Beyond the Stalls: Top Tips to Experience Europe’s Christmas Markets

Visiting the European Christmas Markets allows you to disconnect from the busy pace of daily life and indulge in a winter wonderland and European culture.  Whether you are traveling with your partner, family, or a group of girlfriends, the experience is less about rushing and more about enjoying the moment. The Christmas Markets operate differently than what you are used to in the States. To help you navigate the stalls with ease, Markwood Magic curated the top tips for a seamless and luxurious experience.

Cash Can Be Your Best Friend

While most of Europe will take credit cards (Visa and Mastercard are the most popular), one exception is the European Christmas Markets. Some of the stalls are cash only.  Be sure to have smaller denomination of cash as well as coins. Don’t forget that it may be hard for the vendor to make change, so bringing smaller denomination is very helpful.

Savor the Food and Drinks at the Christmas Markets

Some of the food portions are quite large, which is fantastic for sharing with your traveling party. Even if you do plan on snack sharing, bring a few zip lock bags to hold your leftovers to enjoy back at your hotel later. Alternatively, you can buy snacks for today and then purchase a second round to enjoy on your plane ride back home or wherever your travels may take you.

The food and drinks can be one of the best experiences at the Christmas Markets in my opinion. You must try the mulled wine at least once. Click here to learn more about the drink options.

For the food options the top three things to try are roasted almonds known as Gebrannte Mandeln, chimney cakes known as Kürtőskalács, and potato pancakes known as Kartoffelpuffer. These treats are perfect for enjoying while you stroll through the market squares, soaking in the festive atmosphere, and looking for that perfect present for yourself or friends and family.

 

Venturing to Local Christmas Markets

Christmas Markets that are located farther from the city center are typically going to have more locals. This brings more authentic crafts and the possibility of unique local entertainment. Additionally, those markets may be larger and have additional activities such has curling, ice skating, carnival type rides such as a Ferris wheel, etc compared the Christmas Markets to near the city center. Additionally, those markets may be larger and have additional activities such as curling, ice skating, or carnival-style rides like a Ferris wheel. Markwood Magic encourages you to use local transportation, such as the train, to reach these charming markets that are farther out from the main tourist hub or hire a local drive to take you there and back if you want a more luxurious experience.

The Reality of Train Travel vs. River Cruising

If you are traveling to multiple cities by land, you are most likely going to take the train at least once during your adventure. On many popular routes, a standard ticket does not guarantee you have a seat. If the train is crowded, you may find yourself standing instead of sitting down and just enjoying the view outside. While Markwood Magic will book your train tickets (with seats when possible) as part of a land package, another preferred option is to avoid this hassle entirely by booking a European River Cruise. This allows you to unpack once and let your floating boutique hotel take you from city to city in total comfort. And yes, there Christmas Market theme driver cruises.

 

Shopping and When to Say “Yes” to the Purchase

When it comes to shopping at the European Christmas Markets one of the best pieces of advice is when you see something you want, go ahead and get it. Do not wait. While yes, you may see the same item in several different Christmas Markets, it isn’t worth the chance. Go ahead and purchase it. Your future self will be thank you.

This brings us to our next tip: Bring an extra duffle bag from home. One way over to Europe pack it in your regular suitcase and then on the way home use it as a carry on. Reminder: If you have things that are breakable, make sure to pack with extra care and cushioning so they make it on the plane ride home.

The price is usually the price at the Christmas Markets. Markwood Magic does not recommend trying to “haggle” the price. It may unintentionally come across as rude to the artisans who have spent months crafting these items. Respecting their work is part of the cultural experience.

When to Visit the Christmas Markets

Ideally try to visit the Christmas Market twice. Once during the day and once just before sunset. This timing can make for some stunning pictures as the sun is setting and the full night time crowd has not fully arrived. FYI: he markets at night are simply stunning and have a different atmosphere (think more festive and romantic but can be crowded depending on the day of week and time at night).

As far as when to visit, going midweek is best when many locals are working their day jobs and kids are in their respective schools.  Also note that some Christmas Markets may be closed on Sundays as well.

At the same time, make note of the dates. The Christmas Markets in Europe typically open in November and close before Christmas. This is not true for all the markets. Yes, that is a lot to keep track of, which is why Markwood Magic will help you plan your vacation dates to align with the markets you are interested in seeing on either a river cruise or land tour in Europe.

When to Book Your Christmas Market Vacation

The best time to book depends on how you want to travel; land, river cruise, or a combination of which is Markwood Magic’s recommendation.  For a river cruise, ideally book at least a year in advance. If you are doing a land vacation, then at least nine months out.

Let Markwood Magic Plan Your Escape 

That is a lot to keep track of, which is why Markwood Magic will help you plan your vacation dates to align perfectly with the markets you are interested in seeing. Whether you prefer a custom land tour or a wonderful European River Cruise, Markwood Magic will ensure your trip is tailored to your preferences. When you are ready to start planning your next vacation, schedule a consultation below.

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