trip a deal christmas markets

Journey of Doing

7 Christmas Market Trip Itinerary Ideas

Hopefully by now, I’ve convinced you to make your own Christmas market trip to Europe!  Despite the cold, there is nowhere I’d rather celebrate the holiday season than in Europe.  The smell of roasted chestnuts, the warmth of mulled wine, traditional wooden stalls selling beautiful Christmas decor, and glimmering Christmas lights all get me out of our hotel room on the coldest of nights.  That being said, even if the Christmas markets don’t get you going, these Christmas market trip itineraries can help you plan your vacations at any point in the year.

This post is heavily focused on central Europe.  Did you know that Hungary and the Czech Republic are not  considered to be part of Eastern Europe?  Test your knowledge through this  European map quiz .  It’s sure to inspire a whole host of alternate itineraries to try, particularly if you want to experience Eastern Europe destinations.  Estonia, Latvia, and the entire Balkan peninsula are calling to me.

If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out this list of some of the  best European Christmas markets !

Disclosure:  This post contains affiliate links for tours and products I love at no additional cost to you.  You can read my  full disclosure policy here.

Christmas Market Trip Travel Tips

To maximize your trip, I highly suggest that you book an open jaw ticket.  A open jaw ticket is one that arrives in one city and departs from another city.  Typically, I like to choose my two furthest points to minimize any backtracking.  I use Skyscanner to get an idea of what are the cheap travel deals. Using my home airport (DFW) I search to anywhere in Europe.  I also subscribe to Scott’s Cheap Flights and CheapDFW .  Once I know what is on sale, I use ITA Matrix to figure out which flights I want. I use Book with Matrix to find the best deal for my specific flight.

Use Rome2Rio to compare train, bus, and car transportation options.  Trains are usually the most efficient way to travel, but it depends on the size of your group.  In some cases, it might be better to drive.  We’ve done both.  If you’ve never been abroad and you’re not comfortable navigating public transportation, you might want to consider a river cruise, but I promise that you can do this!

Winter in Europe is cold.  I could do a whole packing post on what I’ve learned, but I haven’t done it yet.  My suggestions are to purchase cuddledud base layers that can be layered under leggings or jeans.  I find cashmere sweaters to the best for staying warm.  I have a pair of wool lined waterproof Ugg books that I’ve had for six years.  They keep my feet warm and dry.  Beyond that, you’ll want a scarf, a hat, an ear band, and gloves, too.  I am all about the layering!

One Week Christmas Market Trip Ideas

Classic central europe.

Salzburg, Austria (2 nights)

Vienna, Austria (2 nights)

Prague, Czech Republic (3 nights)

Affordable Central Europe

Munich, Germany (2 nights)

Bratislava, Slovakia (2 nights)

One Week Itinerary for France Christmas Markets

The Alsace wine route is great at any time of year, and it’s perfect for Christmas markets, too!  I recommend flying into Paris and immediately catching a train from Charles de Gaulle to Strasbourg.  We’ve done this Paris to Strasbourg itinerary twice and it’s super easy!  From there, you can rent a car or take the train.  If you opt for the train, I think Strasbourg and Colmar are the best connected.  On the return, you can spend a couple nights in Paris and enjoy their Christmas markets, too.  We’ve spent Christmas in Paris twice and it’s just magical at Christmas time.

Note:  Not all Alsatian Christmas markets are open every day.  You’ll want to check the Alsace Christmas market calendar before making plans, especially for some of the smaller towns in Alsace.  The suggested itinerary below is for markets that stay open consistently, but there are some off the beaten path towns in Alsace that I love!  I would choose Strasbourg or Colmar and then fit together some of the smaller towns based on your own Christmas market trip timing.  (We actually walked from Colmar to the Eguisheim Christmas markets one day.  That might be a little intense, but it’s doable!  

Strasbourg (2 nights)   

Colmar (2 nights)

Paris (3 nights)

10 Day Christmas Market Trip Itineraries

Both of these itineraries will allow you to see some of the most popular Christmas markets in Europe.  Many popular river cruises use some variation of these itineraries, but this will allow you to enjoy seeing the cities at night.  I think they appeal to difference audiences, though I love each of these itineraries equally.  

Don’t miss the incredible ice rink in Slovakia.  It’s one of my favorite memories of our first trip, though I love the ice rink in Salzburg as well.  (I came home from studying abroad with black and blue knees from ice skating!)

Central European Capitals

Budapest, Hungary (3 nights)

Bavarian Christmas Tour

Salzburg, Austria (3 nights)

Nuremberg, Germany (2 nights)

Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany (2 nights)

Munich, Germany (3 nights)

Two Week Christmas Market Trip Itinerary Ideas

This is the first Christmas market trip itinerary that we used, and it is intense.  It’s worth it though.  For me, there was nothing more magical that ending our trip with the big Christmas tree in the middle of Old Town Square.  It felt like my favorite scene in the Nutcracker and I loved every minute of it.

Classic Central Europe Itinerary

Vienna, Austria (2 nights)

Prague, Czech Republic (3 nights)

German Christmas and Central Europe Itinerary

This itinerary flies into and out of Munich.  If your trip will end on or shortly after Christmas Day, I recommend reversing it to end your trip in Salzburg .  On Christmas Eve, you can visit the chapel where Silent Night was first performed .  How’s that for a magical Christmas Eve??

Nuremburg, Germany (2 nights)

Which are the Most Beautiful Christmas Markets?

All of these cities are beautiful in their own right.  There are things I love about all of them.  Nuremberg is the original German Christmas market.  I think Salzburg has the most beautiful views.  Vienna has the most beautiful Christmas lights.  Marienplatz in Munich is one of the most beautiful squares I’ve ever seen.  Old Town Square is a scene out of The Nutcracker.  Budapest at night is pure magic.  The old town in Bratislava epitomizes Christmas cheer.  Rothenburg ob der Tauber is the Christmas village of  Kathe Wohlfahrt in real life.

You can’t go wrong with any combination of these cities.  Pick your favorite Christmas market trip and get excited!  They are all lovely in their own right.  If you’re looking for more Christmas markets in Germany, Lorelei has a lot of unique Bavarian Christmas markets, villages, and towns on her blog!

Salzburg:  The Alpine Christmas Markets

Where to Stay:   Hotel Goldgasse or Hotel Goldener Hirsch

Where to Eat:   Zum Zirkelwirt or Gasthof Wilder Mann

Don’t Miss:   Apple Strudel and Christmas Cookie Class

Who Loves Salzburg:   People who don’t mind being outside.  Between the Christmas market at Hohensalzburg Fortress, the one at Helbrunn Schloss, and the lakeside village markets, you have to enjoy spending time outside.  I wouldn’t recommend missing any of those markets, in addition the ones in the middle of the aldstadt, but if you don’t enjoy being outside, I would head to a city that offers more indoor activities.

Vienna:  The Beautiful Christmas Markets

Where to Stay:   Hotel am Stephansplatz or Ritz Carlton Vienna

Where to Eat:   Trattoria da Angelo – I love the rose ravioli!

Don’t Miss:   The Christmas lights!  I love the chandeliers near St. Stephan’s Cathedral.

Who Loves Vienna:  If you love music, culture, and cafes, Vienna has plenty of things to do on cold, wet days.  After touring Schonnbrunn Palace, you can take in a classical concert or see a strudel show.  I love sipping amaretto hot chocolate and reading at Cafe Central.  There are numerous museums, covering every topic you could imagine in the heart of Vienna.  If that’s not enough to satisfy your culture appetite, take a class to learn the Viennese waltz.  (We did; it was fun!)

Bratislava: Christmas Markets for Foodies

Where to Stay:   Sheraton Bratislava or Roset Boutique Hotel

Where to Eat:   Rio Grande Restaurant – I love the lava steak!

Don’t Miss:   A food tour of the Christmas markets !  You’ll try a lot of Slovak specialties.  Find a place where you can comfortable enjoy the ambiance around the ice rink in the old town.  A lot places have outdoor heaters and blankets to keep warm!  It’s worth it!

Who Loves Bratislava:   If Vienna is too big, too modern, or too expensive for you, Bratislava feels like a world away from the grand architecture of Vienna.  Less than an hour away, it offers a similar beauty to Prague without the crowds.  Despite the cold temperatures, we enjoyed the public art, seeing the fortified city walls, and learning more about the differences between Slovakia and the Czech Republic, which ultimately led to their split during our lifetime.  I find this piece of modern history fascinating.

Budapest:  The City Backdrop for Christmas Markets

Where to Stay:   Hilton Budapest

Where to Eat:   Pest Buda Bistro and Strudel House

Don’t Miss:   Any of these tours: Budapest night walking tour with river cruise , historical Budapest , Budapest Christmas market tour .  These are some of my favorite tour guides in Europe.  I can’t wait to go back and book them again!

Who Loves Budapest:   How can you not love Budapest?  That being said, if you love history, you’ll love Budapest.  If you love beautiful architecture and grand boulevards, you’ll love Budapest.  Budapest is the coldest of the Christmas markets we visited, so you’ll want to be prepared for that, but I think it is worth it.

Prague: The Fairytale Christmas Markets

Where to Stay:   Four Seasons Prague or Mandarin Oriental Prague

Where to Eat:   Pasta Fresca  or Meat and Greet

Don’t Miss:   St. Vitus Cathedral .  The Spanish Synagogue .  Old Town Square at night.  Charles Bridge in the early morning light.  Mala Strana.  The list for Prague goes on and on, doesn’t it??

Who Loves Prague:   If you like nightlife, Prague is your city.  (That’s not really my jam, but I recognize that it may be other people’s.)  If you love awe-inspiring stained glass and fairy tales come to life, don’t skip Prague.  One of my most fond memories of Prague is wandering the lamplit streets of Mala Strana on the way to the castle.  I could picture easily what it must have felt like in the 1500s.  I love getting out early and experiencing the Charles Bridge when its mostly empty with only the lamps are illuminating it.  The entire city seems mysterious and magical.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber: The Christmas Village

Where to Stay:   Hotel Klosterstuble

Where to Eat:   Profumo di Pasta da Guiseppe

Don’t Miss:   The Night Watchman’s Tour, eating a schneeballen , and visiting Kathe Wohlfahrt .

Who Loves Rothenburg ob der Tauber:   Anyone who loves Christmas.  It’s hard not to be a Grinch in this postcard perfect town.  If you love medieval town walls (my husband does), it’s neat to be able to walk around the city as though you are the night watchman.  The views of the German countryside are beautiful, too.

Munich:  The Traditional German Christmas Markets

Where to Stay:   Aloft Munich

Where to Eat:   TBD – we’re still in search of truly great meals in Munich!  That being said, Aldi has fresh and delicious pretzel rolls that Tom and I both still talk about.  (Why yes, my husband has identified the best products at Aldi in Europe, too.  It’s his favorite store.  He tells our family if Aldi doesn’t sell it, you don’t need it.)

Don’t Miss:   Listening to the traditional band and making friends at Hofbrauhaus .

Who Loves Munich:   Anyone who loves science or history.  Munich occupies a large space in World War II history, and I highly recommend learning more about its role in the world during that time.  The Deutsches Museum is the most comprehensive science museum I’ve ever visited, and I highly suggest visiting it.  Munich is much larger than it seems, so you’ll want to plan to get out of the old town and experience more of the neighborhoods with different feels.  The Aloft gave us a map of all the Christmas markets in the city, and many offer more traditional crafts than the markets in the city center.  (That’s yet another reason to stay with them – they encourage you to see more!)

Nuremberg:  The Original German Christmas Market

Where to Stay:   Melter Hotel and Apartments

Where to Eat:   at the Christmas market!  (I love the Nuremberg sausage.  And the pretzels.)

Don’t Miss:   Taking a food tour of Nuremberg !

Who Loves Nuremberg:   People who love history.  You need to visit the Documentation Center.  Not everything can be filled with Christmas cheer, but it’s important to understand that the atrocities that happened during World War II didn’t happen over night.  It is the result of a slow and methodical stripping away of the humanity of others.  We’re in danger of repeating that again, so I encourage you to learn more than we were taught it school.  It remains one of the most transformative experiences of my education.

Strasbourg Christmas Markets: The Capital of Christmas

Where to Stay:   Regent Petite France Hotel & Spa or Le Bouclier d’Or

Where to Eat:   at the Christmas market!  Don’t miss the Vin Chaud Blanc – my favorite is right in front of the Strasbourg Cathedral – literally smack dab in the middle.  It’s an additional Euro and it’s worth it.  

Don’t Miss:   Strasbourg Christmas Market Food Tour  

Who Loves Strasbourg:   People who are looking for a bigger city with their Christmas market.  For me, it felt like a smaller Vienna or similar to Bratislava.  I really loved being able to take a break from the crowds at our hotel spa, too.  (It overlooks the Petite France canals, too!)    

Colmar Christmas Markets: Christmas Markets with Canals

Where to Stay:   La Maison des Tetes

Where to Eat:   Via Roma , La Pignata , or the Covered Market right across from Petite Venise.  (You’ll want reservations anywhere in Colmar during Christmas time.  Colmar gets so busy!   

Don’t Miss:   Alsatian wine tasting at Domaine Martin Jund

Who Loves Colmar:   People who don’t mind crowds.  People who love holiday decor.  People who want to feel non-stop Christmas cheer.  The entire town is decked out for Christmas and it’s busy.  It can be a little overwhelming if you have sensory overload issues.  If you find yourself in that position, take a morning and head over to Eguisheim.  It’s a little quieter, a little calmer, and absolutely gorgeous.  

What Should I Buy at a Christmas Market?

For me, the best souvenirs at Christmas ornaments.  Tom and I have started a tradition where we purchase a Christmas ornament from the cities we visit.  Many of the Christmas markets have regulations that you can’t sell cheap crap that is mass produced.  Thus, you’ll find beautiful hand-painted or hand-blown Christmas ornaments.  I could look at them for hours, to be honest.  Whether your Christmas tree has a theme or a color, chances are, you’ll find something that is absolutely perfect for you.  Strasbourg had the best selection of the incense houses to create a Christmas village at home.  

Beyond that, look for things you can’t find at home.  In each city, I’ve always found something that was unique to the region.  My grandmother loves her potpourri Christmas tree we purchased in 2016 and it still smells great!  Similarly, my cousin loves the wooden dog statue we found for her on this last trip.  My mother-in-law loves her traditional German wooden pyramid decoration.  I love the bath salts my mom found me; she loves the schnapps, spices and oils she purchased for herself.  You can certainly purchase things like jewelry and journals, but I think the best part of Christmas markets is finding the specific regional things that you can’t find easily in the United States.

Sara loves to help people use their vacation time more effectively by planning beautiful, memorable, and delicious trips. She spends several weeks every year exploring Italy and central Europe. In addition to her full-time job, she is constantly searching for beautiful places and spaces. She loves the direct flights between Dallas and Italy, France, and Germany but is always up for wherever a great deal on an airline ticket will take her. (Sara also really loves European Christmas markets and tries to visit at least one new one every holiday season.)

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WOW, absolutely beautiful! I can’t believe how many cities/countries you’ve traveled to in Europe and have gotten to experience the true Christmas spirit each has to offer!

great ideas for christmas ITINERARIES 

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Experience Europe's Christmas Markets

Winter is a magical time of year to visit Europe. Christmas markets are a beloved part of holiday traditions in Europe. Picture market stalls filling medieval town squares in front of centuries-old churches and palaces. Local artisans sold their handcrafted goods—toys, ornaments, decorations, and sweets—and each city established unique traditions that captured the spirit of their people. Experience an authentic insider's view of centuries-old holiday markets and the seasonal festivities that surround Christmas. Our collection of European Christmas Market vacations takes you to the heart of the action, where alpine villages dazzle with twinkle lights, legendary cities celebrate in style, and Europe's time-honored traditions come to life. What are you waiting for? Reserve your European Christmas Markets vacation package today.

Europe's Christmas Market Tours & River Cruises

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Christmas Markets of Austria, Germany and Switzerland

Alpine Christmas Markets

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Winter Wonderland

Vienna at Christmas Time

The Austrian capital was one of the pioneers of the Christmas market tradition, holding its first event in 1298. Visitors today can enjoy any number of markets, including the Viennese Christmas Market—in front of city hall—and the market at Baroque Schönbrunn Palace, as well as shopping stalls in the historic Spittelberg District.

Christmas Markets in Zurich

With 150 stalls and operated completely indoors, a 50 foot Christmas tree adorned with Swarovski crystals welcomes visitors to Zurich as they arrive at the Main Train Station. With fruit cake, vendors from all over the world, and all kinds of other traditional Christmas cuisine, the air is filled with the scents and sounds of the holidays. Exhibitors compete for the honor of being named the “Most Beautiful Stall” at the market, ensuring that the entire venue is beautifully adorned. The Zurich market is the largest indoor market in Europe, making it the perfect escape for those blustery cold evenings.

Christmas in Munich

Stalls surround an impressive 85 foot Christmas tree in the German Capital. Here you’ll find children dressed as angels and learning to be the next generation of crafters inside the “Heavenly Workshop” in town hall. Musicians fill the air with festive music every Friday before Christmas as guests hop on the Christmas tram that parades them through the old city as they eat gingerbread cookies and sip hot spiced wine.

Prague for the Holidays

The abundant Gothic architecture provides a perfect backdrop to the Christmas scene you’ll find in Prague. The two most famous Christmas markets, held at Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square, are walking distance from each other. Wander among the traditional wooden huts to admire handmade wooden toys and jewelry, Czech marionettes, nativity scenes, and even a petting zoo. Prague also offers numerous culinary delights, including   klobása   (sausage), roasted ham,   Trdelník   (a rolled pastry),   Vosí Hnízda   (beehive cookies), and hot mulled wine

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Christmas Markets

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CHRISTMAS MARKET EXPERIENCES

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Our blogs are a great way to find the best European Christmas Markets to visit. Whether you want to try the best gluhwein, indulge in a local Trdelník pastry, or buy a decoration straight out of A Christmas Carol, we've got a guide for you.

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#INSIGHTVACATIONS

Discover inspiring, magical moments captured by our guests exploring Christmas Markets in Europe

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Are there any activities for children?

