Winter Wonderland Christmas Markets in Europe!

Welcome to the enchanting world of European Christmas markets, where the air is filled with the sweet scent of mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, and festive cheer. Join us on a journey through some of the most magical Christmas markets in Europe, where we explored picturesque towns, snow-covered villages, and vibrant cities during our 21 day small group tour. From Munich to Prague, Vienna to Cologne, and beyond, here’s a glimpse into our winter wonderland adventure.

Munich: A Snowy Start to Our Adventure

Our journey began in the charming city of Munich, where we were greeted by a blanket of snow as we walked into the town’s main Christmas market. Located at Marienplatz, the market is famous for its twinkling lights and festive stalls. You can easily get there by taking the U-Bahn to Marienplatz station. Sip on Glühwein, nibble on Lebkuchen (gingerbread), and explore stalls selling handcrafted ornaments and gifts.

Value Tips for Exploring Munich in Winter:

1. Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: For a warm and convenient way to see Munich, consider taking a hop-on hop-off bus tour. This allows you to explore other parts of the city without braving the cold for too long. Key stops include Nymphenburg Palace, the Olympic Park, and the BMW Museum.
2. Visit the Beer Halls: Munich is famous for its beer halls, and visiting one is a quintessential Bavarian experience. Near the Christmas market, you’ll find the Hofbräuhaus, one of the most famous beer halls in the world. Here, you can enjoy traditional Bavarian beer, hearty food like sausages and pretzels, and live music in a warm and lively atmosphere.
3. Indoor Attractions: To escape the cold, visit some of Munich’s indoor attractions. The Deutsches Museum offers fascinating exhibits on science and technology. The Munich Residenz, the former royal palace of the Bavarian monarchs, is a great place to explore art and history.
4. Warm Up in Cafes: Munich has a charming café culture. Take a break from the cold and warm up with a hot drink in one of the many cozy cafes around the city. Café Frischhut, near Viktualienmarkt, is famous for its Schmalznudeln (a type of doughnut) and is a delightful spot to relax.

Despite being snowed in, our resourcefulness led us to hire Ubers to reach Passau, where we hopped on to a bus and headed to Engelhartszell where we embarked on our river cruise down the Danube on the A-Rosa Bella. We boarded, excited to meet new people and learn about our destinations.

However, we discovered that the cruise was primarily in German, despite being advertised as bilingual. Initially frustrated, but after we made a game out of guessing conversations we enjoyed our time together and added it to our bank of travel stories to tell later.

If you’re looking to brush up on your German, this cruise is perfect; otherwise, an English-speaking option might be better. Despite the language barrier, the cabins were pleasant, the food was delicious, and the destinations were stunning. So we just rolled with it and this is what we experienced.

Vienna: Imperial Elegance and Festive Cheer

Our cruise brought us to our first stop, Vienna, a city renowned for its imperial elegance and rich cultural heritage. The Christmas markets here are nothing short of spectacular.

The main market at Rathausplatz is a must-visit, with its dazzling lights and festive stalls. Easily accessible by tram or metro, but we braved the cold and walked the streets to take advantage of seeing as much as we could while here. The main market offers a wide variety of local crafts, delicious pastries, and warm drinks.

The market at Schönbrunn Palace, accessible by the U4 metro line, provides a more intimate setting with artisanal gifts and traditional Viennese treats like Sachertorte and Apfelstrudel, we didn’t have enough time to do this last option but I have been to Schönbrunn Palace before and its absolutely stunning and well worth a visit. I can only imagine how beautiful it must be at Christmas time.

Things to See and Do in Vienna During Winter:

