Christmas markets

One of the most iconic and enchanting highlights of the Christmas markets in Germany is the Christkindlesmarkt in Nuremberg, dating back to the 16th century, making it one of the oldest and most historically rich Christmas markets in the world. A highlight for families is the children's Christmas at Hans-Sachs-Platz square with a miniature railway and hands-on stalls. The "Christkind" (German for “Christ-child”, the traditional Christmas gift-bringer), unlike Santa Claus, the Christkind is the traditional gift bringer in many German-speaking regions. At the Nuremberg market, a young woman with a golden crown and angelic attire represents the Christkind. She opens the market with a solemn prologue, enchanting the crowd with her ethereal presence.

Nestled in Germany's Black Forest, the Ravenna Gorge Christmas Market, or “Ravennaschlucht Weihnachtsmarkt," beckons to both holiday enthusiasts and explorers seeking unique experiences.Seamlessly blending traditional allure with the enchanting embrace of nature, this event stands in a league of its own. Its exceptional location, framed by the dramatic Ravenna Gorge and the soaring 40-meter Höllental Railway Viaduct, sets it apart. As a local train gracefully traverses the bridge en-route to Freiburg or Hinterzarten, creating a truly breathtaking spectacle.

Dating back to 1434, Dresden's Striezelmarkt is one of the oldest Christmas markets, offering a window into centuries of festive traditions. Dresden boasts eleven distinct Christmas markets, each with its unique charm and era, spanning from historical echoes of the Dark Ages to the cozy alpine chalets' après-ski allure.

Even after 589 years, Dresden’s Striezelmarkt maintains its distinctive allure. The market is renowned for its regional treasures, including Ore Mountain woodcrafts, Lusatian blue-printed fabrics, and Moravian stars, all of which are particularly popular. And a piece of Original Dresdner Christstollen fruit loaf in the light of the step pyramid from the Erzgebirge (Ore Mountains) is of course another must.

Nestled in an unparalleled location, this is a haven where enthusiasts of Christmas markets can find their dreams fulfilled amid a backdrop of unparalleled romance – right at the edge of Lake Constance, with the distant shimmer of the Alpine panorama. Taking root on the promenade and centered around the iconic Mangturm Tower, the renowned Harbour Christmas Market awaits, a haven for indulging in hot mulled wine, aromatic Christmas cookies, and the quest for distinctive Christmas gifts and decorations, Children can delight in a captivating hand puppet show, while the afternoon and evening come alive with music, a blend of contemporary and traditional tunes resonating from alphorns to bagpipes.

There is no better place than Bavaria to celebrate Christmas. Bavaria is the ultimate Christmas destination, with rich traditions and iconic seasonal treats like mulled wine, pretzels, and sausages tracing their roots back to Germany.

Munich boasts over 10 Christmas markets, including the historic Marienplatz market dating to the 14th century which is considered the original among Munich's Christmas markets. Set against the neo-Gothic town hall, it exudes old Bavarian charm and hosts Germany's largest Nativity scene market. From stable lanterns to Magi's gifts, you'll find all you need for an authentic Nativity scene.

Step into a romantic wonderland as you cross the threshold of Merode Castle's Christmas market. Charming huts are scattered along the path encircling the castle's moat, offering a diverse array of goods, from hand-blown glass and artisanal chocolates to cozy winter attire and classic market souvenirs. Surrounded by scenic beauty and a natural park, this market transforms into an idyllic village with wooden Christmas stalls. In the castle courtyard, a towering Christmas tree will majestically rise, while the warm glow of candles, torches, and lanterns creates a magical ambiance. "Feuerzangenbowle," a time-honored hot drink and regional delicacy, will be brewed in substantial cauldrons and the fragrant allure fills the winter breeze. Skilled artisans from woodworkers to candle makers will showcase their unique creations, making this market aa true winter wonder. for purchase.

The exquisite Augsburg “Christkindlesmarkt” blossoms into a charming village, spanning from "Rathausplatz" (City Hall square) to Martin-Luther-Platz, along the Philippine-Welser-Straße and Maximilianstraße streets and extending to the front of St. Moritz church. As its core is the Augsburg Angel Performance (Engelesspiel), A troupe of twenty-four angels graces the splendid facade of the City Hall, in harmony with Hans Holbein's renowned exemplars of altar angels and transform the building into a huge Advent calendar.

Experience enhanced joy with the "Augsburg Fairy Tale Street," a delightful avenue where diverse shops depict the winter and Christmas celebrations of animal families. Children can win captivating prizes by engaging in a puzzle game centered around the "Augsburg Fairytale Route."

