There are some massive Christmas markets opening before the calendar flips to DecemberThis article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
(dusk)Cologne, Germany(Image: Getty)
With Christmas just around the corner and the colder months even closer, many of us will be starting to wonder what to do in the coming months. Whether it’s a festive getaway or the all-important Crimbo shopping, many of us will want to do anything we can to escape the doom and darkness. Fortunately for us Brits, being located so close to continental Europe has its perks, such as a plethora of Christmas markets.
There’s often a few in all major cities, so we’re absolutely spoilt for choice when it comes to picking. But the choice of which one to visit can be tough as they all offer different things. MyLondon has found some of the best ones that are only around 90 minutes away by plane.
Some are even so close you could make a day trip out of it. For the best flight and hotel prices, you can check out Skyscanner and Booking.com.
Cologne
The Christmas market in Cologne is so beautiful (Image: Getty)
Cologne has loads of festive markets during the winter months, but one that stands out is the Christmas market at Cologne Cathedral. Running from November 17 to December 23, the huge market is centered around a huge Christmas tree at the foot of the Cathedral. They’ve got handicrafts and culinary delicacies, as well as a programme of over 100 free events.
Strasbourg
Strasbourg’s Christmas market dates back to 1570(Image: Getty)
In the French city, Christmas markets are open from November to 24 December 24. Going back to 1570, Strasbourg’s Christmas market is the oldest one in France and also one of the oldest in Europe. During the Christmas market, the streets are wonderfully decorated, with the smells of cinnamon and spices wafting through the air.
Here you will see the houses and windows twinkling with lights and decorations to really get you in the festive mood. Better yet, every year, a 30-metre Christmas tree is brought to Place Kléber and decorated with colourful ornaments and shimmering lights, a standout symbol of one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe.
Geneva
A shot of Geneva’s beautiful Christmas market(Image: Getty)
Running from November 21 to December 24, the market will be run at the Quai du Mont-Blanc. There’s loads there, including the opportunity to try delicious fondue in a wooden chalet. You can book your slot here. And if that’s not enough, you can have your fondue in a horse-drawn carriage through the Old Town.
But in the market itself there is also a pub and a place to try raclette, a traditional Swiss meal centered around a specific Alpine cow’s milk cheese. There are also opportunities to do different arts and crafts, which could make for brilliant stocking fillers.
Amsterdam
In the Rembrandt square in Amsterdam the city holds its small Christmas market.(Image: Getty)
The Dutch capital has scores of festive markets during the colder months, particularly in December. One which stands out is the Christmas Village in Museumplein, which has stalls, entertainment, and no shortage of food and drink. It isn’t exactly clear when this festive market opens, but Amsterdam Christmas markets run from around November 15 until January 5. And if over 50 stalls aren’t enough for you, you can also go ice-skating in the basin of the Museumplein fountain.
Hamburg
A shot of Hamburg’s Christmas market(Image: Getty)
Like Amsterdam, Hamburg in Germany is renowned for its Christmas markets. Its main one is Weihnachtsmarkt, which is held in front of the Town Hall with a large Christmas tree marking the location. The idea behind the market is creating a festive forest in the city centre, which could make for a brilliantly romantic weekend. Although exact dates are yet to be announced, many German Christmas markets run from late November until late December.
Dublin
Dublin’s Christmas market is free to enter, with a flight there going for under £20(Image: Getty)
The Dublin Christmas market can be found in Dublin Castle, and will be lined with Christmas trees as you enter. Previously, it’s been run between noon and 9pm, from November 27 and December 17 and is completely free to enter. It boasts a wide array of events, with everyone from the Dublin Gospel Choir to local acts. There’s also all of the usual festive food and crafts, with over 26 vendors in wooden chalets flogging everything from tasty burgers and tacos to wooden crafts and jewellery.
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Best things to do in London during the Christmas period
It’s almost that time of year again! Christmas is basically here. There are all sorts of things to do in and around London for the festive period – from sipping mulled wine at a market to finding the best bargains on gifts.
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