Christmas Markets in Europe
The Christmas Markets in Europe are a must-see at least once. Are you dreaming of a magical winter wonderland with festive lights, delicious food, and unique gifts to spoil your loved ones?
If so, why not embark on an enchanting journey throughout Europe’s most renowned Christmas markets?
With so many countries to explore, each with distinctive traditions and specialties, you’ll experience a world of wonder and excitement during the holiday season.
From charming winter wonderlands in Germany to traditional crafts and delicacies in Austria, the festive magic of Paris, and Prague’s sparkling Christmas lights, you can indulge in delicious cakes, savoury snacks, and mulled wine as you explore the enchanting stalls.
Best of all, you’ll soak up each destination’s local culture and traditions, immersing yourself in the heartwarming joy of the holiday season and creating lasting memories to cherish for years to come.
Take advantage of this once-in-a-lifetime experience!
The Christmas markets are a wonderful place to shop and explore between the end of November and December.
We drove from the airport to Strasbourg for almost the entire day. We arrived late in the evening and had only one night to explore. Before we could reach the hotel, we had to go through a security check with our suitcases.
If you want to avoid having your luggage inspected, choosing a hotel outside of Grande Île is better. However, staying in the historic center was the best option as we only had to go through the security check once.
We were visiting the beautiful La Petite France on the Grande Île (Main Island).
Get your Christmas mug. These mugs make the perfect souvenir.
The atmosphere is unique, and the vast food selection includes flaming mulled wine, fluffy fried donuts, and smoked cheeses.
If you’re not a fan of mulled wine, don’t worry, as there are plenty of other drink options, such as Alsace’s dark ale Christmas beer.
Visiting Strasbourg Christmas Markets
Strasbourg, a stunning city in France, is known for its breathtaking fairy lights that adorn the Rhine River.
The city also boasts one of Europe’s oldest Christmas markets, the “Christkindelsmärik,” which dates back to 1570 and is held in its traditional location.
If you want a festive and magical holiday experience, visiting the Christmas Markets in Strasbourg is an absolute must! As one of Europe’s oldest and biggest Christmas markets, Strasbourg is famous for its charmingly festive atmosphere, incredible decorations, fantastic food, and unique handcrafted gifts. It is perfect for finding that special Christmas present for your loved ones.
Visitors can marvel at the tallest Christmas tree in Europe and browse over 300 stalls offering wooden toys, blown glass ornaments, candles, candies, and delicious gingerbread cookies.
Numerous market stalls and shops throughout the city sell everything from gingerbread and mulled wine to handmade ornaments and crafts that remind you of a true Alsatian Christmas. With so much to see and do, you can spend the day wandering around the beautifully decorated streets and enjoying enchanting performances from local artists.
So why not come and enjoy Strasbourg’s magical Christmas markets and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime?
Christmas Market in Munich, Germany
Munich, Germany, is home to a renowned Christmas market that is one of the oldest and most traditional. The Christkindlmarkt is in front of the Munich Town Hall, right in the city’s heart. Despite being a conservative state, Munich is also a trendy cultural hub with unique market offerings.
If you’re looking for one of the world’s most enchanting and festive Christmas experiences, look no further than the Christmas market in Munich, Germany! This bustling and vibrant market is a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic holiday cheer and a taste of traditional German holiday culture.
Whether you’re searching for locally-made crafts and gifts, delicious conventional German holiday treats like gingerbread and mulled wine, or just looking to soak up the sights and sounds of this magical event, the Munich Christmas market is an experience like no other.
With over 150 stalls to explore, each offering unique and delightful holiday items, you will find something that will make your heart sing and brighten your holiday season.
The markets stretch from Marienplatz to the Christmas crib market, Rindermarkt, and the Cathedral. However, these markets can become crowded and touristy, with vendors selling similar items.
Luckily, several other Christmas markets in Munich are less crowded, less touristy, and more enjoyable.
Each market has its theme, and most are within walking distance of Marienplatz, making it easy to have an authentic experience.
Visiting these markets at night and exploring other markets during the day is recommended.
Christmas Market in Salzburg, Austria
We left early to take the train to Salzburg.
The dust of snow is on the ground, and the weather is not too cold today. So why not add Salzburg’s Christmas market to your holiday travel wish list today?
Salzburg and Vienna are two of the most popular tourist destinations in Austria. Salzburg is renowned for its baroque architecture and enchanting atmosphere and is the birthplace of the famous composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.
If you’re feeling the holiday spirit and are looking for a festive destination, you may want to consider visiting the bustling Christmas market in Salzburg, Austria! Home to well over a dozen vendors selling everything from hot mulled wine to handmade Christmas ornaments, this is the ultimate place to experience the magic of the holidays.
Surrounded by the stunning Alpine scenery, Salzburg’s Christmas market has something for everyone, including delicacies like gingerbread, Austrian-style sausages, and roasted chestnuts.
