AS CHRISTMAS approaches, many of us will be looking to get into the spirit by planning some family activities or going away for a long weekend.
And what better way to celebrate the holidays than to visit a magic Christmas market?
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Luckily, Scots don’t need to travel too far to enjoy a fun day out and soak up some festive magic.
One Scottish Christmas market has been named as the most beautiful one to visit across all of Europe.
Experts at print materials supply firm Solopress compared over 60 Christmas markets to reveal the most scenic options across the UK and Europe in 2024.
And Edinburgh claimed the title of Europe’s most beautiful Christmas market based on TikTok and Instagram posts.
The capital city came out on top with an impressive 2,738 TikTok posts and 55,304 Instagram hashtags celebrating its charm.
The city’s beloved Christmas Market returned on Friday, welcoming eager visitors back to its festive wonderland.
Against the iconic backdrop of Edinburgh Castle, guests can enjoy dazzling light displays, nostalgic carnival rides, and cosy spots for mulled wine.
London’s Winter Wonderland came in at a close second with 3,409 TikTok posts and 43,237 Instagram hashtags.
While the markets in Strasbourg, France, ranked third in the table with a total of 581 TikTok posts and 34,536 hashtags on Instagram.
The other spots in the top five were claimed by markets in Vienna, Austria and Budapest, Hungary.
The firm behind Edinburgh’s famous Christmas market has promised a host of thrilling new features this year that are sure to get everyone into the festive spirit.
This much-loved attraction draws thousands of visitors to the capital every year, and this season event organisers are pulling out all the stops to bring even “more sparkle and joy” to Princes Street Gardens.
While the classic family favourites will come back, fresh and exciting additions are on the horizon.
As ever, the popular market stalls, Christmas Ferris Wheel, StarFlyer, Helter-Skelter and ice rink have all returned.
The Winter Warmer zone has also reappeared, along with the Winter Windows trail which will showcase festive artwork from local schoolchildren.
The latest addition to the event is the Christmas Tree Maze in St Andrews Square, where families can “lose themselves” among 450 illuminated Christmas trees.
And youngsters also have the exciting chance to meet Santa himself.
At Santa’s Stories, wee ones will receive a gift after listening to the main man reading Christmas tales.
There will also be festive workshops where attendees can learn to craft wreaths and festive ornaments.
Top 10 most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe
Rank. Christmas Market, Country – TikTok posts and Instagram posts
- Edinburgh, Scotland – 2,738 and 55,304
- London Winter Wonderland, England – 3,409 and 43,237
- Strasbourg, France – 581 and 34,536
- Vienna, Austria – 429 and 22,648
- Budapest, Hungary – 617 and 13,230
- Prague, Czech Republic – 606 and 9,981
- Frankfurt, Germany – 441 and 11,603
- Munich, Germany – 339 and 6,734
- Cologne, Germany – 274 and 5,980
- Brussels, Belgium – 390 and 3,342
Culture and Communities Convener Val Walker previously said: “Edinburgh at Christmas is a magical experience, and it’s exciting to be announcing such a varied programme of events and attractions for 2024.
“We will see the return of many favourites like the Traditional Christmas Market, Santa Stories, and Big Wheel, as well as a brand-new Christmas Tree Maze in St Andrew Square!
“We want Edinburgh’s Christmas to be a welcoming and inclusive experience for everyone, and this packed programme has something for families and Christmas enthusiasts of all ages.
“We are especially proud of the opportunities it affords to raise funds for local charities.
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“The free tickets donated to charities and community groups will help spread Christmas joy across the capital.
“We’re also looking forward to supporting other events in communities across the city.”
