The fairytale European Christmas market that’s one of the world’s oldest

Christmas markets are a dime a dozen nowadays and some are most definitely more impressive than others.

But if you really want to visit one that will knock your festive woolly socks off, then this historic market is the gold standard, according to those who have visited.

Dresden Christmas market is the oldest in Germany, founded in 1434, and is one of the first genuine Christmas markets in the world.

It boasts more than 200 stands, attracts an astonishing three million visitors from all over the world each year and lasts throughout the Advent season until Christmas Eve.

Its name – Striezelmarkt – derives from a local fruit cake that was traditionally sold at the market which is now more famously known as Stollen. 

READ MORE: The UK seaside town with the ‘best’ Christmas market insanely pretty all year

The market takes pride in a giant candle pyramid that is 14 metres tall and powers blades above it, causing the festive ornaments on the structure to turn.

Those who have visited have enthusiastically commented about their experience on travel website Tripadvisor.

One, who described the market as the “mother” of Christmas markets, said: “Wow, just wow. Best Christmas market we have ever been to. Cheaper than UK markets and the stall decorations were amazing.” 

Another said: “Magical! Handmade Christmas treasures and amazing food and drink. You won’t want to leave! The scenery will keep you in awe.”

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Another impressed tourist said that other festive markets should use it as a blueprint.

They said: “If you needed to design a Christmas Market use Dresden to copy.” 

And travel blogger Dan Flying Solo explained that the central festive market in Dresden is complimented by several more throughout the city centre.

He said: “When it comes to festive city breaks in Europe, there are a few cities that seem to hog the spotlight. 

“But if you really want to experience the Christmas magic, Dresden and the region of Saxony, Germany is the perfect sized present you might now know you need.

“Boasting eleven Christmas markets in Dresden alone, alongside a whole host of other traditions that complete Christmas, my week-long festive filming session in Saxony transported me to a true winter wonderland.”

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