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It's coming up to that time of year when the spectre of Christmas shopping looms large. You could buy your Dad those novelty socks (again!) or you could head into Europe. This time of year there are so many Christmas markets in Europe that you could make it into a big Christmas market road trip.
Christmas shopping with a Spaceship
Doing your Christmas shopping in Europe is fun. It's that simple. Get away from the regular shops in the UK and buy your Mum and Dad something different this year. Travelling on a budget airline to do your Christmas shopping is just annoying. You have to take into consideration the checked in baggage and the fee you have to pay for that.
When you travel to Europe with a Spaceships campervan or people carrier, you'll have the following advantages:
- Ample storage space, so you can buy everyone an awesome present (size doesn't matter anymore).
- You can stop for drinks, snacks and a party at one of the many Christmas markets in Europe. No matter where you go to, there are Christmas markets taking place everywhere.
Our favourite Christmas markets in Europe
It's not Germany anymore where all the Christmas markets are taking place. Each European country organises its own, local version of a Christmas market. You'll be surprised going through our list below of our favourite Christmas markets in Europe.
Belgium: Winter Wonders in Brussels
An easy one-day drive from the UK, the Brussels Christmas market is popular with Brits. Winder Wonders takes place at the Grand-Place in Brussels and around the Bourse, the Place de la Monnaie, the Place Sainte-Catherine and the Marché aux Poissons.
Christmas Market in Brussels: Christmas Belgian style | photo: Gary (Flickr)
At the Winter Wonders Christmas market over 200 stalls line the streets selling all manner of gifts. And once you're finished with the shopping there's the famous Belgian beer and chocolate to sample!
Check out all details of the Winter Wonders Christmas market in Brussels and experience the magic of Christmas in Belgium.
Czech Republic: Old Town Square in Prague
The medieval backdrop of Prague's city centre gives the market a unique flavour. You can visit several Christmas markets in Prague, but the one you don't want to miss is the most popular one on the Old Town Square. It's the best place in Prague for pre-Christmas celebrations. Have a cup of mulled wine, some roasted nuts, yummy 'trdelnik' (pastry) or some of Prague's lovely sausages.
See the info about the Christmas markets in Prague and start planning your winter road trip.
Denmark: Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen
The famous Tivoli Gardens in Denmark's capital are a great place to visit at any time of year, but in the winter they are extra special. It is much less commercial than many of the other big winter markets, but still very popular. Scandinavian and Russian influences help to create a really authentic atmosphere.
Check out all details of the Christmas market in Tivoli Gardens and set your satnav for Copenhagen.
Germany: Alexanderplatz in Berlin
Ah Berlin, probably one of the most amazing and exciting cities in Germany. Also in December, there's so much to do and see in Berlin. No matter what part of Berlin you go to, you're always close to a Christmas market. The biggest Christmas market in Berlin is definitely the one on Alexanderplatz.
At Alexanderplatz there are so many stalls with 'Glühwein' (mulled wine), 'Lebkuchen' (spiced cookies), 'Bratwurst' (sausages), and 'Kaiserschmarrn' (shredded pancake). Especially late afternoon or in the evening this Christmas market looks magical with its 5,000 lights.
See more info about the biggest Christmas market in Berlin.
Christmas Market in Berlin: enjoy yummy snacks & tasty mulled wine | photo: Jorge Franganillo
Germany: Christmas in Dortmund
Want to go for a different Christmas market in Germany? Even though Berlin is an amazing city, sometimes you want to see a different German Christmas market. How about visiting Dortmund in the northwestern part of Germany.
Dortmund's Christmas market has around 300 stalls selling souvenirs and typical German snacks & drinks. Have some 'Glühwein' (mulled wine) or a warm Hugo (sweet wine) while snacking on a 1/2 metre Bratwurst.
More info about the Christmas market in Dortmund.
Spain: Fira de Santa Llucia in Barcelona
That wasn't what you were expecting, was it? The number one winter market in a hot country. Barcelona's Fira de Santa Llucia market has been around since 1728 and is still going strong. With life-size nativity scenes, street performers and over 250 stalls, there's plenty to keep you entertained over a long weekend.
More info about the Christmas market in Barcelona.