DanckTravel

Ho ho ho! It’s that time of year when Michael Bublé slithers out of his cave and the thigh slap from the ‘Mean Girls’ rendition of ‘Jingle Bell Rock’ can be heard around the world. 

If you were expecting a sweet, wholesome post that did not include one too many Mean Girl references, then allow me to quote the fabulous ✨JoJo ✨.

🎶Get out (leave) right now🎶

🎶It’s the end of you and me🎶

🎶It’s too late (now) and I can’t wait for you to be gone🎶

You don’t want to be here, and I don’t think I want you here. 

If you are here and onboard with the references so far, then honey, let me take this moment to tell you, it is time to add retinol to your PM skincare routine.  

Look at that, you came here for travel tips and you’re leaving with skincare tips as well. 

I am keeping you young and educated. 

YOU ARE WELCOME. 

But, let’s get back to Christmas.

The countdown to Christmas is officially on, and if you’re anything like us, you’re already planning your festive travels – for either this year or (if you’re really like us) for next year! And what better way to get into the holiday spirit than by visiting some of the best Christmas markets in Europe? From traditional food to quirky gifts, these markets have something for everyone. So grab your mittens, tuck in your scarf, and let’s explore the winter wonderlands of Europe!

Strasbourg, France: Christkindelsmärik

Known as the “Capital of Christmas,” Strasbourg boasts one of the oldest and most picturesque Christmas markets in Europe. The city’s well-preserved medieval architecture serves as a stunning backdrop to the festivities and to your next attempt at mimicking a TikTok dance.  Your knees may crack during the dance, but at least you’ll have a great setting for it! 

Getting to Strasbourg

• You have some options! And we love that in a destination:
  • Train: Strasbourg is easily accessible by train from major European cities from the main Strasbourg station. 
  • Airport: The Strasbourg Airport (SXB) is also well-connected.

Things to Do in Strasbourg:

• Visit the Strasbourg Cathedral
• Explore La Petite France
• Take a boat tour along the Ill River

An Overview of the Strasbourg Christmas Market:

Christkindelsmärik is located in the heart of Strasbourg’s Old Town. Open from late November to late December, it features over 300 stalls, offering crafts, local treats, and a festive atmosphere.

Not sure where to start? Don’t worry, I’m low-key used to your habit of bringing nothing to the table. You keep bringing your garbage, and I’ll keep providing you with things to do.  This totally doesn’t feel one sided at all.

Besides the stalls, there are some other highlights for you to check out:

• Ice Rink: Looking to live a little dangerously? Why not go ice skating! I put this as a danger zone activity, because I have a fear of ice skates. 
  
  I put the fear up there with my fear of the Bermuda Triangle, Quicksand and the ticks that give you a red meat allergy.  Why do I fear it? Idk, something about shoe knives possibly running over me after I’ve fallen.  Very reasonable fear tbh. If you see me trying to ice skate, call my mom and have her come get me. 

• Carousels and Entertainment: Enjoy carousels, street performances, and live music scattered throughout the market.

Nuremberg, Germany – Nürnberger Christkindlesmarkt:

Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt is renowned for its festive atmosphere and traditional charm. The medieval Old Town provides a magical setting for this historic market.

Getting There to Nuremberg:

• Train: DB Lounge Nürnberg Hbf is the main railway station, easily accessible from major German cities and other cities in Europe
• Airport: Nuremberg Airport is about 5 km north of the city center.

Things to Do in Nuremberg:

• Visit the Imperial Castle
• Explore the charming Old Town
• Learn about history at the Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds

About the Nuremberg Christmas Market

The Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt is situated in the heart of the city’s Old Town, centered around the Hauptmarkt (Main Market Square). 

