There are few better ways to spend the run-up to Christmas than travelling around Europe in your campervan looking at the bright lights in some of the continent’s finest cities.
Now international travel is an option again, air travel costs are set to increase, so these days, travelling by campervan is the most economical and hassle-free way to see the world. No long airport lines, no lost luggage and guaranteed comfy accommodation everywhere you go.
Here the team at Sterling Insurance look at the five best and most campervan-friendly Christmas markets happening this year.
Rathausplatz, Vienna, Austria
This infamous Rathausplatz Christmas market draws in over 3.5 million people each year thanks to its fairground attractions, which includes an ice rink, roller coasters, a Ferris wheel, and let’s not forget the hundreds of stalls brimming with Christmas decorations, lights, food, hot drinks and everyone’s favourite December tipple, mulled wine.
And if that’s not enough to tempt you, they also have one of the biggest and best light displays in Europe!
Nuremberg, Germany
Vienna may be the prettiest market in Europe, but Nuremberg can lay claim to having the biggest Christmas market on the continent.
You’ll find hundreds of beautiful wooden stalls, selling everything from traditional Christmas gifts, local delicacies, food and glühwein (warm wine). Hot tip: the glühwein mugs are unique each year and become collector’s pieces, so why not buy a few for the campervan to use and a few to store for later days
The best thing about visiting the biggest Christmas market in Europe is the atmosphere. Germans know how to party, so expect to see the locals gather in the markets after work and party into the evening.
Plus, it’s perfect for campervanning as there are plenty of parking spots within walking distance, with our pick of the bunch being the RV Park next to the Wohrder Lake. Whilst there are no facilities as such, it’s completely free to park here and is within walking distance to the city centre. This is definitely not a market you want to miss if travelling abroad, this festive period.
Munich, Germany
Next up on your checklist is the Munich Christmas market. Unlike the others on this list, Munich’s market is unique in that it’s the only one that’s spread out across the city.
The main square is full of traditional stalls groaning with yummy bratwurst, glühwein, crêpes, waffles and beer, while the massive Christmas tree is a fantastic backdrop to all the festivities. While there, you need to stop and watch the world famous Glockenspiel clock.
A great place to park your campervan is Bayern Munich’s Allianz Arena. Parking is open on non-match days for a small fee, while the stadium is roughly 30 minutes from the city centre via public transport.
Strasbourg, France
It might not be the first French market you think of, but it’s certainly worth visiting nonetheless. The whole city shuts down from mid-November to December to welcome tourists from all over Europe, with every street filled with lights, decorations, ornaments and statues. It really is a wondrous sight to behold, with the beautiful Strasbourg cathedral as the backdrop of the market.
The market here dates back to 1570 and has over 300 stalls spread out over ten different locations, selling traditional food, drink and, of course, cheese! There is also an ice rink, live music performances and cultural events arranged throughout the festive period.
Winter Wonders, Brussels, Belgium
The Brussels Christmas market is one of the most popular among Brits, with thousands of us travelling each year to the Belgian capital to see the delights of this magical market.
Maybe it’s the festive atmosphere, or maybe it’s the Belgian beer on tap across its 200 chalets, as well as the crêpes, bratwursts and mulled wine. Probably the latter.
Like Vienna, Brussels has its own fairground attractions, with a Ferris wheel, light show, ice rink, rides and their magnificently decorated tree.
Campervan protection 24/7
Your campervan will be your home away from home while you’re on the road, so make sure to perform the most important maintenance tips before you travel.
Whether you use your campervan for short weekend breaks or you travel further afield, Sterling can find a campervan insurance policy to suit your needs at a price you can afford. Change to Call us for our very best prices, with cover starting from only £165 on 0344 381 9990.
If you’re travelling in Europe this winter, you’ll also need a Green card to give you the necessary third-party motor insurance cover required for the country or countries you will be visiting. To find out how to get Green Card insurance, contact Sterling on 0344 381 9990.
All makes and models of motorhome and campervan are covered. Benefits of our insurance include:
- Cover for personal possessions up to the value of £2,000
- European cover for up to 90 days (longer trips can be covered)
- Breakdown cover, camping gear, keycare, and misfuelling are all available as optional extras
- Short term cover available
- The claims hotline is open 24/7
