The Magic of European Christmas Markets
Many cities throughout the holiday period will set up market stalls in their town square for people looking to buy Christmas gifts, get a warm drink with their friends, or just peruse. In the markets I’ve visited, I’ve seen everything from warm crepes with Nutella and strawberries to Italian ornaments. Each location has specific delicacies that are traditional to the culture. Germany typically sells gingerbread, mulled wine, and pretzels. Italy sells hot nuts, biscotti, and candles, and Austria sells chimney cakes (a sweet hollow cylinder of pastry) which are absolutely delicious. Christmas markets are a great way to learn more about local traditions, foods, and crafts. Many of them throughout Europe have German influences, where the idea originated. They take place the few weeks leading up to the 25th, starting as early as the first week of November, depending on the market.
Top European Christmas Markets:
Germany:
Nuremberg: famous for gingerbread and handmade ornaments
Cologne: beautiful location with cathedral backdrop, ice-skating rink
Munich: vast market spanning multiple blocks with prime location in front of the Rathaus-Glockenspiel (a beautiful building with a giant clock that rings for around 15 minutes twice a day)
Austria:
Vienna: elegant, traditional, and festive atmosphere in front of the famous city hall
Salzburg: a quaint market in the town square with a giant Christmas tree (perfect for The Sound Of Music lovers)
France:
Strasbourg: this town, known as the “Capital of Christmas” all year round is perfect for a winter getaway, with beautiful timber houses and market stalls
Czech Republic:
Prague: with whimsical markets throughout the city center, this city offers the chance to visit multiple areas and explore. Many markets are aimed towards local Czech people, which is a great opportunity to try traditional foods or buy gifts.
Italy:
Florence: This was my local Christmas market when I studied abroad. I stopped by every day after school in December to pick up spiced apple cider and a biscotti. It’s located in the famous Piazza Santa Croce.
Verona: While I never got around to making a trip to Verona during Christmas time, many people in my program raved about the markets there. Try a local festive cake, pandoro, or marvel at the giant tree in the center of the market.
Tips for Christmas Markets:
Go early (or late) to avoid crowds: many of these markets can get packed during the day or around dinner time, when people are done with work. It’s best to visit in the morning if possible, or late at night, after the dinner rush. That way, you’ll get the full experience, without having to push through crowds of people. In Munich, we visited the markets right when they opened, and had the whole place to ourselves!
Dress warmly: Most Christmas markets take place outside (in December) so it’s important to dress in tandem with the weather. A hat, gloves, and boots are some staples, and if you’re still cold, there’s always mulled wine.
Bring cash: While cash may seem like an outdated concept, local vendors, especially in smaller cities, might not accept credit cards. Head to an ATM on your way to the market so you’re not in a bind if you find something you like. I found that accepted payments varied from stall to stall: some took credit cards, some didn’t, so it’s best to play it safe and have cash on hand.
Try the local delicacies: You haven’t really visited a Christmas market until you’ve tried the traditional market foods. Most will offer German foods, like bratwurst and pretzels, along with their own country’s foods. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the culture and you may find your new favorite food!
Look for unique vendors: Many stalls offer similar items seen in bulk throughout markets in Europe, like ornaments or wooden toys. At first glance, they may seem special, until you start to notice the same items at different stalls. Many small business owners (artisans, woodworkers, etc) sell handmade, one-of-a-kind, gifts. Ask questions about the items and you’ll be able to tell if the person selling them is an artisan or just trying to make a buck.
European Christmas Markets are more than just a festive destination- they’re a full-blown experience that combines culture, history, and holiday magic. Don’t forget to check out the rest of the town while you’re there too. If there’s one thing I learned while traveling in November and December, it’s that Europeans do Christmas extremely well. Wander the twinkling streets and research other holiday events, like tree lightings and caroling. I guarantee there’s something for everyone. Use this opportunity to see Europe from a different perspective, without as many tourists and high temperatures.