This Christmas market is unique in Europe, it is 20 degrees and the illuminated village is sublime

Christmas is approaching and with it, its share of markets ;eacute;traditional products that delight young and old alike. But did you know that there is a market in Europe unique Christmas, off the beaten track?

Christmas markets are an integral part of end-of-year traditions in Europe. From Red Square in Moscow to the illuminations on the Champs-Élysées in Paris, via Berlin, Dresden and the Cathedral Square in Strasbourg, these markets attract millions of visitors every year who come to soak up the magic of Christmas.

Each market has its own identity its own, with its culinary specialties, local crafts and magical atmosphere. The aromas of mulled wine and gingerbread mingle with Christmas carols, while the stalls overflow with sparkling decorations and gifts of all kinds.

But among all these traditional markets, there is one that definitely stands out! Imagine a Christmas village nestled in the heart of a city lined with palm trees and tropical gardens, where temperatures are around 20°C even in the middle of December.

Welcome to Funchal, on the island of Madeira! Here, the market Christmas takes on the air of a tropical party, with its stalls of exotic fruits and its illuminations which adorn the city center with a thousand lights at nightfall.

This unique atmosphere makes it a destination of choice for all those who wish to experience a different Christmas, far from the beaten track. Visitors can stroll along Arriaga Avenue, Funchal's main thoroughfare, and discover a real “Mercadinho de Natal”, where wooden chalets offer a rich variety of traditional dishes and local drinks. It is also an opportunity to discover Madeiran crafts and find original gifts at take home.

So if you dream of a Christmas like no other: head to Madeira and its tropical market, for end-of-year celebrations marked by sweetness and conviviality. Twinkling lights, exotic flavours and a warm atmosphere: all the ingredients come together to make you experience an unforgettable Christmas in the heart of the Atlantic.

The highlight of the show to end a festive and unique December is undoubtedly the New Year's fireworks display, which lights up the bay of Funchal with a thousand colours and gives this festive period a special taste of the tropics. Between folk parades, open-air concerts and entertainment for children, the Funchal Christmas market has its share of surprises and magical moments to enjoy with family or friends.