Christmas vacation: These European markets are perfect winter wonderlands

December is the month when Christmas markets get swarmed with people, in many countries. The snow covered streets that are decorated with Christmas illuminations light up the spirit of the visitors too. These are some of the biggest and most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe.
Cologne, Germany
Cologne, the biggest city in Nordrhein – Westfalen, Germany is a major cultural centre in the Rhineland. You could visit more than thirty museums and one hundred art galleries here. Heinzels Winter Fairytale is the biggest among the seven major Christmas markets in Cologne. Meanwhile, the Christmas market at the iconic Kolner Dom cathedral is a winter wonderland. The giant Christmas tree placed in the middle of this market is the perfect centre piece. New Market is where you can enjoy special Christmas treats and delicacies.

Montreux, Switzerland
The Christmas market in Montreux is one of the most beautiful ones in Europe. Santa Claus flying in his sleigh which is pulled by reindeers over the Leman Lake is the main highlight here. The cheerful Santa smiles and waves at you as he enjoys a ride in his reindeer pulled sleigh. Besides, the giant Ferris wheel is another major attraction during the Christmas season. The Christmas market that sprawls in over a kilometre on the banks of the lake has shops and kiosks that sell unique handicrafts, regional delicacies and special wines. At the heart of the Christmas market is the La Redoute House of Wishes from where you could send your wishes directly to Santa Claus.

Wiener Christkindlmarkt, Vienna
Wiener Christkindlmarkt is one of the oldest yet most popular Christmas markets in Vienna, Austria. Although there are around 20 Christmas markets in Vienna, Wiener Christkindlmarkt stands out for its iconic features rooted in tradition. The Tree of Hearts, a giant maple tree decorated with hundreds of sparkling hearts, is unmissable. Besides, there is a 110 square metre wide ice ring for kids in front of the hall. Austrian sausages, gingerbread cookies and Christmas punches could be enjoyed at the stalls in Wiener Christkindlemarkt which is also called the Viennese Dream Christmas Market.

Strasbourg, France
Strasbourg which began in 1570 is the oldest Christmas market in Europe. This popular market which is spread in more than ten regions stands out for its spectacular Christmas illuminations. The Christmas market in Strasbourg lures more than two billion tourists from around the world. There are hundreds of stores here that sell Christmas decorations, illumination, Christmas treats, local dishes and their special Alsatian wine. Every year, the Strasbourg Christmas market opens on November 27 and closes on December 27.

Brussels Winter Wonders, Belgium
Brussels Winter Wonders is the most happening event in Belgium during the winter. Christmas markets are opened at Bourse, Place de la Monnaie, Grand – Place, Place Sainte Catherine and Marche aux Poissons in Belgium. The visitors could enjoy various entertainments like light and sound show, ice skating as well as thrilling fair ground rides. Besides, there will be more than 200 stores that sell gluhwein (mulled wine), Belgian beers and waffles. The Belgian Winter Wonders starts on November 29 and is open until January 5.

Zagreb, Croatia
Zagreb, which is one of the most modern cities in Central Europe turns into a mesmerizing land of snow and lights during the Christmas season. More than 25 Christmas markets are opened at all the major town squares and promenades in Zagreb. Beautiful handicraft items, local items and fragrant mulled wines are sold at the Christmas markets here.  Zagreb won European Best Destinations’ the Best Christmas Market award consecutively from 2016 to 2018. The Christmas market called the Advent in Zagreb begins on November 30 and continues until January 7.