These festive traditions are one of the best reasons to visit Europe in winter
"We have always loved the magic of Christmas — the lights, the music, the traditions, and the feeling that comes with slowing down to enjoy the season. European Christmas markets bring all of that to life in the most beautiful way, with charming towns, festive stalls, warm drinks, handcrafted treasures, and centuries-old holiday traditions.
That is why we are so excited to experience the Christmas markets of Europe on our 2027 Christmas Market River Cruise. It is the kind of journey that feels like stepping into a storybook — and truly, the only thing that could make it better would be having you join us."
Every holiday season, Christmas markets throughout Europe bring sparkling lights, festive music and decorated wooden chalets where vendors sell hand-crafted ornaments and tasty treats in local town squares.
The holiday tradition began in medieval Germany with a more practical focus: allowing townspeople to stock up on goods for the winter. However, in the mid-1400s, the markets took on their Christmas associations and today many towns celebrate the start of Advent with the markets' opening.
There's food for all your senses at Germany's famous Christmas markets. Join Deutsche Welle’s Kate Müser as she discovers some of the best: maronen (roasted chestnuts), gebrannte mandeln (burnt almonds) and lebkuchenherz (gingerbread heart). Runtime: 4 min.
A tip-filled guide to exploring the many holiday markets found throughout the Hungarian capital. Whether you’re looking for sweet treats like traditional honey cookies or handcrafted gifts, everything is made locally. Runtime: 2 min.
From roasted chestnuts to twinkle lights and homemade ornaments, these six markets, found throughout the city, have something for everyone. Find your favorite in this guide. Runtime: 2 min.
This guide to the city’s famed holiday markets (all seven have different themes) features tips on what to eat and drink to stay fueled as you explore. Runtime: 3 min.
A story of human connection, friendship and the chance to follow our hearts, this heartwarming tale sees Connie travel to Germany—along with a motley group of pensioners—for a first date with a baker ("who checks all the boxes") at a beautiful Christmas market. By Jo Thomas.
A fascinating documentary on the history of gingerbread, its European traditions and the monasteries, bakers and craftsmen that played a role in crafting this special treat.
The revered chef shares his family Christmas traditions and 20 favorite recipes from his boyhood home. By Hubert Keller.
Season 7, Episode 4 of No Reservations sees Tony visiting wintery Vienna—taking in Christmas markets, going hunting suited like an aristocrat, eating sphincter—and having, surprisingly, an overall really good time.
Feeling festive?
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