The Enchantment of European Christmas Markets
By Amy Lively Jensen
It's that time of year again—when the magic of Christmas comes alive in the heart of Europe. The holiday markets, with their enchanting atmospheres, timeless traditions, and stunning backdrops, transform cities into winter wonderlands. Whether it’s the scent of roasted chestnuts wafting through the air, the sparkle of festive lights reflecting off centuries-old buildings, or the sound of carolers’ voices carrying through cobblestone streets, these markets invite both visitors and locals into an unforgettable holiday experience.
This season, I’m excited to share the unique perspectives of two couples who have ventured time and again to these festive destinations. Bridget and Jerry Tully from Hampshire, Illinois, who lived in Germany and immersed themselves in the country’s rich holiday traditions, recall their many visits to the German markets. Meanwhile, Kathy and Garry Kuyper of Cincinnati, Ohio, whose passion for European Christmas markets has led them on three cruises dedicated to exploring these seasonal gems, reflect on what keeps them coming back.
According to Conde Nast Traveler, the tradition of the Christmas market can be traced back to German butchers in the Middle Ages. They created markets to provide locals with essential winter supplies, especially meat, to keep them well-fed during the cold, winter months. Soon, travelers from cities like Vienna, Munich, and Frankfurt brought this practice home, sparking the tradition of the “winter market” we cherish today.
For both couples, the Nuremberg Holiday Market stands out as a favorite. Situated in a vast square behind the Cathedral, it’s one of the oldest and most famous Christmas markets in Germany. A highlight is the children’s market, where a whimsical carousel spins with the joy of excited little ones. Dating back to the 16th century, a golden-haired angel opens the market each year, signaling the start of the holiday season. “It was crowded, but the atmosphere was so warm and festive that it never felt overwhelming,” said Kathy. The market’s sprawling stalls offer an array of goods: intricate home décor, gleaming jewelry, cozy clothing, and handcrafted wood and metal treasures. The Kuypers found themselves drawn to unique gifts, including nesting dolls of Mrs. Santa and snowmen, a Christmas tree carved from pine bark, and a striking pendant crafted from multicolored glass and silver in a geometric leaf design. Garry admits to one shopping regret: “I found a hat with moose antlers that waved and sang Christmas songs. I should have bought it—it would have been a hit at every holiday gathering!”
Another breathtaking stop is the Zurich Christmas Village, where the tree alone is worth the visit. Towering at 32 feet, the tree is adorned with thousands of twinkling lights, radiating holiday cheer. If you need a break from the cold, step inside the train station here to explore one of Europe’s largest indoor Christmas markets. Outside, the market in front of the Opera House offers Swiss delights like traditional arts and crafts, local specialties, and a host of activities for children. In Lucerne, Kathy remembers one building that looked just like an advent calendar, with windows that opened each day to reveal whimsical scenes and a Santa with a mischievous companion armed with switches for naughty kids, a playful nod to the holiday season’s playful side.
The Christmas markets in Munich also hold a special place in the Kuypers' hearts. “We spent ages watching the animatronic bears,” Kathy recalls. “They stood on their hind legs and even roared!” The bears, lifelike and interactive, added an element of surprise to the market’s already magical atmosphere. Munich’s markets offer family-friendly activities, including ice skating, carousel rides, and workshops where children can create their own ornaments and decorate festive cookies.
Copenhagen’s markets embrace the Danish concept of hygge, with a cozy, intimate setting designed to make visitors feel right at home. Its Tivoli Gardens Christmas market is particularly enchanting, with sparkling lights, festive rides, and joyful performances. A highlight here is the traditional pixie band, roving through the market and playing cheerful holiday tunes. For a truly indulgent treat, the Danish pastry Aebleskiver—round pancake balls dusted with powdered sugar and served with jam—is a must-try.
For Kathy and Garry, the Vienna Christmas markets are the epitome of holiday magic. With their citywide transformation into a Christmas dreamscape, Vienna’s markets are renowned for their beauty. The city hosts several, including the historic market in front of City Hall, which dates back to 1298. One features 151 stalls, where visitors can purchase everything from local crafts to festive snacks. “The lights looked like chandeliers, buildings were decorated like gift packages, and there was a massive angel on the side of one building,” Garry remembers fondly. You must indulge in the enormous, dinner-plate-sized schnitzel—an Austrian delicacy that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Musical performances abound, from a boys’ choir (all grown-up men, as Garry humorously notes) to brass bands, sing-a-longs, classical music and carolers, filling the air with joyful sounds.
Bridget and Jerry, who lived in Germany for several years, fondly recall the smaller, local markets they visited. “We were fortunate to live in a town where our daily routine took us right through the Christmas Market,” Bridget shares. “Every visit filled us with a sense of festivity, joy, and togetherness. The sight of friends chatting and waiting for sausages and bread rolls, the twinkling lights, and the delicious smells of comforting food—it was magical.”
A key part of the Christmas market experience is the food and drink. From hot mulled wine to apple cider, each market offers its own take on festive beverages. Traditional hot mulled wine is red wine in which rum and brandy may be added and is often infused with spices like cinnamon, cloves, and orange peel, and served in collectible ceramic mugs. Non-alcoholic hot spiced cider and creamy hot chocolate are also popular choices, with some versions featuring exotic spices like chili powder.
Gingerbread, a beloved treat originating from Nuremberg, is the top food trend for 2024, states Forbes.com. Spiced with cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom, these cookies are often dipped in chocolate and beautifully decorated. Other festive delights include Stollen, a fruit-and-nut-filled bread, and cheese-stuffed fluffy bread topped with sour cream. Marzipan is a confection made from almond paste, sugar and eggs. Its delightful presentation is often shaped into fruits and animals. Fried potato pancakes, crispy and golden, are served with applesauce—a true winter comfort food. Sausages come in all shapes and sizes. You can choose from hundreds of sausage varieties, from the classic bratwurst to a unique white-colored sausage. The Nuremberg market has miniature specialty sausages that are traditionally accompanied by horseradish.
As Bridget and Jerry reflect, “We loved the Christmas markets and miss them dearly here in the U.S. They made the often cold, dreary weeks leading up to Christmas feel warm, cozy, and magical.” Kathy and Garry, whose love for the markets has only grown, are already planning their fourth trip next year.
