COLOGNE, Germany — European Christmas markets offer an immersive, magical atmosphere that provides an authentic and cozy escape from the typical holiday rush.
The markets are ideal for finding unique, handmade gifts and souvenirs, allowing visitors to complete their holiday shopping with distinctive items not found in conventional stores.
A major draw is the diverse array of festive European foods and drinks, including savory delights like raclette and flammlachs, alongside popular beverages such as glühwein, punsch and Eierpunsch.
To get in the holiday spirit, here are 5 reasons why you should plan a trip to the European Christmas markets during the holiday season.
Walking through the streets of Cologne and it’s easy to stumble upon new markets around every corner.Alex DarusThe immersive atmosphere offers a magical holiday escape
European Christmas markets are a complete escape from the hectic holiday season found in the U.S. Described as entering a “Christmas fairy tale,” the markets in cities like Cologne and Vienna are filled with Christmas music, the smell of roasted chestnuts and festive stalls. These markets are not just for tourists, but are places where locals gather, creating an authentic holiday spirit. This immersive experience, with its cozy and cheerful vibe (summed up by the German word Gemutlichkeit), is a powerful antidote to feeling like a “Scrooge.”
Markets provide one-of-a-kind holiday shopping
A major highlight of visiting the markets is the opportunity to find unique, thoughtful gifts that can’t be found in big-box stores. Pro tip: approach the markets with a list of loved ones but no set plan, as stalls are filled with a wide variety of items including handmade baby mobiles, ornate cookie cutters, jewelry, art and decorations. This makes it possible to do all holiday shopping in one place while ensuring that family and friends receive a special gift that no one else is likely to give them.
Adorable ornaments from a Christmas market in Cologne, Germany.Alex DarusThey function as festive “third spaces”
The Christmas markets are presented as a prime example of a “third space”—a place that is neither home nor work where people can gather and socialize. Locals meet friends after work to eat, drink and enjoy the season in a relaxed, merry environment. This social function is a key part of the markets’ appeal, allowing visitors to observe and participate in a culture that values community gathering. With inexpensive drinks and constant festive performances, these spaces encourage people to linger and connect.
Glühwein, or mulled wine, in a signature boot cup at a market in Cologne, Germany.Alex DarusA tour of festive European foods and drinks is a main attraction
A significant portion of the experience revolves around the unique food and drink offerings. There’s a long list of must-try savory treats, including raclette (melted Swiss cheese), flammlachs (flame-grilled salmon), various German wursts and multiple forms of potatoes like Reibekuchen (potato pancakes). On the beverage side, the quintessential drink is glühwein (mulled wine), but other highlights worth sipping include punsch (a broader category of warm, spiked drinks), Feuerzangenbowle (a flaming rum-and-wine punch) and Eierpunsch (the German version of eggnog).
The Christmas market at Rathausplatz in Vienna, Austria.Alex DarusPractical planning is crucial for a successful trip
The key to a successful trip is in the planning. A crucial first step is deciding what kind of trip you want, whether it’s a calmer experience in smaller cities or the hustle and bustle of major destinations like Vienna. Travelers are advised to pack warm winter clothing—including layers, gloves and a hat—and to leave extra room in their suitcase for gifts and souvenirs. A unique tip is to save the collectible glühwein mugs, which are available at each market for a small deposit, as they make for great keepsakes.