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Best Christmas market destinations in Europe

Rome
The Eternal City of history and charm
9.2
Piazza Navona fills with stalls for a Christmas fair that runs from December until the Epiphany. Visitors can buy nativity figures and sweets. Children meet the gift bringing witch called La Befana. A giant tree rises in St Peter's Square beside a large nativity scene. Churches across the city display their own crib scenes.
Highlights:
  • 🎨 Gaze at Michelangelo’s frescoes in the Sistine Chapel
  • 🪙 Toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain for good luck
  • ⚔️ Stand inside the Colosseum and imagine ancient gladiator battles
Paris
The city of love, art and history
9.3
Lights fill the Champs Élysées and a large market sits at the foot of the Eiffel Tower on Trocadéro. Stalls sell roasted chestnuts, crêpes and vin chaud, which is hot spiced wine. Department stores like Galeries Lafayette show glittering window displays. A small ice rink sits in the courtyard of the Hôtel de Ville.
Highlights:
  • 🖼️ Explore the masterpieces at the Louvre Museum
  • 🌆 Stroll along the romantic Seine River at sunset
  • 🗼 Climb the Eiffel Tower and admire the city skyline
Prague
A fairy-tale city with rich history
9.0
Stalls fill Old Town Square in front of the astronomical clock and the twin towers of Týn church. Visitors can eat trdelník and sip svařák, which is hot spiced wine. A giant tree lights up the square each night. Wenceslas Square also hosts a market with grilled sausages and traditional crafts.
Highlights:
  • 🕰️ Wander through the cobbled streets of Old Town Square
  • 🌉 Stroll across the iconic Charles Bridge
  • 🏰 Explore Prague Castle and its Gothic St. Vitus Cathedral
Budapest
A stunning mix of history and nightlife
8.3
The market on Vörösmarty Square is one of the prettiest in Europe and sits in central Pest. Stalls sell chimney cake, called kürtőskalács. Sausages with paprika are also on offer. A light show on the front of St Stephen's Basilica adds to the glow. Visitors can soak in a thermal bath afterwards.
Highlights:
  • 🌇 Watch sunset from Fisherman’s Bastion over Buda Castle
  • 🏛️ Admire the Parliament Building from the Danube promenade
  • 💦 Soak in the historic Széchenyi Thermal Baths
Amsterdam
Canals, culture and a vibrant spirit
9.3
Canals lined with lights set the mood for winter in the Dutch capital. Stalls around the city sell oliebollen, which are deep fried dough balls dusted with sugar. A festival of lights brings glowing art to the waterways each season. Visitors can warm up with hot chocolate in a canal side cafe.
Highlights:
  • 🎨 Explore Van Gogh Museum’s masterpieces up close
  • 🏠 Visit the Anne Frank House for a moving experience
  • 🚤 Cruise the scenic canals and pass under arched bridges
Vienna
A Symphony of Culture and Elegance
9.1
Huts gather in the square in front of the neo Gothic City Hall and several other spots around the city. Visitors can try Punsch, roasted chestnuts and Kaiserschmarrn, a torn sweet pancake with raisins. The Schönbrunn Palace market has a courtyard in Baroque style. The city's concert halls also host many classical Advent performances.
Highlights:
  • ☕ Savor traditional Sachertorte with Viennese coffee in a café
  • 🎻 Attend a classical concert at the Vienna State Opera
  • 🏰 Tour Schönbrunn Palace and stroll its spectacular gardens
Copenhagen
Scandi-cool vibes and world-class food
9.2
Tivoli Gardens turns into a glowing winter park with lights and small stalls each season. Visitors can drink gløgg, a warm spiced wine. Æbleskiver pancake balls are a favourite snack. Nyhavn harbour hosts its own market beside colourful old houses. The Danish idea of hygge feels real here on cold evenings.
