Christkindlesmarkt, Nuremberg, Germany
Dating back to the 16th century, the Christmas Market in Nuremberg’s Main Market Square is one of Germany’s oldest. Now one of Europe’s most popular Christmas Markets, every year its quintessential wooden stalls are erected and filled with hundreds of vendors selling handmade gifts, decorations and other crafts. You won’t find many large retailers here, as the majority of the market is focused on regional handiwork, Bavarian cuisine and local traditions. Of them, is the Christkind, a small blonde angel believed to bring presents to local children during the holiday. You’ll find representations of her displayed throughout the city, but you might also come across the annually elected real-life Christkind making their way around and appearing at the market’s ceremonies
Christkindesmäkir, Strasbourg, France
Wiener Weihnachtstraum, Vienna, Austria
Cathedral Christmas Market, Cologne, Germany
Marché de Noel, Avignon, France
Home to its own unique and enchanting traditions, Christmastime in Southern France makes for a truly special holiday getaway. With its Papal history and medieval architecture, Avignon sets the scene for a winter fairy tale perfectly. Keep an eye out for elaborate crèche scenes lining the streets and filling storefront windows this time of year. While these nativity decorations reflect Provence’s deep Catholic roots, you may also come across a number of bonfires and candles being lit throughout the city—a custom dating back to ancient pagan winter festivals. Of course, no trip would be complete without indulging in this region’s renowned cuisine, with the traditional Provençal desserts and French mulled wine sure to be a highlight.
Discover the Christmas Markets of Europe
Looking to embark on a one-of-a-kind Christmastime adventure? A joyful treat for all the senses, a Christmas Market river cruise along Europe’s timeless waterways is the perfect way to stoke your yuletide cheer. From the South of France, to Germany and Austria, take in the continent’s many cultural wonders and historic gems as you journey from one historic Christmas Market to the next.