A Festive Journey Through Europe’s Most Enchanting Christmas Markets

by Andrea Guthmann

Across Europe, the scent of spiced wine and roasting chestnuts fills the crisp winter air as town squares transform into enchanting holiday villages. From the bustling medieval squares of Munich, Germany, to the fairy-tale alpine setting of Innsbruck, Austria, to the French-speaking festivities found in Montreux, Switzerland, these gatherings are a feast for the senses. While there are dozens of cities through Europe that make “Best Christmas Market” lists, these are a few favorites.  

Rüdesheim, Germany 

Nestled in Germany’s wine region, along the Rhine River, Rüdesheim’s Christmas Market of Nations features over 15 countries displaying crafts and cuisine along the famously narrow Drosselgasse lane, lined with shops and restaurants. In addition to international fare, sample traditional German Christmas market foods popular in this region, including käsespatzle (cheese spaetzle), flammkuchen (flatbread with cheese, onions and ham) and kartoffelpuffer (potato pancakes). 

Beyond the market, take time to visit the Niederwald Monument. Built in the late 1800s to commemorate the unification of Germany, it rewards visitors with breathtaking river views. Another delightful stop is Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet, a museum of automated musical instruments. Close out your day by sampling some of the region’s fine Rieslings.The Baron Knyphausen Winery is a fine choice with a lovely restaurant and several rooms offering overnight lodging, or cross the Rhine to Rheinhessen and sample the wines in the stylish tasting room at Braunewell Winery, with its floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the vineyards. 

Munich, Germany 

With more than 20 Christmas markets and so much to do in and around Munich, you could build an entire vacation around this city. The Christkindlmarkt at Marienplatz is the best known, spread out beneath the neo-Gothic New Town Hall. For a unique twist, the Medieval Market at Wittelsbacherplatz transports visitors back in time by authentically reenacting a medieval market scene with historical references to Munich in the Middle Ages. 

During downtime between Christmas markets, visit one of the many beer halls featuring live music and regional cuisine or take a day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle, inspiration for Sleeping Beauty’s Castle at Disneyland. Remember that on Sundays, many museums in Munich are only one Euro. Another budget-friendly choice is overnighting at the Flemings Hotel, conveniently located across from Munich’s main train station and an easy walk to the Old Town. Along the way you’ll pass by historic highlights like Marienplatz, Theatinerkirche and Feldherrnhalle. 

Innsbruck, Austria 

From Munich, it’s less than a two-hour scenic train ride to Innsbruck, Austria. Known as the Imperial City for its connection to the Habsburg Empire, Archduke Ferdinand once ruled from here. In winter, Innsbruck’s Old Town is a snow-dusted jewel, where cobblestone lanes wind beneath the iconic Golden Roof landmark building, the heart of the Christmas market festivities. Wooden stalls, adorned with twinkling lights, overflow with handcrafted ornaments, intricate nutcrackers and the warm glow of candles. Ornate, pastel-hued buildings house cozy cafes, upscale boutiques and restaurants like Weisses Rossl, featuring authentic Austrian fare including schnitzel, spatzle and strudel. After dinner, your server may ask if you’d like a glass of schnapps, as Innsbruck is the epicenter for production of these fruit-based after-dinner spirits.  

 Innsbruck offers a unique blend of culture and outdoor adventure. Marvel at Baroque architecture before ascending a modern funicular high into the snow-capped Tyrolean mountains for breathtaking views. Or, purchase Innsbruck’s Ski Plus City Pass, which includes access and transportation to 12 nearby ski resorts, as well as 23 other attractions. 

A great lodging choice is the Adlers Hotel, two blocks from the train station and a five-minute walk to Innsbruck’s medieval Old Town. A sumptuous complimentary breakfast is offered in the rooftop restaurant with its panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows looking out at the Alps. Access to its sauna with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains is also included.  

Montreux, Switzerland 

Overlooking the snow-covered Alps and Lake Geneva, Christmas is a chance to enjoy this French region of Switzerland without all the crowds that come for the popular Montreux Jazz Festival in July.  

The Montreux Christmas market, known as Montreux Noël, runs from late November to December 24 along the shores of Lake Geneva. In addition to vendors selling crafts and food, there’s a large Ferris wheel. The highlight is the nightly spectacle of seeing Santa Claus in his sleigh flying over the Christmas market.  

Make time to tour the 12th century castle Château de Chillon and experience its medieval festival. Sitting on a rocky island, it is the most visited monument in Switzerland. If you’re up for a night of luxury, choose the Fairmont Le Montreux Palace for your lodging.