European Christmas market magic

DEC 21, 2023 • TRAVEL DIARIES

December in Europe exudes an unparalleled holiday spirit, and the heartwarming essence of the season truly comes alive in the mesmerizing Christmas markets.

Imagine quaint wooden chalets nestled in historic medieval squares, resonant choirs filling the air with melodies, snow-dusted cathedrals casting a magical glow, and the twinkle of lights illuminating every corner. Add in the comforting warmth of crackling log fires and a delightful array of seasonal treats, both savory and sweet, all complemented by generous servings of steaming hot mulled wine.

While many cities attempt to capture this enchantment, crafting an authentically remarkable market demands more than mere twinkling lights and commonplace trinkets. We've curated a list of our 8 favorite picks for an unforgettable Christmas market experience.

Bruges, Belgium

Known for: Romantic, charming and picturesque atmosphere

Dates: November 24, 2023 to January 7, 2024

Bruges, known for its year-round beauty and gingerbread house-like medieval buildings, truly shines during the annual Winter Glow festival. This Flemish city elevates its charm with twinkling light and irresistible Christmas charm.

Known as 'Christmas Glow,' the celebrations extend beyond the main Markt square. Wander to Simon Stevinplein for more pop-up vibrant Christmas markets boasting an array of delights—from gifts to tempting food and drink stalls. Adding to the magic, an enchanting outdoor skating rink adorned with sparkling lights awaits visitors.

Stay at: Hotel Van Cleef

Prague, Czech Republic

Known for: Open-air concerts and traditional nativity scenes

Dates: December 2, 2023 to January 6, 2024

Prague's Old Town and Wenceslas markets, merely a five-minute walk apart, stand as the epitome of festive charm in a city already renowned for its allure during the Christmas season. The backdrop is steeped in ancient allure, stunning Gothic architecture and stalls offering handcrafted frosted glass baubles and magnificent wood carvings.

Delight in the traditional Czech cuisine, from sizzling sausages fresh off the grill to langoš (flatbreads) adorned with cheese and savory smoked meat dumplings. Not to be missed are the indulgent roast ham and the beloved trdelník—chimney cake—rolled in cinnamon sugar and grilled to perfection. All this delicacies are perfectly complemented by a sip of svarak—the local citrus-infused mulled wine that envelops the square in a fragrant veil of cinnamon.

Stay at: Augustine, a Luxury Collection Hotel

Trabéla exclusive perks include will include

- $100 hotel credit

- Daily breakfast for two

- Welcome amenity

- Upgrade & extended check-in/out based on availability

Copenhagen, Denmark

Known for: The real-life inspiration for Disneyland

Dates: November 17 to December 31, 2023

The spirit of the festive season illuminates Copenhagen's markets with vibrant cheer, painting a colorful picture with Christmas trees, dazzling decorations, and a tapestry of twinkling lights. Wooden toys, ceramics, and cozy knitwear line market stalls, adorning the city center with a mosaic of seasonal delights. Amidst several markets in the heart of the city, Tivoli Gardens' Christmas market emerges as Copenhagen's vibrant focal point, though some would argue for Nyhavn as the star of Christmas.

Tivoli Gardens, with its enchanting extravagance, transforms into a delightfully whimsical spectacle during the Christmas market. Ideal for enjoying ferris wheel rides and embracing Christmas hygge, this glistening theme park stands as the world's third-oldest operating amusement park, cherished by both locals and tourists. In winter, it bedecks itself with over 500,000 fairy lights, igniting the festive spirit. Take delight in the tunes played by the Tivoli Youth Guard while cozied up by a crackling log fire. Kids can relish thrilling rollercoasters before stepping into the Glass Hall Theater and Tivoli Concert Hall for family-friendly stage shows.

Beyond the array of food and gift stalls, visitors can glide across the ice skating rink, adding an adventurous touch to the festive revelry. If you find yourself in Copenhagen on December 13th, witness the Santa Lucia floating parade, where light-bedecked kayaks grace the canals.

Don't miss out on delectable Danish treats like aebleskiver, miniature pancake puffs dusted with powdered sugar, or honninghjerter—dense honey cakes resembling German gingerbread, occasionally filled with jam and buttercream and coated with a chocolate glaze. It's the epitome of cozy comfort.