There may be a variety of activities for children, depending on the market, from hay bales to ice skating, and some have small rides or playgrounds. The main focus of a Christmas Market is the festive food and drink, crafts, and showcasing local traditions. But there's always a good chance of ice skating.

Are the markets wheelchair accessible?

The markets all take place outside and are wheelchair friendly although some are in cobblestone areas, which may be more difficult. If you require a wheelchair while you travel with Insight Vacations, or any of our sister brands, please ensure you complete the accessibility assessment prior to travel.

Are they only on in December?

Christmas Market dates change year on year and regionally. These generally start in the last week of November and will run until Christmas Day.

Do I need to carry cash with me?

This depends on the region. In Germany, Switzerland and Austria most vendors will take cards but in the Czech Republic or the Balkans then cash would be preferred by vendors in the market.

Are there washrooms?

This will depend on the market as they range in size. If a market does have washrooms, they will usually be portable restrooms and they may be limited in number.

Should I wear comfortable shoes?

Comfortable shoes are a must! There are not many places to sit down and the markets are set up for wandering, drinking gluhwein and shopping for handmade gifts and local treats.

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22 Essential Christmas Market Tips for the Perfect Visit (2023)

Home » Blog » Europe » 22 Essential Christmas Market Tips for the Perfect Visit (2023)

European Christmas markets are nothing short of magical. These essential Christmas market tips will help you avoid common mistakes and have a perfect trip!

If you’re planning to travel to Europe for Christmas markets, the first thing I want to say is:

YAY! I am so happy for you! 

*cue me jumping up and down to celebrate the dream trip you are about to embark on*

I have taken 4 European Christmas market trips and I am absolutely obsessed. It’s pure magic, and there’s really no other trip like it.

I’ve created a list of Christmas market tips that’ll help ensure you have the best trip. This list covers some easy-to-make mistakes , tips for saving money, packing ideas, and more!

Christmas market trip resources

• Best European Christmas markets : After 4 Christmas market trips, I’ve ranked my very favorite ones to help you choose!
• Perfect Christmas market itinerary : If this is your first Christmas market trip (or if you want a route suggestion!), check out my itinerary! I think it makes an amazing route.
• Christmas market foods you have to try : One of the best things about the Christmas markets in Europe is the food, of course! We’ve got a guide to all the must-try foods so you don’t miss any!

What can you expect at Christmas markets in Europe?

First things first… What are the Christmas markets in Europe like?

Well, there’s no one size fits all answer because each market is different and has its own unique personality.

There are large markets and tiny markets.

Traditional markets and modern, quirky markets.

Markets in the city. Markets in the countryside.

The good news is there is a Christmas market for everybody !

Psst! We do have a whole collection of Instagram stories  so you get get an on-the-ground feel for what Christmas markets in Europe are really like! There are 4 parts to the Christmas markets highlight, so be sure to watch them all.

Which Christmas markets are best?

If you’re still debating which Christmas markets to visit, I’ve got some (strong!) opinions. 

I created a roundup of my favorite Christmas markets in Europe , which is filled with tons of my own personal experience and advice (and my suggested itinerary)! If you’re still in the brainstorming phases, you’ll want to start there.

If you’ve already got your route down, you’re in the right spot because I’m about to dive into some top tips for visiting Christmas markets in Europe. I’m also sharing some mistakes so you can avoid them.

Now let’s dive right in to our top tips to ensure you have the trip of your dreams!

1. Carry cash AND cards

Some (but not many) Christmas Markets are completely cashless – we found this in some of the larger cities, like Zurich. (It was kind of annoying actually because Zurich was our last stop and we were trying to get rid of coins. But I digress.)

However, for the most part, you will want to have Euros (or the local currency if you’re traveling somewhere that doesn’t use Euros). Coins are extra helpful at the markets!

When buying gluhwein , for instance, you will typically pay an extra 3 euros or so “deposit”, which will be given back to you when you return your mug. Some markets only allow you to pay for this in cash.

If you’re planning to purchase souvenirs at one of the many stands, many vendors will also accept credit cards , so don’t feel like you have to carry massive amounts of cash.

Here’s what we personally do:

• First thing when we arrive in a new country, we withdraw money from an ATM. ATMs have a better rate than currency exchange booths or getting cash from your home bank, by the way, so this is always how we get cash around the world.
• We have a Charles Schwab debit card that reimburses all ATM fees . This means we don’t have to feel like we need to withdraw large amounts of money to make the fee “worth it”. We only take out what we need for the next few days so we’re not carrying large sums of cash.
• We also carry at least 2 credit cards that have zero foreign transaction fees . This is what we use for most purchases at restaurants, shops, and hotels. Read more about our favorite credit cards here.
• Apple Pay is becoming increasingly popular throughout Europe , so this is a good thing to have set up before your travels as well.

2. Don’t skip smaller markets 

A lot of the big Christmas market round-up posts out there focus only on the big ones – Vienna, Nuremberg, Munich, London, you get the picture.

I’m not saying those aren’t worth adding to your list, because they are. There’s something about the energy of the big markets that is pretty special.

However, please don’t only put big markets on your itinerary.

If you’re anything like me, big cities are good for a bit, but it’s the smaller towns that steal my heart and are often the highlight of any trip.

In the same way, the smaller Christmas markets are – in my personal opinion – even better than the most famous ones. Often, they have more charming vendor booths (made of wood as opposed to tents) and actual artisan goods instead of ornaments made in China.

Just be sure you look up the opening dates of the smaller markets, as some are not open daily. 

Since I kept seeing the “big guys” recommended over and over again all over the Internet, I decided to create my own “Best European Christmas Market” list , featuring markets in a variety of sizes (including some gems you likely won’t find in any other list!.

3. Include other activities on your Christmas market trip besides Christmas markets 

This might sound counterintuitive, but hear me out…

It can be tempting to create an itinerary consisting only of towns that are known for their Christmas markets and devoting all your days to, well, wandering the booths.

It might sound like a good plan, but trust me, the markets will seem a bit repetitive if that’s all you’re doing day in and day out. And while I love Christmas market foods, it can also get repetitive (and heavy).

Some of the places I’ve visited during my Christmas market trips are places not really even known for their markets, like Hallstatt and Garmisch.

And some of my favorite experiences weren’t at all related to the markets :

• Walking through the Partnachklamm Gorge in Garmisch and making it to the restaurant hut for a hearty meal
• Riding the gondola to the top of Zugspitze
• Having a glass of mulled wine at the top of Nordkette in Innsbruck
• Hiking to a mountain hut outside of Innsbruck where we ate lunch, then rode toboggans down the hill
• Apple strudel-making class in Salzburg
• Visiting Neuschwanstein Castle
• Doing a farmstay Airbnb in the countryside of France outside Colmar
• Taking the Night Watchman’s tour in Rothenburg
• Doing a family photoshoot with a local in Hallstatt
• Tyrolean food tour in Innsbruck

I could go on and on and on…

But hopefully this inspires you to add activities and towns that aren’t necessarily only Christmas market related.

4. Know the market dates & hours

For the most part, larger markets run daily from the end of November until just before Christmas . Some run until early January. 

And some of the very small markets only run on weekends or on specific dates . So be sure to do your research.

Each market varies slightly, so be sure you look up the dates of each specific market you plan to visit on your trip to avoid disappointment.

While you’re doing the research, be sure to look up hours too because many don’t open until the afternoon. 11 a.m. is the earliest you should expect Christmas markets to open.

For the most part, they close somewhat early as well. 7 – 8 p.m. is a pretty common closing time , with some larger markets staying open until 9 p.m. The latest we’ve seen a Christmas market open is the Tollwood Winter Festival in Munich, which stays open until 10:30 p.m. or 11:30 p.m. depending on the day of the week.

5. Pack layers

Choose clothes that layer well, are comfortable for long days of walking, and will keep you warm.

Plus, if you want to do some excursions outside the city (do it!!!), you’ll want to be prepared to encounter snow.

Insider Tip: Merino wool socks and base layers are great, and they can be worn multiple times without getting smelly (like cotton).

What to wear to Christmas Markets

This is what my Christmas market packing list looked like:

• Lightweight coat
• Warm jacket
• Winter leggings (lined with fleece)
• Long sleeves
• Comfortable boots
• Comfy walking shoes
• Travel slippers
• Warm clothes for hanging out at our hotels/Airbnbs

6. Get local cell service

If you are traveling internationally on your Christmas market trip, you’ll definitely want to figure out a plan for cell service.

This will be helpful when you’re trying to get directions to each market or you want to Google what that unfamiliar word is on the menu…

We used to get physical SIM cards in each country we traveled to because this is the best and cheapest way to get data.

But now that e-SIMs are a thing, our travels are forever changed!

We have a whole guide to getting an e-SIM , but in short, getting an e-SIM is similar to downloading an app on your phone . No need to go into a convenience store and physically insert a SIM card. With a couple of clicks, you can get cell signal in each country you visit as soon as you land at the airport.

Personally, we use Airalo and on our most recent European Christmas market trip, we got their “Europe Regional SIM”, which is valid through much of Europe. We traveled to 5 countries and had cell coverage in each without having to do anything when we crossed borders.

Plus, it is really affordable ! One week starts at just $5. The package we chose was 1 month of coverage through 39 countries in Europe. We got 10GB of data (because we’re constantly uploading things for Instagram and our blog), and it was $37, which I found very reasonable.

7. Know the regional specialties

While there are some foods you’ll find at just about any market – like brats, gluhwein, and gingerbread –  many regions have foods specialties that are showcased at their Christmas market , and they should not be missed! 

Consider yourself a foodie? I created a round-up of my favorite Christmas market foods and drinks so you’re prepared and know what to try. (Plus, the drink menu can be confusing if you don’t know what they are, so I gotchu!)

8. Do a lap

My strategy when arriving at a Christmas market is to do a lap and scout out the foods I want to try and the souvenirs I might want to buy.

I’ve learned the hard way that when I go to the first stall I see (because hanger is coming on), I almost always regret it after I see, like, 10 other foods I would have rather eaten.

In short, patience will pay off at Christmas markets!

9. Split your food

Not everyone has a travel partner that likes sharing, and sometimes there are items that are just difficult to split. I’m talking about you, bratwurst!

But if and when it works, I’d recommend sharing food if you’re traveling with a companion. The bigger markets will have so many dishes to try, and splitting allows you to maximize how many you’re able to try (without making yourself sick!). 

Think of it as a drawn out progressive dinner and switch off picking out a dish to split until you’re full.

10. It makes a great trip with kids

A European Christmas market trip is one of the most family-friendly vacations I can think of.

We took a 3-week Christmas market trip through Luxembourg, Germany, Switzerland, and Austria when our daughter was one, and it was one of my favorite trips to date.

We actually celebrated her first birthday at a farmstay in the French countryside , which was magical, by the way! 

I truly cannot recommend a Christmas market trip with a little one more highly.

Want more advice? I created a guide packed with tips for traveling with a baby !

11. Book accommodation early

My recommendation would be to book as early as you can for the best selection of hotels . That said, if you’re like me and you’re late to the party, there is still hope. 

Learn from our mistake: We found some amazing places to stay on our Christmas market trip and we only booked about one month in advance. I wouldn’t recommend doing this, as there were certain towns that were just about completely booked up and we had to alter our route slightly. And there were a few hotels I really wanted to stay at that just did not have availability for a late-booker like me.

Learn from my mistake and start booking your accommodation toward the end of summer (or even earlier if you’re a planner!).

I’d recommend booking smaller towns first (like Rothenburg and Hallstatt), as they will have fewer accommodations and still a high demand in December.

Good to know: In our list of our favorite Christmas markets in Europe , we have suggested accommodation in each city (including many we’ve personally stayed at and loved!).

Insider tip: Compare Airbnbs and hotels in each location you plan to stay. We found some areas had terrible hotel options but wonderful Airbnbs, and vice versa. Also, read my top tips for booking Airbnbs (I swear I’ve had very few poor experiences with Airbnbs and I attribute that to these tips!).

12. Really think about your hotel location

When it comes to booking accommodation in the major cities, pay extra close attention to the location in relation to the attractions in town , including the Christmas markets. 

Choose mindfully.

It’s easy to be persuaded into booking a less expensive room just outside the center, but think about what that’ll actually be like…

How will you be getting around? 

Rental car? Walking? Taking Ubers/taxis? Public transport?

How will you get there from the train station?

Rule of thumb: Personally, I try to choose places that are within a 15-minute walk from the train station and the main market square . This isn’t always possible, but it’s a good parameter to try to aim for.

All the back and forth transportation between accommodation and the center – parking fees, Ubers/taxis, metros – can add up quickly in terms of money and time if you’re not able to walk. Sometimes the hotel that’s centrally located is not only more convenient but not that much more money in the long run. 

Also ask yourself: Will you want to come back to your accommodation to rest between daily explorations and dinner/evenings at the Christmas market?

How much walking does that equate to?

There’s no getting around it – you will be walking a lot on your European Christmas market trip. Yes, even if you’re staying smack dab in the middle of the city. So avoid choosing places that are really far out of the way if you can.*

*This applies to accommodation in the larger cities, not small towns or the countryside. 

My advice: Personally, we wanted a mix of convenient city stays and peaceful countryside escapes . This helped balance out our budget because the countryside stays were much less expensive. It also gave us the best of both worlds – convenience in the cities with a healthy dose of relaxation.

13. Be safe with your money

In all my European Christmas market trips, I’ve personally felt very safe and have never had any issues with theft or pickpocketing.

That said, it happens – especially in the larger cities with more crowded markets.

I always like to have my cash and cards close to my body, so I don’t wear traditional purses on most trips. Instead, I wear a crossbody bag ( like this one or this one ).

I also have this scarf with a hidden pocket , which can be a good way to stay warm and keep your valuables safe at Christmas markets.

Insider Tip: Since I don’t carry a large purse, I pack a small, collapsible shopping bag ( like this one ) so I have somewhere to put whatever I buy at the Christmas markets.

14. Many towns have several markets (visit the small ones too!)

Many larger cities have several markets, so take some time to read their descriptions and explore the ones that appeal to you most.

Typically, there is a more “traditional” market that gets lots of the hype (and visitors!), but the smaller, markets can be really fun too. So don’t overlook them!

For example, in Munich, the iconic Christkindlmarkt is well worth a visit, but my favorites are the unique Medieval Christmas Market and the quaint market at the Chinese Tower.

15. Know about the Gluhwein mugs

At most Christmas markets, there are collectible mugs that you will get each time you order a drink, like gluhwein . 

There are a handful of things you should know about these mugs:

• When you purchase a drink, you will automatically be charged a “deposit” fee . Usually it’s about 3 euros. 
• When you return your mug, you will get your coins back. If you do not return the mug, you won’t get your deposit money back, but it is yours to keep.
• Each town’s mug design is different , and some have several designs. Typically the design changes each year. Sometimes you can choose your design, but often you will just be handed a mug. 
• Most markets will have mugs (especially in Germany and Austria), but not all. In Colmar, France, for instance, they served vin chaud (French name for gluhwein) in reusable plastic cups. Womp womp. And in Zurich, they served drinks in paper coffee cups. 

• There are certain drinks that get a different type of mug. For instance, I found that Eierpunsch (egg punch) was typically served in clear glass mugs, and Feuerzangenbowle was served in mugs with a unique shape that accommodated for the sugar to be lit aflame.
• Decide if you’ll get mugs in each market, or if you’ll choose a favorite or two. Keep this in mind during your trip so you don’t end up with way more mugs than you want.
• If you plan to bring home several mugs, you’ll want to make sure you have space in your luggage. 
• Most of the mugs are pretty sturdy, but you may want to bring some bubble wrap or plan to wrap them in a shirt, sweater or even thick wool socks . This is especially important if you plan to check your bag.

16. Plan ahead for packing souvenirs

I touched on this a bit in the previous tip when I mentioned you may need some extra space if you plan to bring home gluhwein mugs.

But mugs aren’t the only souvenir you’ll want to consider.

At every Christmas market you visit, you’ll see all sorts of beautiful things calling your name – from scarves to lanterns to ornaments to local liqueurs to homemade jams.

My advice is to determine a budget and a general idea of how many things you’d like to bring home. 

Ask yourself the following:

• Is there anything specific you will be searching for? 
• Is there an item that the area you’re traveling to is known for? (For example, I knew I wanted a moravian star lantern from Germany!)
• Are you shopping for Christmas gifts for friends and family? If so, how many people?
• Are you on a tight budget?

If you plan to bring a lot back home, I’d recommend getting a collapsible bag that you can pack. That way, you’ll have plenty of space to take home souvenirs and gifts, but you won’t have to roll around an extra suitcase when you don’t need it. 

17. Know that some of the goods are made in China

After my first Christmas market trip I was a little disappointed to find some of the exact same gifts I’d purchased (and carried all the way home with me!) at stores in my hometown.

I don’t know if I was expecting all the ornaments and items for sale to be locally-made by artisans, but the truth is many of them aren’t.

That doesn’t mean you won’t find hand-crafted items, because you certainly will, but you will need to search specifically for them. 

Ask vendors where their goods are made. Sometimes you’ll be talking to the artisan themself, which can be a really fun conversation.

In my experience, booths with a smaller variety of items are your best bet for finding authentic artisan items . The booths with 50 different kinds of ornaments and lots of decor items are often the ones that can be found anywhere in the world.

18. Wear comfortable shoes

You will be walking and standing a lot on your Christmas Market trip. Trust me!

In many cities and towns throughout Europe, the town square in which the markets are held is in a historic district and the streets are almost always cobblestone, and often a bit uneven. 

This is not the occasion to wear your cute boots with a heel.

Instead, opt for shoes or boots with good arch support and decent grip.

You will also want to choose shoes that have some level of water resistance . If it snows (*fingers crossed that it does because it is magical!*), you will be walking around in a slushy situation and will want to have at least some protection from water seeping in.

Personal favorite: I love my Sorel Chelsea boots.

19. Most markets are free, but not all

Some of the smaller markets, particularly those inside palaces or castles have an entry fee .

If this is the case, it’s usually not much. 

Sometimes it even includes a mug of gluhwein!

