Rovinj among the best Christmas markets in Europe

It is Rovinj, which took fifth place on the list of the respected The Times. A total of 29 European destinations were on this list, and Berlin, Germany (3rd place), Salzburg, Austria (2nd place) and Cologne, Germany (1st place) sat at the very top, above Rovinj. Advent from Zagreb is also on this list, at 25th place.

As they say in The Times: "It’s easy to fall for Istria’s heart-shaped peninsula at any time of year, but in the run-up to Christmas its picturesque appeal is undeniable. Twist and turn your way through its cobblestone streets as you explore the enchanting old town, or take a stroll along its highly photogenic harbour. While snow isn’t likely — with average December highs of 11C — you’ll nonetheless find plenty of festive cheer at its advent markets, where you can sample local delicacies, admire artisanal crafts and stock up on souvenirs. With live performances, concerts and other family-friendly activities on offer too, there’s fun aplenty here for all ages".

This year, the holiday spirit will come alive in Rovinj with a rich musical program as part of the Advent events that will last from November 30 to January 4, 2025. The lighting of the first Advent candle on Saturday, November 30, on the Square m. Tito officially begins the program of this year's Rovinj Advent.

Along with more than 30 concerts on the city's main square, the program begins on December 6 with Klapa Rišpet, and Opća šuput, Maja Šuput, Jurica Pađen, Vatra, Nola, Night Express, Gustafi and many others will also perform.

Christmas by the sea – Natale sur mare. Rovinj batana, a symbol of Rovinj's maritime and fishing tradition, is the backbone of the new concept of Advent in Rovinj. Sail on the advent batana through Rovinj's history and heritage all the way to the modern part of Rovinj. Taste the autochthonous Istrian flavors through specially created Advent menus, with lots of good music, entertainment and festive festive moments for everyone. 

On Valdibora Square, which is the main Advent location, there are Advent houses that offer a variety of appropriate Advent and autochthonous dishes and drinks, as well as a rich program that will be accompanied by live concerts every day on a stage where the old town center will be the perfect backdrop.

This year's novelty will definitely be the carousel, which will be installed on the Great Pier, in front of the Ecomuseum, which has also this year prepared a fun program for the little ones from December 6.

The highlight of the program will certainly be New Year's Eve. The program on the main stage on the square will start already on December 30 with the performances of the Griff band and DJ Denis Goldin. The main stars on New Year's Eve will be Parni Valjak, and the Rijeka band Grooversi and DJ SoChic will heat up the atmosphere. The fun will continue on January 1.

Enjoy the unique Christmas atmosphere at sea, and we will use our cameras to try to evoke at least a little of the Advent atmosphere in this beautiful Istrian town, which deservedly took the 5th place on the list of the best Advent destinations in Europe.

 Rovinj Advent.com