You may think it’s too early to think about Christmas, but there’s no better time of the year to start planning your trip to one of the world’s best Christmas markets. As early as November, Christmas markets around the globe open their doors, and invite travellers to discover this amazing tradition. Dating back to the 15th century, delicious food, Glühwein (mulled wine) and incredible arts and crafts set the tone for this whimsical atmosphere.
Very popular in many European nations, and even here in Canada, Christmas markets welcome millions of visitors every year. Read on to discover which Christmas markets are worth visiting on your next winter vacation!
1. Munich Christmas Markets (Nov. 21, 2022 to Dec. 24, 2022)
Many of the world’s Christmas traditions originate in Germany, such as the Christmas tree and the Advent calendar. However, nothing compares to the unique atmosphere of an authentic Christmas market (Christkindlmarkt) in a traditional setting.
The city of Munich offers no less than 9 Christmas markets every year! The primary, and best-known market is located on the famous Marienplatz, right in the heart of the city. It is the first of Munich’s winter markets, and with the romantic backdrop of Munich’s neo-Gothic town hall, it’s the perfect location to experience the Bavarian culture.
At this market, your little ones can have a great time creating Christmas-inspired art in the most amazing workshop! Music lovers can look forward to traditional Bavarian music; wind instruments and choirs are in concert every day on the balcony of the Town Hall. And foodies can indulge in German delicacies like sausage, potato fritters, gingerbread cookies and much more!
2. Vienna Christmas Markets (Nov. 19, 2022 to Dec. 26, 2022)
Austria is known for being the birthplace Mozart and home to the Sound of Music, but from mid-November to Christmas, Vienna, like many other cities in Europe, is transformed by its magical Christmas markets. The aroma of Christmas bakery items and hot punch creates a festive pre-Christmas atmosphere that’s worth travelling for.
One of the most well-known Christmas Markets is the traditional “Vienna Magic of Advent”, which turns the City Hall Square into a shining fairy tale land. Christmas gifts, decorations, ornaments, sweets and warm drinks, a beautiful carousel and Christmas Workshops for kids are awaiting you. The trees of the surrounding City Hall Park are festively decorated and radiate in a sea of lights— a Viennese experience, you definitely don’t want to miss!
Another hot spot before Christmas is the cultural and Christmas market in front of Schönbrunn Palace. It offers sheer romance in front of an imperial backdrop and becomes a New Year’s market after Christmas. Like other Christmas markets, it offers traditional handicrafts, handmade Christmas decorations, Christmas concerts and an extensive children’s program.
3. Prague Christmas Markets (Nov. 26, 2022 to Jan. 6, 2023)
Like other cities hosting festive fairs, the Prague Christmas market can be found in the city’s main square, also known as the historic Old Town Square.
The Old Town Square Christmas market is one of the most beautiful locations in Prague with great seasonal ambiance. Surrounded by the city’s amazing pieces of architecture, it’s easy to see why this market is one of the most popular! For first-timers, be prepared to navigate through tightly-packed Christmas shoppers, as Prague’s market can get very crowded.
Make sure you don’t miss the mighty, 22-meter Christmas tree in the center of Prague’s Old Town Square. Each year, an enormous tree is brought from the Liberec Region of North Bohemia in the Czech Republic specifically for the Prague Christmas Market.
Other attractions at the markets include an animal stable, where families can pet sheep, goats and donkeys. And what is Christmas without some carolling? School choirs and folk groups from all over the country perform at the market in traditional clothing in the late afternoon each day.
BONUS!
Best Christmas Market in Canada – Quebec City (Nov. 24, 2022 to Dec. 23, 2022)
The Marché de Noël allemand de Québec (Quebec City Christmas Market) is very similar to European Christmas markets, but with a Canadian twist!
The organizers of this annual event pride themselves in showcasing local small businesses and talented artists from Quebec and other provinces. Handmade winter accessories, jewelry and clothing made from recycled materials are available to purchase. There are also Christmas ornaments, wooden trinkets, ceramics, and so much more.
In addition to all the traditional German/European food, you can discover local delicacies, such as flavoured vinegar and fruit jams from neighbouring Ile d’Orleans. And of course, there’s plenty of maple syrup and other maple products to taste.
No matter what your winter vacation travel plans are, make sure you have the most comprehensive winter travel insurance plan to carry with you. Whether you’re just roaming around town or hitting the slopes, winter travel can be quite unpredictable!
Do you know any other great Christmas markets? Leave us a comment below to share your favourite locations.
Happy travels,
Marie
