Tinsel, treats and traditions
Unwrap the magic of 10 European cities and their marvellous Christmas markets
6 min read
Get ready to sleigh your way through Europe’s most enchanting Christmas markets! Whether you’re a mulled wine enthusiast, a festive food lover, or simply on the hunt for the perfect holiday gift, we’ve got the ultimate guide for you. From Klagenfurt’s glittering streets to Nuremberg’s traditional stalls, we’re unwrapping 10 magical cities that know how to do Christmas right.
Picture twinkling lights, the scent of roasted chestnuts in the air and cosy corners brimming with handcrafted treasures. So bundle up and join us on this yuletide journey – who knows what festive surprises await?
Prague
Prague during Christmas is like stepping into a real-life fairy tale – but with more mulled wine! The Old Town Square, or Staroměstské náměstí for those who love a tongue-twister, becomes the star of the show with its towering Christmas tree and shimmering lights. Gothic towers rise into the frosty sky, while the smell of freshly baked Trdelník (that delicious cinnamon-sugar pastry) swirls through the air. It’s a feast for all the senses – you can almost hear the city whispering festive secrets as you wander from stall to stall.
And speaking of stalls, the Old Town Square Christmas Market is the place to start your adventure. Set against the backdrop of Prague’s iconic landmarks, it’s the perfect spot to kick off your day of Christmas shopping (or just admiring handmade bohemian crafts). After that, why not take a quick stroll down to the Wenceslas Square Market? Between the hot Svíčková (hearty Czech beef stew) and endless cups of mulled wine, you’ll stay warm no matter how chilly the night gets.
Salzburg
When Salzburg steps into the festive glow of late November, it’s as if the entire city takes on a starring role in its very own Christmas movie. Twinkling lights, the smell of roasted chestnuts, and the sweet notes of mulled wine fill the air, making it nearly impossible not to feel as though you’ve stumbled into a winter wonderland. And where better to start your yuletide adventure than at the Salzburg Christkindlmarkt at Dom- and Residenzplatz? This is no ordinary market – it’s one of the world’s oldest, dating back to the 15th century, and it shows off with rows of charming huts, glittering ornaments, and enough festive cheer to make even the Grinch smile.
Families will love the Advent Magic at Hellbrunn Palace, where the entire façade turns into a giant advent calendar. Yes, you read that right – a giant advent calendar! Plus, over 700 Christmas trees are decked out with sparkling baubles and fairy lights, turning the courtyard into a festive forest. For those who want to combine a bit of culture with their Christmas spirit, the Christmas Museum on Mozartplatz offers a cosy escape from the winter chill, with exhibits that delve into the many traditions of the season.
Dresden
As the oldest Christmas market in Germany, the Striezelmarket has been delighting visitors since 1434. But it’s not just its long history that makes it special – oh no! The Striezelmarket boasts the world’s largest Erzgebirge step pyramid, standing a dazzling 14.61 meters tall and an enormous walk-in Schwibbogen that glows more brightly than the Northern Lights.
But the Striezelmarket isn’t just about spectacle. It’s a feast for the senses in every way – especially when it comes to food! From the legendary Dresdner Stollen, packed with candied fruit and dusted with powdered sugar, to glazed apples and steaming mugs of mulled wine, there’s something to satisfy every festive craving. After all, this market gets its name from the iconic Striezel, or Stollen, making it a veritable heaven for pastry lovers.
And let’s not forget the handcrafted treasures that line the stalls. Dresden’s Striezelmarket is a showcase for traditional Erzgebirge woodcraft, where Nutcrackers, Räuchermännchen and exquisitely carved Christmas decorations take pride of place. Whether you’re admiring the intricate lacework of the Lausitz region or the delicate ceramic wares from Saxony, you’re sure to find something that brings a bit of that Striezelmarket magic home with you.
Klagenfurt
If you’ve never experienced Christmas in Klagenfurt, get ready for a festive delight like no other! The Renaissance old town transforms into a captivating winter scene that even Santa would envy. Sparkling lights, cosy market stalls, and the tempting scent of roasted chestnuts fill the air, making the Christkindlmarkt on Neuer Platz a highlight of the season. But this market has a unique twist – it’s watched over by Klagenfurt’s legendary Lindwurm statue. A dragon standing guard over Christmas? It’s like something out of a fairytale, though with more mulled wine and less fire-breathing!
Wander through the illuminated streets like 10. Oktober Straße and Kramergasse, where festive cheer spills over from shop windows and market stalls. Whether you’re shopping for handcrafted trinkets or just soaking in the atmosphere, the glowing streets offer the perfect backdrop for a bit of retail therapy – or as we like to call it, ‘Santa prep’.
For those seeking a bit more adventure, the Wörthersee Advent boat cruise is a must-do. This special advent liner connects the markets around the lake, offering a magical way to explore the region’s Christmas charm. And for something truly quirky, don’t miss the Krampuslauf – a thrilling and slightly eerie parade of Krampuses, guaranteed to add a touch of excitement to your holiday. But fear not, it’s all in good fun! Klagenfurt at Christmas is where tradition blends with a dash of twinkling modern magic, offering something for everyone, from peaceful carol-singers to bold dragon selfie-takers.
Budapest
Budapest transforms into a winter wonderland every festive season, with Christmas markets that sprout up like mushrooms after a rainstorm, mainly in the vibrant Pest district. At the heart of this enchanting atmosphere lies the famous Vörösmarty Square Market, where over 100 charming wooden stalls entice visitors with the aroma of hearty goulash and the warm embrace of mulled wine. This market, a beloved tradition since 1998, is like a holiday feast for the senses, offering everything from artisanal crafts to the finest Hungarian wines. And let’s not forget about the St. Stephen’s Basilica Market, a stone’s throw away, where you can skate on the ice rink while marveling at the magical light shows projected onto the basilica’s grand façade – because nothing says “Merry Christmas” like a bit of festive laser action!