20. Pack light

Packing light for a winter trip is hard. I get it. 

But rolling a gigantic suitcase over cobblestones and carrying it up and down stairs at train stations is miserable.

You will not regret packing light.

But winter travel means bulkier clothes, so how am I supposed to travel light?

Good question…

This is a judgment-free zone so I’m going to tell you something and you’re not going to cringe, okay?

On each Christmas market trip I’ve taken, I rewear the same sweaters multiple times.

It will be pretty cold and it’s not like you’ll be getting sweaty or dirty, really. If you’re like me, you’ll find yourself wearing the comfiest, coziest sweater again and again. And the thing is, nobody will really know because you’ll likely have a jacket over top anyway.

All of this is to say you probably need less than you think.

21. Take advantage of luggage lockers

If you happen to be going from one town to another and want to stop at a Christmas market somewhere in between (great idea!), here’s a little tip that you’ll definitely want to read…

Many (but not all!) train stations have luggage storage of some kind. Sometimes they are lockers that take coin or card. Other times it is a luggage storage facility where you will hand your bags to a person who will take payment.

This can be a super convenient way to see more markets without having to lug your bags around .

If a train station does not have luggage storage, you can type “luggage storage” into Google Maps and see what pops up. For example, the train station in Colmar, France doesn’t have storage, but when we searched Google Maps a couple hotels that offer this service popped up.

Additionally, Luggage Hero is a platform displays vetted luggage storage facilities all around the world in one easy-to-nagivate place.

22. Consider making it a road trip

Train travel in Europe is wonderful. It’s convenient, easy, and you don’t have to worry about driving.

I took trains exclusively for my first 3 Christmas market trips and it is a fantastic way to get around, so don’t feel badly if this is the method of transportation you prefer. You will have a fabulous time.

However, if driving in another country isn’t too far out of your comfort zone, I would highly recommend considering renting a car for at least part of your trip.

We rented a car for roughly half of our most recent Christmas market trip, and I think I will forevermore be renting a car for at least part of my trips in Europe!

Pros to renting a car

• You can get off the beaten path! I think this is the biggest pro to renting a car. My favorite places hands-down on our recent trip where smaller towns in the countryside that would have been very difficult (if not impossible) to reach via train.
• Take day trips! Even if you’re in a city with decent public transport, it can be nice to explore off the beaten path in a car of your own. Going sledding in the mountains just outside Innsbruck was my favorite thing we did there and was only possible with a car.
• If you’re traveling with a child , it can be really nice to go at your own pace and stop when needed .
• It can be so nice to have a trunk to store all the things so you don’t have to lug them up and down the stairs at train terminals.
• You won’t have to deal with train strikes, which are particularly common in certain countries (like France!). We actually had a huge issue with a train strike in France during our trip!

My advice: If you plan to visit some larger cities, I’d wait to get your rental car after your time there. Finding parking in the bigger cities can be tough (and pricey!), so keep that in mind.

Insider tip: We find that Discover Cars typically has the best prices for rental cars in Europe.

More resources for planning the perfect Christmas market trip

• Best Christmas markets in Europe
• Christmas market foods & drinks to try

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What tips stood out to you? Do you have any Christmas market tips you’d like to share?

Comment below and we’ll do our best to get back to you!

Comments (1) on “ 22 Essential Christmas Market Tips for the Perfect Visit (2023) ”

Those Smaller Markets are where i love to get my christmas gifts in europe, its always filled with different people. I love it !!!

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• Travel Planning Guide

The Best Christmas Market Tours in Europe

Looking for the best tour through Europe's Christmas markets? We have carefully curated a selection of Christmas market tours in Europe to make sure that you have an unforgettable escape filled with adventure, cherished traditions, and heartwarming activities. Immerse yourself in the magic of the holiday season as you wander through charming marketplaces, alive with joyful celebrations, all while joining a tour that takes care of the planning and organizing for you.

• Christmas on the romantic Rhine, the enchantment of the Lorelei Rock (port-to-port cruise) 5 Days, $1324.00
• Rhine Christmas Markets 2024 (18 destinations) 5 Days, $673.16
• Christmas on the romantic Rhine - MONET 4 Days, $1195.00

What are Christmas market tours like in Europe?

Here are the important factors:

• 28 trip options analyzed
• $383 average price per day (USD)
• 4 to 15 days in length
• 4.33 of 5 average rating
• 120 people or less on average

You'll be surprised at the array of Christmas market tours in Europe, as there is something for everyone. It's no wonder that visitors can't get enough of these tours, boasting an impressive average guest rating of 4.33 out of 5 stars. Picture yourself joining a group of like-minded adventurers, with an average maximum size of 120 people, ensuring a fantastic blend of social and personalized experiences. The average tour length spans 8 days, with tours ranging from 4 to 15 days long. For physical activity , the tours are marked as easy and relaxing, with a prevalent number on easy tours. With our thorough analysis of 28 Christmas market tours, we've found the best. So rest assured that Europe has something to captivate every kind of traveler.

(All tour prices are in US Dollars before taxes, and come from a base price that is reported by TourRadar. Peak season prices can vary significantly, particularly in destinations where seasonal travel fluctuates dramatically.)

So, let's get to it and see...

The 10 Best Christmas Market Tours in Europe

Christmas on the romantic rhine, the enchantment of the lorelei rock (port-to-port cruise).

• Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for Christmas market tours.

Here's your chance to take off on an exceptional trip, visiting France and Germany, that has garnered a 4 out of 5 rating. With a duration of 5 days, this jouney will have 160 participants, and it warmly welcomes travelers of all ages. Expertly organized by CroisiEurope River Cruises , this amazing trip is an incredible value at just $265 per day.

• River Cruise

Rhine Christmas Markets 2024 (18 destinations)

This memorable voyage, visiting Germany and France, is offered by A-ROSA which has received plenty of positive reviews. The trip itself has a guest rating of 4 out of 5 stars, and is priced affordably at $135 per day. Along the way, this journey encompasses 8 destinations, including Mainz, Rudesheim am Rhein, Germersheim, and Speyer. Begin and conclude your remarkable journey in the gorgeous destination of Cologne. The maximum group size is 202 people, welcoming guests from 2 and up.

Christmas on the romantic Rhine - MONET

• High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.

Set off on an extraordinary journey, visiting France and Germany, that has been awarded a 5 out of 5 stars by previous guests. With a duration of 4 days, this journey offers an intimate group setting, accommodating 160 individuals, while extending a warm welcome to travelers of all ages. This itinerary covers 4 captivating destinations, with stops in Rudesheim am Rhein and Boppard, among others. You'll start and end your journey in beautiful Strasbourg. Brought to you by CroisiEurope River Cruises , this exceptional deal is an incredible steal at a mere $299 per day.

Christmas on the romantic Rhine, the enchantment of the Lorelei Rock (port-to-port cruise) - MONA LISA

With this option you can experience an unparalleled voyage for 5 unforgettable days, visiting France and Germany. It ensures an intimate group setting with 176 participants at most. Immerse yourself in a travel experience that includes 5 destinations, featuring Braubach, Rudesheim am Rhein, and Worms. Strasbourg kicks off your expedition, serving as both the starting and finishing point. CroisiEurope River Cruises , the organizer of this journey, extends a warm invitation to guests travelers of all ages. This extraordinary opportunity offers exceptional value at only $265 per day.

Christmas on the romantic Rhine, the enchantment of the Lorelei Rock (port-to-port cruise) - BOHEME

This fantastic journey has a rating of 4 out of 5 stars, visiting France and Germany. Uncover the beauty of 4 destinations on this itinerary, with highlights such as Braubach and Rudesheim am Rhein. You'll start and end this amazing trip in Strasbourg. Lasting 5 days, the maximum group size is 160 people, and it's good for travelers of all ages. Organized by CroisiEurope River Cruises , this is a great deal because it's only $265 per day.

Christmas on the romantic Rhine, the enchantment of the Lorelei Rock (port-to-port cruise) - DOUCE FRANCE

With a stellar 4 out of 5 rating, this extraordinary voyage, visiting France and Germany, is the perfect choice. Traverse through 4 enchanting destinations, with Braubach and Rudesheim am Rhein among the must-see stops along the route. Strasbourg will be both the start and end of your journey. Spanning across 5 days, the voyage accommodates 160 individuals, and is suitable for travelers of all ages. Offered by CroisiEurope River Cruises , this remarkable voyage is priced at just $300 per day. Don't miss out on this incredible experience.

Christmas on the romantic Rhine, the enchantment of the Lorelei Rock (port-to-port cruise) - GERARD SCHMITTER

This exceptional trip offering by CroisiEurope River Cruises has received a 4 out of 5 rating. On this 5-day trip, visiting France and Germany, you can unwind while also making new memories. This trip visits 4 destinations, including Braubach and Rudesheim am Rhein along the way. Your adventure starts and ends in Strasbourg. With a group size of 160 people, it's suitable for travelers of all ages. This remarkable trip is priced at an unbeatable $300 per day.

Christmas on the romantic Rhine, the enchantment of the Lorelei Rock (port-to-port cruise) - SYMPHONIE

Check out this journey that has received rave reviews, earning a stellar 4 out of 5 rating, visiting France and Germany. Experience a trip that takes you to 4 remarkable destinations, including Braubach and Rudesheim am Rhein. Strasbourg will be the beginning and end of your trip. Spanning across 5 unforgettable days, this voyage offers an intimate group experience with 160 participants, and it's great for travelers of all ages. Brought to you by the renowned CroisiEurope River Cruises , this exceptional opportunity is priced at an incredible $300 per day - an unbeatable value.

Christmas Markets on the Danube & Classic Prague - Krems

This 11-day trip, visiting Hungary, Slovakia, Austria, Germany, and Czech Republic, is ideal for guests from 12 to 90 years old. And priced at only $755 per day, it's a great value, too. Explore 9 incredible locations on this trip, including Durnstein, Melk, Passau, and Regensburg. Begin your trip in Budapest and complete it with a memorable finale in Prague. It's offered by Emerald Cruises , a very popular company with rave reviews and knowledgeable guides.

Delightful Christmas Markets in the Neckar Valley

Priced at just $327 per day, this terrific 5-day voyage, visiting France and Germany, is ideal for travelers of all ages. Discover a journey that spans 6 destinations, with notable stops in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Mannheim, Heidelberg, and Eberbach. You'll start and end your journey in beautiful Strasbourg. Organized by the reputable CroisiEurope River Cruises , this is one of the best tours on this list.

• Sightseeing

See also The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Europe , The Best Wildlife Tours to Europe , The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Europe , The Best Historical Tours in Europe , The Best 10-Day Tours in Europe , The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Europe , The Best 3-Day Tours in Europe , The Best 2-Week Tours in Europe , The Best 3-Week Tours in Europe , The Best 4-Week (1-Month) Tours in Europe , The Best Extended Trip Tours in Europe, One Month or Longer , The Best River Cruises in Europe , The Best Bicycle Tours in Europe , Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Europe , The Best Christmas & New Years Tours in Europe , The Best Coach Bus Tours in Europe , The Best Adventure Tours to Europe , The Best Eco Tours in Europe , The Best Train & Rail Tours in Europe , The Best Thrill-Seeking Tours in Europe , The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in Europe , The Best Art History, Museums, and Cultural Tours Tours in Europe , The Best Sightseeing Tours in Europe , The Best Cultural Tours in Europe , The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Europe , The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Europe , The Best Music Tours in Europe , The Tours for Animal Lovers in Europe , The Best Photography Tours in Europe , The Best Camping Tours in Europe , The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Europe , The Best Self Drive Tours in Europe , The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in Europe , The Best Nightlife Tours in Europe , The Best Religious Tours in Europe , The Best Walking Tours in Europe , The Best Northern Lights Tours in Europe , The Best Honeymoon Tours in Europe , The Best Tours Under $1000 in Europe , The Best Luxury Tours to Europe , The Best Budget Tours to Europe , The Best Tours for Seniors to Europe , The Best Contiki Tours to Europe , or The Best G Adventures Tours to Europe for more tour ideas. With so many options, there's a guided tour or vacation package for every type of traveler.

How much do Christmas Market Tours in Europe cost?

After analyzing 28 Christmas market tours in Europe, we found the average price to be a remarkably economical $383 per day. Naturally, this region has many fantastic options for Christmas market tours with a variety of prices. The individual costs will vary by the destinations, travel style, available dates, and other factors. If you're interested in more information about tours here, see our guide to tour prices in Europe .

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Tour Activity Level

The activity level for this tour:

You’re a leisurely traveler. You typically take it easy and discover the energy of a new place by people-watching or soaking in the atmosphere at a local café. You can climb at least one flight of stairs, board a coach, and walk unassisted at a relaxed pace for up to 60 minutes without difficulty. You can easily handle altitudes up to 5,000 feet.

You like a balanced approach to travel. Walking two to three miles over the course of a day is no problem for you. You can partake in a two-hour leisurely walking tour, covering up to two miles (with included breaks). You can handle a variety of terrains, from cobblestone streets to moderate hills with relative ease and without assistance. You can climb two flights of stairs with ease. There may be 1 to 2 days on this tour when walking tours can cover 3 to 4 miles over uneven terrain. You can handle altitudes up to 6,000 feet.

You’re an on-the-go traveler. You don’t want to miss a thing, so walking and standing for longer periods of time (2-3 hours) isn’t a big deal. A moderately paced two-and-a-half-hour walking tour, covering several miles, hills, and uneven surfaces, is no problem for you. Walking four miles over the course of a day is very doable, as is climbing into and out of various modes of transportation (tuk-tuk, cable car, zodiac, etc.). You can climb three flights of stairs easily and handle altitudes between 6,000 and 9,000 feet. Expect some longer days balanced with free time to recharge or set out on your own adventure. This level is not a fit for travelers who require mobility assistance devices.

You’re ready to seize the day, whatever it may bring. You lead an active life at home (walking, biking, and half or full day hikes are things you may enjoy) and 10,000 steps a day is normal for you. You can handle longer walking tours (more than 3 hours covering 3+ miles at a steady clip) and activities that involve traversing uneven terrain, steep slopes, standing for periods of time, and varying altitudes and temperatures. You don’t mind being on the go with some early starts, late-nights, and full days. You can handle altitudes of 9,000 feet or higher with little to no issue. This level is not appropriate for travelers who use wheelchairs, walkers, and other mobility assistance devices.

European Christmas Markets featuring Prague, Vienna & Budapest

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You’re accompanied by a Tour Manager throughout the extension, except for any time that’s set aside for independent discovery.

You’re accompanied by a Tour Manager part of the time, for some guided excursions. The rest of the time, you’re at leisure to explore the destination your own way.

You’re not accompanied by a Tour Manager during your extension stay. You’ll access locales you wish to visit on your own, and are free to create your own adventure.

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IDENTIFICATION Passports are required for this tour at your expense. Certain countries require that your passport be valid at least 6 months beyond the dates of your travel. You are strongly urged to contact the appropriate consulate for details. Visit www.travel.state.gov for the U.S. State Department for the latest details about passports and visa requirements.

IMPORTANT: We recommend that travelers take a photocopy of their passport and applicable visas. It should be packed separately from your actual passport and visa. We also recommend leaving a copy at home with your emergency contact.

Thoroughly Travel

The Best European Christmas Markets Road Trip: A One Week Itinerary

How to plan the perfect road trip through central europe’s most charming christmas market cities from the uk, or anywhere in mainland europe..

(Updated 2024)

This post may contain affiliate links, which means we might earn a small commission on anything purchased through these links at no extra cost to you. Learn more on our Disclaimer page .

How to plan a European Christmas Road Trip Itinerary

There are multiple components to think about when planning a European Christmas Market road trip itinerary. Home to 44 interesting and unique countries, Europe covers a large area and choosing where to go can be overwhelming. December is one of the best times to visit as the continent overhauls itself into a festive winter wonderland. Touring through Central Europe’s most charming Christmas Markets can be one of the best ways to get into the Christmas spirit. We’ve created 4 easy steps to help you plan the perfect European Christmas Market road trip itinerary.

Time needed: 1 week.

When to go: Late November-December when the Christmas Markets are open.

Weather: Cold.

Currency: Euro.

1) Choose your destinations

A lot of people who have never visited mainland Europe before (and even those who have) underestimate its size. At 10.53 million km², Europe is a huge continent. There are far too many European countries to fit into one trip and countless cities to explore too. So how do you decide where to go? Whittling your list down to only a few destinations can be difficult. You need to balance seeing as much as possible in the time available and giving yourself enough time to do each place justice.

A typical rule of thumb for visiting a European city is that you can normally hit all the main points of interest in 1-2 days. Some cities are larger than others, particularly capital cities, but up to 2 days gives you a good flavour of a place’s culture and time to see all the main sights. This means you can realistically include up to 6 cities in a week long European road trip . These can be in as many countries as you like, but logistically will depend on distances and borders. Planning a route through multiple conjoining countries can help you maximise the diversity of your trip. On the other hand, you could choose just one or two countries to really get a feel for a place by staying for multiple days.

You’ll likely choose your destinations based on where you’re starting from. For most, this will be a capital city, such as London, Paris, Berlin, Brussels or Amsterdam. Western Central Europe is the most easily accessible from these destinations, encompassing Northern France, Belgium, Luxembourg, Western Germany and The Netherlands . Using these 5 countries as a shortlist can be a good starting point for planning a European Christmas road trip.

The first thing you need to do is plot the major cities you’re interested in visiting and list your priorities.

2) The best Christmas Markets in Europe

Europe is world-renowned for its Christmas Markets and is probably the most festive place in the world to visit around Christmastime. Most towns and cities in Europe have a Christmas Market. Some run from November through to January , while others are only open in the weeks just before Christmas . The larger cities, particularly capital cities, are more likely to have longer-running Christmas Markets (although these will likely be busier and more expensive too). Europe is also home to lots of interesting cites with rich histories and attractions. Balancing a mix between Christmas festivities and traditional sightseeing activities is recommended for a well-balanced trip.

Europe is home to some of the most famous Christmas Markets in the world . Vienna, Salzberg, Budapest and Prague all top the list of best European Christmas Markets. While Germany is one of the best countries in Europe for Christmas Markets, as many of the holiday’s traditions originated there. Nuremburg, Dresden, Leipzig and Berlin are also popular German Christmas Market towns.