1. Explore the Imperial Palaces:
   • Schönbrunn Palace: This former imperial summer residence is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can tour the opulent state rooms and wander through the beautiful gardens. During winter, the palace grounds are transformed into a charming Christmas market.
   • Hofburg Palace: The former winter residence of the Habsburg dynasty, now home to the Austrian National Library, the Imperial Apartments, and the Sisi Museum. It’s a must-visit to understand the grandeur of the Habsburg rule.
2. Visit St. Stephen’s Cathedral:
   • Located in the heart of Vienna, St. Stephen’s Cathedral is an architectural marvel. Climb the south tower for a panoramic view of the city or explore the catacombs beneath the cathedral.
3. Take a Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride:
   • Experience Vienna’s historic charm with a Fiaker (horse-drawn carriage) ride through the city’s old town. It’s a cozy way to see the sights and enjoy the festive decorations.
4. Attend a Classical Concert:
   • Vienna is the city of music, and winter is the perfect time to attend a classical concert. The Vienna State Opera, the Musikverein, and the Konzerthaus offer performances that celebrate the city’s musical heritage.
5. Discover the Museums:
   • Kunsthistorisches Museum: One of the world’s most renowned art museums, featuring works by Raphael, Caravaggio, and Vermeer.
   • Belvedere Palace Museum: Home to an impressive collection of Austrian art, including Gustav Klimt’s famous painting “The Kiss.”
   • Albertina Museum: Known for its extensive graphic art collection, including works by Dürer, Michelangelo, and Picasso.
6. Stroll Through Naschmarkt:
   • Vienna’s most popular market, Naschmarkt, offers a variety of fresh produce, international foods, and local delicacies. It’s a great place to warm up with a hot drink and sample Viennese cuisine.
7. Relax in a Traditional Coffee House:
   • Vienna’s coffee house culture is world-famous. Warm up with a Melange (Viennese coffee) and a slice of Sachertorte at Café Central, Café Sacher, or Demel.
8. Ice Skating at Rathausplatz:
   • During winter, Rathausplatz transforms into a magical ice skating rink. Skating in front of the beautifully lit City Hall is a fun and festive activity for all ages.
9. Take a Danube River Cruise:
   • See Vienna from a different perspective with a winter Danube River cruise. Some cruises offer dining options, allowing you to enjoy Austrian cuisine while taking in the scenic views.
10. Shop for Christmas Gifts:
    • Apart from the main markets, smaller Christmas markets pop up all around the city, such as at Belvedere Palace and the Altes AKH. These markets offer unique handcrafted items, perfect for holiday gifts.

Vienna’s blend of history, culture, and festive cheer makes it a perfect destination for a winter getaway. Whether you’re wandering through the Christmas markets, exploring imperial palaces, or enjoying a classical concert, Vienna offers an unforgettable winter experience.

Bratislava: A Hidden Gem

Next, we arrived in Bratislava, a hidden gem that boasts charming Christmas markets and a cute snowman that welcomed us as we stepped off the boat. The market at the Main Square is a cozy affair, with stalls offering traditional Slovakian crafts, food, and drinks.

Located in the heart of the Old Town, it’s easily reachable on foot from most central hotels. We had a walking tour of the Castle overlooking the city which added a fairy-tale touch to our visit. (It can get pretty cold there especially up on top of the hill near the castle if the winds blowing, so make sure you rug up.)

We indulged in Bolbaki (sweet bread covered with poppy seeds) and medovina (honey wine) at a local restaurant , enjoying the festive foods and atmosphere of Christmas plus a little concert from a String trio at Kaplnka Svateho Ladislava. (a little preview below) You can really enjoy wandering around the streets here, with beautiful cafes and shops to experience along the way. We all loved it here.

Things to See and Do in Bratislava During Winter:

