Get your festive fix at one of Europe’s Christmas markets

Get into the Christmas spirit at one of Europe’s many Christmas Markets. Quaff mulled wine, scoff hot mince pies, shop for festive gifts and then sing-along with carol choristers. Flight search engine Skyscanner (Skyscanner.net) takes a look at some of the best places to get your festive fix.

Salzburg, Austria (20th Nov – 26th Dec) – the origins of this Austrian market reach back to the 15th century, where every year, the city’s historic Old Town is transformed into a world of bustling merriment. Taking place at the foot of the Salzburg cathedral, 85 exhibitors compete for your Euros offering hot ‘n’ spicy Christmas punch, winter fashion accessorises and hearty festive fare.

Basel, Switzerland (25th Nov – 23rd Dec) – Basel’s Old Town boasts the longest Christmas street in Europe, producing a superb market that runs in conjunction with many concerts and events for both the old and young. Through the Swiss city’s streets and central square you’ll find some 100 Christmas trees and 130 stands and wooden cabins serving up seasonal delicacies and fine wines.

Ljubljana, Slovenia (3rd Dec – 31st Dec) – meander through the city’s snow covered cobbles along the charming Ljubljanica River where you’ve find stalls selling wooden toys, chocolate dipped fruit and homemade candles. Warm up in one of the cosy cafes that line the river and enjoy a warm white wine. If you’re feeling brave, try a horse burger – a Slovenian speciality.

Edinburgh, Scotland (27th Nov – 24th Dec) – you don’t have to leave the UK to visit the classic European Christmas Market – Edinburgh’s German market has all the trimmings: long glasses of weissbier, mugs of Glühwein, bratwurst, potato dumplings and traditional Christmas bread on offer.

London, England (12th Dec – 21st Dec) – the Thames Frost Fair dates from the times when the mighty river used to freeze over each winter. Nowadays, you may not be able to skate down the Thames past dancing bears and elephants (one was reputedly led across the Thames during the frost fair of 1814) – but you can still get a flavour of its icy past at the tavern stalls that sell mulled cider and hot chocolate.

Dublin, Ireland (12th Dec – 23rd Dec) – this year the Irish capital unveils its first ever Christmas fair, dubbed the ‘12 Days of Christmas’ at the Dublin Docklands. The market promises to be a traditional European style event and a magical festive experience for families and shoppers alike, with a winter wonderland of twinkling lights and Christmas trees through the arch at Custom House Quay.

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