Christmas markets are among the most popular festive events, and luckily the season has just started so the hats, scarves and gloves can come out and the mulled wine can start flowing.

So it’s no surprise that there are hundreds of markets across Europe, making it incredibly difficult to choose the best one.

Luckily, a traveler from Texas named Helene Sula has visited more than 100 festival fairs since moving to Germany in 2016; So you don’t need to visit.

He declared himself “obsessed” with Christmas markets and shared their festive contents on Twitter. instagram under username @christmasmarketsineuropeHe told Helen MailOnline Travel: “Heidelberg was my first Christmas market and I was obsessed. I made it my mission to see as many people as possible. The feeling was like being a kid at Christmas again. It was like the magic was real.”

Now he has revealed his five favorite markets to visit and avoid.

Cologne, Germany

It’s predictable that Germany will top the list, with Cologne’s market in the west located near the iconic cathedral, which Helene describes as “breathtaking”.

He said: “The high Gothic architecture of Cologne Cathedral provides the perfect backdrop for festive lights and stands. The market is quite large and has many food options; Be sure to try the Reibekuchen (potato pancakes) and mulled wine. “It’s also a great place for families with its ice rink and carousel.”

The market, which will open its doors on November 18, will welcome its visitors with treats such as mulled wine and waffles. You can reach Cologne in less than five and a half hours from London St PaNcras with a high-speed train change in Brussels, or fly from London to Cologne (CGN) with British Airways.

Strasbourg, France

The city of Strasbourg in northern France is located close to the German border and has a mix of both cultures and architecture, with its striking half-timbered houses. The view becomes even more spectacular when it opens its doors for the Christmas market on November 27. It attracts around two million visitors each year and hotels are often booked up to a year in advance, and it’s not hard to see why. You can wander the illuminated streets, buy incredible Christmas decorations and taste great food.

According to Helene, this market particularly stands out for its “originality”.

“Strasbourg, known as the Capital of Christmas, is one of the oldest and most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe. The whole city turns into a festive wonderland with stunning decorations, numerous market squares and delicious local treats like tarte flambée and bredele cookies. “The appeal and uniqueness of this market is unmatched.”

Luckily for Brits, traveling to Strasbourg is easy. You can take the Eurostar train from St Pancras to Paris Gare du Nord and then the TGV train from Gare de l’east into the city. There are also nine airlines flying from the UK to Strasbourg International Airport, and the flight takes just one hour and 35 minutes.

Heidelberg, Germany

Although she has visited numerous markets, Helene’s local market in Heidelberg, Germany, remains one of her favourites.

“Heidelberg has a special place in my heart as it was the first Christmas market I visited after moving to Germany,” he said.

The market runs along Hauptstrasse, one of the longest pedestrian streets in Europe, and passes through the historic old town with the illuminated Heidelberg Castle overlooking the city.

“An ice rink and hot treats like bratwurst make this market friendly and magical. Also, grab some fries!”

The Heidelberg market opens on November 25 and features twinkling lights, festive treats and unique crafts. With five different squares to choose from, over 140 stalls and an ice rink under the goal, it truly is one of the best in Europe. Heidelberg can be reached from London via Frankfurt International Airport or Eurostar.

Ribeauville France

France is also an important country for Christmas markets; Ribeauville’s in the north-east of the country also makes the list, which Helene describes as “like something out of a fairy tale”.

He said: “Ribeauville is a medieval-themed Christmas market and one of the most unique markets I have ever visited… with medieval music, costumes and performances that take you back in time.”

However, this market is only open two weekends a year; so planning is absolutely crucial. This year it will open from December 7th to 8th and then from December 14th to 15th. But for those willing to take the journey, you’ll be rewarded with dancers, street performers and even fire eaters, as well as stalls selling sweet and savory treats. .

Vienna, Austria

Helene also likes bigger markets and Vienna is impressive.

He said: “Vienna’s Christmas markets are elegant and charming; The market at Rathausplatz is my favorite.

“The backdrop of Vienna’s magnificent architecture combined with twinkling lights is truly magical.”

Along with Vienna sausage and a cup of punch, he also recommends ice skating at the nearby rink. The Vienna market is already open and will remain open until December 23. You can fly with Ryanair from Edinburgh or London Stansted, or with British Airways or Austrian Airlines from London Heathrow.

Unfortunately for those who want to stay close to home for their markets, Helene said Hyde Park should avoid returning: “I know, I know and I’m sorry. Winter Wonderland feels like a theme park! But it feels so cheesy and commercial. London has amazing decorations but they don’t get the “spirit” right. Same for Paris!”