I lived in Europe for almost a decade. Here are the 6 cities you should visit during the holiday season.

Of course, I have to start with Budapest. The city is famous for its grand palaces, and come winter, it's dotted with incredible Christmas markets.

One of my favorites is the Advent Basilica Market, which pulls you in like a magnet with colorful stalls, a towering Christmas tree, and a light show every 30 minutes — all in front of St. Stephen's Basilica.

The market is filled with so many amazing scents, from the lavender goods and crafts made on the peninsula of Tihany to the paprika Hungary is famous for — it's even in soap.

For a truly local experience, hop across the river to ice skate at the Advent in Óbuda market, located about 20 minutes from the Basilica on public transport.

While you're in the city, I recommend trying kürtőskalács, which you can watch vendors make at all of the major markets.

Translated as "chimney cake," this spiral of dough is cooked over hot coals before being rolled in toppings, such as sugar, cocoa, or cinnamon (to name a few). When it's fresh off the coals, steam rises from the center of the pastry, resembling a smoking chimney.

I first fell in love with Danish Christmas markets when I studied in Copenhagen for a semester, delighted by how they brought warmth to the darkness of Scandinavian winters.

The Nyhavn Christmas Market is located on the banks of the canal, with the colorfully painted buildings decorated with lights and julehjerter (Christmas hearts).

I loved that the market was in one of Copenhagen's most iconic areas — it felt like celebrating Christmas in a postcard.

For a unique holiday experience, visit Tivoli Gardens, the second-oldest amusement park in the world. The already whimsical theme park is covered in Christmas decorations this time of year, plus there's ice skating and a traditional market for visitors to explore.

Don't forget to stop for a ride or two, and try Æbleskiver from one of the market stands. These fluffy, pancake-like balls, dusted in powdered sugar, are so easy to eat, especially with a side of gløgg (mulled wine) to keep you warm.

Situated on the shores of Lake Geneva is the Christmas market Noël au Quai. To get a great view of the Jet d'Eau (an iconic fountain in the lake), hop onto the market's Ferris wheel, then stroll between chalets filled with crafts, gifts, and food.

One thing I love about Swiss Christmas market food is the dedication to cheese. As soon as I saw a stall selling Chäsbängel — a hollowed-out baguette filled with melted cheese — I knew I had to have it.

I also enjoyed raclette, another melted cheese that pairs well with potatoes, pickles, and more, and absolutely hits the spot on a cold winter's day.

Oh, and it's also a great opportunity to try famous Swiss chocolate.

Vienna is home to some of the most storied Christmas markets in Europe.

My favorite — and arguably the city's most famous — is the sprawling market at the Rathausplatz (City Hall), which has a whimsical carousel and towering displays of keepsake ornaments.

I also suggest stopping by Stephansplatz Market, located in the city center, wrapping around the famous St. Stephen's Cathedral.

It's so cool to stand around the small tables in the shadow of such a Gothic masterpiece, keeping your hands warm by wrapping them around a mug of glühwein (mulled wine). Plus, for a few extra Euros, you can buy a keepsake mug to take home with you.

Luckily, with just a 20-minute train ride between Bruges and Ghent, it's easy to visit both cities' markets in a day. Plus, both are about an hour from Brussels, too, making them good options for a day trip from the capital.

The red brick building facades and cobblestone streets of Bruges make the city look like something straight from a fairytale.

Beyond the official markets, I loved window shopping among the seemingly endless chocolate shops, dressed with holiday decor and piles of handmade bonbons.

And in Ghent, the markets are scattered throughout the small city, offering visitors ample opportunity to stroll around and admire the medieval architecture all dressed up for the festive season.

While you're at the markets, make sure to grab a cone of piping-hot, crispy frites (fries) and a side of rich Belgian mayonnaise for dipping.