Best or favorite European Christmas markets?

[Whitecaps]

What would you say are the best cities or towns in which to experience a Christmas market, and why?

For my birthday I'm hoping to be able to experience one or more Christmas market this year. It doesn't necessarily have to be in a big city, either; we're comfortable flying in to a hub and taking the train. Bonus if we can see more than one! I'd love to hear your experiences. 

[neonpink]

I've not been to the typical cities for the Christmas Markets but have been to a few.

I've really enjoyed the ones in Prague. I've spent Christmas there twice. I love how small and walkable Prague is. I also enjoyed the music halls and listening to the live shows.

London is also amazing to get you in the Christmas spirit. It's like Christmas exploded all over the city. Hyde park has a giant carnival. Different streets have themes. Carnaby street was a tropical Christmas them when I was there. I really want to go back to London for Christmas and spend more time. All the department stores deck out their windows. It's very magical.


I've also experienced the markets in Berlin which were lovely and full of lots of music. I was intrigued that they really enjoyed Black American Gospel music when i was there. They had multiple shows everywhere.

Rome also had some beautiful markets around. I was there in November when they were just setting them up a few years ago.

[majesty318]

I loved the ones in Berlin and was underwhelmed by the ones in Prague. Prague was also packed with tourists when I was there in early December. Berlin has so many different markets so it was fun to try a bunch. All the ones I went to were fairly large, lots of good food and drink, some unique shopping

[frlcb]

I agree with above about Prague - I like Prague but was underwhelmed with the markets. They were small and crowded. Vienna is awesome. Strasbourg is supposed to be fabulous, and most of them in Germany. London is a cool city but I wouldn't go there if you want Christmas markets.

[mrsukyankee]

I would NOT go for Christmas Markets to London - for general good cheer and cool windows/displays, yes. I'd go to Germany or Vienna.