Highlights:
  • 👑 Explore Rosenborg Castle and its royal crown jewels
  • 🧜‍♀️ See the famous Little Mermaid statue by the waterfront
  • 🌈 Visit the colorful Nyhavn harbor and enjoy a waterside drink
Stockholm
Where islands, history and modernity meet
8.3
The Stortorget market sits in the old town of Gamla Stan and has red wooden stalls. Visitors can buy handmade crafts, sweets and Swedish glögg, a warm spiced wine. Saffron buns called lussekatter appear in cafes around Saint Lucia day. The Skansen open air museum hosts another famous market with folk dancing.
Highlights:
  • ⛴️ Take a ferry to the Stockholm Archipelago’s scenic islands
  • 🏘️ Explore Gamla Stan’s cobbled streets and colorful old houses
  • 👑 Visit the Royal Palace and watch the changing of the guard
Tallinn
Medieval charm meets modern innovation
8.2
Town Hall Square has a Christmas tree tradition that dates back to 1441. Stalls sell handmade mittens and honey or roasted almonds beside medieval buildings. A big tree stands in the middle of the cobbled square. Visitors can sip hot mulled wine and eat blood sausage with lingonberry jam.
Highlights:
  • ⛪ Visit Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and admire its domes
  • 🌇 Climb Toompea Hill for sweeping views over the city
  • 🏰 Wander through Tallinn’s medieval Old Town and cobbled streets
Helsinki
Nordic charm by the Baltic Sea
8.4
The Tuomaan Markkinat market fills Senate Square beside the white cathedral each December. Stalls sell handmade candles, wool socks and reindeer treats. Visitors can sip glögi, a Finnish hot spiced drink or try gingerbread cookies. Short days and snow give the harbour city a calm and magical winter feel.
Highlights:
  • ⛴️ Take a ferry to Suomenlinna Fortress and explore its walls
  • ⛪ Visit the striking contemporary Temppeliaukio Church carved from rock
  • 🧖‍♂️ Relax in a traditional Finnish sauna by the sea
Edinburgh
History, Culture and Festival Fever
8.3
A big wheel, a carousel and a village of stalls fill Princes Street Gardens under the castle rock. Visitors can find Scottish crafts, hot cider and street food around the Scott Monument. The Old Town is lit with lights for Hogmanay celebrations at the end of December. Skaters glide on an outdoor rink.
Highlights:
  • 🚶‍♀️ Walk the cobbled Royal Mile and shop local crafts
  • 🏰 Tour the historic Edinburgh Castle atop Castle Rock
  • 🌄 Climb Arthur’s Seat for sweeping city views
Kraków
Timeless Charm and Rich History
8.3
Tall church towers and the old Cloth Hall frame the Main Market Square each December. Visitors can try grilled oscypek cheese and pierogi or hot mulled beer from the stalls. A famous nativity scene competition is held each December in the square. The brick Gothic church of St Mary glows beside the market.
Highlights:
  • 🕊️ Visit the poignant Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial on a day trip
  • 🚶‍♀️ Walk through the atmospheric streets of the Old Town
  • 🏰 Explore the medieval Wawel Castle overlooking the Vistula River
Ljubljana
A charming green city with soul
7.7
A festive market called December Fair fills the old town along the Ljubljanica river each year. Visitors can eat street food and sip hot wine among lights strung from the bridges. Stalls sell handmade gifts and warm mittens. The castle above the centre glows at night and can be reached by funicular.
Highlights:
  • 🥖 Visit the Central Market and taste local Slovenian specialties
  • 🚶‍♀️ Stroll along the charming Ljubljanica riverbanks and bridges
  • 🏰 Climb up to Ljubljana Castle for city views
Munich
Bavarian Tradition Meets Modern Flair
8.7
The Marienplatz market sits in front of the neo Gothic town hall and is among the oldest in Germany. A huge tree shines over the square beside the carillon clock. Visitors can buy hand carved nativity figures and eat roasted almonds. Other markets in the city include a medieval one at Wittelsbacherplatz.