The issue is that these iconic Christmas Markets are spread far and wide across Europe. Visiting them all in one week would be difficult without spending the whole trip in the car. To get the most out of your European Christmas Markets road trip, you’ll need to shortlist the destinations that you can easily drive between in one week . This means condensing your search into a smaller geographical area and maybe even choosing smaller towns. We’d recommend focussing on Western Central Europe , which has a huge variety of cities to choose from across 5 countries (Northern France, Belgium, Luxembourg, Western Germany and The Netherlands). Visiting lesser known Christmas Market cities in Europe can also yield the advantages of being less busy and less expensive. We’ve listed 24 of the best cities in Western Central Europe in the next section to help you get started.

Read next: Prague’s Best Eco-friendly Hotel: Botanique

The 24 best cities in Western Central Europe

Northern france.

1) Amiens – Located in northern France, Amiens is divided by the Somme river and known for its Gothic Cathedral and Medieval Belfry. Floating market gardens ( hortillonnages ) can be found on the city’s canals, while the Christmas Market has been held every year since 1997.

2) Arras – Arras is most well-known for its military history. A network of quarry tunnels (The Carrière Wellington) can be found under the city and were used by soldiers during WWI. While the Canadian National Vimy Memorial lies north of the city. The town boasts cobbled streets, buildings with Flemish facades, a Town Hall and Belfry. Arras’ Christmas Market is the biggest north of Paris and features over 140 artisans and exhibitors.

3) Cambrai – Known as the Duke of Wellington’s headquarters for the British Army of Occupation from 1815 to 1818, Cambrai is a small city near the German border.

4) Colmar – Located in north-eastern France near the border with Germany, Colmar features a picturesque Old Town with cobblestone streets and half-timbered medieval and early Renaissance buildings. Colmar has six Christmas markets to choose from, as well as a Gothic 13th-century church and the Unterlinden Museum, which houses the Isenheim Altarpiece. Colmar is on the Alsace Wine Route, making it a firm favourite with wine lovers who stop to try local Riesling and Gewürztraminer wines.

5) Douai – Known as the City of Giants , Douai is a small city in northern France known for the region’s most impressive belfries. Douai is home to Douai Abbey, a Roman Catholic monastery founded in Paris in 1615, uprooted by the Revolution and finally returned to England in 1903.

6) Laon – Laon is a hill-top city with a dramatic cathedral at its centre. The city is encircled by walls and was once the capital of the Carolingian Empire in the early middle ages.

7) Lille – Situated near the border with Belgium, Lille is a cultural hub and bustling university city. Its historic centre, Vieux Lille , is known for 17th-century houses, cobbled pedestrian streets and a large central square. Lille is easily accessible from the UK at only 1hrs 30min on the Eurostar from London St Pancras.

8) Reims – The unofficial capital of the Champagne wine-growing region, Reims is known for its grand cathedral with stained-glass windows and Gothic carved portals, including the Smiling Angel. For more than 1,000 years, French kings were crowned here. Reims Christmas Market is the 3rd largest Christmas market in France with over 135 stalls offering regional specialities, crafted products, souvenirs and food and drink items.

9) Strasbourg – Strasbourg is the formal seat of the European Parliament. Its proximity to the German border has resulted in culture and architecture blending of German and French influences. Possibly the best Christmas Market in Europe, Strasbourg’s Christkindelsmärik features over 300 wooden huts, spread around different squares in the city.

10) Antwerp – Antwerp is a port city in Belgium known for its centuries-old Diamond District that houses thousands of diamond traders, cutters and polishers. With history dating to the Middle Ages, Antwerp is home to Flemish Renaissance architecture and the 17th-century Rubens House, period rooms which display works by the Flemish Baroque painter Peter Paul Rubens. The Christmas Market boasts over 90 stalls, as well as an ice-skating rink, miniature golf, winter bar and giant Ferris wheel.

11) Bruges – One of Europe’s most romantic cities, Bruges is renowned for its canals, cobbled streets and medieval buildings. The 14th-century City Hall and 13th-century Belfry overlook the main Christmas Market, which features an ice rink and numerous wooden chalets. In Winter, Bruges is transported into a Winter Wonderland as the annual Winter Glow Festival takes over the city.

12) Brussels – The capital of Belgium, Brussels is known for being the administrative centre of the European Union, as well as housing numerous historical and architectural landmarks, some of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. In winter, Brussels’ Winter Wonders event covers the city with festivity. Wooden chalets, pop-up bars and restaurants span over a mile (2km), while families can enjoy the Ferris wheel or merry-go-round. Brussels is easily accessible from London via the Eurostar, which takes less than 2 hours.

13) Ghent – Ghent is a strong contender with Bruges for most picturesque Belgian town. With a Medieval history and impressive cathedral, Ghent is a popular Christmas getaway destination. The Christmas Market is fun for all the family, with more than 150 wooden huts, Ferris wheel and merry-go-rounds.

Read next: The Thorough Guide to Bruges

14) Luxembourg City – The capital of a small European nation of the same name, Luxembourg City is known for ruins of medieval fortifications, dramatic cliffs and sweeping views. The annual Winter Lights Festival illuminates the city with Christmas cheer and visitors can enjoy Christmas stalls, food and drink, a Ferris wheel, miniature train, concerts, workshops and shows for children.

Western Germany

15) Bonn – Located in western Germany, Bonn is known for Beethoven House, a memorial and museum honouring the composer’s birthplace. The Christmas Market runs for over a month and visitors can shop for locally-produced souvenirs, as well as exploring Bonn Minster, the old City Hall or Poppelsdorf Palace.

16) Cologne – Famed for its twin-spired, Gothic Cathedral, Cologne is over 2000 years old. Tourists can explore the lavish Christmas huts, browsing crafts, souvenirs, jewellery, toys and tasty treats. Art lovers should visit Museum Ludwig, which showcases 20th-century art, including many masterpieces by Picasso. While the Romano-Germanic Museum houses Roman antiquities.

17) Düsseldorf – Düsseldorf is known for its fashion industry and art scene. The city is split into two, with the Old Town on the east bank and modern commercial areas lying to the west. Visitors can explore the 13th century St. Lambertus Church and Schlossturm ( Castle Tower ) or wander streets lined with boutique shops, including Königsallee and Schadowstrasse. Known as the fairytale market , Düsseldorf Christmas Markets are unique. Each market has a different theme and the wooden huts are topped with characters from the Brothers Grimm fairy-tales.

18) Frankfurt – Frankfurt is a large German city and major financial hub, home to the European Central Bank. Known as the birthplace of writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, much of the city was damaged during World War II. The reconstructed Old Town is the site of Römerberg, the square that hosts the annual Christmas market. Featuring a huge Christmas tree, these markets are the perfect place to buy a mulled wine or roasted chestnuts and watch the chiming of Frankfurt’s Church Bells.

19) Monschau – Located, near the Belgian border, Monschau has a picturesque Medieval centre, with half-timbered houses and narrow cobblestone streets. The hill-top Monschau Castle looks over the city and often hosts open-air concerts. Monschau not only hosts the traditional German Christmas Market stalls but also boasts a House of Christmas. Throughout the months of March to December, the House of Christmas offers Christmas decorations for sale on all 3 floors. Christmas carols played by various music ensembles can be heard around every corner and visitors can also explore The Red House, the 1752 home of a local and wealth cloth manufacturer, featuring lavish period furnishings and a carved, winding oak staircase.

20) Rothenburg ob der Tauber – Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a German town located in northern Bavaria. Featuring Medieval architecture, half-timbered houses and cobblestone lanes, the Old Town is home to the annual Reiterlesmarkt (Pre-Christmas Market). Visitors can also climb the Town Hall tower for panoramic views of the city, or explore the town walls, which include many preserved gate houses and towers, plus a covered walkway on top.

21) Trier – Located in the Moselle wine region, near the Luxembourg border, Trier is one of the most underrated cities in Germany. Founded by the Romans, the city contains numerous well-preserved Roman structures including the Porta Nigra gate, the ruins of Roman baths, an amphitheatre just outside the centre and a stone bridge over the Moselle River. With over 95 Christmas stalls, the Christmas Market features a daily festive programme against a backdrop of the imposing Trier Cathedral.

The Netherlands

22) Rotterdam – Located in south Holland, Rotterdam is a port city with a Maritime Museum featuring vintage ships and exhibits, as well as the 17th-century Delfshaven neighbourhood, Pilgrim Fathers Church and Erasmus bridge. Home to the Dutch Royal family, Rotterdam welcomes visitors, who can enjoy several Christmas Markets, as well as a Finnish Christmas Shop.

23) Amsterdam – The capital of The Netherlands, Amsterdam is famed for its intricate canal network, as well as numerous bike paths, the Van Gogh Museum, the Rijksmuseum (which houses works by Rembrandt and Vermeer) and modern art at the Stedelijk. There are numerous Christmas Markets throughout the city with the largest market next to the skating rink on Museumplein. The Winter Paradise Festival transforms the city with the Ice*Amsterdam Village featuring an ice rink.

24) Utrecht – Utrecht is a charming university city, known for its medieval centre, tree-lined canals, Christian monuments and Domtoren, a 14th century bell tower with sweeping city views, as well as the Gothic Cathedral of St. Martin on central Domplein square.

Read next: The 10 Best Things to do in The Netherlands

3) Choose the things you want to see in each city

Once you’ve got a rough plan of the countries and cities you want to cover, it’s time to plan what you want to see. Google Maps is a great resource which allows you to save locations as pins, plot routes and plan your own walking tours of a city. GPS My City is also a fantastic resource, which gives detailed information on all the major (and not so major!) sights in each city, and provides suggested walking routes as well as letting you design your own. DIY walking tours can be a great way to see a new city and are free too! Most Europeans cities are walkable, or have an Old Town that is walkable, so this is a great way to see your main points of interest in one day.

4) Planning the route

After shortlisting your locations and mapping out your points of interest, the next step is to solidify your plan and work out how to get there.

Looking at the locations on a map will give you a good idea of the natural order in which to visit each place (and how much you can fit into the time available), although there are other considerations.

Do you own car or are you going to hire a car?

It is possible to drive a car from the UK via the Eurotunnel. If this is your plan, your first and last night may need to be close to Calais.

Hiring a car can allow you to start and end in different places (even different countries). Hire cars are easily rented at most international airports, but there can be quite substantial surcharges for dropping off in a different country to the one you picked up in, so bear this in mind.

You can find out more about getting to and from Europe later in this article.

Daily driving time

The last thing you want is to plan your trip and then spend all your time in the car. It’s preferable to plan to spend no more than 3 hours driving each day. You can do this by making the most of the excellent European motorway network which will get you quickly from A to B. Alternatively there are some beautiful scenic routes, but it is worth considering the unpredictable European winter weather, which is very variable – it can be anything from sun through to rain, sleet, snow and dense fog! You can read more tips for driving in Europe at the end of this article.

Seeing the city by day or by night

By day, a city may be beautiful but by night it can be truly magical! You don’t have to do everything all in the same day. Some people prefer to see a city first by night, and then in daylight the following morning.

Winter days are short – typically light from 8:00 to 16:00. Maximise your daylight sightseeing hours by travelling after dusk. This does mean you end up travelling in the dark, so get no drive-by views, but that’s not a problem if you are using motorways which typically traverse less attractive landscapes anyway. Travelling after dusk can also mean you might hit rush hour traffic, although it tends to be more busy coming out of a city than going in on an evening.

Suggested destinations

We’ve created a suggested European Christmas Market road trip itinerary below, which is the perfect mix of culture, history and Christmas. It visits 5 of Europe’s most beautiful cities , without rushing. The 5 cities we’d recommend visiting are:

• Luxembourg City

These are all destinations that are not too far to drive between, minimising journey times and maximising sightseeing. This itinerary gives you a good mix of European culture, including gothic architecture, Medieval canals, picturesque landscapes, ancient history and of course, festive Christmas Markets. It’s also a flexible itinerary with suggested detours, giving you the opportunity to add destinations including:

Interactive Europe Christmas Markets Road Trip Map

Northern europe christmas road trip itinerary, day 1 – travel to ghent.

Ghent describes itself as Europe’s Best Kept Secret , and it’s not wrong. Boasting a history that goes back to the Middle Ages, with architecture to match, Ghent is one of the most beautiful cities in Belgium. The compact old city centre has a canal network and is packed with historical buildings including churches and castles, as well as lots of great places to eat and drink. The Gravensteen Castle is not to be missed, while the Graslei (row of harbourside guildhalls) makes for a perfect photo. As you pass the dramatic Cloth Hall , look up to the top windows and spot people fencing at the world’s oldest fencing club! See the city by night for a festive experience. During winter all the old buildings are illuminated until midnight, making wandering the narrow streets a magical experience. The Christmas markets are fun for all the family, with a Ferris Wheel, vintage merry-go-round, Moose bar and Children Village to boot.

Taking a boat tour is one of the best activities in Ghent. This is a great way to see the city and hear fascinating commentary from the skipper. Be aware that in winter the boats open from about 10:00 and may not run in bad weather. Climbing the Belfry for the superb views of the city is one of the best things to do in Ghent and shouldn’t be missed. You only need to take the stairs for the first couple of floors as beyond that there is a lift to the top.

Christmas Market Location: From Sint-Baafsplein Square to the end of Korenmarkt.

Christmas Market Dates: The second week of December to New Year’s Eve.

Key things to do:

• Gravensteen Castle
• Climb the Belfry
• Saint Bavo’s Cathedral
• Saint Nicholas’ Church
• Ghent City Museum
• Boat tour on the canal

The best sightseeing tours in Ghent: One of the best ways to learn about a new city in a short amount of time is on a walking tour. You can book onto a Private 2-Hour Walking Tour with a local guide to see the main attractions in Ghent, including the medieval city centre, Gravensteen Castle, Graslei and Korenlei. You’ll learn a lot through informative commentary, orient yourself and pick up local bar and restaurant recommendations too. Themed guided walks are very popular, with a Beer and Sightseeing Adventure and Small-Group Chocolate Tour  also available. Foodies can even book a Guided City Food Tour which includes food and drink tastings of local cuisine. While those who like to be a little more active, should consider joining a Guided Urban Bike T o ur .

Where to stay:

Budget: Hostel Uppelink Mid-range: Hotel Astoria Gent Luxury: Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Reylof Ghent

Day 2 – Ghent to Luxembourg City

Bordered by Belgium, France and Germany, Luxembourg is a small European country that many visitors miss. The capital, Luxembourg City ( Ville Haute ), is perched atop sheer cliffs and separated from the newer city by a deep river valley. As a truly strategic position, it has changed hands many times over the centuries, and has a rich heritage which reflects this.

The annual Winterlights Festival transforms Luxembourg City into a winter wonderland. Christmas Markets spring up all across the city, while live concerts, exhibitions, performances and workshops for kids are held in various venues. The Christmas Market stalls feature Christmas decorations, handicrafts, toys, clothes, jewellery, sweets, drinks and all sorts of food, and are particularly beautiful at night. Those who wish to learn more about the city’s festive traditions can join a Guided   Magical Christmas Tour .

While you’re in the city, wander through the Old Streets and admire the views from the Bock Casements (defensive tunnels cut into the cliffs). The impressive Cathédrale Notre-Dame is not to be missed, while art lovers should head to the National Museum of History and Art .

The superb new and free tram service makes it easy to get around, while a lot of the city is walkable. The City Line Bus Tour is a popular way to see the city in a limited amount of time, with 4 tours per day and a ticket valid for 24 hours.

Accommodation in the old city is limited (and expensive), but you can very easily stay in the new city and travel in by tram. Public transport is cheap and easy to use, and recommended as the one-way system can be congested and parking near the old city can be tricky too.

Christmas Market Location: The main market is at Place d’Armes, with other events in Place de la Constitution, Kinnekswiss, Place de Paris, the courtyard of the Old Athénée and Champ du Glacis.

Christmas Market Dates: Mid-November to early January.

• Palais Grand-Ducal
• Bock Casemates
• Cathédrale Notre-Dame
• Panoramic Elevator of the Pfaffenthal
• Musée national d’histoire et d’art Luxembourg
• Constitution Square

The best sightseeing tours in Luxembourg City: Those looking to get into the festive spirit should join a Guided   Magical Christmas Tour to learn more about Luxembourg’s history and traditions. Alternatively, taking a Guided City Walking Tour with Wine   is very popular and takes in Luxembourg City’s main sights, including Constitution Square, Place Guillaume II, Place d’Armes and Grand Ducal Palace. Those looking for a little more adventure can join a Guided E-Bike Tour , an eco-friendly way to see the city’s highlights. While those who wish to do less walking can enjoy the sights on a double decker bus as part of the City Line Bus Tour .

Budget: Luxembourg City Hostel Mid-range: DoubleTree by Hilton Luxembourg Luxury: Hotel Le Place d’Armes

Day 3 – Luxembourg City to Strasbourg

As the self-designated Capital of Christmas , Strasbourg has been hosting a Christmas market in Place Broglie since 1570. And what a market it is! Christmas lights and decorations adorn every building, an enormous Christmas tree pops up in Place Kléber and over 300 Christmas stalls can be found in every square (and there are lots of squares!). It’s no wonder that more than 2 million people visit Strasbourg Christmas Market ( Christkindelsmärik ) every year. Couple this with the fact that it is a truly beautiful city, and it’s easy to see why Strasbourg is top of many people’s Europe Christmas Markets list.

While Strasbourg may be French, its proximity to the German border and turbulent history has resulted in a mix of culture and architecture that has both German and French influences . The city became French after the conquest of Alsace in 1681. It was then taken back by Germany after the Franco-Prussian War in 1871 until the end of World War I in 1918 saw it revert back to France. Today, visitors can visit the Gothic Cathédrale Notre-Dame which features daily shows from its astronomical clock and offers sweeping views of the Rhine River from partway up its 142m (466ft) spire.