Stay at: Nimb Hotel

Trabéla exclusive perks include will include

- $100 Food & Beverage credit

- Daily breakfast for two

- Welcome amenity

- Upgrade & extended check-in/out based on availability

Colmar, France

Known for: Fairytale-like ambiance

Dates: 23rd November to 29th December, 2023

Colmar, with its timber-framed houses and picturesque canals, is like a living fairy tale throughout the year. But add twinkling lights, an ice skating rink, and a vintage carousel from the early 1900s, and you've discovered one of Europe's most enchanting Christmas destinations. Each market exudes its unique festive charm, showcasing everything from nativity scenes to delightful children's choirs. Be prepared for an indulgent journey exploring the various stalls. For food enthusiasts, the gourmet market offers a delectable array of delights, from fresh oysters to exquisite Alsatian wines. Stay at: La Maison Des Têtes, Relais & Châteaux

Trabéla exclusive perks include will include

- Complimentary breakfast

- VIP Welcome Amenity

Strasbourg, France

Known for: Storybook nativity like scenery

Dates: November 24 to December 24, 2023

Strasbourg, a picturesque town in France's Alsace region, transforms into a magical wonderland during the holiday season, proudly claiming the title of the "Capital of Christmas" and is recognized as France's oldest Christmas market.

Every corner and storefront in Strasbourg is adorned with festive decor, featuring bubble machines, animated displays, and resonating Christmas melodies. The city's central squares teem with 300 traditional market stalls offering hand-painted wooden Christmas decorations. The wooden chalets, nightly concerts, and a delightful ice skating rink add to the charm. Make sure to explore the quaint streets of Petit France, where charming half-timbered houses are beautifully adorned for the season.

Stop by markets Pl. du Marché-aux-Poissons and Invincible Small Producers to relish the flavors of Alsatian specialties such as foie gras, delectable sausages, almondy kugelhopf, warm white wine and bredele - the traditional Alsatian Christmas cookies. Additionally, Strasbourg hosts the OFF Market, featuring second-hand stalls and ethically-sourced products, offering a socially responsible way to celebrate the season.

Where to stay: Les Haras Hotel

Basel, Switzerland

Known for: Foodie delights and fairy lights

Dates: November 23 to December 23, 2023

Basel’s Christmas market reigns supreme as Switzerland’s largest and most captivating, hosting 160 exquisitely adorned stalls presenting handmade toys and local delights like Swiss raclette, heartwarming punch, festive fonduue and läckerli, a traditional Swiss gingerbread, showcased at charming wooden stands. For those seeking more delectable treats, explore the food stalls along the right bank of the Rhine at Claraplatz.

The market is divided between Barfuserplatz and Munsterplatz. Barfuserplatz offers intricately crafted wooden toys, nativity scenes, and jewelry, while Munsterplatz's fairytale forest delights children with engaging festive activities like bauble-making workshops and gingerbread decorating.

Insider tip

Check out the panoramic view of this festive spectacle from St. Martin’s tower, welcoming visitors throughout the Advent season, and remember to pen your Christmas wishes in the Basel Wish Book.

Stay at: Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois

Trabéla exclusive perks include will include

- $100 Food & Beverage credit

- Daily breakfast for two

- Upgrade & extended check-in/out based on availability

Salzburg, Austria

Known for: Christmas carols and ancient traditions

Dates: November 23, 2023 to January 1, 2024

Salzburg’s Christkindlmarkt, nestled within the UNESCO World Heritage Old City and hometown of Mozart, isn’t just a typical market with mulled wine and stands. It's a lively hub hosting theater and daily choral performances, engaging sing-alongs on Tuesdays from 6 to 8 p.m., and traditional wind music on Thursday and Saturday evenings.

Market stalls, reminiscent of the 15th century, prioritize quality with hand-knitted socks stealing the show over novelty candles. You can also dive into gingerbread baking or opt for a Christmas tour, exploring the market’s rich history while relishing treats like roast pork sandwiches and roasted almonds. And trust us, the bauernkrapfen (fried pastries) are a delight!

Insider Tip

Make sure to stop by the original Christmas store, "Christmas in Salzburg" open year-round and specialized in handmade decorations created by artisans.

Stay here: Hotel Goldener Hirsch, a Luxury Collection Hotel

Trabéla exclusive perks include will include

- $100 hotel credit

- Daily breakfast for two

- Welcome amenity

- Upgrade & extended check-in/out based on availability

Nuremberg, Germany

Known for: Best for bratwurst and lebkuchen

Dates: December 1-24, 2023

Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt stands out as one of Germany's most iconic Christmas markets, captivating even the most hesitant of holiday celebrants. With close to 200 artisan vendors, this market boasts a vibrant array of handcrafted goods, from scented candles and local preserves to cozy woolens and intricately carved figurines.

Local culinary delights, including Nürnberger rostbratwurst and lebkuchen (gingerbread), trace their roots back to this very place. Dating back to the early 16th century, the market derives its name from the revered Christkind ("Christ child"), portrayed each year by a different local child and paraded through the central Hauptmarkt (main square).

In addition, this beloved German market is committed to sustainability. All mulled wine vendors operate with a reusable cup system, reducing energy consumption and minimizing disposable waste. The market's energy supply comes from renewable sources such as regional hydroelectric and photovoltaic power plants.

Stay at: Le Méridien Grand Hotel Nuremberg

Trabéla exclusive perks include will include

- Daily breakfast for two

- Welcome amenity

- Upgrade & extended check-in/out based on availability