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Festive Frenzy: The Best and Worst Christmas Markets Across Europe and the UK
14 Nov
Summary
- Nuremberg's Christkindlesmarkt dates back to the 1600s, offering bratwurst and blueberry mulled wine
- Strasbourg's Christkindelsmärik spreads across half the city, blending French and German traditions
- London's Winter Wonderland criticized for overcrowding, generic stalls, and high prices
As the 2025 holiday season approaches, the article takes a closer look at the best and worst Christmas markets across Europe and the UK. The article begins by highlighting some of the most enchanting markets, starting with the Christkindlesmarkt in Nuremberg, Germany, which dates back to the 1600s. This market is described as impressively similar to the Christmas market one might have imagined as a child, with its scarlet-roofed stalls and the intoxicating perfume of grilled sausages and spiced nuts.
Another standout is Strasbourg, France, where the Christkindelsmärik has been held since 1570 and continues to grow in size each year. The market spreads across half the city amid gorgeous half-timbered houses, flickering lanterns, and steaming vats of mulled wine. The blending of French and German traditions creates a delicious Christmas diplomacy.
In contrast, the article warns readers to avoid London's Winter Wonderland, which has been repeatedly criticized online for being overcrowded, offering dull and generic stalls, and providing short-lived thrills at exorbitant prices. The article also cautions against the markets in Budapest, Paris, Venice, Madrid, and Vilnius, which have received poor reviews for issues like overcharging, pickpockets, and a lack of traditional charm.