1. Explore Bratislava Castle:
   • Perched on a hill overlooking the city, Bratislava Castle offers stunning panoramic views of the Danube River and the surrounding area. The castle’s museum showcases Slovak history, art, and culture. During winter, the castle grounds often have a magical dusting of snow, making it a perfect photo spot.
2. Stroll Through the Old Town:
   • Bratislava’s Old Town is a maze of cobblestone streets, charming squares, and historic buildings. Key sights include Michael’s Gate, the last remaining part of the medieval fortifications, and the Old Town Hall, which houses the Bratislava City Museum. The festive decorations and twinkling lights add a special touch to your winter walk.
3. Visit St. Martin’s Cathedral:
   • This Gothic cathedral is one of the city’s most significant historical landmarks. It was the coronation church of the Kingdom of Hungary from the 16th to the 19th century. The interior is beautifully adorned, and during the winter season, it often hosts classical music concerts.
4. Relax at the Christmas Markets:
   • Besides the Main Square market, don’t miss the market at Hviezdoslav Square. This market is larger and offers a great variety of food, drinks, and handcrafted gifts. Try local delicacies such as cigánska pečienka (spiced pork in a bun) and trdelník (a sweet pastry coated in sugar and walnuts).
5. Walk Along the Danube Promenade:
   • The Danube promenade offers a scenic stroll with views of the river and the UFO Observation Deck, a futuristic structure that doubles as a restaurant and observation point. From here, you can see Bratislava’s skyline and the surrounding countryside.
6. Tour the Slovak National Theatre:
   • The historic building of the Slovak National Theatre is an architectural gem. If you have the opportunity, attend an opera, ballet, or drama performance. The theater’s schedule is packed with cultural events, especially during the winter season.
7. Discover the Blue Church:
   • The Church of St. Elizabeth, commonly known as the Blue Church, is a striking example of Art Nouveau architecture. Its unique blue facade and intricate details make it a must-see. The church looks especially beautiful against the winter backdrop.
8. Sample Slovak Cuisine:
   • Warm up with traditional Slovak dishes at local restaurants. Bryndzové halušky (potato dumplings with sheep cheese) and kapustnica (sauerkraut soup) are hearty options perfect for a cold day. Café Mayer, located in the Old Town, is a great place to try local pastries and coffee.
9. Visit the Slovak National Museum:
   • The museum offers a comprehensive look at Slovak history, culture, and nature. It’s a great way to learn more about the country’s heritage. The natural history exhibits and historical artifacts are particularly fascinating.
10. Take a Day Trip to Devín Castle:
    • A short bus ride from Bratislava, Devín Castle is situated at the confluence of the Danube and Morava rivers. The ruins of this ancient castle offer breathtaking views and a glimpse into Slovakia’s past. In winter, the snow-covered landscape adds to the castle’s mystique.

Bratislava’s blend of history, culture, and festive cheer makes it a delightful destination during the winter months. Whether you’re exploring the enchanting Christmas markets, wandering through the picturesque Old Town, or enjoying a warm meal in a cozy restaurant, Bratislava offers a truly magical winter experience.

Linz: A Blend of Tradition and Modernity

Linz, one of my most favourite markets was here, not for the food and stalls but for the charming magical wonderland of lights that we found at Winterzauber im Stiegl-Klosterhof. This definitely was magical winter wonderland experience that added an extra sparkle to our trip. This seasonal event, set in the picturesque Stiegl-Klosterhof, offers an unforgettable festive experience and something you need to look for if you come here.

Linz also has a few other Christmas markets with a blend of traditional and modern. All were easy to find and walk to as the boat docks right in town. This city beautifully combines old-world charm with contemporary flair, offering visitors a rich tapestry of experiences, especially during the Christmas season.

Christmas Markets in Linz:

1. Hauptplatz (Main Square) Christmas Market:
   • Located in the heart of Linz, the Hauptplatz Christmas Market is surrounded by historic buildings that add to its enchanting atmosphere. Easily reachable by tram, this market is a visual delight with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and a grand Christmas tree at its center. The stalls here offer a variety of local crafts, from handmade ornaments to knitted goods. Don’t miss trying the Linzer Torte, a local pastry that pairs perfectly with a cup of hot chocolate or Glühwein (mulled wine).
2. Pfarrplatz Christmas Market:
   • A short walk from the Hauptplatz, Pfarrplatz Christmas Market provides a more modern take on the festive season. Here, you’ll find contemporary art and design on display, with unique gifts and innovative holiday decorations. The market also features live music and performances, adding a lively touch to your visit.
3. Volksgarten Christmas Market:
   • Another gem in Linz is the Volksgarten Christmas Market. This market is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, with a fairy-tale forest, a petting zoo, and an ice-skating rink. It’s a perfect spot for children and families to enjoy the festive season.

Things to See and Do in Linz During Winter:

