America may have Christmas Tree lighting ceremonies and lawns decked with lights but no one does Christmas like Europe. What used to be a well-loved secret has become well known thanks to the explosion of social media and Instagram photos (guilty as charged) but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t come see, in fact, after three years and over 20 Christmas Markets in 5 countries under my belt, I am convinced that Europe’s Christmas Markets belong on your Bucket List.
Christmas Markets originate in Germany dating back to the 1300s but have spread to most major European cities, and even a lot of the small to medium cities in Germany. That means they have had centuries to create the perfect Holiday feeling from the decorations to activities, to gifts, to delicious treats.
Why Europe’s Christmas Markets belong on your Bucket List!
A New Way to See Europe
Even if you have been to Germany (or the other major European cities) in summer, you will see them in a whole new light with all of their Holiday glory. Those dull streets that you paid no attention to? Now they are filled with lights and vendors and Christmas trees everywhere. There is no denying that twinkling lights add a new level of magic to any building during the holidays so it should be no surprise that the already quaint and photogenic streets of old European cities are brought to the next level with their presence. It seems hard to emphasize this enough but people come to Europe to see the architecture and culture that has lasted centuries, so seeing those same buildings decorated can only add to that experience.
The Gifts
It is a Market after all and while some of the vendors can be found at European festivals and markets year round, there are some handmade gifts that can only be found this time of year. Whether you are looking for gifts for others or a memento for yourself, you will find items that can’t easily be purchased on Amazon or EBay.
Christmas Calories Don’t Count
The Gluhwein – warm mulled wine – is one of the most popular drinks, and you will see dozens of people crowded around the vendors (and maybe a heater or fire nearby) warming their hands and souls with this tasty cup. There is something about wandering about the festively-lit villages with friends and a warm mug of gluhwein that could melt any Grinch’s heart. A bonus with the wine (or any drink) is that they come in the perfect festive souvenir mug. Every market has their own mugs that are perfect for collecting or gift-giving. No need to keep them all though, you can return the extras and get your $2-$3 deposit back for them!
There are other delicious treats to be had though, and a lot of times these seasonal delicacies won’t be found again until the following year! I had a waffle-panini sandwich at the Saarbrucken Christmas market that was to die for and some markets like Sankt-Wendel really step-up their Dampfnudel (basically a large dessert dumpling) game with fillings and fruits!
The Energy
People from all over the world travel to Europe, and especially Germany, to experience these markets so they are always filled with a happy, excited energy. It’s hard not to be happy when you’re stuffind yourself with warm wine and baked goodies while chrismas music plays in what looks like a story-book town. It’s not something that can be described in words, it’s a feeling and its just something you’re going to have to trust me on!
A winter visit to Europe won’t replace a summer one if you need sunshine to explore. The weather is dreary most days which is what seems to make the festive lights all the more welcome, but if you are picking cities known for their castles and museums, you can easily create a fulfilling itinerary and get your European fill.
Speaking of itineraries, here is my round trip-road trip itinerary to get your fill and hit the best Christmas Markets in easy range of Frankfurt International Airport.
Frankfurt
Frankfurt is a central international airport and city and a nice taste of a Christmas market. It is spread out throughout the city so you can spend as little or as much time as you want seeing new things.
Mainz
I actually prefer Mainz over Frankfurt. I like the more concentrated layout and the decorations but since these two are so close, it’s hard for me to justify doing one and not the other! The more the merrier is my Christmas Market motto!
Schloss Drachenburg or Burg Satzvey
A castle Christmas market is an absolute must. Any time you visit a castle is exciting but to have them lit up and surrounded with a tiny Christmas village takes it to story-book level. Scloss Drachenburg is more of a modern, regal feeling castle while Burg Svetzey has a medieval market and a smaller cozy feeling but both are on the way to your next stop and at least one should be visited.
Cologne
This city has multiple markets with different themes all throughout the city but the Cathedral market is the most visible recognizable and most impressive (in my opinion). A nice layout to keep traffic moving, well spaced gluhwein stands, and live Christmas music make this one as fun during the day as it is at night. Since there are so many markets, it is worth spending the night in the city so you can take your time and maybe hit up the Chocolate Museum too!
Aachen
Aachen makes the list for its stunning Cathedral (yes, that is year round) and its history but it is easily on the way to the next stop in Brussels so it would be sad to pass it up without at least stopping for lunch
Brussels
Brussels may be one of my favorite markets, which is interesting because as a city, I am less than enamored. The massive tree and perfectly orchestrated light show in the Grand Place are so impressive I could have sat in the square for hours just taking it all in (if it wasn’t so cold). The market spreads out in every direction but there are gems to be found like the pop-up ice skating rink and the gourmet foods like truffled ravioli. Don’t leave this city off of your list!!
Liege
Liege is the largest market in Brussels and there is something to be said for size (I hear you chuckling). If you are coming all the way to Europe to see the markets, why not take a peek?
Colmar
Moving into France, Colmar is one the cities regularly attributed as being inspiration for Belle’s village in Beauty and the Beast. Picture-perfect buildings become even more quaint covered in Christmas spirit. Plus the French markets tend to have the best food of any country (hello oysters, caviar, and champagne)!
Strasbourg
Strasbourg is one of my favorite cities in France, and the same reasons apply here – It just becomes even more magical. Delicious food, beautiful decor, beautiful city.
Heidelberg
Heidelberg has little pockets of market all throughout the city looking up to gorgeous views of their castle. Unlike the earlier castles, the market isn’t in this one, it simply sits on the hill above adding romance to the skyline. It is a fun city with great energy and if you’re not in the mood for German food, the streets are lined with other restaurant options.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber
This city was built for tourists and is one of the most well known in Germany. Unfortuntely, it is for good reason and I can’t let the crazy tourists keep it from the list. The whole city almost becomes the market here and if you end up going on a rainy day like we did, there are tons of Christmas stores that you can pop into to stay dry.
Nuremberg
The largest market in Germany, this was one of the first markets we ever went to and certainly the most impressive in size. My favorite part was going into the cathedral though and being able to look down at the hundreds of vendors sprawled below. I don’t think this one has as many fun rides or activities as the others, but just like with Liege, it is worth seeing it to be awed by how much is there
Wurzburg
Wurzburg is caught between being a village and a city but with a palace and multiple cathedrals to its name, it fits the bill for markets and tourism. At the top of what can be called “the romantic road,” Wurzburg has a charm that will be fitting for closing up your market tour
Frankfurt
If you didn’t hit the market on your way in, you can hit it on your way out. Either way, you should have your fill of Europe and its markets to meet your bucket-list needs!
Planning a trip to Europe for Christmas Markets? Post your comments below!
Xx
Kali