FOLLOWING IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF SANTA CLAUS

With December approaching fast, why not also think about taking a little Christmas-themed trip on board your Ducato-based motorhome? 

Ready to stock up on candles, decorations and fairy lights? Let's discover Europe's best Christmas markets together!

Among the lights of Vienna 

Let yourself be captivated by the atmosphere of the elegant city of Vienna, which dresses itself up in the most glittering lights ever when Christmas comes around. The square that houses the Town Hall becomes the scene of real magic, transforming the city centre into a fairytale where you can find not only handicrafts, but also Christmas-themed workshops, not to mention good food and the world-famous hot punch. For an even more unique experience, we also recommend you take a look at the rich bill of concerts and cultural events often staged in front of the fabulous Schönbrunn Palace.

What charm, Basil!

There are two markets set up in the heart of the city: one on Barfüsserplatz and the other on Münsterplatz, where the famous Christmas tree decorated by Johann Wanner is placed. Thanks to the tree, a special decorative technique of hand-painted blown glass has been preserved and handed down through the generations. While strolling through the Christmas lights and decorations, we recommend sampling the exquisite delicacies on offer among the stalls in the two squares. Especially the waffles and the typical Läckerli from Basel, a cake similar to gingerbread.

Welcome to the village of Bruges!

The most romantic Christmas atmosphere can definitely be found in Bruges. During the festive season, the town’s historic centre is transformed into a large Christmas village. In addition to the two markets located respectively in the Grote Markt and Simon Stevin squares, you can fully immerse yourself in the Christmas spirit in Bruges, thanks to the more than 500 decorated trees scattered throughout the city, and its striking city-wide Light Experience route. Don't miss the special play of lights and reflections created by the unusual decorations on the Minnewater, the lake of Love, and enjoy some ice skating after warming up with a nice glass of Glühwein!

A touch of magic: Dresden 

The large Ferris wheel lights up the old Altmarkt square like a beacon in the night and at the top, it affords a view of the entire market, offering an amazing panorama from above. Several unique buildings frame the square, making the atmosphere created by the Christmas lights even more magical.  One of these is the Kreuzkirche, the imposing church that becomes the stage for fantastic concerts and where you can attend Vespers every Saturday afternoon. A large ice rink is set up right in front of the church, promising a fun experience for the young and the young at heart alike!

If you are looking for original gifts, we recommend exploring the various blown glass creations from Lauscha, which is very famous, or choosing some of the decorative wooden figurines. 

Don't miss this chance to try Stollen, the typical Dresden cake made with candied fruit and almonds.

The beauties of ice in Poznan

When you arrive in Poland aboard your Ducato-based motorhome, you will immediately realise that the tradition associated with the Christmas holidays is extremely important for the culture of this country. Many towns start setting up their markets as early as mid-November, and Poznan is one of them. Here you can find no less than three different markets with traditional wooden huts dedicated to gastronomic products and local handicrafts.

One of the most eagerly awaited and interesting events to attend is the International Ice Sculpture Festival, with various ice sculptors from all over the world competing.

Last stop, Tallinn! 

Having already won the award for the most beautiful Christmas market in Europe in 2019, today the Tallinn Christmas Market remains one of the most popular festive destinations ever. The Christmas tree put up and decorated in the centre of the square is not only considered one of the tallest trees in all of Europe, but also one of the oldest because it was first erected in 1441. Between Father Christmas's hut and the various open-air artistic performances on offer, don’t miss the exhibition of nativity scenes normally set up in Vene Street, while in the courtyard of St. Peter and St. Paul's Cathedral, you can admire the largest nativity scene of all those on display. 

Now, all you have to do is choose your favourite one, put on your hat and gloves and set off in your Ducato motorhome to one of these magical destinations. 

Have a great trip!