'Tis the season to visit those magical Christmas markets in Europe

The underground Christmas market in Valkenburg, Netherlands. — Christmastown Valkenburg

Seasonal markets always add something extra to the festivities. For example, the Christmas markets in Europe – where the winters can get cold, gloomy and perhaps even miserable – have a “magical” feel to them that somehow makes visitors more cheerful, jolly and perhaps even generous.

This is where you can stroll around with the aroma of freshly baked gingerbread and mulled wine wafting in the air, and where you will be greeted with sparkling fairy lights and colourful baubles each turn you take. The rows and rows of Bavarian-style huts selling trinkets, ornaments, gifts and delicious snacks will also make you spend more money than you intend to!