Highlights:
  • 🌇 Climb St. Peter’s Church tower for city views
  • 🏰 Visit the grand Nymphenburg Palace and gardens
  • 🍺 Raise a stein at Oktoberfest in Theresienwiese
Sarajevo
Where East meets West in the Balkans
7.1
Lights and stalls fill the old Baščaršija bazaar and the pedestrian streets through December. Visitors can try warm börek pastries, baklava and strong Bosnian coffee from small cafes. Sarajevo has mosques, churches and synagogues close together and many people celebrate various winter holidays. A mix of Ottoman and Austrian buildings adds to the charm.
Highlights:
  • 🕌 Admire the blend of cultures at Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque
  • 🕊️ Visit the moving Sarajevo Tunnel of Hope Museum
  • 🌉 Walk across the historic Latin Bridge in the Old Town
Warsaw
Where history meets modern vibrance
8.0
Stalls crowd the Old Town Market Square and Castle Square in front of the rebuilt royal castle. Visitors can taste grzaniec, a hot spiced wine. Gingerbread cookies come shaped like hearts. The old town was rebuilt after World War Two and is now a UNESCO site. A giant tree shines in the evening.
Highlights:
  • 🌳 Stroll through Łazienki Park and see the Palace on the Isle
  • 🎖️ Visit the Warsaw Uprising Museum for powerful war history
  • 🏘️ Explore the reconstructed Old Town and its colorful facades
Zurich
A city of lakes, luxury and history
8.8
Wienachtsdorf is a market village in the main railway station hall under a giant crystal covered tree. Visitors can also stroll through stalls in the old town along the Limmat river. Treats include fondue, raclette and sweet Swiss chocolate. Shops along Bahnhofstrasse sparkle with lights and decorations across the season.
Highlights:
  • 🚞 Ride the Polybahn funicular for panoramic city views
  • 🏘️ Wander through the medieval Old Town’s narrow alleys
  • 🛥️ Cruise across Lake Zurich and admire the Alpine backdrop
York
Medieval Streets, Viking History and Grand Cathedrals
8.0
Stalls fill the narrow lanes of the Shambles and the streets near York Minster. Visitors can eat local Yorkshire cheese and pies and sip warm cider. A Saint Nicholas fair brings crafts and traditional food to the old town each year. The medieval walls and half timbered houses look great under lights.
Highlights:
  • 🏘️ Explore The Shambles’ crooked lanes and charming old shops
  • 🏰 Walk the medieval city walls for scenic views
  • ⛪ Marvel at York Minster’s Gothic architecture and stained glass windows
Bruges
Medieval Charm and Chocolate Bliss
8.6
A skating rink and small huts fill the Markt square beside the tall belfry. Lights hang above the cobbled lanes and the canals. Vendors sell Belgian waffles and chocolate along with mulled wine. An ice sculpture festival in the winter also draws visitors to town.
Highlights:
  • 🏘️ Stroll across Markt Square and admire the colorful guildhouses
  • 🏰 Climb the Belfry Tower for panoramic city views
  • ⛵ Take a romantic canal cruise through Bruges’ medieval heart
Lyon
A Culinary and Cultural Gem
8.7
The Festival of Lights on 8 December fills the city with candles in every window. The tradition began in 1852 when a statue of the Virgin Mary was unveiled on Fourvière hill. Artists also light up squares and buildings with projections. Visitors can warm up with local food at a traditional bouchon.
Highlights:
  • ⛪ Take the funicular to Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière
  • 🏘️ Explore the Renaissance streets of Vieux Lyon
  • 🍽️ Dine at a traditional bouchon and savor Lyonnaise cuisine
Milan
Fashion, Art and Historic Splendor
8.3
The Oh Bej Oh Bej market fills the streets around Sforza Castle each December in honour of Saint Ambrose. Stalls sell chestnuts, sweets and toys in a tradition that goes back centuries. A giant tree stands in front of the Duomo and lights glow across the Galleria. Visitors can try panettone fresh from local bakers.
