Europe's Christmas Markets

Visiting Christmas markets throughout Europe is a magical experience that truly captures the spirit of the holiday season. Each market, whether in the charming streets of Germany, the romantic squares of France, or the historic towns of Austria, is adorned with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and the irresistible scent of mulled wine and gingerbread. The atmosphere is filled with joyous music, the laughter of children, and the delightful hustle and bustle of people finding unique handcrafted gifts. It’s a heartwarming blend of tradition, culture, and festivity that brings people together and creates unforgettable memories.

These festive traditions are one of the best reasons to visit Europe in winter.

The Christmas Market Experience

Every holiday season, Christmas markets throughout Europe bring sparkling lights, festive music and decorated wooden chalets where vendors sell hand-crafted ornaments and tasty treats in local town squares. The holiday tradition began in medieval Germany with a more practical focus: allowing townspeople to stock up on goods for the winter. However, in the mid-1400s, the markets took on their Christmas associations and today many towns celebrate the start of Advent with the markets' opening.

Tastiest treats at German Christmas markets

There's food for all your senses at Germany's famous Christmas markets. Join Deutsche Welle’s Kate Müser as she discovers some of the best: maronen (roasted chestnuts), gebrannte mandeln (burnt almonds) and lebkuchenherz (gingerbread heart).

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