Today we look at Christmas Markets for 2021

Christmas Markets are back with a bang in 2021. The coming advent weeks will see the Christmas market back where it belongs in the main squares of attractive capitals, shimmering in the shadows of Giant Christmas Trees with the aroma of cinnamon and sugar in the air. Germany, is for many, undoubtedly the birthplace of Christmas Markets.
Frankfurt has a single big Christmas market in the historic quarter of the city around Römerburg and Paulsplatz. Like most of the Advent events, the market opens towards the end of November and stretches through to the day before Christmas Eve. The history of the Frankfurt market stretches back to the end of the 14th century, when mystery plays were performed on the Römerberg.Look at what remains of the history of the city. Frankfurt, as a major financial centre with skyscrapers marking the scenery, has a reputation as a booming modern city. But in the old town there is still plenty to see and do if you plan on seeking out the historic buildings. The tourist office, located on the Römerburg and at the main train station, offers a good variety of tours for the visitor. (There is even a Christmas Market tour!) www.germany.travel - Ed is travelling to Frankfurt on Nov 26th flying with Aer Lingus www.aerlingus.com and staying at the Hilton Frankfurt City Centre www.hilton.com - Aer Lingus fly twice daily to Frankfurt with fares from €29.99 each way - Hilton Frankfurt have King doubles from €160 per night - The Frankfurt Card is terrific for travelling everywhere and is just €11 per day with lots of other benefits - www.frankfurt-...
Zagreb
Every year, at the end of November, Zagreb lights up (literally). Upon arriving in the city, you’ll find yourself feeling a bit like you’ve stepped into a movie set. The streets are draped with twinkly lights, the squares fill with Christmas trees, and, everywhere you look, you’ll find holiday decor and festive photo ops. Even the tram gets a jolly Advent makeover… and I’m not just talking about the icicle lights around the windows or its giant Santa hat. On Zagreb’s Merry Christmas tram, you’ll find some very special holiday guests - Fairies, elves, Mrs. Clause, and even Old Saint Nick himself. Well, two Saint Nicks actually… One behind the wheel, and one delivering high fives to the crowd as the tram makes its way around the city. Holiday lights and decorations aren’t the only thing you’ll find an abundance of during Advent in Zagreb. Unlike the Christmas Markets in some European cities, Advent in Zagreb isn’t solely limited to a few main squares. There are over 25 markets throughout the city, each with its own unique theme and atmosphere, and, in some areas, you’ll find a different market, concert, or festive celebration happening on every block!
Basically, the entire city IS the Christmas Market…. Croatian Airlines and Ryanair fly to Zagreb direct from Dublin with fares from €49.99 and the Hotel Dubrovnik offers doubles from €90 - www.croatia.hr
Prague
Between the sparkling lights and the smell of freshly baked pastries, there’s no better place to celebrate Christmas in Europe than in Prague. As you walk through the Prague Christmas markets with the snow falling at your feet, you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped into a real-life fairytale.
The Czech take their Christmas markets very seriously. Lined with craft booths, food stalls, and live entertainment, a Christmas market is the best way to experience traditional Czech culture and traditional Czech foods. With unique products and handcrafted gifts, the markets are also the perfect place to do last-minute shopping.
If you’re planning to spend a Christmas in Prague, then you’ll have a variety of markets to choose from. Each one is different, which only adds to the festive and often magical atmosphere. Since Prague is a small, walkable city, you can even walk from one market to the other. www.czechtourism.com
Belfast
The Belfast Christmas Market is back from 20 November for an award-winning taste of Christmas. This year the food court at the Market with bench style seating makes a welcome return, as does the vintage Helter Skelter, offering stunning views right across the market, and the much-loved carousel. Support for local food and craft has increased with a number of St George’s Market traders joining in the festive fun. Some local favourites will also be returning including Pappas Minerals and Tapitas, Rossi’s Ice Cream and the incredible social enterprise Outside In who will be donning their tinsel and Santa hats to help the homeless. As well as even more local flavour, the Market still offers something a little bit different with 32 nationalities from all over the world bringing all sorts of unusual foods and gift ideas: crêpes from France, Dutch pancakes, Belgian chocolates, an exotic selection of ostrich, wild boar and crocodile burgers, giant bratwurst from the iconic Schwenkegrill, Spanish paella and sweets from Italy. www.visitbelfast.com