Highlights:
  • 👜 Shop luxury fashion in the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
  • 🖼️ See Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper masterpiece
  • ⛪ Admire the magnificent Duomo di Milano from its rooftop terrace
Frankfurt am Main
Skylines, history and cider culture
8.0
A very old market fills the Römerberg square beneath half timbered houses. Vendors sell Bethmännchen, a small marzipan treat. Apple wine is the local drink. A large tree stands in front of the old town hall. The market goes back to about 1393 and still draws crowds each winter.
Highlights:
  • 🖼️ Visit the Städel Museum and explore centuries of European art
  • 🏘️ Stroll through the Römerberg and admire its medieval houses
  • 🌆 Climb the Main Tower for sweeping panoramic views of Frankfurt
Dresden
A Baroque Beauty with a Modern Soul
8.2
The Striezelmarkt opened in 1434 and ranks among the oldest Christmas markets in Germany. Its name comes from the Dresden Stollen, a fruit loaf dusted with sugar. A giant wooden pyramid stands on the Altmarkt square in the old town. A Stollen festival takes place on one December weekend.
Highlights:
  • 🏛️ Explore the Zwinger Palace and its stunning art collections
  • 🌉 Walk across the Augustus Bridge for views of the historic skyline
  • ⛪ Admire the reconstructed Frauenkirche and its breathtaking dome
Salzburg
Baroque Beauty and Musical Magic
8.1
The Christkindlmarkt dates back to the fifteenth century and fills the cathedral square below the fortress. Stalls sell gingerbread, hand painted ornaments and roasted chestnuts. Choirs and brass bands perform in the evenings during Advent. Salzburg is the birthplace of the carol Silent Night and a small chapel nearby honours it.
Highlights:
  • 🌷 Stroll through Mirabell Gardens and admire baroque sculptures
  • 🎻 Attend a classical concert in Mozart’s birthplace
  • 🏰 Explore Hohensalzburg Fortress and enjoy sweeping alpine views
Bratislava
Danube Views and Old Town Charm
6.3
Small huts fill the old town squares each December beneath a castle on the hill. Visitors can try lokše, a potato pancake with goose fat. Sweet trdelnik pastries are also popular. A big tree shines in the main square beside the old town hall. Hot honey wine is a popular treat in the cold.
Highlights:
  • 🌉 Take a sunset stroll across the UFO Bridge
  • 🏘️ Wander the charming Old Town’s narrow cobbled streets
  • 🏰 Climb to Bratislava Castle for panoramic river views
Cologne
Where history meets a vibrant lifestyle
8.4
Several squares host markets with the twin spires of the great cathedral as a backdrop. The biggest one fills the Cathedral Square with a huge tree and about one hundred stalls. Visitors can sample Glühwein and the local sweet Printen biscuits. Another market sits by the river harbour and has a pirate theme.
Highlights:
  • 🍺 Taste authentic Kölsch beer in a traditional brewhouse
  • 🌇 Stroll along the Rhine River promenade at sunset
  • ⛪ Climb the Cologne Cathedral towers for panoramic Rhine views
Hamburg
A Port City with Endless Charm
8.1
More than a dozen markets spread through the port city each winter. The one at the town hall is the biggest and has a large tree and medieval stalls. A market with a pirate theme sits near the harbour on the Fleet canals. Visitors can drink Glühwein and eat grilled sausages.
Highlights:
  • ⛪ Climb St. Michael’s Church tower for sweeping city views
  • 🚤 Cruise the Elbe River and see Hamburg’s harbor from the water
  • 🏰 Walk through the historic Speicherstadt and admire its red-brick canals
Riga
Art Nouveau, Old Town, Baltic Soul
6.7
Riga claims a Christmas tree tradition that goes back to 1510 in the old town. A large tree stands in Town Hall Square beside the House of the Blackheads. Stalls sell knitted wool gloves, honey cakes and warm mulled wine. Visitors can also try grey peas with bacon, a traditional Latvian holiday dish.