As you wander through these delightful markets, be sure to treat your taste buds to some local delicacies. Indulge in a steaming bowl of halászlé (fish soup) or tuck into some juicy grill sausages, paired with a glass of Bikavér (Bull’s Blood) wine. And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try a shot of pálinka, the local fruit brandy that packs a punch? With live music wafting through the air and beautifully decorated stalls, all of the markets in Budapest create a cheerful hub of activity that makes even the grinchiest of visitors crack a smile.
Augsburg
Nuremberg
Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt is practically the crown jewel of festive traditions – and it’s been shining brightly for centuries! Imagine rows of wooden stalls, each brimming with hand-carved Christmas trinkets and the sweet aroma of freshly baked gingerbread. It’s like stepping into Santa’s workshop, except the only work is browsing through at all the lovely stalls selling traditional nutcrackers, twinkling stars and those iconic Zwetschgenmännle (adorable little figures made of prunes).
But it’s not just for the adults – oh no! The kids have their own winter wonderland too. At the Kinderweihnacht (Children’s Christmas), they can bake their own cookies, decorate glasses or spin round on a nostalgic carousel. Meanwhile, the Sternenhaus offers a cosy corner for storytelling and if you’re lucky, you might even catch the famous Christkind welcoming everyone with its magical prologue, reminding us all to rediscover our inner child.
Not to mention the Partnerstädte market, where cities from across the globe showcase their holiday traditions, offering a glimpse of how Christmas is celebrated far and wide.
Nuremberg’s Christmas magic has been casting its spell since 1628 and let’s be honest – they’ve pretty much nailed the formula. Whether you’re hunting for a last-minute gift, munching on some tasty bratwurst or simply soaking in the holiday vibes, there’s no better place to get into the festive spirit. So, grab your scarf and gloves, and let the Christkindlesmarkt charm you into the best Christmas mood.
Graz
Ah, Graz at Christmas – where the city transforms into a twinkling wonderland and the festive spirit takes on a life of its own. They call it the fifth season and trust us, it’s like Graz has been waiting all year to throw on its best winter coat and dazzle you with holiday charm. The best part? All the Christmas markets are just a jolly stroll apart, so you can meander from one to the next without missing a beat, or a cup of punch.
Up on the Schlossberg (Advent stroll train), the Aufsteirern Christmas market is like stepping into a cosy, festive living room, but with way better views. Traditional Styrian treats and beautiful handmade crafts are served up alongside the magical vibe. And if you’re feeling fancy, hop on the Schlossbergbahn for an entrance fit for Santa himself.
Back down in the heart of the city, the Christkindlmarkt on Hauptplatz sparkles right in front of the city hall. Picture a whole village springing up just for Christmas, complete with a carousel for the little ones and a warm Beerenfeuer (berry fire drink) to melt the winter chill. You’ll find Engelspiel performances and endless festive treats to satisfy your Christmas cravings. It’s Graz at its merriest!
A little insider tip: the ice nativity scene in the historic Landhaus courtyard is sure to inspire you. Renowned Finnish ice artist Kimmo Frosti and his international team of ice carvers transform over 33.3 tonnes of crystal-clear ice into a unique work of art. After dusk, the ice cot is beautifully illuminated with atmospheric lighting.
Leipzig
With origins tracing back to the 15th century, the Christmas market in Leipzig is a grand celebration, featuring around 300 stalls filled with delights that draw in over two million visitors each year.
As you stroll through the charming old town, the warm glow of festive lights illuminates the beautiful historic buildings, while the irresistible aromas of gingerbread and mulled wine waft through the air. One of the main attractions is the magnificent mountain parade, in which over 450 people in traditional costume, accompanied by 200 Erzgebirge musicians, create an unforgettable atmosphere.
Families can have fun in the fairytale forest, where stories are brought to life, or let their creativity run wild in the gnome workshop. And those looking for an exciting view should not miss the 38 metre high Ferris wheel, which offers a spectacular panorama of the city. Leipzig shines in all its splendour during the Christmas season.
Vienna
From mid-November until Christmas, Vienna’s most beautiful squares are transformed into a festive wonderland. The sweet smell of gingerbread, roasted almonds and hot punch fills the air, while the whole city sparkles with lights.
In the Christmas World on Rathausplatz, you are greeted by a tall archway decorated with candles, inviting you into a world of festive delights. From handmade jewellery to tasty treats and mulled wine, this market is the perfect place to indulge in a little Christmas magic. And if you fancy a spin on the ice, the Eistraum with its shimmering ice rink that winds its way through the beautifully illuminated Rathauspark is just the place for you. Lovers should not miss the Herzerlbaum – a tree lit up with heart-shaped lights – for the perfect romantic moment.
But Vienna’s Christmas charm doesn’t stop there! On Maria-Theresien-Platz, there are 70 stalls selling arts and crafts and unusual gift ideas, nestled between two of the city’s most famous museums. The Christmas market at Schönbrunn Palace offers a touch of imperial splendour, where you can browse for handmade decorations against a royal backdrop and enjoy the enchanting atmosphere.
For those who prefer something a little more unusual, the Art Advent on Karlsplatz with its environmentally friendly approach and certified organic delicacies is just the thing. A real insider tip is the market at Belvedere Palace, which offers a peaceful retreat in the midst of Vienna’s baroque splendour.
In Vienna, the Christmas spirit can really be felt everywhere – from the quiet corners of the parks to the lively, festively decorated streets. A place where even Scrooge would sing a song or two!
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