March
March I love. I start sorting out any Christmas markets I want to go to that year. Later on in the book you will find a whole page about the different Christmas markets. But for now I will just tell you what a wonderful experience they are. I have been going for over 20 years now to many different ones, Germany, Belgium, Poland, France. They are beautiful and the atmosphere is magical.
Many companies organise coach trips to various markets in Europe and the UK. They are almost door to door and although for some people the coach ride can seem long it is well worth it. On the way out you know only the people you are travelling with. On the way back everyone is chatting and friendly as you have seen each other at breakfast, in the bar each night, on the coach each day so everyone becomes familiar.
The markets are for everyone. Men, women and children. The stalls are all brightly lit and have lovely displays of gifts and food. There are many mulled wine stalls. Although for an alternative try the Kokoa with bailey's in. It is excellent, and warming of course.
So when March comes around start searching for the markets. Try Cologne which is wonderful, right by the Cathedral and all the little markets are connected by a small train. There is a little market down by the riverside right by the chocolate factory.
Berlin: Anyone who wants to discover winter magic has to go to Berlin. With over 50 markets to choose from the capital comes alive at Xmas. The Charlottenburg Castle Christmas Market in Berlin is host to one of the most famous Christmas Markets in the German capital. The castle and its park are immersed in beautiful lights. With many stalls selling variety of gifts and delicious foods.
Koblenz: Not only are there some beautiful Christmas markets here, there is a brilliant shopping centre. This is my favourite place in Germany. Look out for the beautiful tablecloths and runners with many Xmas designs on. Also for the lovely unusual chocolate treats to use as gifts.
Bremen: A smaller place but one of the most attractive markets. The Schlachte Magic Christmas Market on the popular river Weser embankment. Each day on the maritime promenade another little door is opened to reveal a special surprise – it is like a walk-through an Advent calendar.
Nuremberg: The Nuremberg Kinderweihnacht is the children’s market and has an old-fashioned carousel, Ferris wheel and steam train. The Nativity scene trail runs between the two markets.
Also try Bernkastel, Trier and Rudesheim. But there are so many to choose from all with their own unique magic to them.
Other Countries:-
Bruges. Beautiful and lots of lovely chocolate as well.
Lille a magical pretty place.
Prague The old town square a really wonderful market.
Salzburg:Yuletide in the City of Mozart is beautiful. The traditional huts all gather together at the foot of the Hohensalzburg Fortress and around the cathedral.
Vienna:Christmas Markets in Vienna exude a fantastic atmosphere. A Vienna Christmas Market is an unforgettable experience. The largest Xmas Market in Vienna is the Magic of Advent which takes place in front of the City Hall.