If you get lost trying to find it, I can’t help you more than giving you the Google maps link and recommending you just follow the groups of people. 
This is my go to trick when getting to a sports game in Boston, MA and I can’t remember which train I want.  I followed the hoard of sport jerseys, you should follow the hoard of thirsty people hunting for Glühwein.
The square is surrounded by iconic medieval architecture, including the Frauenkirche and the beautiful Schöner Brunnen fountain.

Oh you need some highlights to convince you to go? Well, you don’t have to ask twice:

• Christkind: The market is opened each year by the Christkind, a young woman dressed in gold and white, who remains a symbol of the Nuremberg Christmas Market.  
• Traditional Crafts: Visitors can explore the Handwerkerhof, a separate area dedicated to traditional artisan crafts and workshops.
• Prune People: Keep an eye out for the famous Nuremberg “Zwetschgenmännle” or prune people, intricately crafted figures made from dried plums.  I am easily mistaken as one of these figures when I finally crawl my warm body out of a hot tub. 

 Vienna, Austria – Wiener Christkindlmarkt:

Vienna transforms into a festive paradise during the holiday season. The Wiener Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz is a central highlight.

Getting There to Vienna:

• Train: Hauptbahnhof Wien is a major railway hub, connecting Vienna with various European cities.
• Airport: Vienna International Airport (VIE) is about 18 km southeast of the city center.

Things to Do in Vienna:

• Visit Schönbrunn Palace
• Explore Belvedere Palace

About the Christmas Marketing in Vienna

Wiener Christkindlmarkt, is hosted at Rathausplatz, the square in front of the stunning Rathaus. The market extends along the adjacent City Hall Park, creating a festive atmosphere against the backdrop of the illuminated neo-Gothic architecture.

Yeah, yeah, I know, you want those highlights:

• Ice World: Rathausplatz transforms into a winter wonderland with an expansive ice rink and ice path for skating enthusiasts.  You already know my feelings on ice skating, but hey, GO NUTS. 
• Traditional Treats: From chestnuts roasting on open fires to traditional Austrian sweets like Maroni and Gebrannte Mandeln (roasted almonds), the market is a feast for the senses. I am basically one treat away from being your best friend, so you really shouldn’t be surprised that I am interested in the food side of these markets.  

• Artist Stalls: Who doesn’t love supporting small businesses and picking up thoughtful gifts at the same time? A gift for your sister and then might as well buy a gift for yourself as well!

Prague, Czech Republic – Pražský vánoční trh:

Prague’s Christmas markets, set against the stunning backdrop of the Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square, exude a fairytale charm.

Getting to Prague

• Train: The Main Train Station of Prague is easily accessible from major European cities.
• Airport: Václav Havel Airport Prague (PRG) is approximately 17 km west of the city center.

Things to Do in Prague:

• Explore Prague Castle
• Walk across Charles Bridge

About the Christmas Market in Prague

Prague’s Christmas Markets are set in two main locations: the Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square. Both squares are connected by a charming walk through Pařížská ulice (Parizska Street), lined with luxury shops.
I get it. You’re here for the highlights: 

• Old Town Square: The heart of the market, featuring a giant Christmas tree, a Nativity scene, and a stage for cultural performances.
• Wenceslas Square: Known for its festive food stalls, offering Trdelník (a traditional Czech pastry) and hearty Czech cuisine.  I cannot stress enough how much I go to places for food. I love food. 
• Artist Stalls: I should mention here as well, another good way to get me to a market is different artisanal stalls. I love supporting a small business. 

Brussels, Belgium: Winter Wonders

The city’s Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site, transforms into a breathtaking spectacle during Christmas, with its opulent guildhalls adorned in a dazzling light display.

Getting to Brussels

• Train: Centraal station is located in the center of the city near the Grand Place. The station connects to many other European cities.
• Airport: Airport Zaventem is very connected to the city center.  You can either hop on the train for 20 mins (between US $9.30 to US $16 for a one way journey), take the bus for 30-40 minutes or book a taxi (around US $50, but could be more).    