Upon arrival, the best way to orient yourself is with a guided walking tour. Explore the Historical Centre on a Private Walking Tour or jump straight into the festivities with a Christmas Market Tour . Those looking for a unique perspective should consider joining a 1.5-Hour Guided Segway Tour , which is fun for all abilities. While foodies will love a Traditional Food Group Walking Tour , which introduces you to the city’s highlights and stops to sample traditional delicacies and drinks.

Day 4 – Strasbourg (and the Colmar/Alsace region)

Strasbourg is a beautiful spot and, as the Capital of Christmas , deserves a full day on this European Christmas Market road trip itinerary. Start your day with a Batorama Boat Tour , a large glass-topped boat. Cruising around the city is a great way to orient yourself. Make sure you book the longer tour, which will not only take you into the picturesque Petite France but will also show you the more modern districts, including the European Parliament, whilst giving an insightful commentary into the turbulent history of this town on the French-German border.

Photographers shouldn’t miss Petite France, a lovely place to stroll, and so photogenic. While history buffs can head to the Historical Museum of the City of Strasbourg. If you’d like to explore the area, you can join a Full-Day Highlights of the Alsace Tour , which visits highlights of the region, including Colmar, Eguisheim, Riquewirh and Haut Koenigsbourg Castle. While a Wine Tour & Tastings fr o m Strasbourg is the perfect way to spend the day if you’re a wine lover. This highly-rated tour explores the Alsace Wine Route, tasting local wines and visiting local villages. A Half-Day Wine Tour is also availale for those who wish to spend a little more time in Strasbourg’s centre.

The Christmas Markets are the main event. They are all located in the Old Town ( Grand Ile ), which is an easily walkable area encompassed by the River Ill. And of course make sure you stay until after dark, when the city lights up and the streets become truly magical. To really get in the festive cheer, consider spending the day on a Alsace   Christmas Markets Tour , which visits local Christmas Market Towns, including Colmar, Eguisheim and Riquewihr.

Accommodation in Strasbourg gets booked very early and tends to be very expensive. The Park & Ride tram service, runs frequent services in and out of the city and is incredibly reasonably priced. Booking a hotel or B&B out of the city and transiting in can save you money.

Christmas Market Location: The main market is in Place de la Cathédrale de Strasbourg and Place Kléber, with others spread across Place Gutenberg, Place Broglie, Place du Château, Place du Marché aux Poisson, Place du Temple Neuf, Place Saint Thomas, Place des Meuniers, Place Benjamin-Zix, Place Grimmeissen, Advent Village at Square Louise-Weiss and Place du Corbeau.

Christmas Market Dates: The end of November to Christmas Eve.

• Cathédrale Notre Dame de Strasbourg
• Palais Rohan
• St. Thomas Church
• Parc de l’Orangerie
• Ponts Couverts de Strasbourg
• Historical Museum of the City of Strasbourg

The best sightseeing tours in Strasbourg: Explore the city’s highlights and Historical Centre on a Private Walking Tour or a 1.5-Hour Guided Segway Tour . Learn more about the city’s festive traditions on a Christmas Market Tour or sample local delicacies on a Traditional Food Group Walking Tour .

Budget: The People – Strasbourg Mid-range: HANNONG Hotel & Wine Bar Luxury: Maison Rouge Strasbourg Hotel & Spa, Autograph Collection

Day 5 – Strasbourg to Trier

Trier is one of the lesser well-known German cities but so worth visiting. Located conveniently between Strasbourg and Bruges, Trier has some of the best preserved Roman ruins in Europe, as well as beautiful buildings and of course a wonderful Christmas Market.

Visiting the Porta Nigra , an amazingly preserved Roman gateway to the city, is a must, while the Constantine Basilica features Emperor Constantine’s throne room, a huge and impressive building which is today used as a church. And the Imperial Roman Baths are one of three in the city, reached by a pleasant walk though the Palasgarten (Palace Gardens) and are unmissable for a history lover.

Set against the imposing backdrop of Trier Cathedral, Trier Christmas Market boasts over 95 wooden huts, selling local produce, handmade crafts, souvenirs and tasty food and drink. The romantic setting in the main square is the perfect place to grab a mulled wine and take in the twinkly fairy-lights.

Christmas Market Location: Domfreihof, the main square in front of the cathedral.

Christmas Market Dates: The end of November to just before Christmas Day.

• Porta Nigra
• Kaiserthermen
• Trier Amphitheatre
• Trier Saint Peter’s Cathedral
• Palasgarten
• Liebfrauenkirche
• Rheinisches Landesmuseum Trier

The best sightseeing tours in Trier: Take a Guided City Highlights Walking Tour to learn more about Trier’s rich Roman and Medieval history. Or consider doing a self-guided outdoor-escape-game for a fun and unique way to explore the city.

Budget: FourSide Hotel Trier Mid-range: Best Western Hotel Trier City Luxury: Park Plaza Trier

Day 6 – Trier to Bruges via Waterloo/Monschau/Brussels

As the trip comes to an end, it’s time to start heading back home. Travelling from Trier to Bruges can be done via a scenic drive through Monschau , taking in the German countryside. Brussels would make a good alternative to visit en-route, as it’s half-way between Trier and Bruges. While history lovers should stop at Waterloo, the site of the 1815 Battle of Waterloo. The battlefield site is a large, flat area, with a huge mound topped by a lion statue, as a memorial to all those who fought. You can climb the Butte de Lion (the lion monument), which was built on a man-made mound between 1823-1826. There is also a well laid out and thought-provoking museum, where you can learn more about the history of the battle through artifacts and a 3D movie.

As you arrive in Bruges, it’ll most likely be dark. This is the perfect time to head out and appreciate the magical festive lights which are part of the annual Winter Glow festival , which takes over the city in winter. Follow the Light Experience Trail, which illuminates some of Bruges’ most iconic buildings or enjoy a hot drink in the cosy winter bar pop up at the Minnewater ( Lake of Love ). Or take a walking tour to orient yourself. You can join a classic 2-Hour Guided Walking Tour to learn more about the city’s history, or a Dark Side of Bruges Private Evening Tour to discover mystery, dark stories, interesting facts, and the old legends of Bruges’ Medieval Centre.

Day 7 – Bruges

The capital of West Flanders, Bruges is known for its Medieval houses with crow-stepped gables, impressive Neogothic architecture and historic centre, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Start your day with a Boat Cr uis e and Guided Walking Tour , taking in the highlights of this romantic city. Visit the Lace Centre to learn more about the history of lace in Bruges, or climb the 366 steps up the Belfry of Bruges ( Belfort ), a 13th century clock tower that stands 83 metres (272ft) high and give tourists panoramic city views. There are plenty of wet weather activities, including the Historium , Fries Museum and Chocolate Making Workshop with Chocolate Museum Entry , with museum passes available ( Musea Brugge Card ). While foodies can join a Belgian Beer Tour , Waffle and Beer Workshop or Private food Tour .

Overlooked by the Neogothic Provinciaal Hof (the former meeting place for the provincial government of West Flanders), Bruges’ Christmas Market can be found in the 10th century main square, Markt , as well as along Simon Stevinplein Street. Featuring a large ice rink, festive decorations and numerous wooden stalls selling unique souvenirs, Bruges Christmas Market is one of the best in Belgium, if not the whole of Europe.

Christmas Market Location: Grote Market with huts also along Simon Stevenplein street.

Christmas Market Dates: End of November to early January.

• Belfry of Bruges
• Basilica of the Holy Blood
• Church of Our Lady Bruges
• Sint-Salvatorskathedraal
• Bruges City Hall
• Historium Bruges
• De Halve Maan Brewery

The best sightseeing tours in Bruges:

Orient yourself on a 2-Hour Guided Walking Tour , or discover Bruges’ darkest secrets on a Dark Side of Bruges Private Evening Tour . Those who like to stay active can join a City Highlights Bike Tour , while foodies can sample local cuisine on a Private food Tour . Give the poor ponies a break and skip the horse-drawn carriage ride, instead opting for a Guided Rickshaw Tour , a fun and cruelty-free way to see the city.

Budget: Hotel Malleberg Mid-range: The Black Swan Hotel Luxury: Grand Hotel Casselbergh Brugge

Day 8 – Travel home

You can head home at the end of day 7, or spend another night in Bruges and head home on day 8, depending on your destination. Those heading for the UK will likely spend a whole day travelling, while those going to an airport might have a shorter journey. You can find out the best, easiest and most accessible ways to transit to and from Europe in our How to get from the UK to Europe and How to get to Europe Internationally sections below.

Europe Accommodation

While we’re big fans of spontaneous travel, with short trips like this it’s best to plan ahead to make the most out of your time. Christmas is a very popular time of year to visit Europe with Christmas Markets seeing hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. Accommodation therefore often books up in advance.

City centre hotels within walking distance of the main attractions are very convenient, but also very expensive, and get booked up very quickly. Many also offer parking (often at an extra cost). Bear in mind that parking can often be underground – check your car will fit the low ceilings and tight parking spaces before booking.

Renting an apartment is possible (even for 1 night) and can be a good alternative to staying in a hotel. There are also lots of great, locally-owned B&Bs in Europe.

Many cites have excellent public transport, which are often trams, so you can stay a little further out of the city and still have easy access to the centre. Websites like Booking.com or Hostelworld.com are good for initially sourcing accommodation. It’s always worth checking whether you can get the room cheaper via the accommodation’s own website.

How to get from UK to Europe

For many, a trip to mainland Europe starts or ends in the UK. Or you may be an international visitor, wishing to include the UK in your itinerary. Here are the best ways to get between the UK and mainland Europe. Each route can be done without flying, which is more eco-friendly and means you can take a car too.

Ferry crossings UK to France

The Dover to Calais ferry crossing is the most popular option to get to France by boat. It takes less than two hours with up to 20 sailings a day. P&O Ferries is one of the largest providers of the route. Booking in advance can be far cheaper than leaving it to the last minute.

It’s also possible to cross from the UK to France via the following routes:

• Newhaven to Dieppe
• Portsmouth to Caen, Cherbourg or St Malo
• Poole to Cherbourg
• Plymouth to Roscoff

These routes are run by DFDS Seaways and Brittany Ferries . They’re less frequent than the Dover-Calais crossing and typically more expensive.

Ferry crossings UK to The Netherlands

It’s also possible to cross from the UK to The Netherlands.

Hull to Rotterdam is the most popular route. Run 3 times a day by P&O Ferries , the route takes around 10 hours so is popular as an overnight route. You get a cabin included in your ticket and can make the most of your days by transiting overnight. P&O often run sales between October-December where you can travel for around £50 or you can buy one get one free.

DFDS S eaways provides crossings from Newcastle to Amsterdam (Ijmuiden) which runs 7 times a day. This is a convenient option for those travelling from the north of England or Scotland. While Harwich to Hook of Holland is operated by Stena Line and runs 16 times daily.

Trains UK to France

The fastest way to get from the UK to France is by Eurostar . Leaving from London St Pancras , the Eurostar heads to Lille, Paris, Lyon, Avignon, Bourg-St-Maurice and Marseille . The shortest route (stopping at Lille) takes under 1 1/2 hours, while the last stop is 8 hours away from London.

If you wish to take your own car from the UK, it’s best to book the Eurotunnel . Running 24 hours a day, 365 days per year, with up to 7 departures per hour, the crossing takes only 35 minutes from Folkestone to Calais . Tesco Clubcard Voucher codes can be redeemed when booking the Eurotunnel, so if you save up those points you can actually get the crossing for free!

Trains UK to Belgium

The Eurostar runs from London to Brussels , which takes less than 2 hours, and Antwerp in less than 3 1/2 hours. Bruges can be accessed with a quick change at Brussels Midi/Zuid on an Any Belgian Station ticket.

Alternatively, you could take the Eurotunnel from Folkestone to Calais and then drive into Belgium.

Trains UK to The Netherlands

The Eurostar also stops in Rotterdam and Amsterdam , which takes less than 4 hours.

Buses from UK to Europe

Taking a bus is one of the most eco-friendly ways to travel Europe. Flixbus operates hundreds of routes and is our preferred method of transport in Europe, being comfortable and super affordable. It services a large number of major UK cities, with those leaving from London heading to destinations including Lille, Paris, Bruges, Ghent, Brussels, Antwerp, Cologne, Frankfurt, Rotterdam, Amsterdam and Utrecht . It’s then possible to get a Flixbus to pretty much any city in Europe. National Express also runs routes from the UK to Amsterdam, Brussels, Paris and Dublin.

How to get to Europe Internationally

There are several major European airports that serve most international flights. Paris, Brussels, Frankfurt and Amsterdam are popular airports, due to their location being easily accessible to most of Central Europe. Typically, flights into a capital or large city are cheaper than flying a less busy route. The best time to buy flights is around 10-12 weeks before your flight date.

Getting around Europe

Flixbus offers hundred of routes throughout Europe and connects almost every major city. It’s super cheap and eco-friendly too. Europe has a great railway network that is affordable (although considerably more expensive than Flixbus). Tickets can be booked through Rail Europe or Trainline . If you want freedom to travel at your own pace, hiring a car is preferable.

Most European cities will be walkable, or have a walkable Old Town. Larger cities are usually served by tram networks, which are often very affordable.

Things to Know Before You Go

If you plan to drive your own car abroad or hire a car, check your car insurance and breakdown cover will cover you. Road conditions can be unpredictable in winter so it’s best to be completely covered.

Read next: The 6 Best Travel Insurance Companies for Every Kind of Trip

To drive in Europe in your UK car, you also need UK magnetic plates (not GB) on the back of the car.

Tolls are common and have different lanes for you to pay by card or cash (it’s a good idea to carry both). Be careful as you approach them to get in the right lane for you, which can be worked out by the large signs above each lane. Watch out as you pull away from the toll too, as many lanes condense back into a few and there are vehicles on both sides.

Some cites (for example , Brussels) need you to pre-register your car for emissions purposes. Check each city you plan to visit, as some might have no-vehicle zones or specific times cars can and cannot enter certain areas.

It’s a smart idea to read up on the road rules for each country as they might vary. For example, France requires you to carry a breathalyser kit and warning triangle in your car at all times. The motorways flow seamlessly from one country to another, but the speed limits change and isn’t always clearly signposted, so be sure to be careful and know the rules.

As with any customs, there are strict import/export rules between the UK and Europe. Check what you can take with you and what you can bring home. Brexit has impacted the free flow of goods between UK and the rest of Europe, and there are rules on things like meat and dairy products that you might not expect. And if you are planning on bringing back alcohol and food as presents, know what the limits are. The Christmas Markets provide some great opportunities for Christmas shopping, as do many of the small specialist shops, but don’t ignore the supermarkets – they can also have great choice at reasonable prices.

COVID-19 regulations are still changing on a frequent basis. While most countries are back to business as normal, it’s still a good idea to check entry requirements and any testing/paperwork requirements that might exist at the time of travel.

Don’t forget your passport and driving license. It’s also a good idea to carry a EHIC (European Health Insurance Card), although having comprehensive travel insurance is a must too.

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These Holiday Cruises Will Take You to Christmas Markets Around Europe

A Christmas market cruises can get you into the winter spirit, provide a relaxing getaway, and offer opportunities for getting one-of-a-kind gifts for friends and family.

These cruise itineraries give you the chance to explore holiday markets dating back to the Middle Ages, and to discover the villages with local treasures like traditional winemaking and artisan crafts.

From festive onboard activities — like tree trimmings and dessert making — to the mulled wine and fresh gingerbread that will welcome you at each stop, these Christmas market cruises give travelers plenty to be merry about.

Christmas Along the Danube (Abercrombie & Kent)

Spend your holidays traveling on this new cruise from Abercrombie & Kent. The nine-day cruise starts in Germany in Munich and travels down through Salzburg, Linz, and Vienna, in Austria, before heading to Slovakia.

With only 24 guests onboard, this cruise offers a more intimate experience. A resident tour director is on-hand to guide guests through a tour of Munich's old town and its Christmas market, the Christmas market in Austria's Domplatz, and a private linzer torte baking class in Linz.

On Christmas morning, guests will wake up in Vienna and have a chance to stroll through the city's sprawling Christmas market before attending a strudel-baking demonstration and an evening concert at the 19th-century Kursalon .

Dates: December 21 to 29, 2017

Rate: Starting at $4,495 per person

Magnificent Europe Christmas Cruise (AmaWaterways)

This 14-night cruise takes travelers through five different countries, through medieval towns and to Europe's countryside.

Starting in Budapest, the cruise heads to Vienna, where guests get a tour of the city and its Christmas markets. There are also Christmas market stops in Nuremberg and Regensburg, in Germany.

After sampling smoked beer in Bamberg, guests continue to the German town of Kitzingen for wine tastings, and to Cologne for walking tours. The cruise then makes its way to Amsterdam for a leisurely exploration of the canals.

Date: December 20, 2017

Rate: Starting at $4,099 per person

Parisian Royal Holiday (Uniworld)

This eight-day trip with Uniworld is on the cruise line's new S.S. Joie de Vivre, which launched earlier this year.

The trip begins and ends in Paris, traveling through Northern France with stops at Christmas markets in Rouen and at the Champs-Élysées. Each holiday season, the streets of Rouen come alive with holiday lights and street performers.

Guests will also be able to indulge in holiday treats at La Couronne, which is where Julia Child famously enjoyed her first lunch in France. There's also a chance to see the grand Christmas tree at Notre Dame.

Dates: Itineraries available December 6 to 27, 2017

Rate: Starting at $3,799 per person

Christmas Markets in Alsace (CroisiEurope Cruises)

The Christmas market in Strasbourg, France, is the oldest one in Europe , dating back to 1570, and this four-day cruise from CroisiEurope takes you into the heart of it. Stops along the way include tasting the bredeles — biscruits that are traditionally baked during the holidays — at the Maison du Pain d'Alsace.

In Strasbourg, guests will also be able to explore wine cellars that date back to 1472 and visit the Christmas market of Eguisheim.

Dates: December 3 to 17, 2017

Rate: Starting at $942 per person

Dashing Through the Danube (Contiki)

This eight-day river cruise through four different countries is geared towards travelers aged 18 to 35.

The cruise starts in Regensburg, Germany. After exploring Regensburg's Christmas markets, guests come back onboard for a mixology class and traditional Bavarian dinner. The cruise will continue to Christmas markets in Passau, Vienna, and Budapest.

