Whether you want to admit it or not, Christmas is fast approaching. Christmas markets have an undeniable charm, and we will give you a few tips on which European cities to visit during Advent. And it won't just be the classic Salzburg or Krakow, but also a few cities you definitely wouldn't expect on our list.
For those who have been stubbornly resisting the increasing number of lights on the streets and shops full of advent calendars since September, Christmas markets can be a pleasant and gentle way to get into the festive spirit. Conversely, those who have been watching Christmas fairy tales and movies since the first ground frosts would appreciate the decorated stalls and hot mulled wine every day. So - where are you heading?
Krakow
Poland's most visited city, which has a unique atmosphere all year round. During Advent, its atmosphere multiplies. The main Krakow square - Rynek Glowny - hosts the largest markets. Be sure to taste some of the local specialties at the stalls, such as bigos. It is a dish made of mushrooms, sausage, pork belly, meat, and sauerkraut.
We can also recommend ribs, black pudding, or dill soup. You might be surprised by mead, but it is a great delicacy and you shouldn't miss it. The markets spread throughout the center, but if you are on the main square, wait for the top of the hour. At that time, a traditional trumpet call sounds from St. Mary's Basilica; this tradition has been preserved since the Mongol siege.
Budapest
One of the main European cities that comes to mind when someone mentions Christmas markets. Probably the largest concentration of stalls is in front of St. Stephen's Basilica. It is fully illuminated every year, which only adds to its majesty. However, stalls are located in all the alleys and on other squares, such as Erzsébet tér. About a hundred meters away, you will reach Vörösmarty tér square, which is famous for its Christmas decorations.
Few people know that vendors are selected by a committee, as the Budapest city hall prides itself on authenticity and traditional products. So look forward to sausages, langos, and goulash. Just like here, chimney cake (trdelník) is a part of Christmas in Hungary too.
The Parliament building is the main tourist attraction throughout the year, but when illuminated for Christmas, it competes with the aforementioned basilica. It stands on the banks of the Danube, so it reflects in the water surface. Several bridges connect both halves of the city, and the municipality does not forget them either, decorating them for Christmas. Therefore, cross to the other bank to Buda Castle or Matthias Church and you will have the entire glowing Christmas Budapest in the palm of your hand.
Salzburg
So much happens in Salzburg at Christmas that it would be enough for an entire article. You can take a bus from the center of Salzburg to Hellbrunn Palace, which hosts historically themed markets. Look for traditional Austrian delicacies such as candied apples, smoked meats, and chimney cake at the famous Mirabellplatz, as well as a rich musical program.
If you like attending Advent concerts, you will hear chorales or brass band concerts at the Christkindlmarkt on Domplatz and Residenzplatz squares. You don't have to limit yourself to just Salzburg filled with stalls. At Wolfgangsee lake, light spreads from a large lantern hanging above the surface. In the mountains in the Grobarltal valley, they focus on traditions, such as nativity scene carving, Christkindl's workshop, or feeding wildlife. And in our opinion, nothing replaces Advent in the snowy mountains.
Madrid
And now a few words about cities that probably wouldn't be the first and obvious choice for a trip for Christmas atmosphere. We'll start with Madrid, as the Spanish capital also has something to boast about. The largest square, Plaza Mayor, fills up with over a hundred stalls every year. Be sure to find traditional churros with hot chocolate here.
Also, browse the Mercado de San Miguel market. Taste turrón there - a variation of nougat. If you love sweets, go where nothing else is sold. To the Feria Dulces de Navidad market in front of the Teatro Real opera house. And if you want to get as close as possible to the Spanish Christmas tradition, buy a lottery ticket. The Lotería de Navidad is drawn on December 22nd and it is a nationwide event.
Zagreb
A city known more for summer vacations has been voted the best host of Christmas markets several times in a row. We will lure you here mainly for the food. Have some sarma - pickled cabbage leaves stuffed with minced meat and rice, buncek - pork knuckle, fritule - small balls with sweet topping, sausage or ham.
Take a walk through the main Advent centers, i.e., from Fuliranje on Strossmayer Square through European Square to Tkalčićeva Street. Craftsmen used to live here, and before Christmas, they dust off their workshops again, allowing tourists to take home a traditional Croatian souvenir.
Tirana
And we finish with a Balkan gem, the capital of Albania. Tirana is inspired by Western cities and lights up several trees, for example on Skanderbeg Square, where the main Christmas market is, or on Mother Teresa Square. You can even go ice skating on a huge rink here.
The streets of Myslym Shyri, Kavaja, or Durresi are richly decorated and radiate a Christmas atmosphere. And it is there that you can buy Christmas gifts and taste traditional Albanian cuisine.
So, which European city have we tempted you with? And where did you enjoy yourself the most during Advent?
Photos are from flickr.com
