The
annual Christmas market tradition started around the early 14th
century in Germany in the lead-up to December 25, the celebration of the birth
of Jesus as told in the traditional Nativity story. Usually held in the town
square – the center of the village or city most often used for various
community events – the markets were places where people could stock up on food
and winter supplies, meet with friends and catch up on the latest news and
gossip. In that regard, they haven’t changed much in the ensuing centuries,
although no one could have foreseen their emergence as a global tourist
destination.
Although they originated in Germany, the
tradition has spread to other European countries, and today can be found in
most any big town or city throughout the region, usually beginning in late
November.
No matter which market you visit, you can expect
to see roughly the same thing – stalls set up selling local souvenirs, hot
chocolate and mulled wine for sale, lights, music, carols, red cheeks and
plenty of smiles and laughter. That being said, each market takes great pride
in the individual touches and unique celebratory elements they’ve added over
the years. For example, Nuremberg’s market
is known for the Christkind, a girl
chosen by a jury to represent the town during Christmas celebrations; Budapest’s market only allows objects
handmade by local craftsmen to be sold at the event; and the market in UNESCO
World Heritage Site Weimar is known
for its unique Thuringian grilled sausages.
Below is a list of five of the most popular
cities for Christmas markets in Europe, as well a few hotel specials that will
place you close to the action. Don’t forget to bring your warm clothes!
Budapest
Zenit
Budapest Hotel
4.5*
Stay for a minimum of 3 nights and enjoy 33% off.
Expires March 31, 2014.
Book at least 7 days in advance and stay for a
minimum of 3 nights and enjoy special Agoda.com prices from $120. Expires December
20, 2013.
Nuremberg
Stay for at least 2 nights and enjoy special
Agoda.com prices from USD $129.
Enjoy special Agoda.com prices from $123.
Weimar
Book at least 10 days in advance and enjoy 15%
off. Expires December 30, 2013.
Enjoy special Agoda.com prices from $44.
Munich
Enjoy 10% off your stay. Expires December 31,
2013.
Regent
Hotel
4*
Enjoy 10% off your stay. Expires December 31,
2013.
Vienna
Enjoy special Agoda.com prices from $202. Expires
December 20, 2013.
Hotel
Kummer
4*
Enjoy special Agoda.com prices from $85. Expires December
20, 2013.
To connect with Agoda.com for special deals on hotels worldwide,
please visit www.agoda.com . Like Agoda.com on Facebook at www.facebook.com/agoda or
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