If you think back to your best Christmas memories, they probably involve lots of sweets, roaring fires, and sparkling trees; all things that point to none other than Germany where you can really feel the spirit of the holidays.
Ultimately, this is the exact location where the idea of a Christmas market originated hundreds of years ago. Fascinating isn't it?
If you're prepared to give up the corny Hallmark version of the holiday in favour of a genuine European experience, think about visiting one of these iconic German Christmas markets, which are full of brightness and small-town charm.
Cologne's majestic cathedral serves as a dramatic backdrop for its Christmas markets, featuring live music and colourful stalls selling hand-crafted holiday gifts, artwork, and ornaments.
Visitors can spot Cologne's Christmas elves and enjoy sausages cooked on grills with spicy mustard. Additionally, the harbour offers an open-air rink for ice skating and a chance to see Santa and his helpers jet-skiing the Rhine River.
The Striezelmarkt in Dresden claims to be the world's oldest Christmas market, having been operating for 589 years.
Originally a one-day event in 1434, it has grown into a weeks-long holiday extravaganza with over 200 market stalls, a spacious walk-in candle arch, and daily special events that are sure to make your travel group smile.
Take a ride on the Ferris wheel to get a bird's eye view of all the lights. Consider purchasing some Pflaumentoffel, which are traditional edible figurines made from dried plums, to achieve a genuinely authentic feel.
Enjoy German Christmas traditions at Freiburg's mediaeval old town, which is situated on the southern border of the well-known Black Forest.
During the holidays, the city's market, which is situated in the main square, comes to life with a trail of market stalls to browse, delicious roasted almonds to snack on, gluhwein to try, and glass blowers to watch as they create stunning ornaments that would look great on any tree.
You can even spend some time trying your hand at baking gingerbread and candles.
Heidelberg's Christmas market, which is located in a historic university town, features twinkling lights, pine boughs, and fir trees.
Visitors can explore the squares, churches, and cobblestoned alleys, mostly spared from World War II bombings.
Don't miss the steaming steak mit zwiebeln, or steak sandwich, which is delectable with caramelised onions and tender steak stuffed into a soft bun. It pairs perfectly with a cold Christmas night.
The Rhine and Moselle Rivers converge at Koblenz, which was first founded 2,000 years ago as a Roman military outpost. Its Christmas market, which is a favourite among both locals and tourists, now takes across six historic squares.
Koblenz's surrounding area has long been home to vineyards, and the customary Christmas gluhwein produced from regional vintages is particularly delicious.
Consider riding the tram up to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, which receives a spectacular Christmas makeover every year, for an additional holiday delight.
These are just a few of the several markets that can give you the experience of a true German Christmas. Whichever one you choose to visit, you’re bound to have a magical experience.
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