Christmas shopping in Europe is unlike anywhere else. A combination of snowy town squares, twinkling Christmas markets, and steaming mugs of comforting glühwein, make for plenty of festive cheer.
Christmas markets in Europe boast winter wonderland atmospheres that certainly attract festive shoppers, and there are countless unique gifts to find for loved ones back home, with artisans and vendors coming from around the world to sell their wares. Here, we share some of the best places for Christmas shopping in Europe, and some of the great items you can find there.
Cologne Christmas Market – 25th November to 23rd December 2019
The German city of Cologne is home to a variety of Christmas markets, the largest and most popular of which is held beneath the city’s striking cathedral. Head here to find hand-whittled toys, decorative ornaments, and beautiful nativity scenes, along with delectable gingerbread delights known in German as Lebkuchen. Treat yourself to a festively decorated Christmas cup off mulled wine, and marvel at people making everything from wreaths and pewter goods to glass items and delicious food. You’re also sure to be entertained by the Cologne Christmas market’s extensive stage programme, which is jam-packed with around 100 different performances, and children will love spinning around on the carousel.
According to local legend, ‘Heinzelmännchen’ gnomes guard each market in the city, ensuring that every item sold across each stall is authentic. So, as you browse the plethora of trinkets and souvenirs on display, you can rest safe in the knowledge that any gifts you pick up will be truly unique. Don’t forget to get a photo in front of the impressive Christmas tree too, as this amazing display is traditionally decorated with around 50,000 lights.
Strasbourg Christmas Market – 22nd November to 30th December 2019
Held at the Grande Île in Strasbourg, a UNESCO world heritage site, the world-famous Christkindelsmärik is the oldest Christmas market in France, and is greatly influenced by its traditional Alsatian heritage. Alsace is renowned as a prolific wine region, so there will be plenty of stalls selling locally produced wines which makes it ideal for a pre-Christmas shopping spree. Sample some hot on the day, and take a few bottles home as gifts afterwards too.
Spend time wandering around the city’s illuminated streets, visit as many of the 300 Christmas market stalls as you can, marvel at the Great Christmas Tree, and simply enjoy the magic that envelopes Strasbourg at this wonderful time of year.
Bruges Christmas Market – 22nd November 2019 to 5th January 2020
The fairy tale city of Bruges attracts thousands of visitors from across the globe every year with its cobbled streets, Gothic architecture and – most importantly – abundance of delicious chocolate. At Christmas time, seek out the proud creations of the local chocolatiers in their independent chocolate shops, which are available in a multitude of flavour combinations and make for wonderful presents (if you can save any). At Bruges Christmas market, you’ll find everything you need for an unforgettable festive celebration, including traditional gifts for all the family, and warming mugs of glühwein.
While you’re Christmas shopping in Bruges, take the time to find some of its amazing landmarks. With stunning churches, winding canals, and romantic bridges to discover, a visit to this Belgian city is guaranteed to put you into the festive spirit!
Frankfurt Christmas Market – 25th November to 22nd December 2019
Frankfurt Christmas market was incredibly first held in 1393, so you won’t be surprised to hear it’s one of the oldest German Christmas markets. Set in beautiful surroundings around Römerburg and Paulsplatz, and famous for its elaborately decorated stalls and cosy log cabins, this Christmas market is also one of Germany’s largest. As you walk among the 200 stalls, you can enjoy the sound of carols as you browse lovely displays of gifts, confectionery, decorations, and souvenirs.
While Christmas shopping in Frankfurt, we recommend sipping on a delicious cup of Apfelwein, and recommend that you buy a bottle (or two) to take home with you for Christmas too. You might also like to indulge in some of Frankfurt’s baked marzipan specialties: Brenten, which are rectangular in shape, and Bettmännchen, which are shaped into mounds and have almonds on the side. Of course, you can’t leave without ordering a Bratwurst, and you’ll probably want to indulge in a fresh pretzel too!
And don’t forget to make the most of the duty-free shop on board the ferry when you travel with P&O Ferries, to get great discounts on a whole range of Christmas gifts.
If this has inspired you to do some of your Christmas shopping in Europe this year, book your ferry crossing to the continent today!