Things to Do in Brussels: 

• Visit the Grand Place
• Explore the Atomium

About the Christmas Marketing in Brussels

Winter Wonders transforms Brussels into a winter wonderland from late November to early January. With over 200 stalls, an ice rink (yes, we already know my feelings on this, so I can only half-heartedly recommend this), and a light show, you can’t go wrong!
Unless you go ice skating. 

Budapest, Hungary: Budapest Christmas Fair

Budapest, Hungary’s capital, sits on the banks of the Danube River.  The city has amazing architecture, and weaves its history with modern elements. At Christmas, Budapest transforms into a winter wonderland, decorated with festive lights and beautiful markets. 

Getting to Budapest

• Train: Budapest-Keleti is the largest of the three stations in Budapest and about 2 miles from the city center. This station connects to other major European cities. 
• Airport: Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) serves the city.  You can take the Bus 100E which is an express bus from the airport to the city center that takes about 40 minutes. Currently, there are no trains that run between the airport and the city center. 

Things to Do in Budapest

• Relax in the Széchenyi Thermal Bath
• Visit Fisherman’s Bastion
• Cruise along the Danube River

About the Budapest Christmas Markets

It looks like Budapest has two markets (both are very close to each other):

• Christmas Fair Vorosmarty Square: This fair takes place in Vörösmarty tér from mid-November to late December. It offers handmade crafts, local delicacies, and a festive atmosphere. There’s apparently a wine tasting, so you know I will be booking that next year. 
• Christmas Market by Basilica:  This market takes place right in front of the St. Stephen’s Basilica, which is one of the biggest churches in Hungary. Lots of artisanal stalls, food, and another ice skating rink to visit!

Esslingen am Neckar, Germany: Esslingen Medieval Christmas Market

We have just been through a journey of my plans for Christmas in 2024! Now we’ll take some time to look at a market I did get a chance to visit; Esslingen! 

Nestled in the heart of the Swabian region, Esslingen transforms into a winter wonderland during Christmas. The Esslingen Medieval Christmas Market, one of the oldest in Europe, takes visitors on a journey through time.

Getting to Esslingen

• Train: The Esslingen (Neckar) station is easily accessible with the SBahn.  It’s a quick walk over to the city center.  
• Airport: The nearest airport is Stuttgart Airport (STR) (14km away), but you will still need to reach Esslingen by train or car.  The Stuttgart Airport is on the smaller side, so flights may not be as convenient here.  

Things to Do in Esslingen:

• Explore Esslingen’s charming Old Town
• Visit the Esslingen Burg (castle, and get ready to walk 300+ steps to get to the top)
• Taste some wine
• Take a stroll along the Neckar River

About the Christmas Market in Esslingen

The Esslingen Medieval Christmas Market is a unique and enchanting experience. Held in the historic Old Town, this market takes you back in time with medieval-themed stalls and performances. Vendors are dressed in period outfits, and there are several games and traditional crafts that are focused on the medieval times.

Open from late November to late December, the market features over 200 stalls, with more modern stalls as well.  There’s food, music and so much more to explore at this market. 

Heidelberg, Germany

Oh, you were only expecting 7 markets, but then were gifted an extra one? My, my are you blessed like Glen Coco is with candy canes.

Nestled along the picturesque Neckar River, Heidelberg’s Christmas Market, known as Heidelberger Weihnachtsmarkt, is spread across the city’s historic Old Town, primarily located in the Marktplatz (Market Square) and the area surrounding the Church of the Holy Spirit.

Getting to Heidelberg

• Train: Heidelberg Hauptbahnhof is the main train station, and the Old Town is easily accessible by foot or public transportation.
• Airport: The nearest major airport is Frankfurt Airport, and from there, a direct train to Heidelberg is available.

Things to Do in Heidelberg

KDancks has written a great post with a full Heidelberg Travel Guide! Check the post out for some ideas.