Fun additions on the cruise include castle ice-skating lessons in Budapest and onboard lessons in making Viennese desserts.

Dates: December 9 to 27, 2017

Rate: Starting at $1,839

Christmastime on the Danube (Westbound)—Avalon Waterways

Though most of Avalon Waterways' Christmas-themed cruises for the year have sold out, travelers can still snag a room on this nine-day river cruise from Vienne to Prague on the Danube.

Guided sightseeing tours take guests to Christmas markets in Vienna, Regensburg, Nuremburg, and Prague. The tour through Vienna's Christmas markets will be a culinary one, offering a chance to sample some of the country's most beloved holiday goodies. The cruise also includes several wine tastings, and a tour of Nuremberg's Old Town, which becomes illuminated with festive lights and bustling stalls during the holidays.

Dates: December 3 to 11 and 15 to 23, 2017

Rate: Starting at $2,290 per person

Christmas Markets Along the Rhine (Tauck River Cruising)

Rooms are filling up fast on this eight-day cruise from Tauck , which takes guests along the Rhine River . Onboard, holiday touches include tree-trimming parties and seasonal décor. The itinerary has several market visits, including Aachen, Rudesheim, Heidelberg, Baden-Baden, Strasbourg, Colmar, and Riquewihr.

From exploring living nativity sets in Baden-Baden to sampling crepes, sausages, baguettes, and chocolates in Colmar, this cruise promises an itinerary filled with festive cheer.

Dates: Launching December 2 and December 10, 2017

Rate: Starting at $3,780 per person

Bruges Short Break (Cunard)

For a shorter option, consider exploring the quaint Christmas markets of Bruges on this three-night cruise from Cunard.

After a day at sea, guests will head to Bruges to explore the city's famous Christmas market. The market is filled with festive ice sculptures, horse-drawn carriage rides, and an array of wooden chalets offering dainty ornaments, toys, and more.

While you're there, be sure to sample the chocolate and waffles that the area is famous for.

Dates: December 8 to 11, 2017

Rate: Starting at $697 per person

Grand Europe Christmas Markets (Crystal Cruises)

Hit all the top spots on Crystal Cruises' Grand European Christmas Markets cruise , which takes travelers through Hungary, Slovakia, Austria, Germany, and the Netherlands during a 16-day trip.

Christmas market stops include Nuremberg, where travelers can taste bratwurst and dark beers. The itinerary also offers time to explore medieval towns like Miltenberg, in Germany, and enjoy wines in Austria.

Dates: December 19, 2017 to January 4, 2018

Rate: Starting at $6,245 per person

Classic Christmas Markets (Uniworld)

This eight-day cruise takes travelers from Nuremberg to Frankfurt, starting with one of the biggest and oldest Christmas markets in Nuremberg, before heading to Bamberg, where the city's noted Nativity Walk includes some 40 churches, museums, and public installations of scenes of the nativity.

After sampling gingerbread beer in Wurzburg, guests will make their way to Wertheim to explore the glasswork and wines that line the stalls of its Market Square. There's also a stop at the Christmas market in Frankfurt.

Dates: December 1, 2017

Rate: Starting at $3,449 per person

Rhine River Cruise: Holiday (Adventures by Disney)

This cruise , onboard the AmaKristina , takes travelers through four countries. Holiday activities include the Amsterdam Light Festival, a macaron baking class, and the Christmas market in Strasbourg, France.

As the cruise sails along the Rhine Gorge, passengers will be able to see up to 30 castles.

Dates: December 23 to 30, 2017

Rate: Starting at $4,849

Bonus: Memphis to New Orleans Holiday Christmas Markets Cruise (American Queen Steamboat Company)

Want a taste of Christmas on this side of the Atlantic? The American Queen Steamboat Company offers a Christmas-market itinerary with a nine-day cruise from Memphis to New Orleans .

The American Queen has Victorian-era features, including antique furnishings and intricate woodwork. Starting in Memphis, the cruise takes guests through towns like Greenville, where the authors of the Muppets grew up, and cities like Vicksburg, with festive holiday shops and décor.

Guests will also find holiday shops set up in Natchez, Mississippi, where craftsmen will have holiday goodies as carolers set the mood. The cruise also runs through stops like St. Fracisville in Louisiana, where small-town holiday festivities can be seen throughout, and Nottoway, Louisiana, with vibrant gardens and Antebellum mansions.

Dates: December 17 to 26, 2017

Rate: Starting at $1,799 per person

European Christmas Market Itinerary by Train

If you are a regular reader then you already know that I LOVE Christmas markets. Ever since I discovered that they existed way back in 2011 when I travelled for the first time, I’ve been kind of obsessed. The holiday season may be cold in Europe, but it’s so darn magical and hands down one of my favourite times to visit. The lights, the decorations, the cute mugs full of delicious gluhwein , sausages, cookies, and other snacks and treats. European Christmas markets are basically the adult version of Santa’s village and I love everything about them. However, having been to many markets over many years, I realize that planning a Christmas market itinerary can be a bit overwhelming.

Europe has no shortage of Christmas markets so which ones do you choose? How do you get there and travel around? When should you go and what should you see and do? If these are questions you have then this is for you. I’m sharing the exact 2-week European Christmas market itinerary that I did by train through Germany and France. If two weeks is too long, you can easily cut it into one week in a single country. Ready to get festive? Here we go!

Why Explore European Christmas Markets by Train?

As you can see from the title, this European Christmas market itinerary is designed for train travel! Trains in Europe are amazing (so much better than in Canada). It’s a lot more relaxing than driving and still allows for more flexibility than an organized tour like a Christmas market cruise . Plus, they are more convenient, affordable, and environmentally friendly than flying.

For this itinerary, I used a mobile Eurail pass for the first time which was gifted to me by the company. I had 7 travel days to use within a 1-month period and complete freedom over my itinerary. It was super convenient because it allowed me to plan the big journeys in advance but could book my day trips day-of. This was handy for a number of reasons including affordability. Typically, the longer you wait to buy a train ticket, the more expensive it gets. With the Eurail pass, it’s a one-time fee that you pay upfront. So, unless you are on a train that needs a seat reservation (more on that later) then you can leave planning the smaller day trips to fit the weather and/or your mood when you are there.

European Christmas Market Itinerary  

As I said above, I did two weeks but you can also turn this into a one week European Christmas market itinerary very easily by choosing just one country to explore. For my two weeks, I chose a mix of big, well-known destinations and smaller, more local markets. If that sounds like your kind of European Christmas Market itinerary, then here’s how to plan.

Day 1 & 2: Nuremberg, Germany

Nuremberg Germany is my favourite Christmas market. The setting is beautiful in front of a huge gothic church. The stalls are lined with red and white striped paper to look like a candy cane and the first time I went I even had some snow which added that extra magic touch. Mostly though, I love the quality of the products here. One thing you will note about European Christmas markets is that they can get repetitive, but the Nuremberg Christmas market stands out to me as one that has different, interesting, and plenty of local products.

Where to stay: I loved Hotel Sorat Saxx . It’s right on the square of the Christkindlesmarkt, the main Christmas market, and only about a 15 minute walk (or a quick taxi ride) from the train station. 

I have a full guide for Nuremberg Christmas markets which I suggest you check out for more in-depth reading, however, since this is the start of your tour I recommend spending 3 nights in Nuremberg. That way you can rest up a bit from the jetlag if you are coming from overseas and not feel too rushed. Although for one of those days, I will suggest a day trip which I will get to next.  

Day 3: Day trip to Coburg OR Augsburg

After two days exploring Nuremberg, I suggest hopping on a train to nearby Coburg or Augsburg. I visited both during my recent trip and both have their perks and advantages depending on what you are looking for.

Coburg is a gorgeous little town only about 1 hour and 15 minutes by train to Nuremberg. The city centre is a 15-minute walk and full of beautiful old buildings in a range of pastel shades. The Christmas market here is tiny and mostly food based but, set up in the old square it is hands down one of the prettiest Christmas markets I’ve been to. I visited as a half-day trip but I do wish I went earlier in the day because the town is also home to an impressive fortress (one of the best-preserved medieval fortresses in all of Germany!). Coburg really gives fairy-tale vibes which makes it a fun pick.

The other option is Augsburg, which is about 1 hour and 30 minutes from Nuremberg. A little further away, this market is also much bigger although the town isn’t quite as pretty. However, Augsburg is known to have one of the oldest Christmas markets in Germany thanks to old gingerbread baker markets during the holiday season. Like Coburg, you can walk to the market from the train station in about 15 minutes.

What I loved about both options is that they felt so local. I didn’t hear anyone else speaking English during my time at either of these German Christmas markets.  

Day 4 & 5: Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber, Germany

If you are familiar with Germany at all you have no doubt heard of or seen photos of Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber. The medieval walled city is a popular stop on Germany’s Romantic Road route. It’s absolutely stunning at any time of year but it’s really something special during the holiday season. The Christmas market here has grown over the years but, truthfully, as far as markets go, it’s not the most exciting. However, what the Christmas market lacks the town makes up for. The decorations, the lights, and of course the two massive Käthe Wohlfahrt shops which are winter wonderland fairy tales in their own right are some of the highlights here.

Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber is quite small, but because it takes longer to get to I suggest spending two nights so you have one full day. Most people come here just as a day trip so it can get quite busy late morning/early afternoon. But, when they leave or early in the morning before they arrive is a really magical time to explore and have more of a local feel.

Stay at: Hotel Sonne , located in the Old Town. It also has a great restaurant. 

Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber is about 2 hours from Nuremberg and 3 hours from Munich including transfers. The Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber Train station is an easy 10-minute walk from the Old Town Walls, but the streets are cobblestone which can make it tricky if you have lots of luggage.

Day 6: Munich, Germany

Next up is Munich. Munich has a number of Christmas markets including the Pink Market (run by the Queer community), the Medieval Market (complete with knights), and the big market in front of Marienplatz. Now, Munich will hold a special place in my heart as being the place where I first discovered that Christmas markets existed but, in relation to other cities and destinations, Munich’s Christmas markets are just, well, average. I don’t love them and they get very busy and crowded. For this reason, I suggest only spending about 24 hours in Munich. I managed to visit 6 Christmas markets in that time which kept me plenty busy and entertained before moving on. For a central location, stay at Mercure Hotel Munchen Altstadt.

At this point, depending on your schedule, you can end your European Christmas market itinerary in Munich on day 7. That will have given you 1 week of German Christmas markets. But, if you have the time, then I suggest moving on to France to continue.

Day 7 & 8: Strasbourg, France

Take the time to explore a little more of Munich in the morning then take an afternoon train to Strasbourg, France. It’s a long train journey compared to the rest on this European Christmas market itinerary (around 4 hours, with at least 1 transfer) but worth it!

Located in the Alsace region of France, Strasbourg is one of the prettiest places for European Christmas markets. The houses, the businesses, the lights- Strasbourg does decorations beautifully!

There are 13 Christmas markets in Strasbourg. You can check out my Strasbourg Christmas market guide for all the details but many of them are smaller and some are themed. What I like about the Strasbourg Christmas markets is that it really feels like a mix. The larger markets are big and busy while smaller ones had that smaller, more local feel.

Everything is located within the old city making it an easy walk from the train station. I recommend stating at  BOMA Easy Living , which I loved. Plus, it was only an 8-minute walk from the train station.

Day 9: Day trip to Colmar, France

Another must-see in the Alsace region is Colmar, known for being the inspiration for Belle’s village in Beauty and the Beast. Magical at the best of times, Colmar rivals Strasbourg when it comes to the most decorated Christmas markets in Europe. It’s only 30 minutes by train and a 15-minute walk to the Old Town area from the train station.

It is a very popular day trip option so expect it to be busy, but it’s worth it. I usually go a little earlier in the day to enjoy the market during daylight hours when it’s warmer since I head back to Strasbourg for the night. However, it looks pretty gorgeous in the dark with all the lights and I expect it’s a lot quieter in the evening when the day trippers leave.  

For more, check out my guide to Christmas Markets in Colmar .

Day 10, 11, 12: Reims, France

Time to take a break from gluhwein and vin chaud and head to Reims, the capital of champagne. Some of the best-known champagne cellars in the world are located here and offer tours and tastings. I spent two days exploring major international champagne brands and a couple of smaller, local ones. In the evenings, after learning about (and drinking) bubbles, I’d wander through the Reims Christmas Market and grab some delicious raclette from a vendor. Since Reims is known as the champagne area, it wasn’t busy at all with Christmas tourists which means that it had that local authentic feel. Although I do have to say my Canadian heart burst with happiness when I saw a couple of Quebec tents selling Canadian maple syrup, beer, and other Canadian liquors. While not as decorated or atmospheric, I found this to be a really friendly European Christmas market as a tourist.

I loved  MM Suites Cathedral which was a really cute apartment (up 2 flights of stairs, no elevator). If you’d prefer a hotel try Grand Hotel de Templiers .

Day 13-14: Paris

Last but not least is beautiful Paris, the ending point for this European Christmas market itinerary and only 45 minutes by train from Reims.

Paris has a number of markets including some small weekend-only pop-up ones. There are also plenty of decorations and light displays around the city. The Christmas windows of department stores like Printemps and of course the famous annual tree at Galleries Lafayette. Check out my full guide on Christmas in Paris  for the holiday highlights and if you are looking for central places to stay try Hotel Crayon Rouge or Snob Hotel . If those are a bit above your budget, take a look at my list of affordable hotels in Paris .  

Using Your Eurail pass

The 7 travel days within 1-month Global travel pass was perfect for the above itinerary. With the mobile pass, I was able to map it out in advance on the app under the ‘My Trip’ section. When I was happy with the results, I confirmed my travel days by tapping the icon to add the journey to my pass. Then, under my pass, I had the QR code with the ticket to show the conductor when they came to check. It’s simple and convenient!

A couple of things to be aware of. Not all trains have WIFI, so you’ll want to make sure that you have a sim card with data so you can pull up your pass on the train. Additionally, some trains do have seat reservations which cost extra and need to be booked in advance and, in my experience, printed as a paper ticket. This added an extra $90 CAD total to my itinerary since I booked a few high-speed trains through France.

Last but not least, if travelling with a friend you’ll want to order your seats together through the website. I did this trip with my mom and we both booked seats individually but there was no option to choose seats so unfortunately, we didn’t get to sit together. Once booked, your seats cannot be changed. If you need help figuring that out, get in touch with the Eurail team who can walk you through the steps.

Check out Eurail and their pass options here.

Final Tips for Your European Christmas Market Itinerary

If you love the holiday season as much as I do then this European Christmas market itinerary is sure to get you into a festive mood! Just keep in mind that it is one of the most popular travel times and therefore things do book up quickly. I suggest planning out your route and booking hotels and any big train journeys in advance to ensure you get the places and times that you want.

Ready to Book Your Trip?

Don’t forget travel insurance!

Please do not travel without travel insurance! I’ve had to use it multiple times throughout my travels and it has saved me thousands of dollars. You can learn more about travel insurance  here . If you are looking for a provider I love and recommend  SafetyWing . For Canadian readers, take a look at  SoNomad.

Book your accommodation

I love and recommend  booking.com  for accommodation. They have a range of hostels, guesthouses, hotels, and resorts. Plus, the platform has a great loyalty program that means the more you book, the more you can save. 

Book your tours

My go-to tour provider that I love to recommend is  GetYourGuide . They have options all over the world and partner with local companies for everything from day trips to food experiences and even airport transfers. 

Get connected

If you want to have data while travelling for online maps or any other needs, an esim is one of the easiest solutions. I’m a big fan of Airalo and have used their sim cards around the world from Brazil to Uzbekistan, Greece to the USA. It’s really easy- you download the app, pick what country you want an esim for, and after you purchase it follow the installation instructions. You can use promo code HANNAH3326 to save $3USD on your next esim purchase. 

Not sure what to pack?

I have destination-specific guides for some countries but you can also check my  travel essentials  and  camera gear  if you are looking for some ideas. 

Looking for a travel buddy?

Check out my group trips!

Oooh, we LOVE this post! And really, it’s a great itinerary any time of year, but especially for the Christmas Markets. You’ve got us planning another trip!! Last time, we spent a whole week just exploring the markets in Paris before heading to Alsace. Time to hop aboard and head for Germany! 😍

Yes the markets in Germany are incredible too!

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Europe Christmas Markets: Munich to Budapest

8 days | explore the festive markets of germany, austria and hungary.

Indulge the senses by exploring the best of Central Europe’s festive market scene. Feel the bustling energy of Munich’s charismatic Christmas markets, savour the smell of spicy festive delights in Salzburg, see the sights of vibrant Vienna and take a therapeutic soak in the thermal baths of Budapest. Meander from stall to stall, discovering new sights, sounds, flavours and fashions.

Trip overview

• This trip takes you to a variety of Christmas markets across central Europe. Contrast the various traditions, cuisines and of course, mulled wine, in several amazing cities
• Munich's Christmas markets are probably the most famous of them all. Authentic Bavarian food, ale and music make this an unforgettable Christmas experience
• Explore Salzburg’s markets and travel high above the rooftops of the Baroque historical district to the fully preserved castle, the Hohensalzburg Fortress
• Vienna's Christmas markets are as ornamental as its architecture. Austria's capital provides a spectacular seasonal shopping affair, with tonnes of hand-crafted toys, candles and paintings on offer. Where better to pick up those last-minute gifts?
• Jolly Budapest really embraces the Christmas spirit. Take a walk through the streets to find every street, tree and market lit up in lights
• While the Christmas markets we visit are all beautiful, they can get very busy, so please be prepared for crowds. We'll also spend a considerable amount of time outdoors, and as it is winter it would be advisable you bring warm clothing and are adequately prepared for the weather.
• The primary means of transportation on this trip is by train. Train travel is a fast way to traverse long distances, allowing you to avoid traffic jams and arrive right into the city centre. Trains are comfortable and often decked out with air-conditioning, toilets, a snack bar (or vending machine) and power points. Please note that you'll have to carry your own luggage on and off the train, so make sure it doesn’t exceed our weight and size recommendations. You can find this information in the 'Packing' section of the Essential Trip Information.
• Hotels in Europe often don't have double beds, but rather two single beds that can be pushed together.
• On this trip you must pack as lightly as possible because you will be expected to carry your own bag and although you won't be required to walk long distances with your luggage (max 30 minutes), we strongly recommend keeping the weight under 15kg / 33lb. Most travellers carry their luggage in a backpack, although an overnight bag with a shoulder strap would suffice if you travel lightly. Smaller bags or backpacks with wheels are convenient although we recommend your bag has carry straps to accommodate the cobbled streets, uneven surfaces, stairs and steps you are likely to encounter while carrying your luggage. You'll also need a day pack/bag to carry water and a camera etc for day trips.

