European Christmas Market Magic

​​Christmas is full of magic with twinkling lights, delicious food, shopping and time with family and friends. It is the perfect time to travel to one of the most enchanting destinations to celebrate the season: Europe. Christmas markets are known to have originated in Germany, but there are many throughout Europe with their own unique charm. Wherever you go, there are a few key elements that will make your visit unforgettable…

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1. Food & Drink
Walking through the Christmas markets with the delicious aromas is enough reason to go. Have you heard the song “chestnuts roasting on an open fire”? Along with roasted chestnuts, you will smell fresh pastries and other regional specialities.  Filling the air is also the sweet cinnamon scent of mulled wine.  This special treat has a few different names: “glühwein” in Germany, “glögi” in Finland and “vin chaud” in France. You can purchase an annual special edition mug as a souvenir and walk around in the chilly winter wonderland.  There are so many things to try. Many places have charming little huts that you can huddle into to eat, or you can eat on the go.

2. Decorations & Music
The Christmas market decorations are unbelievably beautiful, and make you feel like you are starring in a Hallmark movie!  Enjoy strolling through uniquely decorated homemade wooden booths under sparkling Christmas lights. Since it gets darker earlier, the lights shine brightly and create a cozy ambience. The quaint little markets are in the main squares of Europe’s beautiful medieval small towns and large historical cities. Festive music fills the air with carolers and live bands. You may have a picture in your head of what it is like, but it is truly something you have to see and hear on your own to believe.

3. Shopping
Buying Christmas presents for others at the markets is a perfect opportunity for an unusual and personable gift!  Local artisan’s display their work.  From traditional figurines and decorations to homemade jams and cheeses, you can find something for everyone. You may find a few things for yourself as well! Buying Christmas decorations for your home will bring back the spirit of the Christmas markets and memories of sights, sounds, and smells!

4.  Family Fun
The Christmas markets are for everyone. The food and drinks are enjoyable for all, especially the wine for adults and child-friendly  “kid punch” or hot chocolate. Kids will love the ferris wheel rides with stunning views of the markets below and whimsical carousels. Some markets have special sections designated for kids that include festive crafts and activities. You may even be lucky enough to witness a special appearance by Saint Nicholas himself!

5. Fairytale Feeling
There is something simply captivating about the Christmas markets in Europe that we feel everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime. After you have experienced the fairytale magic of walking through an authentic Christmas market, you will be longing to see more.

Visiting Christmas markets is one of our favorite traditions!  With experience visiting over 26 Christmas markets in Europe and planning many trips for our clients, we have the expertise to help you plan your perfect trip exploring the best ones! One fantastic way to see many markets with transportation and ease is to take a Christmas Market River Cruise!!
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Click below for a sample Itinerary discovering some of the most magical Christmas markets this year!

Christmas Markets Rhine River Cruise