose, there is truly something for everyone.
The Govone Castle is located between Alba and Asti, about 60 km (37 miles) away from Turin. There are several traditional Christmas markets closer to Asti, too.
Voted the Best — Budapest, Hungary
As I was researching the most popular Markets, Budapest emerged as a definite favorite amongst Americans, Brits and Italians. In 2021, Forbes asked more than 350 European tourist offices and the Eden network which European Christmas markets were the best for 2021 and 2022 with Basel, Budapest, Metz, Montbéliard and Vienna coming out on top.
Budapest is a fascinating and interesting country on so many levels. It’s known for its rich culture, underground caves, the Danube River, its stunning Parliament Building, delicious local food, and of course, the Spa Capital thermal baths. The central European city has become very popular and its much-loved Christmas celebrations undoubtedly play a role in its success. What caught my eye was the thought of a cruise on the Danube for 11 days, packed with activities. Or the option to visit the Christmas markets, enjoy the river cruise and then ring in the New Year with an elegant gala dinner. Whichever way you decide to experience this magical time, I can only imagine that the Christmas season in Budapest with sparkly lights on trees, snow-topped cathedrals and carolers in the streets singing classic holiday tunes, would be an absolute delight. And, if you can brave the cold, you should visit the ice-skating rink as well.
The two best known Christmas markets in Budapest are found in the central District V — Vorosmarty Square and St. Stephen’s Square. The Vorosmarty Square markets are Budapest’s oldest and most famous. The newer ones are the markets outside St. Stephen’s Basilica, which have captivated locals and tourists alike since 2011. Visitors rave about Budapest’s traditional handicrafts such as glassblowing, candle making and leatherwork. Each celebrates and showcases Hungarian traditions, so leave some space in your luggage for a few of these treasures. Aside from handicrafts, they sell everything from mouthwatering goulash, flavored sausages and scrumptious gingerbread cookies.
Basel, Switzerland — The Most Beautiful and Largest Christmas City
This gorgeous and well-preserved Old Town glows and shimmers like gold throughout the holiday season. Nearly one hundred pine trees border the streets, keeping watch and pointing the way for visitors as they sip mulled wine waiting for the celebrations to begin. The city hosts many festive events in the run-up to Christmas from advent concerts and stage presentations to special exhibits leading up to Christmas Eve. There’s also a marvelous Christmas tree on Munsterplatz in the center of the city that has ornaments crafted by well-known decorator, Johann Wanner. And about that mulled wine I mentioned earlier, take a quick walk to Pfalz where you can enjoy your wine with a gorgeous view over the Rhine and the glowing lights of the city.
In front of the historical cathedral is one the most stunning squares in Basil and it’s exquisitely decorated during Christmas time. One of my favorite areas is the city center in the historic Old Town. If you’re a foodie, you will love trying the delicious waffles, the gingerbread and Swiss raclette while you marvel at the traders and artisans offering their goods in small rustic wooden chalets. The stalls are decorated with so much love and attention as are the hand painted Christmas decorations that you can take home should you want to purchase some for your own family tree.
I got carried away thinking about all the Christmas markets around the world and look forward to the beauty and magical experiences this time of year brings. Start planning your holiday adventures when you browse the dates for European Christmas Markets in 2022.
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