Experience the enchanting Tallinn Christmas Market in Market Square, where medieval charm meets holiday magic. Enjoy twinkling lights, handcrafted gifts, traditional Estonian treats, and a dazzling Christmas tree in the heart of this UNESCO World Heritage city. (dimbar76 (123RF))
1. Find your mug. Each market comes with its own special mug. Take a selfie with the mug and get your pfand (tax) back, or for around 2-5 euros keep the mug as a collectible.
2. Eat market food. Lebkuchen, mince pies, bratwurst, kartoffelpuffer, raclette, chestnuts, cookies and more await you all over Europe.
3. Find a hot beverage. Whether you like gluhwein, hot cider, Christmas punch or hot cocoa, each market will have special hot drinks to keep you warm in the cold winter.
Enjoy the festive flavors of Christmas markets with a hearty plate of sausage and potatoes, beautifully garnished and served with seasonal decorations. A must-try treat for holiday food lovers! (petrunina (123RF))
4. Take a “pre-shopping” stroll. With some markets having hundreds of stalls, you don’t want to buy something, only to find a better item later.
5. Shop for one-of-a-kind presents. Artisans are on-site at the stalls offering handmade, unique items perfect for Christmas gifts.
6. Find the local highlight. Perhaps it’s a living advent calendar, a walk-through Nativity scene or a visit with St. Nick, going to different markets gives you the chance to see what makes each one special.
Discover the charm of handmade red heart ornaments at Christmas markets. Perfect as unique gifts or festive decor, these artisan creations bring warmth and love to the holiday season. (romrodinka (123RF))
7. Try a Winter Activity. It’s fun to ice skate at a German market, ski into an Austrian market or take a horse-drawn sleigh ride in Sweden.
8. Go Round-and-Round on a Ride. Most markets have a Ferris wheel or merry-go-round, but if you visit a medieval market, you might just be cranking your own kids around the wooden carousel.
9. Search for Santa. Whether you are looking for Santa Claus, Père Noël, Noel Baba, Joulupukki, Babbo Natale, Der Weihnachtsmann or Sinterklaas, he is sure to make an appearance.
10. Watch a Local Performance. Listen to carolers, see a Christmas or Nativity play, watch dancers and enjoy the local talent.