1. Visit the Ars Electronica Center:
   • Known as the “Museum of the Future,” the Ars Electronica Center is a must-visit for anyone interested in technology and innovation. The interactive exhibits cover everything from robotics to artificial intelligence, making it a fascinating stop for all ages. During winter, the center often hosts special events and exhibits related to the holiday season.
2. Explore the Old Town:
   • Linz’s Old Town is a picturesque area filled with historic buildings, narrow streets, and charming squares. Take a leisurely stroll to admire the baroque architecture and visit landmarks such as the Old Cathedral (Alter Dom) and the Landhaus. The Old Town’s festive decorations and lights add a magical touch to your winter visit.
3. Enjoy a Danube River Cruise:
   • See Linz from a different perspective with a winter Danube River cruise. The city’s skyline, adorned with Christmas lights, is a sight to behold from the water. Some cruises offer dining options, allowing you to enjoy Austrian cuisine while taking in the scenic views.
4. Climb the Pöstlingberg:
   • For panoramic views of Linz, take the Pöstlingbergbahn, one of the steepest adhesion railways in the world, up to the Pöstlingberg hill. At the top, you’ll find the Pöstlingberg Church and the Grottenbahn, a dragon-themed grotto railway that’s especially charming for children.
5. Visit the Lentos Art Museum:
   • The Lentos Art Museum is one of Austria’s most important modern art museums. Located along the Danube, the museum’s striking architecture and extensive collection of 20th and 21st-century art make it a cultural highlight of Linz.
6. Warm Up in a Traditional Coffee House:
   • Linz has a vibrant coffee house culture. Cozy up with a hot drink and a slice of Linzer Torte at Café Traxlmayr or Konditorei Jindrak. These cafes offer a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a winter afternoon.
7. Shop at the PlusCity Mall:
   • If you’re in the mood for some holiday shopping, head to PlusCity, one of the largest shopping centers in Upper Austria. The mall is beautifully decorated for the festive season and offers a wide range of stores and dining options.
8. Visit the Botanical Gardens:
   • Linz’s Botanical Gardens are a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. During winter, the gardens often host special events and light displays, creating a peaceful and festive environment.
9. Experience the Linz Castle Museum:
   • The Linz Castle Museum, located in a historic fortress, offers exhibits on the history and culture of the region. The museum’s location provides stunning views of the city and the Danube River, especially enchanting in the winter.
10. Attend a Concert at the Brucknerhaus:
    • Named after the famous composer Anton Bruckner, the Brucknerhaus is Linz’s premier concert hall. Check the schedule for winter performances, including classical concerts and holiday-themed events.

Linz’s blend of traditional charm and modern attractions makes it a delightful destination for a winter visit. Whether you’re exploring the enchanting Christmas markets, admiring contemporary art, or enjoying a warm pastry in a cozy café, Linz offers a unique and memorable holiday experience.

Coming off our cruise, we didn’t have as much time as we needed to see everything I’ve suggested above. However, we did manage to walk through all the markets and wander the festive streets. To fully experience it all, you would need a few days here. Linz is definitely well worth a visit.

Prague: Medieval Charm and Winter Magic

Our journey continued to Prague, a city that exudes medieval charm. We stayed at the Hotel U Zlateho Stromu, just meters away from the Charles Bridge. The Prague Christmas markets, particularly the one at Old Town Square, are a visual delight with their twinkling lights and festive decorations and the Old Town Square with it’s backdrop of the stunning medieval castle.

The Old Town Square market is easily accessible by metro or tram, but if you stay where we stayed, it’s a short stroll along the winding festive streets to the Square. It’s enchanting to walk the streets and join all the families enjoying the festivities. If you’re lucky, like we were, you might even experience a sprinkle of white snow falling as you wander—definitely pinch-me moments.

Christmas Markets in Prague:

1. Old Town Square Christmas Market:
   • The Old Town Square market is a must-visit, known for its twinkling lights, festive decorations, and a grand Christmas tree. Easily accessible by metro or tram, this market offers a variety of local crafts, ornaments, and holiday treats. Be sure to try the Trdelník, a sweet donut like pastry, and warm up with a cup of hot mulled wine.
2. Wenceslas Square Christmas Market:
   • Located just a short walk from the Old Town Square, this market is another festive hotspot. Here, you’ll find more stalls offering holiday goods, food, and drink. The lively atmosphere and beautiful decorations make it a delightful place to visit.
3. Mala Strana Christmas Market
   • The Christmas market under the Charles Bridge in Prague is called the “Mala Strana Christmas Market” or “Malostranské Vánoční trhy.” Located in the Lesser Town (Malá Strana) near the foot of the Charles Bridge, this market is smaller and more intimate than the larger ones at Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square, but it has its own unique charm. It features a variety of stalls selling traditional Czech crafts, festive foods, and beverages, all set against the picturesque backdrop of the Charles Bridge and the Vltava River. This market is perfect for a cozy, festive experience in one of Prague’s most historic and beautiful areas.

