3 Unique Christmas Markets To Visit In Europe In 2022
Christmas is drawing near and people are already starting to think about sparkling lights and decorations, delicious food and drink. Europe is renowned for its incredible Christmas markets, giving so many to choose from. In European cities, you can enjoy mulled wine, gingerbread, roasting chestnuts, delicious hot chocolate and so much more. Just imagine strolling in Austria, France, Spain and Germany, or visiting Italy and so many other European destinations. Here, we round it up to three of the top unique festive markets and quaint stores in Europe worthy of a browse.
1. Innsbruck, Austria at Christmas
Up in the snowy Austrian Alps, Innsbruck hosts a number of wonderful Christmas markets. Heading into the medieval old town, visitors will find a huge tree sparkling with lights, while small chalets sell decorations, unique handcrafted gifts and decorations. While browsing, visitors can enjoy delicious gingerbread, buy candles from a beautifully decorated local shop (see above), or mulled wine in the market.
For the children, traditional puppet shows and fairground rides keep them fully entertained on Marktplatz on the riverside. Alternatively head to Kiebachgasse with its fairy-tale-themed market or head to the stalls on Marita Theresien Street with its trees lit with twinkling lights.
2. Christmas markets in Barcelona, Spain
From November 26 to December 23, 2022, Barcelona features a number of unique Christmas markets and festive stores to visit. Take a stroll down the famous La Rambla, with twinkling lights decorating the streets. Head to the city’s Gothic Cathedral on Plaça de la Seu where a wonderland of nativity figurines awaits.
If looking for a truly unique gift, watch out for the famous, present-pooping log named Caga Tió, perfect for that difficult to buy for uncle. While this figurine might sound bizarre, watch out for defecating figurines hidden among the nativity scenes to bring good luck and fertile harvests.
3. Christmas markets in Colmar, France
Heading to Alsace, France, Colmar is a truly unique and beautiful place to be during the holidays. From November 23 to December 28, Christmas markets will line the streets along with quaint, half-timbered houses in Old Town Colmar. The town features five Christmas markets, including the children’s market in Petite Venise, with a carousel and animated nativity scene. Meanwhile, Santa’s letterbox is waiting for the little ones to post their wishes for the season.
For those seeking arts, crafts and antiques, the Ancienne Douane is the place to be. Alternatively, watch out for Alsatian gingerbread, anise-flavored Springerle biscuits, spicy Bredele cookies and kirsch-soaked Berwacka fruit cake for many tasty snacks and gifts. Calories don’t count at Christmas… right?
In the wake of the pandemic, get ready for a truly charming and traditional Christmas this year. Visit Europe for some of the best and most unique Christmas markets and stores and come back for more Christmas-related articles here on Tourist Meets Traveler.