Highlights:
  • 🛒 Visit Riga Central Market, housed in former Zeppelin hangars
  • ⛪ Climb St. Peter’s Church tower for panoramic city views
  • 🚶‍♂️ Explore the historic cobblestone streets of Riga Old Town
Ghent
Medieval Canals, Art and Hip Vibes
7.2
Huts crowd Sint Baafsplein and the lanes beside the cathedral and the belfry. Visitors can taste Belgian waffles and chocolate or the local cuberdon sweets. A light festival brings colour to the canals and medieval facades. A big wheel and an ice rink add to the fun through the winter weeks.
Highlights:
  • 🚶‍♀️ Admire the picturesque Graslei and Korenlei quays
  • ⛪ Visit St. Bavo’s Cathedral and view Ghent Altarpiece
  • 🏰 Explore the medieval Gravensteen Castle and museum
Luxembourg
Ancient fortresses meet modern culture
7.5
Stalls spread through Place d'Armes and Place de la Constitution in the old capital. A small ice rink and a carousel sit in the centre of town. Visitors can try Luxembourg sausages and local Crémant sparkling wine or Gromperekichelcher, a fried potato cake. The Gëlle Fra monument looks out over the valley below.
Highlights:
  • 🎖️ Visit the Grand Ducal Palace and watch the guard change
  • 🌉 Walk across Adolphe Bridge and admire the city’s skyline
  • 🏰 Explore the historic Casemates du Bock tunnels and viewpoints
Innsbruck
Alpine Peaks and Imperial Streets
7.9
Several markets sit in the old town with the Alps rising straight above the roofs. The most famous stands beside the Golden Roof in the centre. Visitors can taste Tyrolean cheese dumplings and mulled wine from the stalls. A cable car rises quickly from the city to snowy mountain trails.
Highlights:
  • 🏰 Explore Hofburg Palace and its ornate state rooms
  • 🏠 Visit Innsbruck’s historic Golden Roof landmark
  • 🚡 Climb the Nordkette mountains via cable car
Nuremberg
Medieval Charm Meets Living History
7.5
The Christkindlesmarkt is among the most famous Christmas markets in the world. A young woman dressed as the Christkind opens it from the balcony of the Frauenkirche. Stalls sell Nuremberg gingerbread called Lebkuchen and sausages in a bun. Visitors can also try the local prune men, which are little figures made from dried fruit.
Highlights:
  • 🚶‍♂️ Stroll through the medieval lanes of Nuremberg’s Old Town
  • 🏛️ Learn about history at the Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds
  • 🏰 Explore Nuremberg Castle and enjoy panoramic old town views
Manchester
Music, Football and Urban Cool
7.4
Markets spread through the city centre from Albert Square to the Town Hall and the Cathedral. Visitors can find German sausages and mulled wine or crafts from across Europe. A big wheel turns in Piccadilly Gardens above the crowds. The gothic Town Hall glows with lights in the evening.
Highlights:
  • 🎶 Catch a live concert at Manchester’s iconic Albert Hall
  • 🔬 Explore the Science and Industry Museum’s interactive exhibits
  • ⚽ Tour the National Football Museum and relive legendary moments
Strasbourg
Where France Meets Germany in Style
8.3
Strasbourg calls itself the Capital of Christmas and has held a market since 1570. A giant tree stands in Place Kléber and about three hundred stalls spread across the old town. Visitors can taste bredele cookies, vin chaud and Alsatian tarte flambée. The Gothic cathedral has a famous astronomical clock that draws crowds.