Top Attractions in Prague:

1. Prague Castle:
   • No trip to Prague is complete without exploring Prague Castle. The castle complex includes the stunning St. Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace, and the picturesque Golden Lane. The views of the city from the castle grounds are breathtaking, especially in winter.
2. Charles Bridge:
   • Just steps from our hotel, Charles Bridge is one of Prague’s most famous landmarks. Take a leisurely stroll across the bridge, adorned with statues and offering panoramic views of the Vltava River and the city’s skyline.
   • A little hint here to see the bridge without the crowds is to get up early and head over. We walked to it around 8am in the morning and there was hardly anyone around and the sun was rising in the distance and was just perfect to take photos and not be crushed by the crowds. From around 10am onwards it gets crazy!
3. Lesser Town (Malá Strana):
   • Located below Prague Castle, Lesser Town is filled with charming streets, historic buildings, and cozy cafes. It’s a wonderful area to explore and soak in the city’s medieval charm. The cafes around here are beautiful, I’d definitely suggest coming over this side to enjoy a meal.
4. Medieval Dinner and Live Show at U Pavouka:
   • For a unique dining experience, we enjoyed a medieval dinner and live show at U Pavouka. The evening included a feast of traditional Czech dishes, accompanied by live music, sword fights, and fire shows, creating an unforgettable night.
5. Astronomical Clock:
   • The Astronomical Clock, located in the Old Town Hall, is one of Prague’s most famous landmarks. Every hour, on the hour, the clock puts on a show with its moving figures, including the Twelve Apostles. Climbing the Old Town Hall tower provides a stunning view of the square and the city.
6. Church of Our Lady Before Týn:
   • This Gothic church, with its twin spires, dominates the Old Town Square. Visitors can explore the interior and climb the tower for a panoramic view of Prague. The church is open to visitors during the day, and the tower is open for climbs at specific times.

Day Trip to Cesky Krumlov:

• Cesky Krumlov:
  • We took a day trip to the picturesque town of Cesky Krumlov, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved medieval architecture. The town’s castle, winding streets, and riverside views make it a perfect winter destination. Absolutely worth taking the time to go and see. I can’t help but keep saying “It’s magical!”.

• Cesky Budejovice:
  • On the way back, we stopped at Cesky Budejovice, home to one of the best Christmas markets we visited. The market’s vibrant atmosphere, delicious food, and beautiful decorations made it a highlight of our trip with a ferris wheel and ice skating rink for the whole family to enjoy.

Additional Tips for Visiting Prague:

1. Walking Tours:
   • Join a walking tour to learn more about Prague’s history and culture. Free walking tours are available, and tipping the guide at the end is customary. We did this and visited the Castle, Charles bridge and Lesser Town. Just remember to rug up as it gets quite cold standing around listening to the guide as they share about their city.
2. Warm Up in Cozy Cafes:
   • Prague is home to many charming cafes where you can warm up with a hot drink and a slice of cake. Café Savoy and Café Slavia are both excellent choices. We also ate at Kaiserstein Palace restaurant which had a unique design inside and yummy food including soup inside a bread bowl.
3. Public Transport:
   • Prague’s public transport system is efficient and easy to use. Purchase a day pass for unlimited travel on trams, buses, and the metro.

Prague’s medieval charm, festive markets, and rich history make it a magical winter destination. Whether you’re exploring the city’s landmarks, enjoying local cuisine, or discovering nearby towns, Prague offers a delightful holiday experience.

Nuremberg: A Historic Market Experience

After our four nights in Prague (where we could have easily spent two weeks without seeing it all), we caught the train to Nuremberg. We stayed there for one night, and once again, our accommodation was perfectly located right beside the Christmas market. We could walk straight outside and immerse ourselves in the beautiful, large market. One of our ladies even scored a great room that looked out over it all.

Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt is one of the oldest and most famous Christmas markets in Europe. Located at Hauptmarkt, it’s easily reachable by tram or on foot from the city center. We stayed at the Hotel Saxx, Sorat, with a view overlooking the market square. The aroma of gingerbread (Lebkuchen) and bratwurst filled the air as we explored the market’s numerous stalls. The historic setting and festive atmosphere made it a truly memorable experience.

I also highly recommend finding the street “Irrerstrabe” in Altstadt Sebald (within walking distance from the hotel). This is the Old Castle district, and the houses lining both sides of the street are absolutely stunning.

