Experience the Christmas Markets of Europe
You will undoubtedly be swept away with the enchantment of the Christmas Markets throughout Europe. Amid snow covered Hilltops, Twinkling lights of the Markets and shops in their decorated cities. You will be sure to feel the Christmas spirit.
Photo: Winter Christmas Markets in Europe at Night. People Gathering, Twinkling lights and Snow
Christmas markets are best visited in the evenings once its dusk/dark. During the day, many are closed or not very busy. In the evenings they are busy as the locals are home from work and also out shopping. You will see other entertainment and choirs singing at various markets to add to the experience. At night you can also enjoy all the Christmas lights lit around the city and market places. Spend your evenings enjoying the aroma of roasted sausages such as Bratwurst or pick up some local treats such as a hot mug of Gluhwein and a delicious pastry. Many locations now have the option for either a red or white mulled wine infused with aromatic spices and Cinnamon. So many choices to pick from. Make sure you don't eat before visiting the Markets so you can enjoy as many of the options available.
When shopping, it is recommended to take a reusable shopping bag to carry all your purchases. Most vendors only accept cash so keep this in mind before heading to the Markets. You will find some are starting to have access to Credit card payments but they are usually limited, so it is recommended to take enough cash when shopping. ATMs are not always available close by.
Visiting the Markets is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Unless of course you love it so much you make it a yearly trip.
How to visit the Christmas Markets
We can work with you to pick the best option for you to make the most of this experience. We have 3 recommendations on how to visit the Markets.
Our first recommendation is to add it to another trip. If you are visiting Europe, we can book a few nights in one of the Market locations for you to spend a few days and visit. You will have a couple of days to explore and pick up some Christmas gifts and souvenirs before heading back home.
To make the most of the Markets we would highly recommend either a River Cruise or a Guided tour. This will give you the opportunity to experience many markets throughout different countries and cities.
Ama Waterways offer a few options for a river cruise to see a number of Christmas markets. This option gives you the luxury of only unpacking once. Sailing down the river seeing the cities and also docking in the Heart of the cities usually close to the Markets. The Rhine will take you to a variety of places where you can savor fresh baked German pretzels, visit Cologne, explore the oldest, largest and most famous market in France when visiting Strasbourg. Alternatively, travel on the Danube and visit the glimmering City Hall in Vienna with its 700 year old Markets and listen to the Choirs. Enjoy Nuremberg’s famous Gingerbread treats and Budapest’s seasonal Chimney cake.
Video: AmaWaterways Europe Christmas Markets
Coach tours offering a guided tour experience will take you to a few cities to experience the Markets. You will travel with a group so you can make friends along the way and they will take you from one city to the next. Most hotels are located close to the Markets but it varies based on the tour option. There are some tour operators that you can book as a Single and they will pair you up with another traveler to avoid the single supplements for those travelling solo but looking to share. Coach tour options have been popular with couples, singles and Families with older teens to spend time together through the Festive season.
Pre & Post night stays are also an additional option you can consider. If you would like to extend a few nights in the start and/or ending location, we can look at options for a few extra nights so you can sightsee at your leisure before and after the trip. This gives you additional time to take part in extra activities in those cities whilst there.
What to buy at the Markets
Photo: Couple shopping at the Europe Christmas Markets, Germany
The Markets are filled with a great selection of Handmade items. Depending on the location you will find a number of items including Homemade Heart shaped gingerbread, Decorative paper stars, Wood traditional toys, Wooden ornaments, fuzzy hats and gloves, slippers, Ornaments, Sweets treats, Chocolates and Candles to name a few. You are sure to pick up a few Christmas gifts through your wandering around the Markets. A Christmas Market mug filled with candies and treats or Jams, Chutneys and Spreads can be a great option to take home for stocking fillers or to create your own unique gift baskets. The biggest problem will be bringing it all home.
Photo: People shopping in the evening at the Cologne, Germany Christmas Markets (Amawaterways)
Contact us to discuss your European Christmas Market Experience.
Articles of Interest
- 10 Reasons why Ocean Cruisers will Love River Cruising -
- How to spend your time aboard a River Cruise -
- AmaWaterways - The Incredible Rhine -
Travel Advisor : Sarah Robinson
Adiona Travel, Canada