For an immersive experience with the city's authentic German Christmas market in its full magnificence, make your way to the Esslingen Christmas market at Marktplatz, renowned as the "Best Christmas City" in 2018. The market's charm lies in its profusion of enchanting half-timbered houses, harmoniously mingled with lively holiday embellishments. Notably, a segment of the city undergoes a remarkable transformation into a Medieval village, which beautifully justifies this recognition. Strolling the square to admire the fairytale glow of Christmas lights and a stunning Carousel is a truly stunning sight. Beyond traditional delights, the Esslingen Medieval Christmas market features entertaining jugglers, stilt walkers, and captivating acts, adding an extra thrill to your visit.

The most well-known Traditional Christmas Markets is "Vienna Magic of Advent", which turns the City Hall Square into an illuminated fairyland. Infused with the magic of the season, the Christmas tree and park will gleam brilliantly, awakening with the twinkle of holiday lights and decorations. Indulge in delectable culinary pleasures, Viennese sweets, mulled wine, steaming cider, and the soothing embrace of hot chocolate! Additionally, an ice-skating rink awaits just outside the Town Hall.

The most well-known Traditional Christmas Markets is "Vienna Magic of Advent", which turns the City Hall Square into an illuminated fairyland. Infused with the magic of the season, the Christmas tree and park will gleam brilliantly, awakening with the twinkle of holiday lights and decorations. Indulge in delectable culinary pleasures, Viennese sweets, mulled wine, steaming cider, and the soothing embrace of hot chocolate! Additionally, an ice-skating rink awaits just outside the Town Hall.

For enthusiasts of the baroque style, Schönbrunn Palace is an undeniable marvel. The Christmas stalls offer traditional handicrafts, wooden toys and an astonishing assortment of Christmas ornaments crafted from glass, wood, ceramics, paper and tin. This quintessential Viennese experience is an absolute must-see!

An equally captivating historic palace, graced by an impeccably curated formal garden, is the Belvedere Palace. Optimal for those who prefer a more traditional market ambiance with fewer crowds than its larger counterparts. Constructed in the early 18th century, this Baroque masterpiece was the residence of Prince Eugene of Savoy. The most captivating moment is with those graced by regal palaces, where you can savor mulled wine beneath the opulent shelter of marbled eaves.

Facing the renowned St. Stephen's Cathedral stands the bustling Stephansplatz Christmas Market, featuring 40 festive stalls adorned with Austrian wares. Situated at the core of Vienna's central pedestrian-exclusive shopping area, you're bound to encounter this vibrant market during your explorations in Vienna.

The Art Advent Market on Karlsplatz is dedicated to artistry, craftsmanship, musical showcases, and engaging activities for children. The offerings here are sourced locally and crafted sustainably. Every gastronomic delight served within is certified organic. Indulge your taste buds with must-try delights such as Fladenbrot (flat breads), Kiachl (a type of flat doughnut), potato goulash, buckwheat crepes, the aromatic allure of Raclette Raclette (cheese melted on bread) wafting from the nearby stall, among other delights that beckon to be savored.

Salzburg's Christkindlmarkt at Dom and Residenzplatz, among the world's oldest Advent markets, graces the historic Old City, illuminating it with starry lights. This market blends rich heritage with daily events like Krampus parades, choral concerts, and visits from the "Christ Child." Set against the backdrop of Mozart's birthplace and the Hohensalzburg Fortress, it showcases Austrian artistry, mulled wine, and live music, offering Christmas manger displays, Perchten processions, and folk performances, including the Advent Brass Concert.

Apart from the Tandl market, there existed an authentic pre-Christmas market in proximity, known as the "Nikolaimarkt" in the 17th century. After the end of the Second World War the first Christmas market took place again at Mirabellplatz.The Christmas market in front of the idyllic Mirabell Palace draws in a youthful crowd seeking a relaxed atmosphere. This market offers a variety of delectable cuisines, tempting desserts, warm mulled wine, and the opportunity to wander through creatively adorned stalls featuring unique goods. The background of the Christmas Advent music enhances the ambiance.

Beyond the array of Christmas tree ornaments and diverse gift selections, Barfüsserplatz and the vicinity of the Barfüsser Church host numerous culinary stalls, offering a delightful browsing experience for all kinds of delicacies and Christmas treats within the Old Town. An expansive mulled-wine pyramid beckons, offering the chance to savor a warm beverage, while candle dipping presents an opportunity to craft a distinctive Christmas present for cherished ones.

A highlight at Münsterplatz is a magnificently decorated Christmas Tree in front of the majestic Basel Minster. These trees are atmospherically adored with enchanting, illuminated Snow globes. Münsterplatz is the gathering spot for many locals to welcome in the new year with champagne to toast the occasion. A brief concert, featuring the resonating trumpets and trombones of the Stadtposaunenchor from the church's upper balcony, precedes a magnificent display of fireworks above the Rhine. To immerse in the ambiance and gazing in wonder at the dazzling lights –– the Münsterplatz truly exudes a fairy tale charm.