Cologne: Gothic Splendour and Festive Joy

From Nuremberg we jumped on the train again and ended up in Cologne for a couple of nights. In Cologne, we stayed at the luxurious Excelsior Hotel Ernst, with a view of the stunning Cathedral right outside our window. The city’s Christmas markets are scattered throughout the centre, each with its unique charm.

Christmas Markets in Cologne:

1. Cathedral Market (Weihnachtsmarkt am Dom):
   • The most iconic market, located right next to the magnificent Cologne Cathedral and across from our Hotel. The highlight is the giant Christmas tree, surrounded by festive stalls selling handcrafted gifts, ornaments, and local delicacies. We savored Kölsch beer and Reibekuchen (potato fritters) as we wandered through the market, enjoying the lively atmosphere.
2. Old Market (Alter Markt): or Known also as the Gnome Market(you’ll understand why when there)
   • Located in the heart of the Old Town, this market is known for its charming medieval setting. It’s perfect for families, with puppet theaters, a carousel, and an ice rink. The stalls here offer a variety of toys, crafts, and delicious treats.
3. Harbor Christmas Market:
   • Situated along the Rhine River, this market has a nautical theme. The white tents, reminiscent of sailboats, create a unique atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy seafood dishes, mulled wine, and shop for maritime-themed gifts.
4. Angel’s Market (Neumarkt):
   • Located in the city center, the Angel’s Market is one of the most romantic markets in Cologne. The beautifully decorated stalls and enchanting lights create a magical ambiance. Here, you can find high-quality crafts, jewelry, and gourmet food.

Top Attractions in Cologne:

1. Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom):
   • A UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Germany’s most famous landmarks. Visitors can climb the 533 steps to the top of the south tower for breathtaking views of the city. Absolutely stunning inside.
2. Ludwig Museum:
   • Home to an impressive collection of modern art, including works by Picasso, Warhol, and Lichtenstein. It’s a must-visit for art enthusiasts.
3. Hohenzollern Bridge:
   • Famous for its “love locks,” this bridge offers stunning views of the Rhine and the Cathedral. It’s a great spot for a leisurely walk.
4. Cologne Old Town:
   • Wander through the narrow, cobbled streets of the Old Town, filled with colorful houses, traditional pubs, and charming shops. The historic area is particularly beautiful during the holiday season, with festive decorations and lights.

Additional Tips for Visiting Cologne:

1. Try Local Specialties:
   • Don’t miss out on tasting local dishes like Halve Hahn (rye bread with cheese) and Himmel un Ääd(mashed potatoes with applesauce and black pudding).
2. Public Transport:
   • Cologne’s public transport system is efficient and easy to navigate. Purchase a day pass for unlimited travel on trams, buses, and the metro.
3. Dress Warmly:
   • The winter weather in Cologne can be quite chilly, so make sure to bundle up in warm layers, scarves, hats, and gloves.

Cologne’s luxurious accommodations, festive markets, and rich history make it a fantastic winter destination. Again whether you’re exploring the city’s landmarks, enjoying local cuisine, or shopping at the Christmas markets, Cologne offers a delightful holiday experience. One special treat at our Hotel was seeing a huge display of a Christmas Gingerbread village, experiences we’ll remember.

A Magical River Adventure: Cologne to Frankfurt

From Cologne, we embarked on our next river cruise with A-Rosa, excited to travel down the Rhine to explore more German markets and Strasbourg. However, upon boarding, we were informed that the river level had risen due to the recent snowfall, preventing us from passing under the bridges on the planned route.

Instead, our adventure took a delightful turn towards the Netherlands. Embracing the change, we set sail with a sense of curiosity and excitement. Our German-speaking cruise became a unique experience as we journeyed to new destinations: Dordrecht, Amsterdam, Nijmegen, and Dusseldorf.

Though some of these destinations lacked traditional Christmas markets, the festive spirit was alive as we wandered the charming streets, decorated with twinkling lights and full of holiday cheer.

Dordrecht and Amsterdam: Dutch Delights

Our second cruise on the Rhine took us to the Netherlands, where we explored the charming city of Dordrecht and the vibrant markets of Amsterdam. In Dordrecht, the Christmas market, located in the historic city centre, is one of the largest in the Netherlands and offers a cozy, festive atmosphere. Unfortunately for us this year they did not have it up and running but we wandered the streets and water canals and enjoyed our time here.

