Northern Ireland Christmas Market makes the top 20 most picturesque Christmas Markets in Europe

Belfast Continental Christmas Market has made the list of the most picturesque Christmas markets in Europe, a new study has revealed.

Out of over 600 markets that take place across the UK and mainland Europe, Northern Ireland’s Belfast Continental Christmas Market came in at number 16 of the most Insta-worthy Christmas markets, with over 7167 uses of the hashtag.

The research, which was carried out by PaulCamper, provides some festive inspiration for the winter, with a jolly road trip in a campervan, or a city get-away to soak up traditional Christmas traditions across Europe.

Belfast Christmas Market which takes place in the City Hall grounds from 20 November until 23 December has an extensive food court, a vintage Helter Skelter and a much-loved carousel.

A number of St George’s Market traders have joined  the festive fun this year, including local favourites such as 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.

The Market 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.

Due to the pandemic though vaccination passports are being required in order to limit the risk to attendees.

The analysis found that Zagreb’s Advent in Zagreb is the most photographed Christmas market, followed by London’s Christmas at Kew in second and Manchester Christmas Market in third.

The 25 Most Photographed European Christmas Markets

Out of the 600 locations analysed, Advent in Zagreb, Croatia’s biggest award-winning Christmas market is the most photographed market in Europe. Taking place in Zagreb’s main square and neighbouring park, visitors can buy unique gifts whilst sipping on hot chocolate and tasting the local delicacies.

In second place was Christmas at Kew, with its magical winter trail, larger than life illuminations and special visits from Father Christmas.

In third was Manchester Christmas Markets, spread across six city centre squares and offering the festive delights that the city is known for. Tuck into Yorkshire Pudding Wraps, local ales and find lots of gifts along the way.

Unfortunately two of the top ten, Bath Christmas market and Leeds Christmas market, won’t be taking place this year, however with Edinburgh’s Christmas market, Manchester Christmas market and Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland all in the top five and confirmed to be on this year, there’s a market suitable for everyone.

Steven Hagenah, UK Country Lead for PaulCamper comments:

“Christmas is back on and after the disappointment of being stuck inside during the festive season last year, there is no doubt that people will be eager to get out and experience as much festive cheer as possible.

“These Christmas markets offer exactly that! Hiring a campervan, setting off on a road trip and experiencing different traditions across the country or even across mainland Europe is certainly an unforgettable festive adventure.”

You can find the full data and methodology here: https://paulcamper.co.uk/magazine/christmas-markets/

 

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A guide shared by LOVE BELFAST ❤️ (@love_belfast)