You’ll also find plenty of entertainment, performances, traditional Christmas music, and oThe Getreidegasse, a lively pedestrian shopping street nestled in the old town, is renowned for its intricate wrought-iron signs that embellish numerous stores, adding a unique charm to the area.
This street is a treasure trove of experiences, from its vibrant atmosphere and striking architecture to its one-of-a-kind shop signs that instantly capture your attention. It’s the perfect place for leisurely strolls, window shopping, and observing the bustling life around you.
The street is lined with modern shops and narrow passages that lead to neighbouring parallel streets, places, and the Salzach River, which provides stunning views of the nearby mountains.
While exploring, visit Mozart’s birthplace and discover some of the city’s charming corners and corridors.
Getreidegasse
The city’s beauty and charm and the window shopping were amazing.
The clerk at the small shop Steiff’s Bear could have been more friendly. She directed us to look at the bears in the window outside the store and choose which one we wanted to see before bringing it to us.
Despite this disappointing experience, the massive animals displayed in the window were impressive. I am eager to return to this stunning city during the warmer months when I will have more opportunities to take memorable photos and create unforgettable memories.
Fortress Hohensalzburg
Fortress Hohensalzburg is a magnificent medieval castle overlooking the Austrian city of Salzburg. Built in the 11th century, it has stood as a symbol of power and strength for centuries. It is one of Europe’s largest and best-preserved castles, with its walls and towers imposing themselves on the landscape and providing an impressive view that is hard to forget.
The castle’s interior is just as impressive as the exterior: There is a vast array of furniture, art pieces, and exquisite tapestries, all set against the backdrop of historical architecture that radiates a sense of grandness and regality. Visitors can also appreciate the fortress’s rich history by exploring its numerous museums and exhibitions.
Fortress Hohensalzburg is truly a monument to the past and a testament to history’s resilience. It is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the arts or history of Austria, as it offers a unique insight into the country’s cultural heritage.
The Museums of Hohensalzburg Fortress Highlights include the fortress’s many museums: The museum itself shows historical exhibits focused on courtly life led by the prince archbishops; the Marionette Museum and the Museum of the Rainer Regiment likewise invite visitors to embark on a journey into the past. The historic armour house is an interactive exhibition on suits of armour and weapons.
The Panorama is an exceptional experience, the panoramic tour, which leads from the salt magazine via the dungeon to the viewing platform of the Reckturm [tower], where the city’s most beautiful view is likely the city’s most beautiful view. Afterward, the tour leads through the battlements to the famous Salzburg Bull.
The fortress is open year-round, allowing you to plan your visit at your convenience. Since 1892, it has been easily accessible on foot and via the Fortress Funicular, making your journey to this historical gem a breeze.
Unfortunately, the little shops were closed due to a sudden snowstorm that swept in unexpectedly, adding a touch of unpredictability to your travel experience.
Christmas Market In Nuremberg
This morning, we took the regional train from Munich to Nuremberg, which was very enjoyable. This Christmas market dates back to the 16th century. Feast on mulled wine and bratwurst after indulging in gingerbread as you walk the rows of stalls.
Nuremberg’s gingerbread, a sweet and spicy treat with a history of over 600 years, is a unique culinary delight. Its ingredients, including almonds, cinnamon, and other spices, are sourced from the many forests surrounding the city, providing the natural honey that gives it its distinct flavour.
Today, Nuremberg’s gingerbread comes in various forms, from giant heart shapes to cookies coated with icing or chocolate. While the city’s gingerbread is a must-try, travellers can also explore the diverse range of varieties available in Europe’s markets.
Since then, the 180 wooden stalls decorated with red and white canvas have offered traditional wares such as handmade Christmas decorations and culinary treats. Stroll through the festively lighted lanes between the stalls and discover the enchantment of the unique atmosphere.
Walking around the old town, we saw beautiful architecture.
The city offers visitors many things, including the rebuilt Nuremberg Castle and the world-famous gingerbread at Hauptmarkt. Hansel and Gretel would have loved this place.
Visitors can expect to be entertained by live music, carols, and a visit from the show’s star, Santa Claus. So, gather your loved ones and prepare for a magical Christmas in Nuremberg!
**Erbach Palace (Schloss Erbach)
One market behind Erbach Palace is lovely. All the crafts are handmade and unique. There is an entrance fee, but it is worth it. This place is not very big, but oh! Beautiful.
Erbach Palace is a palace in Erbach im Odenwald and the seat of the Count of Erbach. It was initially built in the Middle Ages, but most buildings today date back to the early 18th century. The palace houses the extensive antique collection of Franz, Count of Erbach-Erbach.
**Bring your bag
Shopping is undoubtedly one of your main motivations for visiting the Nuremberg Christmas Market, so don’t forget to bring something to carry your goodies in! Most stalls will only have small envelopes/bags or wrap their goods up for you but not give you a big tote to carry them around.
Regensburg Christmas Market
Our final Christmas Market. We took another train this morning for Regensburg, Germany.
Coming out of the train station, we passed an old church. Walking through the streets, we spent a day in this lovely town. There was so much to see and learn about the history of amazing bridges, as well as Beautiful Christmas markets.
