4 Enchanting Christmas Markets you Need to Visit
Salzburg, Austria
Why it’s a MUST-SEE – Located in one of the most beautiful cities in Austria, the Salzburg Christmas Market outshines with its extensive Events Calendar. Raise your voice in song with carolers for a free choir practice and performance, or if you are traveling with younger kids, attend the Christmas reading with an angel! Last but not least, be sure to attend the “tower blowings” to hear a wind symphony play high above from the towers of Residenzplatz!
When: late November – early January
Closest Airports: Munich (MUC), Salzburg (SZG)
Pair this with: Private Food Tour or a Private Music & Mozart Walking Tour
Vienna, Austria
Why it’s a MUST-SEE – With Christmas villages scattered throughout the city’s main squares, Vienna offers something for everyone. And if you’re a fan of architecture, you couldn’t pick a better city: many markets are set against the backdrop of exquisite cathedrals and palaces. Take in a romantic view of the city by riding the Christmas Market Ferris Wheel or enjoy family fun by skating at the Children’s Ice Rink.
When: mid November – early January
Closest Airports: Vienna (VIE)
Pair this with: Private Food Tour or Private Tour of Belvedere Museum
Colmar, France
Why it’s a MUST-SEE – For a fairytale experience, there is no better choice than the Colmar Christmas Markets. We mean this literally! Beauty and the Beast was inspired by the nearby towns of Riquewihr and Ribeauvillé (which also host charming markets accessible via Christmas Shuttle). A whimsical village made of gingerbread-like houses, enjoy wandering the narrow alleys and discovering the many local artisans. A great place to shop, you’ll find some of the most exquisitely handcrafted items. And for food lovers, you can savor French delicacies like oysters and foie gras!
When: late November – late December
Closest Airports: Strasbourg (SXB), Basel (BSL) , Zurich (ZRH)
Pair this with: Christmas Shuttle to see 4 more fairy tale Christmas Markets! (*double check calendar as certain markets are only open on weekends)
Cologne, Germany
Why it’s a MUST-SEE – Perched at the foot of Germany’s largest gothic-style Cathedral, Cologne’s Cathedral Christmas Market sparkles with grandeur. The square is lined with hundreds of red-draped stalls, each showcasing artisans from a variety of crafts, making it the ideal place to find a truly unique gift. But the magic doesn’t end there—Cologne is home to many enchanting markets scattered throughout the city. Don’t miss the captivating Market of Angels, where you’ll encounter costumed angels and fairies, adding a touch of wonder to your visit.
When: late November – late December
Closest Airports: Cologne Bonn (CGN), Düsseldorf (DUS)
Pair this with: Aachen Christmas Market (1 hr drive)