Highlights:
  • 🛥️ Take a scenic boat cruise through the city’s canals
  • 🌉 Wander the fairytale streets of Petite France district
  • ⛪ Admire the stunning Gothic architecture of Strasbourg Cathedral
Birmingham
A vibrant blend of history and modernity
7.3
The Frankfurt Christmas Market in Birmingham is the largest German market outside Germany and Austria. Stalls stretch from Victoria Square to New Street with bratwurst and mulled wine. A giant Ferris wheel and an ice rink add to the fun. Visitors can shop for gifts in the nearby Bullring.
Highlights:
  • 🖼️ Discover art at Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery
  • 🍫 Visit Cadbury World for chocolate-making fun
  • 🏘️ Explore the historic Birmingham Back to Backs museum
Turin
Baroque Grandeur, Chocolate and Alps
7.5
Artists create light installations called Luci d'Artista across the city streets each winter. The works light up squares and arcades from November until January. Visitors can shop at small stalls and try the local gianduja chocolate with hazelnuts. Cafes in the baroque centre serve hot chocolate so thick it can be eaten with a spoon.
Highlights:
  • 🗿 Tour the Egyptian Museum, one of the world’s finest
  • 🏛️ Stroll through Piazza Castello and admire royal landmarks
  • 🎥 Visit the Mole Antonelliana and explore the Cinema Museum
Graz
Courtyards, Culinary Delights, Creative Vibes
7.5
Markets spread across the old town squares and climb up the Schlossberg hill with views of the red rooftops. A famous Advent market sits in front of the town hall on Hauptplatz. Visitors can try Styrian pumpkin seed oil treats and mulled wine. Another Advent market on the Mur river has a floating stage.
Highlights:
  • 🛡️ Visit the Styrian Armoury, the world’s largest historic armory
  • 🏘️ Explore the UNESCO-listed Old Town with historic architecture
  • 🕰️ Climb Schlossberg Hill and admire the iconic Clock Tower
Bath
Historic Charm and Natural Hot Springs
7.7
Around one hundred wooden chalets fill the lanes around Bath Abbey and the Roman Baths each winter. Vendors sell local crafts and cheeses along with warm cider. The honey coloured Georgian streets look lovely under strings of lights. Visitors can shop in the evening and then visit the historic thermal spa.
Highlights:
  • ⛪ Visit the historic Bath Abbey and climb its tower
  • 🏘️ Walk the elegant Royal Crescent’s Georgian architecture
  • 🏛️ Explore the ancient Roman Baths and Temple of Sulis
Bern
Medieval charm on the Aare
7.9
Old town streets and the cathedral square host markets under the arcades of a medieval centre. Visitors find roasted chestnuts and raclette along with hand carved wooden toys. The Federal Palace square has a large tree in the evenings. Nearby the bear park and the river offer quiet winter walks.
Highlights:
  • ⛪ Visit the majestic Berner Münster cathedral and its spire
  • 🕰️ Climb the Zytglogge Clock Tower for city views and puppet show
  • 🏘️ Stroll Bern’s UNESCO-listed medieval Old Town streets
Basel
Art, history and Rhine views
8.1
One of the largest markets in Switzerland fills two main squares in the old town. Stalls sell Basler Läckerli, a chewy spiced biscuit made with honey and almonds. Lights hang above the lanes around the red sandstone cathedral. Visitors can browse crafts and cross the Rhine on a small ferry.
Highlights:
  • 🌊 Relax by the Rhine and float with locals in summer
  • 🏘️ Wander the charming streets of Basel’s Old Town
  • 🖼️ Admire world-class art at the Kunstmuseum Basel
Leipzig
Creative energy meets rich history
7.7
A market that dates back to 1458 fills the old town squares and is among the oldest in Germany. A huge tree stands in front of the Renaissance town hall and a giant Ferris wheel turns nearby. Visitors can drink Glühwein and try a local pastry. A Finnish tent village adds charm.
