What's so appealing about Christmas markets across Europe?

Since mid-November, Christmas markets have been bustling across Europe, attracting many locals and tourists to visit. Christmas markets are a unique traditional culture of most European countries and are popular in many other countries around the world. Each market in each country will have its own unique atmosphere. Recently, Trinh Nam Thai and his wife Pham Bich Ngoc spent time exploring many Christmas markets across Europe.

“The basic differences are in the layout, scale, souvenirs, traditional dishes… Although I have been to more than 20 large markets and several small markets in 9 countries, because of the different decorations and products, I am always excited to explore the markets,” Trinh Nam Thai said.

The markets that Mr. Nam Thai visited were in: Austria, Munich, Basel, Switzerland, Colmar - France, Obernai - France, Strasbourg, Nuremberg, Dresden, Berlin, Wroclaw - Poland, Krakow - Poland, Budapest, Prague...

There is a common feature when coming to these markets, visitors should enjoy food and hot wine. Participate in winter sports activities for all ages such as outdoor ice skating. Immerse yourself in the bustling crowd to watch, choose and buy gifts for relatives. Or simply strolling, taking pictures of shops, street corners, roads decorated with Christmas themes... is enough to make the atmosphere rush. In addition, if you like to decorate your home with lovely handmade decor items, the Christmas market is the paradise for you. Handicrafts, perfumes and lamps... are also diverse for you to choose from.

Mr. Trinh Nam Thai emphasized that each country has its own special dishes. In Hungary, visitors should try chimney cakes which have a delicious taste, crispy on the outside and soft and spongy on the inside. The cake is often eaten with cream, chocolate, fruit or other toppings. Chimney cakes originated in the Transylvania region, Eastern Hungary. This cake was introduced to Budapest in the 18th century and quickly became popular. Today, chimney cakes are a famous snack in Budapest, sold in all shops, eateries and restaurants.

When you come to Switzerland, you must definitely try Raclette. This is a very popular dish in Switzerland, especially in the mountains. Raclette comes from a type of Swiss cheese made from cow's milk, grilled on a special machine called a raclette grill. When the cheese is melted, people will use a knife to scrape it onto a plate of boiled potatoes. Boiled potatoes are usually boiled and left with the skin. In addition to potatoes, Raclette can also be eaten with other vegetables such as tomatoes, cucumbers, onions... or cold cuts, sausages.

In Germany, there is a famous half meter long sausage sandwich. In Poland, it is impossible not to mention the giant bread eaten with roast pork or some kind of stir-fried meat with pickled vegetables. Raclette is often eaten for dinner or a snack. This is a warm and delicious dish, very suitable for cold days.

To get to the Christmas markets, the most convenient means of transport is still the car or train or bus, which is also chosen by many people although it is quite crowded. Trinh Nam Thai travels by car so he is quite proactive and comfortable in moving as well as increasing his options and being proactive in his travel plans.

“Everyone should try to visit European markets before Christmas. Because this is where cultures converge, showing many artistic characteristics of each country. This is clearly seen through handicrafts. Because developed countries are often more strict, the items will also be more beautiful, sophisticated, neat and diverse. Depending on the location, most Christmas markets will take place from the end of November until the end of the New Year,” Trinh Nam Thai said.

He encourages tourists to find food at roadside shops, because it will save 2/3 of the price because in the market it will be two or even three times more expensive. But in return, shopping at the market will be very convenient and you can enjoy the Christmas atmosphere.

In addition to the recommended large markets, take a walk around the old town, as there are many small markets located around there and are more popular with locals because they are not too crowded. If you like the hustle and bustle, choose the largest market because it will be attached to a square or an iconic building. The place has a brilliant dim light during the holidays, visitors will have memorable moments when checking in here.

“Most Christmas markets will be bustling and sparkling in the winter evening. Sunset will start around 4pm, so you will have plenty of time to go out. Dress warmly and wear gloves to keep your body temperature while having fun outdoors,” Trinh Nam Thai added.

Walking in the snow, enjoying a hot cup of vin chaud, holding it with both hands, bringing it to your nose and taking a long breath, letting the hot smoke smell of wine, cinnamon, anise, orange, all the cold of winter and snow seem to gradually disappear. An extremely addictive feeling, if you have the chance to visit any Christmas market in Europe, you must try it.

Phuong Thao is the Editor of Travellive Magazine. She is passionate about traveling and loves to capture moments with her camera in every land she visits. Travel, art, and lifestyle are her favorite writing topics.

Phuong Thao - Photo: Trinh Nam Thai