| Situated next to the city centre's historic Scott | | | | stalls selling knitted winter accessories such as socks, |
| Monument, and handily close to good quality Edinburgh | | | | hats, scarves and gloves for all the family. If your |
| apartments, the German Christmas Markets offer | | | | hands are going blue, you'll be glad of some new |
| more than just great shopping. | | | | gloves, or if you're still stuck for Christmas gift ideas, |
| The experience is a real feast of the senses, with | | | | get Dad socks again- but this time they'll be hand |
| magical sounds, mouth-watering aromas and a visual | | | | knitted, novelty ones. |
| extravaganza of toys, gifts and novelties which seem | | | | Last but not least, there is food and drink on offer ideal |
| to have jumped from the pages of a fairy tale. | | | | for gifts and also hot treats to fill hungry shoppers. |
| The German Christmas Markets are officially opened | | | | The wealth of chocolate boxes and candy coloured |
| by Edinburgh's Lord Provost at the end of November, | | | | sweets are reminiscent of childhood films, and are |
| as part of the launch of the city's Edinburgh Christmas | | | | certain to make young and old eyes light up with |
| event. | | | | delight. |
| This official launch is marked by the turning on of the | | | | For an immediate sweet fix, you are spoiled for choice |
| Christmas lights and celebrated with fireworks, and is | | | | with pancakes dripped in syrup and waffles with |
| an event in itself. | | | | chocolate sauce, dumplings or Christmas bread. |
| The markets form a key part of Edinburgh's 'Winter | | | | For a savoury snack, choose from a German style |
| Wonderland', at the east end of Princes Street, which | | | | hot dog of a Scottish venison burger. |
| are characterised by ice skating, fairground attractions | | | | Naturally, food can be washed down with that festive |
| and the iconic Ferris wheel which lights up the sky. | | | | tipple, spicy mulled wine. Quality beers or delicious hot |
| Browsing the German Christmas markets, you'll | | | | chocolate drinks are also popular. |
| discover a kaleidoscope of colour on painted wooden | | | | Edinburgh accommodation at this time of year is |
| toys and ornaments, quaint pottery and hand blown | | | | popular, so book in advance. The good news is, there |
| glass. | | | | are excellent serviced apartments in Edinburgh close |
| You'll see smurfs homes and mechanical models, | | | | to the city centre, so if you are laden down with gift |
| alpine scenes and kitschy candle holders. | | | | shopping, you don't have too far to go. |
| When the Scottish winter air starts to bite, you'll find | | | | |