There are actually more exciting Christmas markets in Europe than just the well-known options like the elegant Christmas market on the Champs Elysees in Paris and the centuries-old markets in Germany. In addition to being visited by fewer people, other Christmas markets can also be significantly closer to Estonia. Let's start with the neighboring country.
Latvia
One of the world's first decorated Christmas trees is said to have found its home in Riga, back in 1510. Whether it was really the first, or Tallinn came first, is up for debate, but one thing is certain: our southern neighbors are proud of their Christmas market traditions, and with good reason. There are three major Christmas markets in Riga: on Cathedral Square, Livu Square, and Esplanade Park. Gingerbread and mulled wine, various wooden crafts, and lovingly knitted mittens are just some of the things you can find at the market and take home with you. Unlike many other markets, Riga's Christmas markets are so close that they are also suitable for those who can't stand a long drive.
Poland
Instead of rushing through Poland again, make a completely different decision and make Poland your destination. Why not do it in winter? The Poznań Christmas Market is the best in Poland and is also on the list of the best Christmas markets in Europe, but it is still relatively undiscovered. The Poznań Christmas Market is also made special by the ice sculpture festival there. It is incredible what sculptors can carve out of giant blocks of ice. It is worth taking a trip to Poznań for this reason alone. The trip is especially fun if you go with a group of friends. And if you can't fit in your own car, you can rent a minibus.
Sweden
Although Swedish cruises are popular, they tend to remain more of a summer trip. In fact, you can also visit the Swedish capital and its surroundings during the winter months and of course during Christmas, when Christmas markets pop up all over the city. Garrisonen Design Christmas Market, Rosendal Palace Garden Christmas Market and the Christmas market with products created by design school students at Beckmans. The most famous market is of course in the old town, on Stortorget Square, but if you want a particularly traditional experience, you should head to the Skansen open-air museum on Djurgården Island. A quick trip back in time, where you can taste old Christmas dishes, create your own Christmas decorations and enjoy the wonderful Christmas atmosphere.
Prague
Those who enjoy Tallinn's Old Town will also find their dream world in the Czech capital, Prague. Wonderful Christmas markets have been built on the Old Town's central square and Wenceslas Square for this occasion, which are loved by tourists and locals alike. Grilled ham hock and delicious baked goods and cakes give the experience a completely different flavor. Compared to some other large markets, Prague's markets have managed to maintain their intimacy and coziness.
Hungarians
Hungary's oldest and most famous Christmas market is in Vörösmarty Square in Budapest. The market there is like an old postcard brought to life, with its smells, colors and sounds. More than a hundred wooden huts, all filled with top-notch crafts or delicious dishes from the rich Hungarian cuisine. You must definitely try the traditional Christmas treat flodni or chimney cake! Away from the market, special trams decorated with lights also help to create the mood, bringing brightness and light to even the darkest evening.
Slovenia
Ljubljana is slowly becoming more well-known, but until the masses discover it, it's a good time to explore the Slovenian capital. During Christmas, Ljubljana has wonderful stalls filled with handicrafts, processions and gorgeous decorations on the streets. In addition to the main Christmas market, it's worth taking a look at Zvezda Park, where a wonderful Fairytale Town is being built! This is a truly fantastic experience, especially for children, but for adults it's also a great opportunity to leave everyday life behind for a moment and enter a fairy tale world.
Croatia
Winter is Croatia’s low season, which means fewer tourists, cheaper prices, and of course a more authentic experience of local life. One place to start is Čazma, just outside Zagreb. The Salaj family has a tradition of decorating their entire estate with gorgeous lights and decorations, creating a magical Christmas experience. The tradition began in 2002 and has grown bigger and bigger every year.
The Zagreb Christmas Market is also worth a visit. It has been awarded the title of the best Christmas market for several years, and each year the Christmas market is decorated according to a chosen theme. Ban Josip Jelačić Square features a giant Christmas tree, Europe Square has a souvenir and Christmas decoration market, food options and live music, and Zrinjevac Park is transformed into a fairy-tale wonderland with Christmas lights. And when you add an ice skating rink, workshops for children and night tours introducing Croatian Christmas traditions, it all adds up to a truly uplifting trip.
You can rent a minibus for your trip. www.rendibuss.ee