A trip to Europe over the festive season isn’t the same without a visit to one of the beautiful Christmas Markets.
The European Christmas Markets, also known as Christkindlmarkt, date back to the late middle ages and originally were a source for the locals to purchase their essential supplies before winter set in.
Usually held in the old cobbled stone town centres, the markets welcome local craftsmen, restaurateurs and ordinary townsfolk who set up shop in rows of wooden stalls. On offer are everything from mulled wine served from giant, steaming cauldrons to handcrafted wooden toys, pottery, gifts and colourful decorations to delicious local cuisine.
Originating in Germany, Christmas markets are now popular through much of Europe and take on all shapes and sizes and embellish a tradition of towns and villages expressing joy in the heart of the Festive Season.
Each of Albatross Tours Festive itineraries have been carefully designed to provide ample time in at least one of the great European markets such as Nurnberg, Vienna, Montreux, Prague, Munich, Dresden and Salzburg. Travellers can also experience smaller, more unique Christmas markets in towns such as Wurzburg, Bern, Rothenburg and Innsbruck.
Here are our top 6 favourite European Christmas Markets that we recommend you visit.
1. Salzburg, Austria
Set in the World Heritage listed Old Town, the Salzburg Christmas Markets are arguably one of Europe’s finest markets.
Wander the cobbled stone streets underneath an abundance of lights strung up above you with the sounds of the church bells ringing through the air. You are sure to find some beautiful mementos from the many stalls selling local artisan treasures, beautiful decorations and delicious treats.
Situated in the Roemerberg, a single fir tree beautifully decorated marks the location of the Frankfurt Christmas Markets which run from 25 November until 22 December. Dating back to as early as 1393 travellers will discover many traditional delicacies, handmade arts and crafts and wooden treasures amongst the scent of delicious roasted chestnuts, grilled sausages and mulled wine.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a stunning medieval town situated in southern Germany. Running from the start of December until the 23rd December the streets of Rothenburg’s main square come alive with what is said to be the most romantic Christmas markets in Germany.
Situated beneath the town hall tower, you can listen to children singing Christmas carols as you savour the delicious locale fare and buy treasured trinkets to take home. Be sure to try a famed Rothenburg snowball while you are there.
Home to a staggering 20 Christmas Markets, Vienna is a festive wonderland.
The main Town Hall Christmas Markets will bring the festive spirit to everyone who visits. As an unforgettable highlight you will be transported to a magical world full of seasonal joy. Featuring ice skating and over 150 market stalls, which are abundant with gifts, tree decorations, crafts and culinary treats.
Be sure to also see the Christmas Markets set in the forecourt of the Schonbrunn Palace, the Christmas Village Belvedere Palace and the Christmas Markets at Spittelberg.
The Dresden Christmas Markets, the Striezelmarkt, is Germany’s oldest Christmas Market and date back to 1434. A dazzling and wondrous market, the Striezelmarkt is home to many local regional specialties including pottery from Lusatia and glass blown decorations from Lauscha.
Set in front of the impressive gothic town hall, the Prague Christmas Markets will transport you to an enchanted world surrounded by beautiful decorations and traditional market huts underneath the famed gargoyles high above.
With the scent of cloves and cinnamon in the air, indulge in traditional trdelnik (pastry) and a mug of gluhwein whilst you browse the many market stalls and take in the atmosphere of this beautiful city.
Albatross Tours are the experts in Festive touring with each and every on of our Christmas, New Year & Northern Lights tours bursting with festive activities, adventures and exciting bucket list experiences.