Highlights:
  • 🏛️ Explore the vibrant Markt square and Old City Hall
  • 🎼 Visit St. Thomas Church, Bach's historic music site
  • 🗼 Climb the Völkerschlachtdenkmal Battle of Nations monument
Heidelberg
Romantic Charm by the Neckar River
8.2
Small huts dot the old town below the castle ruins on the hill. Visitors can browse hand made crafts, try local sweets and sip mulled wine in the lanes. Ice skating and a cosy Christmas forest sit on the Karlsplatz square. A lit castle glows above the river Neckar in the evening.
Highlights:
  • 🐒 Cross the historic Old Bridge and touch the bridge monkey
  • 🌉 Stroll along the romantic Philosopher’s Walk by the Neckar River
  • 🏰 Climb up to Heidelberg Castle for breathtaking city views
Colmar
A Fairytale Town in Alsace
8.3
Half timbered houses in pastel colours frame five small markets spread across the old town. Stalls sell bredele, which are little Alsatian butter cookies. Gingerbread is also popular. Decorations hang from nearly every window and balcony. Visitors can ride a boat through the canals of Little Venice on a winter evening.
Highlights:
  • 🚤 Take a boat tour along Colmar’s picturesque canals
  • 🖼️ Admire masterpieces at the Unterlinden Museum
  • 🌈 Wander through the fairytale streets of Little Venice
Lübeck
Brick Gothic Majesty by the Baltic
7.4
The city is known for its red brick Gothic gates and its marzipan, which is sold at the market. Stalls fill the square in front of the old town hall under lights. A historic market nearby offers crafts in the style of the Middle Ages. Visitors can stroll the old town.
Highlights:
  • 🚶‍♀️ Walk the charming streets of Lübeck’s Old Town
  • ⛪ Explore St. Mary’s Church with its towering brick vault
  • 🏰 Visit the iconic Holstentor city gate and museum
Aachen
Charlemagne’s Spa City at Three Borders
7.2
Wooden huts fill the square between the town hall and the cathedral each winter. Aachen is known for Printen, a spiced gingerbread sold in every bakery. Charlemagne's cathedral rises behind the market and glows after dark. Visitors can sip mulled wine beside the old fountain in the centre.
Highlights:
  • 🏛️ Tour the historic Aachen Town Hall and its frescoes
  • 🏺 Explore the Aachen Cathedral Treasury's medieval treasures
  • ⛪ Visit Aachen Cathedral, Charlemagne's royal chapel
Canterbury
Cathedrals, Cobblestones and River Tales
7.8
Stalls line the medieval streets near the great cathedral in the centre of town. Visitors can buy local crafts and Kentish cheese or hot spiced cider. Lights hang along the old lanes beside the River Stour. The cathedral hosts carol services and candlelit events through December.
Highlights:
  • 🚣‍♂️ Take a punt boat trip along the River Stour
  • 🏰 Explore the medieval ruins of Canterbury Castle
  • ⛪ Visit the stunning Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO site
Freiburg im Breisgau
Sunniest City, Black Forest Gateway, Green Vibes
7.5
Markets crowd the square around the red sandstone cathedral in this Black Forest university city. Visitors can try roasted sausages and local wine or wooden crafts from the nearby forest. Lights hang on the old gates and across the lanes. The cathedral tower climbs high above the market and can be visited.
Highlights:
  • 🚠 Ride the Schauinslandbahn to explore the Black Forest mountains
  • 🚶‍♀️ Wander through the charming alleys of the old town
  • ⛪ Climb the tower of Freiburg Minster for panoramic views
Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Step Into a Living Fairytale
8.3
This walled town hosts a small market called the Reiterlesmarkt in the square in front of the old town hall. Stalls sell Schneeballen, a crisp pastry ball coated in sugar. A famous Christmas shop called Käthe Wohlfahrt is open all year. Snow on the half timbered houses gives the town a fairytale look.
Highlights:
  • ⚖️ Explore the Medieval Crime and Justice Museum exhibits
  • 📸 Visit the iconic Plönlein for picturesque photo moments
  • 🏰 Walk the well-preserved medieval town walls and towers
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