Do you smell that? It's hot spiced wine wafting through the air mixed with roasting sausages and nuts. It's Christmas in Europe which means one of the most festive ways to get into the spirit of the season: Christmas Markets! Ornately decorated stalls nestled together in city squares selling hand painted glass ornaments, seasonal food, and all-around yuletide cheer. Growing up in America (Texas to be exact) I never experienced the magic that is Christmas in Europe.
Now that I've had the pleasure of going to some of the best markets across Europe I'm creating my ultimate guide to the European Christmas Markets! I made it my mission to visit some of the best in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, France, and beyond. I've got you covered for your ultimate guide for the best Christmas markets in Europe.
*Completely updated for 2023!
When it comes to Christmas I always feel like a kid again. But Europe seems to add an extra touch of magic. Walking into the markets is just an overwhelming sense of fun, friends, and happiness. For this itinerary, I'm breaking down the best Christmas markets in Germany, France, Switzerland, Austria and beyond. I've also got a breakdown of what to buy, eat, and I'm showing you a typical route in order to get the most out of your time!
See my picks for the best Christmas markets in Europe and my current Christmas market road trip itinerary!
Munich started one of the first Christmas markets, so it's a shame not to go here. They go out of their way to decorate and even have themed markets, such as their “pink” Christmas market. Bavaria tends to do things just a little bit differently and Munich really takes Christmas up a notch.
If you think the decorations in Strasbourg were elaborate, wait until you get to Colmar. Every building seems to be adorned with lights, ornaments, and even teddy bears! Everywhere you turn is a half-timbered landscape of uneven, multicolored houses. It truly looks more like a doll's playhouse.
My favorite market in Switzerland is not too far from Basel in Lucerne, Switzerland. Situated on the lake, you'll find extravagant displays and some of the best cheeses in the world. All the shops and stores are decked out for the holidays with blankets and sheepskin stools.
Don't miss St. Stephen's and the magnificent church. You really can't miss it, the steeple is that high. Take a walk along Kärtnerstrasse to see the incredible chandeliers. Check out the Altes AKH to see the University campus transformed into a Christmas wonderland. The museum quarter already boasts lovely architecture but it packs an added punch with the market in Maria-Theresa-Platz. This is also a good place to stop and have a traditional strudel.
For an over-the-top market have one outside a palace! Two opportunities for this at Schloss Belvedere and Schönbrunn. Both are beautiful and the palaces only add to the ambiance.
Other great spots for Christmas are London, Nuremberg, Dresden, Paris, Copenhagen, Brussels, Budapest, and Zagreb.
Crepes – If you're in the mood for something sweet this is the perfect Christmas market food. Rolled up with Nutella, cinnamon, sugar, or honey, anyone can get their fill from this simple classic.
Frikadella – One of my favorite foods at the Christmas markets are these hamburgers made with pork. Usually served with onions and mustard they make for the perfect hearty meal. Don't forget to grab some fries or pommes frites!
Candied nuts – the perfect warm Christmas market treat to pop in your mouth as you amble from stall to stall. These fragrant nuts will make you whip your head around as you walk past! You can also try roasted chestnuts aka “maroni” if you'd like as well.
Germknödel – This popular round dumpling is a German classic and usually filled with jam and topped with vanilla cream sauce. It's not overly sweet but a nice addition to your mulled wine.
Glühwein – You cannot go to the Christmas market without glühwein! I'm totally addicted to this hot, mulled wine made with spices. It will keep you warm inside as you drink this sweet liquid. Some markets also serve Feuerzangenbowle which is a mixture of punch and glühwein and topped with a rum-soaked sugar cube then set on fire. Go ahead, order two. If you're alcohol free you can also order kinderpunsch!
See the 25 things you should try at a Christmas Market here!
Everything sheepskin is for sale – gloves, hats, rugs and more.
Keep your glühwein cup as a fun souvenir. If you want to keep with the alcohol trend, many stalls offer liqueurs in pretty bottles that are an excellent gift.
Most markets have their own traditions and things for sale. For example, in Nuremberg they sell dolls made of dates! Most items for sale at Christmas markets are handmade and high quality. You won't necessarily find the cheapest items but you will find something special that will last.
Everyone deserves a winter wonderland break and Europe's Christmas markets make for the perfect magical escape. Christmas markets in Europe are some of the best memories of my life, and I'm already counting down the dates until next year!
Need more Christmas markets? Check out even more posts!
15 Best Christmas Markets in Germany
25 Things to Eat at A German Christmas Market
25 Photos That Will Inspire You To Spend Christmas in Europe
Guide to Heidelberg's Christmas Markets
Best Side Trips for Christmas in Germany
Things to Do in Strasbourg, France at Christmas
Christmas Time in London
My First Christmas Abroad
Here's a handy infographic and brief look at the best of Christmas markets in Europe:
❄️ Europe Packing List Must Haves ❄️
🧥 Coat – A must-have for any winter travel! This one does not disappoint
👖 Thermal Leggings – Keeps you warm all day.
👕 Thermal Undershirt – Added Warmth
🥾 Boots– These keep you comfy and are sturdy enough to wear in the snow
🧦 Wool Socks– keep your feet warm and dry
🧤 Phone Compatible gloves – These work so you can still take pictures of the Christmas lights!
🧳 Luggage – This is my go-to carry-on!
🔌 Universal Adapter – Best for country hopping
👜 Crossbody Bag – The best for keeping you hands free and your stuff safe
☃️ Beanie – A must for keeping warm (and looking cute!)
🔥 Hand warmers – The secret to never being cold!
🧣 Scarf – So key to packing less is to have accessories like scarves to switch it up!
Get my full packing list here!