With so many cities around Europe hosting amazing Christmas markets, visitors are spoiled for choice every December. While they all have different things to recommend them, the Advent Feast at the Basilica in Budapest has been chosen as the best and also most beautiful Christmas market for 2020.
European Best Destinations has released its list of the best European markets, voted for by over 289,700 people from 116 countries. Vienna came in second place, Gdánsk was third, Brussels was fourth and Montbéliard came in fifth position. Here is why the top three were chosen and the full list can be seen here.
Budapest
The Advent Feast at the Basilica market on St. Stephan's Square, Budapest, broke the competition record by garnering 39,448 votes. As well as being voted the best Christmas market, it was also chosen as most beautiful, most eco-friendly and the market with the best Christmas spirit. Visitors can enjoy charity-boosting concerts, and preserve the environment by using eco-friendly cups and cutlery, while leftovers are recycled. They can spend a fun afternoon on the ice rink and enjoy a glass of mulled wine and traditional Hungarian cuisine. The market also hosts the biggest 3D light show in Europe at night.
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Vienna
The Vienna Magic of Advent market turns the City Hall Square into a fantasy land, and is one of the most well-known Christmas markets in Europe. It was actually chosen as the best Christmas market in Europe by travellers from 37 countries. It has Christmas gifts, tree decorations, sweets and warming drinks as well as hosting fun Christmas workshops for children. The trees of the surrounding City Hall are festively decorated and are bathed in a sea of lights.
Gdańsk
Situated in city's historical centre, Gdańsk Christmas Fair is like something out of a fairy-tale. Its atmosphere is mostly created by the unique and mood-setting scenery. European Best Destinations says that Gdańsk is probably the most romantic Christmas market in Europe. It has lots of illuminations and it includes a special place where lovers can kiss under the mistletoe in the hopes of having a long-lasting love story.
