Five of the most interesting Christmas markets in Europe
The capital of French Alsace - Strasbourg - during Christmas turns into a fabulous city. From November 23 to December 31, the Christmas market is the oldest of its kind. On the square in front of the main cathedral it has been working since 1570. Christmas trade in Strasbourg is conducted in the historical quarter "Little France", where in the already fabulous scenery - in old houses - there are many Christmas shops. In Strasbourg, before Christmas, everyone is recommended to stock up on local ginger biscuits, as well as skate at the Place du Chateau.
Bath is becoming the Christmas capital of the United Kingdom, and rightly so. The city center becomes a real paradise for families with children and lovers of shopping. The market in Bath starts on November 28 and runs until December 15. All this time, on the winding streets between the Bath Abbey and the Roman baths, 150 wooden chalets will stand, selling everything. Those who wish can also ride skating or bask in a hot spring.
Edinburgh is the perfect place to celebrate Christmas. Here you should definitely ride on the Ferris wheel, from the height of which you can admire the festively decorated city. The German market, which opens on November 22, will stretch from Mound Precinct to St. Andrew Square. This romantic fair offers a wide range of unique products, as well as performances of various artists. At the same time, tourists can enjoy shopping without restrictions: shops on Princes Street before Christmas are open late.
In Munich, the traditional Marienplatz Christmas market will open on November 25. Here you can find unique carved wooden toys from Oberammergau, ginger biscuits from Nuremberg and Bavarian glassware. Among other souvenirs that have stood the test of time are candles made of fragrant beeswax, paper lamps in the form of Christmas stars and figurines of chimney sweeps made of prunes and almonds. Tourists can also visit the beer festival at Munich’s oldest brewery, Hofbräuhaus. It lasts here all year round, and by Christmas the brewery brews a special seasonal beer.
Finally, in the south of France - in Provence - the Marseille Christmas market is famous for its Christmas nativity scenes, all sculptures for which are made by hand. In 2013, the market will operate in Marseille from 25 November to 28 December. In its shops you can find everything from Provencal delicacies to souvenirs. It is also a real paradise for children as they can find plenty of fun here.