About the Christmas Market in Heidelberg

Heidelberg’s Christmas Market adds a touch of magic to the city’s romantic atmosphere, with plenty to do. There’s live entertainment, good food and lots of craft stalls to browse.

Jealous of our 2024 plans? We are too! 

Comment below if you have been to any of these markets and what you would recommend!  

Are we missing a market?  Comment below with the markets we should include in this travel guide as well. 

Get in, loser. We have Christmas markets to visit.

FAQs for Visiting Christmas Markets in Europe

What should I wear?

Dress warmly! European winters can be cold, so bring layers, a good coat, scarf, and gloves. Comfortable, waterproof footwear is essential, especially if there’s snow.  Glühwein will only get you so far.  I had quite a few layers on so I more so looked like a marshmallow then an actual person. 

How do I navigate the markets?

Seriously. It is 2023, you are a strong, independent person who should be able to put 2+2 together here.  Either pick up a map from the tourist center (literally every city has one and 9/10 the people in there are VERY FRIENDLY. More so than me, so go bother them) or use Google Maps. A lot of markets will have signs, so you can also use those to navigate, or just walk around a look!

What’s the best time to visit?

Visit in the early evening when the markets are illuminated, and the atmosphere is at its best. As it gets later, you’ll find the markets become more crowded.  

Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends. 

If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, visit the markets on weekdays and during the early hours. Late mornings or early afternoons are generally less crowded than evenings.

Are the markets open on Christmas Day?

Christmas Day is often a public holiday, and many markets may be closed. Check the specific market’s schedule in advance.

What type of currency should I use?

Having some cash of the local currency is always smart to have as some smaller stalls may only take cash.  I used both my card and cash when visiting the Esslingen market and did not run into any issues. 

How much cash should I bring?

It depends on your spending habits, but having a mix of cash and cards is advisable. I went with about 100 Euros in cash and mostly used that for food/drink purchases.  The stalls where I purchased goods accepted my card.  

Are prices negotiable?

Prices are typically fixed, especially for handmade goods. However, you can try negotiating with vendors for bulk purchases or if you’re buying from multiple stalls.

What local foods should I try?

ALL OF THEM. Don’t miss the opportunity to try local specialties like mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, gingerbread cookies, and various regional holiday treats.

Are there vegetarian/vegan options?

Many Christmas markets offer a variety of food options, including vegetarian and vegan choices. We did see a few vegetarian/vegan options in Esslingen, but these were not my main goal. I was looking for a bratwurst and something covered in cheese. 

What souvenirs are popular?

Handcrafted ornaments, local crafts, festive decorations, and seasonal treats make for wonderful souvenirs/christmas gifts.  

Can I take photos?

In most cases, it’s perfectly fine to take photos. However, be respectful and ask for permission if you’re taking close-up shots of individuals.

Do the markets close in case of bad weather?

Christmas markets generally stay open in light rain or snow, but extreme weather conditions may lead to closures. Check the weather forecast and market updates before heading out.

Do Christmas markets have public restrooms?

Most Christmas markets provide public restrooms. Some may charge a small fee, so it’s a good idea to have some coins on hand.

Is there an entrance fee for Christmas markets?

Most Christmas markets are free to enter. However, some special events or attractions within the market may have a separate admission fee.

What’s the best way to learn about the market’s entertainment schedule?

Check the market’s official website or information booths for a schedule of events, including live music, performances, and other entertainment.

Are Christmas markets wheelchair accessible?

Accessibility varies, but many Christmas markets take steps to accommodate visitors with disabilities. Check in advance for information on ramps, elevators, and accessible facilities.

Can I buy tickets for attractions in advance?

For certain attractions within the market, you may be able to purchase tickets in advance online. Check the market’s website for details.

How do I get to the Christmas markets?

Public transportation is often the easiest way to reach Christmas markets in city centers. Plan your route in advance, and consider using a taxi or rideshare service if needed.