Willkommen! Welcome to Munich, Germany. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm. In the evening, head out for an included dinner with the rest of the group. If you can't arrange a flight that will arrive in time, you may wish to arrive a day early so you're able to attend the meeting. We'll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability).

• Hotel (1 night)
• Munich - Welcome Dinner

Please look for a note in the hotel lobby or ask reception where the welcome meeting will take place. We'll be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this meeting, so ensure you bring these details to provide to your leader. If you're going to be late, please inform hotel reception. You can arrive at any time during the day as there are no activities planned until this important meeting. Museums are closed on Mondays in Munich and if you wish to book any optional tours, please book in advance because they tend to book out during Christmas & New Year period very fast.

In the morning after breakfast, venture out with your leader for an orientation walk of Munich. This cosmopolitan metropolis houses an extraordinary array of sights for travellers more interested in art, architecture, history, music and, of course, Christmas markets. There are 20 different Christmas markets in Munich and you'll be introduced to the best of them. From the Kripperlmarkt, which has all you need to create an authentic manger, to the Tollwood Christmas Market, Munich's vibrant ethnic festival. Music lovers will be able to get into the festive spirit with a special alpine Christmas Market concert from the balcony of Munich's town hall, which takes places Sunday to Thursday while the Christmas markets are on. Sip on a mug of gluehwein, grab a grilled sausage and browse the markets full of toys, wood carvings, candles etc.

• Munich - Gluehwein (Mulled Wine) Tasting
• Munich - Christmas Market Visit
• Munich - Alte Pinakothek Art Gallery - EUR12
• Munich - Bavarian Royal Palace - EUR13
• Munich - Deutsches Museum - EUR14
• Munich - Third Reich Tour - EUR15
• Munich - Bavarian National Museum - EUR7
• Munich - BMW World - Free
• Munich - BMW Museum - EUR10

Travel south-east into Austria by train to Salzburg today, which should take around one hour and forty five minutes. Built on the fortune of its famous salt mines, Salzburg is the birthplace of the Snow White and the Seven Dwarves legend, home to the hills from the Sound of Music and purveyor of absolutely everything Mozart. On arrival, check in to your hotel and then head out into the city for an orientation walk with your leader. The city will captivate with its history, as well as its cobblestone lanes, bubbling river and charmingly kitsch atmosphere. In the late afternoon, visit the atmospheric Christmas market in Cathedral Square. The smells of gluhwein, roasted chestnuts, toasted almonds and cinnamon brushed baked apples waft through the marketplace, while the sounds of traditional Salzburg choirs fill the air. Here your leader will take you on food crawl that may include such classics as Lebkuchen (gingerbread), Kasnock´n (cheese gnocchi), Bratwurst (sausage), Mozartkugel (marzipan-covered nougat in dark chocolate cover), Schwarzbrot (sourdough bread). Later on, jump in to a cable car and reach the Hohensalzburg Fortress, the city’s most visible landmark. This fully preserved castle hosts very small, intimate Christmas market and if you’re lucky, a Christmas themed live music.

• Salzburg - Christmas Market Visit
• Salzburg - Hohensalzburg Fortress Visit
• Salzburg - Hohensalzburg Cable Car
• Salzburg- Christmas Market small tasting

Today is free to explore Salzburg and the surrounding areas. Perhaps make your way to the salt mine in Berchtesgaden, situated in the German Alps. Otherwise, you may want to experience the life of the von Trapp family from the Sound of Music and visit movie scenes of the Mirabell Gardens and Pegasus Fountain, Leopoldskron Palace and Hellbrunn Palace. In the evening, why not head back to the Christmas markets to soak up even more of the blissful atmosphere?

• Salzburg - Sound of Music Tour - EUR45
• Salzburg - Mozart's Birthplace - EUR12
• Salzburg - Mirabell Palace and Gardens - Free
• Salzburg - Three Village Christmas Market Tour - EUR25
• Berchtesgaden - Salt Mine Visit - EUR17

Board a train bound for Vienna today (approximately 2.5 hours). On arrival, embark on a leader-led walking tour of Vienna, passing grand buildings and parks. You'll see many monuments dedicated to famous composers and historical figures. In your free time, perhaps visit the striking Hofburg Palace, the Leopold Museum or seek out exceptional city views on the Prater Ferris Wheel. Later in the afternoon, head to the Christmas markets in front of the City Hall. Browse the markets, sip on Christmas punch and snack on some freshly baked cinnamon biscuits.

• Vienna - Christmas Market Visit

Your base for two nights in Vienna is Magdas Hotel – an accommodation that is unlike any other hotel you are likely to come across on your travels. Magdas Hotel is a social project bringing refugees from all over the world to work together in one place. The hotel is staffed with refugees so expect to hear different languages and different stories from all over the world. Also the building’s history is interesting – it’s a former retirement home and homeless shelter which has been completely renovated. Most of the furniture is also up-cycled, renovated and re-purposed. The place is full of love, passion and uniqueness. It’s full of colours and smiley faces. Magdas Hotel ‘brings together what belongs together’.

You'll have the whole day to explore Vienna, so perhaps head to Schoenbrunn Palace, which was designed by Empress Maria Theresa herself. The gardens are free to all visitors but there is a charge for entrance and tours of the palace. Avoid long queues by pre-booking your tickets at schoenbrunn.at. Also, with over 12 Christmas markets to visit in the city, you'll be sure to find the perfect Christmas present.

• Vienna - Schoenbrunn Palace - EUR22
• Vienna - Hofburg Palace & Sisi Museum - EUR16
• Vienna - Prater Ferris Wheel - EUR14
• Vienna - Belvedere Gallery (Lower Gallery) - EUR15
• Vienna - Vienna Boys Choir Concert - EUR70
• Vienna - Spanish Riding School Practice - EUR28
• Vienna - Albertina Museum - EUR19
• Vienna - Leopold Museum - EUR15

Travel east from Vienna to Budapest by train (approximately 3 hours). Known as the 'Pearl of the Danube', Budapest's grand architecture and boulevards evoke a time gone by. With so much to see and do, hiring a bicycle is a great way to move between sights and attractions. After a short orientation walk around the city, it's time to visit the Christmas markets. With the main Christmas market being located in Vorosmarty Square, every street light, tree and market stall lit up it gives the area a real Christmas feel. There are plenty of stalls offering different Hungarian foods to try and buy. Experience these great markets of Budapest with a glass of mulled wine or shot of traditional Hungarian palinka. The combination of market cheer and Neo-Renaissance architecture is a charming one.

• Budapest - Christmas Market Visit
• Budapest - Parliament Tour - HUF10000
• Budapest - Hungarian State Opera House Tour - HUF7000
• Budapest - Szechenyi Thermal Baths (starting from) - HUF9400
• Budapest - Transport and Entry to Statue Park - HUF5000
• Budapest - Faust Wine Cellar Tasting - EUR21

Your Christmas Market adventure comes to an end today. There are no more activities planned and you're free to depart the accommodation at any time after you check-out.

7 breakfasts, 1 dinner

Train, Metro

Hotel (7 nights)

Dates and availability

Important notes.

1. A single supplement is bookable for this trip, including all nights. Availability is limited due to small property we use. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

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Magical European Christmas Markets By Train [2024]: Full Itinerary

• Post author: Nicoletta
• Reading time: 45 mins read
• Post last modified: February 8, 2024
• Post comments: 0 Comments

Winter is approaching, and European cities are preparing for the most special time of the year. If you want to get into the Christmas mood,  Europe is the place . Its Christmas markets just open at the  end of November  and welcome you with delicious food and drinks, souvenirs, and a magical atmosphere.

I took my time to visit all the Christmas markets I included in this itinerary and traveled on the train routes between the cities. I visited each city and rated the Christmas markets, atmosphere, and food.

Based on my experience , I’ve created this itinerary so you can also experience the best European Christmas markets this winter.

✈ Travel Resources For Your Trip ✈

Here are some of my favorite travel resources I use for my travel adventures.

Overview Of The European Christmas Markets By Train: Full Itinerary

This itinerary will also take you to the most beautiful European cities . So that it doesn’t get too boring for you in the middle of the way, only seeing Christmas stuff.

I’ve planned  one day in each city , which is enough to explore their Christmas markets. On the other day, you’ll travel by train between each destination. The cities are close to each other, but train rides are longer. So plan accordingly.

PRO TIP:  Spend  the second day exploring each city , and take a train to the other destination in the afternoon/towards the evening. This way, you’ll get the most out of each city on this itinerary.

European Christmas Markets Map

Here is a map of this itinerary. Save it to your phone and follow it once you’re traveling:

Why Are European Christmas Markets Special?

Christmas Markets originally come from Germany , so it’s the epicenter of the most beautiful Christmas Markets in the world.

Imagine cute wooden huts with various smells , from delicious sausages, soups, sweets, hot chocolate , and the famous mulled wine . These are usually in a square in the middle of a city.

Besides, everything is decorated with Christmas ornaments , and music plays in the background, bringing you into the perfect Christmas mood.

That’s why European Christmas Markets are so special; you must experience them at least once in a lifetime.

How To Get Around European Christmas Markets

We’ll  use the Interrail/Eurail Pass for this itinerary . For those of you who aren’t familiar with this pass:

Interrail and Eurail Pass is a train pass to travel through Europe. You can choose the number of days you want to travel within a month. It can be on a flexible schedule or consecutive days . With Eurail Pass, you must also select countries you’ll travel to.

DIFFERENCE INTERRAIL PASS & EURAIL PASS

✅ Interrail Pass = for European citizens ✅ Eurail Pass   = for non-European citizens 

European Christmas Markets With Interrail Pass

For our Christmas markets itinerary, we’ll need the  5-day Interrail Pass on flexible days  within 1 month . This will cover our train rides from one city to another as we’ll have four travel days out of the 9-day itinerary. 

To  use up the 5th travel day , you can travel from Brussels (end destination) to the airport or to 1 more European city you want to see.

➡ Get 5-Day Interrail Pass Here & Learn More

European Christmas Markets With Eurail Pass

The Eurail Pass works slightly differently than the Interrail pass. You’ll have to select the countries you want to travel through. The price depends on the number of countries and distances. So when getting the Eurail Pass, insert each country mentioned in this itinerary:

• Czech Republic

➡ Get 5-Country Eurail Pass Here & Learn More

🚇  NOTE:  With both passes, you’ll only have to  pay extra for the high-speed  and  night train seat reservations . All other journeys are included, so you can hop on and off the trains between the destinations on your itinerary. It’ll  save you a lot of money  and  give you much flexibility .

Travel Itinerary Planning Services

Day 0. arrive in bupadest, hungary.

Hungary, with its capital city, will ideally  put you into the Christmas mood , and you’ll feel ready to explore more.

So firstly, get to Budapest, Hungary, on the first day. Check in to your accommodation and take the first glimpse into the city in the evening.

➡ Budapest has some of the best flight deals in Europe . Click here for great flights .

🏠 Where To Stay In Budapest

These are my top hotel recommendations in Budapest:

➡ The Three Corners Downtown Edition Hotel – budget-friendly – book here ➡ Hotel Moments Budapest – mid-range hotel – book here ➡ Budapest Marriott Hotel – luxury hotel – book here

DAY 1. BUDAPEST, HUNGARY

Budapest Christmas markets are undoubtedly one of the most beautiful in entire Europe. No wonder the city itself creates a very special atmosphere with the  impressive buildings  and lights reflected in the  Danube River .

You’ll get to try  local specialties  such as  chimney cake  (Kürtőskalács), apple strudel, langos (fried dough with toppings),  potato pancakes , fried sausages with local bread, stuffed cabbage rolls, delicious goose with red cabbage, or cured meat. Then, drink local  mulled wine  and tea.

You can also buy chocolate, handmade toys (local grandmas create beautiful stuff), and Christmas ornaments.

🍭 SPECIALTIES TO TRY: Chimney Cake (Kürtőskalács), Langos, Potato Pancakes, Gulash 📍 LOCATION: Vörösmarty Square & Szent István Bazilika ✨ BUDAPEST CHRISTMAS MARKETS DATES: 17th of November until the 31st of December 2023

DAY 2. TRAVEL BY TRAIN BUDAPEST ⇒ PRAGUE

You can take some time to explore Budapest in the morning . Then, around lunchtime, take a train directly to Prague. That way, you’ll reach Prague in the evening, ready to check in to your hotel.

TOP EXPERIENCES IN BUDAPEST: ➡ City Highlights Evening Cruise With Drink ➡ Full Day Spa With Palinka

How To Get From Budapest To Prague By Train

I recommend taking either  EC Train  or  Regiojet .

Regiojet  is a Czech company providing trains and buses around Europe. Their trains are very comfortable. And you’ll get a  coffee or tea free of charge , so go for it. All train rides covered by Regiojet are included in your Interrail and Eurail Pass, which is amazing.

Use your Interrail/Eurail website to check the  timetables of the trains . Some are direct connections from Budapest to Prague. With others, you might have to change trains in Vienna.

Train ride from Budapest to Prague takes approx. 7hours & 30minutes .

🏠 Where To Stay In Prague

Here are my top hotel picks for Prague:

➡ U Medvidku Brevery Hotel – budget-friendly hotel – book here ➡ Questenberg Hotel Prague – mid-range hotel – book here ➡ Pytloun Boutique Hotel Prague – luxury hotel – book here

DAY 3. PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC

The capital city of the Czech Republic has equally stunning Christmas Markets as Budapest. However, Prague has an even more unique atmosphere . You have to see for yourself.

Don’t worry if you haven’t had enough of the Chimney Cake or are missing any other specialty from Budapest, don’t worry. You can catch up in Prague.

Enjoy more food, such as  homemade gingerbread , traditional fish soup,  sweet dumplings  filled with jam, and pancakes. Then, finish with a  big jar of Czech beer , the most delicious and cheapest in Europe.

Central European countries have  beautiful handicrafts  that local grandmas prepare. Prague is not an exception. So it might be the place to buy some decorations for your Christmas Eve back home.

🍭 SPECIALTIES TO TRY: Chimney Cake (Trdelnik), Sausage, Sweet Dumplings 📍 LOCATION: Old Town Square & Wenceslas Square ✨ PRAGUE CHRISTMAS MARKETS DATES: 2nd of December 2023, lasting until the 6th of January 2024

👉 READ ALSO: Is Prague Worth Visiting? 19 Reasons To Visit & Best Things To Do

DAY 4. TRAVEL BY TRAIN PRAGUE ⇒ SALZBURG

Traveling from Prague to Salzburg, you’ll have to  change trains in Vienna . First, take some time in the morning to explore Prague. Or eat more delicious things on its Christmas markets (maybe more Chimney cake?).

Around lunchtime, hop on a train again to Salzburg.

TOP EXPERIENCES IN PRAGUE: ➡ 50-Minute Sightseeing Evening Cruise ➡ Beer Spa Prague

How To Get From Prague To Salzburg By Train

To get from Prague to Salzburg, you can again take  Regiojet  or use the Austrian railway train network called  ÖBB .

If you travel with ÖBB,  watch out for the Railjet train . Railjet is a beautiful, spacious train. I love traveling with Railjet. But, who is going to beat Regiojet with its free coffee?… well, you answer that.

Train ride from Prague to Salzburg takes approx.  8hours .

🏠 Where To Stay In Salzburg

I recommend booking one of these hotels in Salzburg for your stay:

➡ Villa Flöckner Bed & Breakfast – budget-friendly apartment – book here ➡ Hotel Am Mirabelplatz – mid-range hotel – book here ➡ Hotel Sacher Salzburg – luxury hotel – book here

DAY 5. SALZBURG, AUSTRIA

Salzburg is the most charming city on this list, so it must be on our Christmas Market tour through Europe. It’s a  small town in Austria , close to the border with Germany.

And I’d say it’s more worth visiting than Vienna , the Austrian capital. So, if you are hesitant about which one of these cities to visit, you can make a choice now.

Go to the Residence Square , which hosts  one of the oldest markets in Europe . Then, walk across the Salzach River to  Linzergasse Street  until you reach the Mirabell Gardens. Get the best views of the Salzburg Fortress from the gardens and enjoy the Christmas atmosphere.

Sip hot  Glühwine (mulled wine), enjoy local sausages, and finish with delicious  Mozartkügel  (Mozart chocolate pralines) for dessert.

🍭 SPECIALTIES TO TRY: Brezel (Big Pretzel – sweet or sauer), Kaiserschmarrn (traditional shredded pancakes), Mulled Wine, Hot Chocolate 📍 LOCATION: Residence Square & In Front Of The Mirabell Palace ✨ SALZBURG CHRISTMAS MARKETS DATES: 23rd of November 2023 and finish on the 6th of January 2024

Experience Austrian Tradition Krampus

If you are in the region on the 6th of December , you’ll also experience a unique Christmas tradition in Austria – Krampus. It’s a parade of creatures called ‘Krampus.’ These are hand-carved wooden scary masks . Locals dress up and go to the streets and scare everybody.

It’s actually very creepy yet interesting to experience. The purpose of this tradition is to scare away all the bad energy from the places and people before Christmas and prepare for the arrival of Jesus Christ.

👉 READ ALSO: Salzburg Itinerary 3 Days: Self-Guided Tour

DAY 6. TRAVEL BY TRAIN SALZBURG ⇒ NUREMBERG

Salzburg has a lot to see, so take some time today in the morning to appreciate Classical music in Mozart’s birthplace , go up to Salzburg’s Fortress , and chill in the Mirabel Gardens before you take the train.