Regensburg is one of Germany’s oldest towns. Today, many flock to see the wonderful, intact old city and its many medieval structures. The Regensburg Cathedral (or Dom St. Peter) is one of southern Germany’s finest examples of Gothic architecture.
The market is a great place to experience the warm hospitality and traditional Bavarian culture that has been celebrated for centuries.
In addition, the city has many shops for shopping and strolling, and many cozy cafes and restaurants invite you to linger.
Regensburg has a total of 4 Christmas Markets, all within a 20-minute walk radius.
Each market is different and has something special to offer, so there is no excuse not to visit all of them!
Let's wrap up our trip to the Christmas Markets in Europe
As our last day approaches, we are filled with mixed emotions. We are thrilled to have experienced all the beauty and wonder of the Christmas markets but sad that our time here is ending.
Throughout our stay, we have delighted in the sights and sounds of the magical holiday season, from the twinkling lights to the delicious treats. We have shopped for unique and handmade gifts for our loved ones and have sampled local specialties that have delighted our taste buds. It has been a remarkable journey filled with unforgettable memories we will cherish forever.
We are grateful for the opportunity to have visited these markets, and we will carry the warmth and joy of this holiday season with us as we return home.
I was a bit disappointed that not everything was handmade. I could find the exact glass balls at Michael’s store in Canada.
Pretty much every kiosk has the same things: tree decorations, hot wine, gingerbread cookies, etc..… but they all have something different and magical.
The weather was not too bad (-5 or so), but the wind was cold, so it was good that we came prepared.
One day, I will return to visit all those beautiful places in spring or fall.
We left for Munich airport. What a nice, modern, and huge airport. What are you waiting for to Visit Christmas in Europe?!
What to buy at the Christmas Markets
Christmas decorations and hand-made presents.
Viennese snow globes.
Handicrafts and holiday (or general household) decor are among the top Christmas market souvenirs!
Nutcrackers, Linen, Wood carving.
I particularly love gingerbread cookies and the most addictive treat on the market – Sugared nuts!
These are a few to look for….
Our Hotels
Hotel Jedermann
Bayerstrasse 95, Munich, Germany32
Phone 089-543240
Email [email protected]
It has an impressive, beautiful, traditional atmosphere, a charming hotel with comfortable rooms, and a delicious complimentary breakfast a la carte or buffet. The hotel is convenient for both the train station and the city center.
It is not far from the old town. Many attractions can be found within walking distance.
Parking, Free Wi-Fi, Pets allowed, Non-smoking rooms, a 24-hour front desk, a Bar, and excellent service.
They told us to call directly instead of going through hotel.com; they will give us a discount at the hotel.
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**Are you looking for travel resources to plan your trip? Click Here.
Hannong Hotel, Strasbourg
The Hannong Hotel is located in the heart of Strasbourg, just a 5-minute walk from the TGV train station, the Petite France district, and the Cathedral.
It offers free Wi-Fi access.
The Hannong’s guest rooms are air-conditioned and soundproofed. They have hardwood floors, European-designed furniture, satellite TV, and a private bathroom with a bath or shower.
Hannong’s breakfast room serves a breakfast buffet every morning. It includes hot drinks, handmade bread and French pastries, local products, jams, and juices.
Guests can enjoy a drink at the wine bar in the glass-ceiling salon or on the large terrace.
Hotel Hannong is just 100 m from the Tramway Central Station, Place de l’Homme de Fer. Strasbourg Train Station is a 9-minute walk from the property.
They Speak English, French and more.
Remember
**remember that the Markets are not for bargains or low prices.
**The merchandise at the stalls is geared towards what tourists buy, and there are too many that sell the same thing.
**Their main purpose for the Munchers is not to shop- it’s to hang out, eat and drink.
**The famous Christmas Markets begin 27th November to 24th December.
**There is so much to see, but not enough time for one day.
**Dress warm; the wind is pretty cold.
These are such gorgeous places to visit at Christmas. I dream of visiting lots of these European destinations – especially at the holidays.
It is very beautiful and magical ,I am going back in two weeks
Cool Christmas markets! I particularly love to visit the Strasbourg market with my girlfriend.
Strabourg is very beautiful to visit.
Thanks for sharing!
It is one of my dreams to go to Germany or Austria to see Christmas Markets!
I saw something similar at the end of the season in Hungary, but it was not the same.
It is magical. I am going back in 2 weeks to visit more places
So cool! I love the wooden figures from Strasbourg
I’ve always wanted to spend the holiday’s in Europe. It seems so magical, like a Lifetime movie. The holiday parks have a big part. in that feel.
This looks so amazing! I’ve always wanted to visit the Christmas markets but I didn’t realize there were so many in Europe. I’m definitely adding some of these to my must see list.
We are going again this December,too many nice places to visit!!
Love this! A European Christmas has been on my bucket list for awhile!
We are going back this december to vivit more places
Definitely a bucket list item for me!!
Wow! One day I will go and visit. Beautiful pictures