The Magic of European Christmas Markets
I consider myself a European Christmas Market aficionado. I have visited over 100 Christmas Markets in Europe, spanning 9 countries and 18 cities! I went for the first time in 2018 after an executive producer of mine told me about them, and I have tried to visit a different country (or three) almost every December since!
I know that dropping everything to travel in early to mid-December is not ideal for most people. It’s smack in the middle of the chaos of holiday parties and Christmas shopping, but I highly recommend finding a way to get on a plane to experience Europe at Christmas at least once in your lifetime.
European Christmas Markets emanate culture and tradition in magical ways that are truly unlike anywhere else in the world. They add even more charm to already irresistibly charming European cities. The markets date back to the Late Middle Ages (1400s) and remain the centerpiece of the advent season there.
Every December giant squares and castle courtyards are transformed into dazzling Christmas villages where the crisp winter air is filled with the scent of mulled wines, sizzling sausages, melted cheeses, roasting chestnuts and sugary delights.
Lights twinkle at every turn and festive Ferris wheels scrape the skies alongside spires of ancient churches, belltowers and other historic buildings. Masterfully decorated wood chalets cover the cobblestone streets and ice rinks flank famous fountains.
They are a place where locals gather after work to warm their bellies and catch up with friends and where savvy tourists can get a taste of local delicacies and shop for handmade gifts from regional artisans. Most of the markets have their very own custom keepsake mug! It’s a special time to travel abroad.
My Christmas Market adventures are by far the trips I get the most questions about on my social media, so I am excited to share my favorites with you! Let me know if you have any specific questions in the comments section below!
Salzburg, Austria’s main Christmas Market
Hi Lauren,
My wife and I really enjoy following your travels and would love to visit the Christmas markets of Europe. With 2 kids time away is a challenge. Any suggestions on a Christmas Market that is somewhat quick and easy to get to for long weekend in mid November or early December?
Appreciate any suggestions
Thanks Ben
Hi Ben! For a long weekend I would recommend London, Amsterdam or Copenhagen. Smaller cities that have direct flights are key so you can really see a lot. If you’re bringing your kids Copenhagen is great because you can take them to Tivoli Gardens. The markets are always packed on the weekends – as you would expect – so that is also something to take into consideration.
Hi Lauren! Do you recommend any European markets that are open after Christmas? I work in a school so I can’t take off in early December but have more time that usual after the holiday off. Hoping the magic is still happening then. Looking forward to hearing more about your favorite ones. Great seeing your travels this month!
Hi Jess! If you can leave immediately after Christmas Vienna and Salzburg have a few that stay open until the new year (and beyond). I would look into those and see if you can make it work. I loved both cities. Germany and Eastern France are home to some of my other favorites but they seem to close around Christmas. If I see anything else I will circle back. The markets do open in mid-late November if that’s ever an option for you.