TOP EXPERIENCES IN SALZBURG: ➡ Mozart Fortress Concert With Dinner ➡ Original Sound Of Music Tour

How To Get From Salzburg To Nuremberg By Train

Finally, a shorter train ride awaits us today, crossing the border to Germany . We’ll get to explore another stunning  medieval city , Nuremberg. In the evening, get to Nuremberg and have a good rest. Tomorrow, we’ll explore the city with its markets.

You’ll have to  change in Munich  to get from Salzburg to Nuremberg. You can take a  regional train  from Salzburg to Munich (blue-yellow train) and then change to an  Intercity train . Or take 2x Intercity trains operated by  DB  ( Deutsche Bahn – German Railways ).

Train ride from Salzburg to Nuremberg takes approx.  3hours .

🏠 Where To Stay In Nuremberg

Here are my top hotel picks for your stay in Nuremberg:

➡ Leonardo Royal Hotel Nuremberg – budget-friendly hotel – book here ➡ Astoria Apartments – mid-range apartment – book here ➡ Hotel Pomader Nuremberg – luxury hotel – book here

DAY 7. NUREMBERG, GERMANY

Nuremberg is a  beautiful medieval city  and, without a doubt, one of the  best Christmas markets in Germany . Stepping into the town, you’ll immediately feel the Christmas atmosphere and tradition. These markets have been around  since the 16th century .

This is where you finally have to try  mulled wine  (glühwein), local  Nuremberg sausages , delicious gingerbread, or Schaumkuss cake . Walk around the stunning medieval walks and enjoy unique Christmas atmosphere.

🍭 SPECIALTIES TO TRY: Nürnberger Rostbratwurst, Schaumkuss, Dampknodel With Vanilla Sauce, Nuremberg Gingerbread, Mulled Wine 📍 LOCATION: Hauptmarkt (Main Square) & Rathausplatz & Next To St. Sebaldus Church ✨ NUREMBERG CHRISTMAS MARKETS DATES: 1st of December, and end on the 24th of December 2023

DAY 8. TRAVEL BY TRAIN NUREMBERG ⇒ BRUSSELS

Besides its charming Christmas markets, Nuremberg has a lot more to see. You have to  visit its castle , walk through the  historical walls around the city , admire its beautiful architecture, and learn more about the Nazi regime in the  Nazi Party Center .

TOP EXPERIENCES IN NUREMBERG: ➡ City Tour With Bimmelbahn Train ➡ Nuremberg Old Town Guided Tour

How To Get From Nuremberg To Brussels By Train

Our last train ride on this European Christmas markets itinerary will take us to the  home of European institutions ,  delicious chocolate with waffles , and more  craft beer . So towards the evening, take a train from Nuremberg to Brussels.

There is no direct train from Nuremberg to Brussels. You’ll most often have to change in Frankfurt. You can take trains from  DB ,  German Railways . They’ll get you to your final destination.

Getting from Nuremberg to Brussels by train takes approx.  6hours .

🏠 Where To Stay In Brussels

I recommend staying in the following hotels in Brussels:

➡ Marivaux Hotel – budget-friendly hotel – book here ➡ DoubleTree By Hilton Brussels City – mid-range hotel – book here ➡ OPO Hotel – luxury hotel – book here

DAY 9. BRUSSELS, BELGIUM

The  Sound & Light show   at the Grand-Place  (main square) makes the Christmas markets in Brussels a special place. The square is super charming, with impressive buildings such as the  Town Hall .

All the buildings turn into a different world during the show, and you standing in the middle of it will also be taken away. The show  starts at 5 pm  and is repeated every hour  until about 10 pm daily .

Apart from the light show, you can enjoy a big  ice skating ring  and  Ferris wheel  and sometimes see  animals in   stalls such as sheep or goats .

Hands down to the local specialties you have to try. Brussels Christmas markets will amaze you with delicious  Belgian waffles , some of the  best chocolate , glühwein, and  local craft beer . Don’t forget also to get  Belgian french fries , which are said to be the best in Europe (I agree, they are delicious).

🍭 SPECIALTIES TO TRY: Tartiflette, Belgian Waffles & Fries, Oysters, Genever, Hot Chocolate, Craft Beer 📍 LOCATION: Grand-Place & Rue de la Bourse & Place Sainte-Catherine ✨ BRUSSELS CHRISTMAS MARKETS DATES: 25th of November 2023 until the 1st of January 2024.

Budget For European Christmas Markets

The budget for this 9-day European Christmas Market itinerary per person ( mid-range traveler ) is  $1460 .

This is a very realistic budget for mid-range travelers who want to stay in nice hotels, try various local specialties at the markets, buy Christmas souvenirs, and do some of the recommended activities in each city.

Here is a breakdown of this itinerary budget for each travel category:

So the total budget for a 9-day European Christmas Itinerary by train , without restricting yourself too much and enjoying everything the cities offer, is $1460 per person .

NOTE: The budget will vary based on your preferences. You can significantly lower the cost of this itinerary if you stay in budget-friendly hotels and avoid buying a lot of stuff.

Eurostar Christmas Markets: Itinerary

If your goal is to visit Christmas Markets by Eurostar train , it’s possible. Let me give you an itinerary that you can travel by Eurostar and visit some of the most beautiful markets.

Eurostar operates within the following cities:

✅ London ✅ Paris ✅ Amsterdam ✅ Rotterdam ✅ Brussels ✅ Cologne

All of these cities host incredible Christmas Markets that you can enjoy. This is how I would plan a Christmas journey by Eurostar.

Here is a 7-day Eurostar Christmas Market Itinerary :

👉 READ ALSO: Christmas In Spain: Complete Guide With Traditions & Best Places

To help you plan your visit to the Christmas markets even more, I’ve also answered some of the most frequently asked questions. So check them out.

Do Trains Run On Christmas Day In Europe?

Yes , trains also run on Christmas Day in Europe. But they’re often fully booked way in advance as everyone travels to meet their families. Therefore, I recommend booking your train tickets at least 2 to 3 months in advance if you need to travel on Christmas Day to secure your spot.

Which European City Has The Biggest Christmas Market?

Vienna in Austria hosts the biggest Christmas market in Europe. Altogether, it has 12 markets. The biggest one is on Rathaus Square. Vienna truly has some of the most magical Christmas markets, so you should plan a visit one day.

What Is The Best Christmas Market To Visit?

The best Christmas market to visit is Salzburg . With its stunning architecture, this charming city is the perfect setup for Christmas Markets. You’ll walk through its streets hearing Christmas music, and the local markets are lovely, offering some of the best delicacies and delicious mulled wine with hot chocolate.

The atmosphere is just perfect. It’s a small city, which makes it more cozy .

Where Is The Oldest Christmas Market In The World?

Dresden has the oldest Christmas markets in the world, dating back to 1434. It’s officially called Dresdner Striezelmarkt , and you can look forward to over 200 Christmas stalls offering delicious food and drinks and some of the most beautiful Christmas ornaments to bring home with you.

Why Are All Christmas Markets German?

Because  Germany invented Christmas Markets . This tradition comes from German cities, and that’s why they’re the most famous and often some of the most beautiful in Europe. The first ever Christmas Market was organized in 1434 in Dresden , the eastern part of Germany, close to the Czech Republic.

WRAP-UP: European Christmas Markets By Train

This is my itinerary to see the most magical Christmas markets with the best European cities. Follow it and make the most out of your stay in Europe. I’m sure it’ll bring you into the proper Christmas mood.

If you have any questions or need further travel tips, you can always contact me at info(at)voicesoftravel.com . I’ll be happy to help you. Also, I can design a customized travel itinerary based on your travel needs and interests, so let me know if you’d like one.

Happy Christmas Travels!

More Travel Tips For Europe

Looking to visit more European travel itineraries? Check out my related articles:

2-Week Europe Itinerary

Christmas In Austria: Complete Guide With Traditions & Places

Austria Road Trip Itinerary 10 Days

Czech Republic Itinerary 10 Days

Slovakia Road Trip Itinerary 8 Days

Northern Italy Itinerary 10 Days

Spain Itinerary 14 Days

Switzerland Itinerary 8 Days

South Of France Itinerary 14 Days

Southern Spain Itinerary 10 Days

Switzerland Vs. Austria: Which Is Better To Visit?

About the author: Nicoletta  is a travel enthusiast and passionate language learner. While traveling, she loves to connect with locals using her language skills to learn about new cultures. Look for her skiing, hiking in the mountains, or exploring new destinations as she designs travel itineraries for her clients.

TRAVEL ITINERARIES : Interested in more travel itineraries? Check out my Travel Itineraries Page .

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Are Christmas Markets Worth It, Or Are They A Gigantic Tourist Trap?

Thinking of a magical, festive European getaway and wondering are Christmas markets worth it? Or are they just gigantic tourist traps that are a waste of money? We’re here to help!

Visiting the German-style Christmas markets all over Europe had been on my and Caleb’s bucket list for over a decade, so when we finally did a 2 month Christmas trip across 10+ countries, we were so excited. However, it wasn’t entirely what we had thought it was going to be.

The truth is that the answer to whether the Christmas markets are worth visiting or not really depends on what you’re looking for and where you go. If you’re a couple looking for a romantic, festive vacation, then it’s only worth it if you go to small towns. However, if you’re looking for a lively Christmas experience and don’t mind A LOT of other humans, then all the Christmas markets will be worth it!

Let’s jump into our guide so you know *exactly* what you can expect, starting with a video of 7 markets we made so you can get the vibe!

Reasons To Visit The Chrismas Markets in Europe

1. the atmosphere can be so magical.

Chances are that you’ve seen photos on Instagram of Christmas markets, and you know that they are full of twinkling lights, half-timbered little chalets, Godzilla-sized Christmas trees, and red and green decorated everythingggg.

Christmas markets in Europe really understand the assignment when it comes to all things festive. We found some of the smaller, off-the-beaten-path markets we visited to be INCREDIBLY magical. There is truly nothing like them in terms of “Christmas cheer,” especially in the USA.

Some were NOT this case, though…more on that shortly. *DUH DUH DUH.*

2. Two Words: Mulled Wine

This boozy, spiced, and sweet alcohol is literally everywhere at the markets, and Europe basically smells like mulled wine during November and December. ←Exaggeration, but you get it. We tasted cherry mulled wine, blueberry mulled wine, traditional, white, honey, and so many different flavors. 

It’s also socially acceptable to drink mulled wine at 10 am (❤️❤️❤️) during the Christmas season AND drink it out of a shoe . Caleb and I came home with 20 different shoe mugs after 2 months, so make sure you leave space in your bag. They’re SO stinking cute, and you’ll want to collect them.

3. Some Of The Food Is Epic

I MEAN, LOOK AT THAT PHOTO OF ME WITH A POTATO PANCAKE THE SIZE OF MY HEAD. Sorry for the caps, but they are needed. We really can’t write an article answering the question “are German Christmas markets worth it?” without talking about the EATS.

The European Chrismas Markets are not the time to be on a diet. We pretty much existed on cookies, sausage, waffles with Biscoff, crepes, and cheese and were not mad about it. If you like “fair-style” food here in the USA, your taste buds will fall off your head at the markets.

The food quality leaves something to be desired, but we’ll share our thoughts on that in a second.

4. Unique Souvenirs/Crafts/Gifts

Visiting the markets was really special to me because it’s been my Grandma’s dream to visit them forever (and she never could), so I was able to find some really beautiful, unique, and hand-crafted Christmas tree ornaments to bring her back instead.

And that is the beauty for you, too. In the smaller towns, you will see many chalets where locals sell their handicrafts, and you can get some unique gifts or things to bring home. I particularly loved some of the hand-carved wood ornaments and some wreaths made of a blend of pine needles and pine cones.

5. They Can Be Romantic and Beautiful

I mean, what could be more romantic than strolling hand-in-gloved-hand through twinkly lights, swiping mulled wine, sharing cookies for dinner without shame, and listening to hark the herald angels sing? I know it sounds super cheese, but that’s the plot of every Christmas romantic movie for a reason…. IT’S ROMANTIC.

Some of the markets are also really, really beautiful. You’ve got dark wooden chalets wrapped with dark green wreaths, sparkly ornaments, and fairy lights everywhere, surrounded by Europe’s gorgeous old towns.

When the markets are in front of some beautiful European churches, like we saw at St Stephen’s Basilica in Budapest, or buildings like the market in Wroclaw in front of the Museum of Bourgeois Art, it’s so beautiful you might weep.

Maybe that’s just us, though.

6. You Get A Taste Of Other Cultures

Literally, because many of the different Christmas markets in various countries have their own unique foods to try. But we felt like we got to experience the whole community and vibe of a city in a way that we never had by traveling during the “normal” times.

We loved seeing all the various Christmas traditions for each country at each market, like Krampusnacht in Austria and the Christkind in place of Santa Claus in Germany. 

7. You Can Get Some Great Photos

Honestly, if you guys want to win the completely fictional “cutest couples Christmas card” awards or make basically everyone on your Instagram feed jealous, you’re going to do that in spades at the Christmas markets.

Case in point: some of the photos in this post. With twinkling lights, adorable show mugs, candy canes, reindeer, wooden chalets, and all the other “Christmas-ness” around, you’ve got a lot of options for great photos.

TAYLOR’S TIP:

DO NOT expect to get cute photos in the evenings. Besides the whole “it’s dark” situation, the markets get SO BUSY that you will be taking “romantic” photos with a bunch of randos in them. Not ideal. We found going right when the market opened in the morning to be the best photo time.

Reasons Not To Visit The Chrismas Markets in Europe

1. the crowds can be overwhelming.

While some of the smaller markets are magical, romantic, and beautiful, we have to keep it real with you: the big, more “famous” markets, honestly….kinda sucked.

It was not what either of us were expecting because it’s wall-to-wall people. You can’t walk around, you’ll probably get separated from each other, and maybe even lose cell service because everyone is pinging the cell towers like we did. You may just want to get out of these as fast as you can.

I have to say, I was really let down by the big, famous markets, and I never want to go back to them. Caleb and I were cranky and needed to whip out our couple’s survival tips a few times . If you want the best atmosphere, look for small towns with small local markets, go during the day, and try to avoid weekends.

2. It’s Cold

I know you’re like, ‘Thank you, Captain Obvious, it’s winter,” and you’re right. But you don’t realize just *how cold it gets when you’re standing outside for hours at the Christmas markets. Sometimes it’s also rainy too!

But that also gives you more reason to drink mulled wine, so perhaps this is a pro? I’ll let you decide.

3. Some Of Them Are Huge Tourist Traps

As we had never done any Christmas markets in Europe before, we started with ALL the big, famous markets, and we thought 99% of them felt like Christmas-themed theme parks that were tacky, busy, and total tourist traps. We’re talking about the ones in places like Nuremberg, Paris, Dresden, Budapest, Vienna etc.

If you want a feeling of authenticity, go to small towns, especially in Germany. We loved small places like Tubingen, Heidelberg, and Esslingen. 

Additionally, while some stalls had gorgeous, hand-crafted items, many of them had the opposite. We visited over 10 countries for the Christmas markets, and I saw SO many of the exact same things for sale. A lot of the wares are mass-produced, low quality, and expensive.

4. They’re EXPENSIVE

Okay, this shocked us. When we left for our 2 month Christmas market extravaganza we were so pumped because we thought it would be our cheapest European vacation ever! I mean, mulled wine must be like $2, and a sausage like $3, right?

WRONG. Most places had mulled wine for $7+ (for less than a one-cup serving), and a lot of the food was $10+. We were especially surprised by the price at the markets in Budapest, which our research told us was the “cheapest.” Lies, we say.

There are outliers here, like some of the markets in Poland where we had mulled wine for $3, but everything is way more expensive than we thought because the markets are SO touristy now.

5. Food Quality Is Not Great

On that note, the food is expensive, honestly? Not great quality. Yes, it’s absolutely fun to eat some of the over-indulgent food there, and we made sure to try literally EVERY POSSIBLE thing so we could report back to you about what is worth the calories.

This means we also got Christmas market food-ed out quickly. We existed almost entirely on market food for 2 months, and we don’t recommend it. If you’re going to Europe for the food like we do, make sure you plan to go to some actual restaurants or cook at your accommodation so you eat some real, quality food, too.

6. Many Are Commercialized

While you find the true, authentic Christmas spirit in some markets, a lot of them just feel like an excuse to make money off the holiday season. The emphasis is on making a sale instead of celebrating Jesus’ birth.

So, pick your markets wisely. Just because it’s one of the biggest or most famous does not mean it’s the best. We learned the hard way.

Once You Determine If The Christmas Markets Are Worth It, Here’s What’s Next:

Well, now you know our honest answer to the question, “Are Christmas Markets worth it?” It really depends on where you go and what you’re looking for. If you want a magical Christmas experience and go to small, lesser-known towns, then YES, the markets are absolutely worth it. We’re going to go back to these styles of markets this year because we loved them so much!

However, if you go to huge markets looking for authentic holiday vibes, the chances are high that you will be disappointed like we were.

So, what do you think: would they be worth it for you?

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1. Philip of Luhansk

2. Steam Locomotive Monument

3. Aviation Technical Museum

4. Dahl Street

5. Museum of Local Lore

6. Gorky Library

7. St.Peter and St.Paul's Cathedral

8. Fine Arts Museum

9. Vladimir Dahl's House

10. Heroes Square

11. Luhanskteplovoz

12. Carl Gascoigne Monument

13. russian music and drama theater.

14. Voroshilov Square

15. sea of luhansk.

16. Young Guards

17. Chernobyl Memorial

18. Revolution Fighters Square

19. Railwaymen Palace of Culture

20. college of arts, 21. st.nickolas transfiguration cathedral.

22. Hotel Ukraina

23. Children's shopping center Plastilin

24. ablosut supermarket.

25. Railway Station

26. Lugansk City History and Culture Museum

27. luhansk academic drama and musicaltheater, 28. st. george chapel, 29. palace of culture, 30. bard of ukraine, what travellers are saying.

• Dahl Street
• Aviation Technical Museum
• Philip of Luhansk
• St.Peter and St.Paul's Cathedral
• Fine Arts Museum
• Sea of Luhansk
• Young Guards
• 1st of May Park