Christmas Markets

European Christmas Markets If you are keen to find a way to get in the Christmas Spirit – a trip to a European Christmas Market has to be top of the list. If you want to make the run up to Christmas truly magical but without the expense of a trip to Lapland, a trip to Europe’s Christmas markets is hard to beat. Just a short flight or train ride away, cities across Germany, Austria, France, and beyond transform into twinkling winter wonderlands, perfect for couples, groups of friends and also parents who still love a bit of festive indulgence with little ones in tow. Germany remains the ultimate destination for classic Christmas markets. In Nuremberg, families can stroll through the Christkindlesmarkt, famous for its wooden toys, gingerbread, and tiny carousel rides. Munich offers a mix of traditional markets in Marienplatz and smaller, child-friendly markets dotted across the city. Kids will love the Kinderpunsch (non-alcoholic spiced punch), while adults can enjoy mulled wine and bratwurst under the glow of fairy lights. Austria is another festive favourite. Vienna’s Rathausplatz market is perfect for families, combining ice-skating, live music, and crafts. Salzburg and Innsbruck offer smaller markets where children can meet Father Christmas and ride festive carousels amid snow-dusted streets. For a French twist, Strasbourg — known as the “Capital of Christmas” — charms visitors with its half-timbered buildings, giant Christmas tree, and hundreds of stalls selling everything from local chocolates to handmade ornaments. Meanwhile, Colmar, also in Alsace, feels like stepping into a storybook, with cobbled streets, colourful lights, and a cosy, intimate atmosphere that’s perfect for young children. Food is always a highlight, from hot chocolate piled with whipped cream to sizzling bratwursts and sugary waffles, there’s something for every taste (and picky eater). Adults can steal a quiet moment with a cup of warm cinnamon scented mulled wine - yum! My advice is to book flights or trains early, as popular destinations fill up quickly. Many markets are push chair friendly, but bring warm layers, gloves, and hats as December evenings in Europe can be chilly as we all know! And while some markets can be crowded, visiting midweek or in the mornings makes exploring with kids much easier. The real magic isn’t just the shopping. It’s warming up with hot chocolate, tasting sweet treats, riding a carousel, and sharing laughter under thousands of fairy lights. From the bustling squares of Germany to the charming streets of France and Austria, European Christmas markets offer a festive adventure you will remember for years to come.