Amsterdam’s markets, particularly the one at Museumplein, are lively and diverse, offering everything from traditional crafts to modern gifts. Both markets are easily accessible by public transport.

Things to see and do:

Highlights: Iconic canals, world-renowned museums, and vibrant neighborhoods.

Activities: Discover the Anne Frank House, explore the Van Gogh Museum, and stroll through the lively Jordaan district. Take a cruise down canal at night and see it lit up, you might even catch a glimpse of Santa riding his bike.

Markets:

Museumplein Market: Set against the backdrop of Amsterdam’s most famous museums, this market is a lively hub of festive activity. It offers a mix of traditional crafts, modern gifts, and delicious food. Easily accessible by public transport, it’s a must-visit for anyone in the city during the holiday season.

Ice Village: Adjacent to the Museumplein market, the Ice Village features an ice rink surrounded by charming stalls selling warm drinks, hearty food, and unique gifts.

Nijmegen and Dusseldorf: A Festive Finale

Nijmegen’s local market was a delightful surprise, with its warm ambiance and delicious hot chocolate. The market, located in the city center, is easily reachable by bus or on foot from central hotels. We loved all the local baked goods at this market. So visually appealing as well as delicious. Check out Valkhof Park while here, a beautiful area to wander and see some old ruins and beautiful church as well.

Dusseldorf, with its picturesque streets and festive stalls, provided a fitting end to our river cruise. The main market, located in the Altstadt (Old Town), is a short walk from the central train station. We crossed the bridge for a stunning view of the city and enjoyed the festive spirit that filled the air.

• Markets:
  • Marktplatz Market: Located in the heart of the Old Town, this market is known for its traditional wooden stalls, festive decorations, and lively atmosphere. Here, you can find a variety of handcrafted gifts, delicious German foods, and warm drinks like glühwein and hot chocolate.
  • Schadowplatz Market: This market offers a modern twist with stylish stalls and contemporary decorations. It’s a great place to shop for unique gifts and enjoy gourmet food options.
  • Little Star Market on the Kö (Königsallee): Located on the famous shopping boulevard, this market is smaller but beautifully decorated with twinkling lights and elegant stalls. It’s perfect for a more intimate and luxurious Christmas market experience.
  • Medieval Market at Schloss Benrath: Just a short tram ride from the city center, this market is set against the stunning backdrop of Benrath Palace. The medieval-themed stalls and costumed vendors create a unique and enchanting atmosphere.

Frankfurt: A Festive Finale

Our tour concluded in Frankfurt, where we stayed at the Scandic Hotel Museumsafer. The city’s Christmas markets were a feast for the senses, with their vibrant lights, festive music, and mouthwatering food. The main market at Römerberg is easily accessible by metro or on foot from the city center. From Frankfurter sausages to Apfelwein (apple wine), the markets offered a taste of local flavors that we thoroughly enjoyed.

Römerberg Market

The Römerberg Market is the centerpiece of Frankfurt’s Christmas celebrations. Set against the historic Römer city hall, this market offers a picturesque scene of twinkling lights, festive decorations, and traditional half-timbered buildings. Here are some highlights:

• Stalls and Crafts: The market features over 200 stalls selling handcrafted gifts, ornaments, and artisanal goods. From wooden toys to intricate glass decorations, there’s something for everyone.
• Food and Drink: Enjoy traditional German foods such as bratwurst, lebkuchen (gingerbread), and marzipan. Warm up with a cup of glühwein or apple wine, a local specialty.
• Entertainment: The Römerberg stage hosts daily performances, including choir singing, brass bands, and puppet shows. There’s also a nostalgic carousel for children.

Paulsplatz Market

Adjacent to Römerberg is Paulsplatz, where you’ll find more stalls and festive activities. This area focuses on local crafts and offers a quieter, more intimate market experience.

• St. Paul’s Church: Visit the historic church and enjoy the Christmas concerts held inside, adding to the magical atmosphere.
• Frankfurt’s Famous Bethmännchen: Don’t miss trying Bethmännchen, a traditional Frankfurt marzipan pastry, available at many stalls.

The New Frankfurt Market (Neue Frankfurter Weihnachtsmarkt)

Located on the Mainkai, this market offers a more modern take on Christmas celebrations.

• Rides and Attractions: Enjoy the Ferris wheel with panoramic views of the city and the Main River, ice skating rinks, and other family-friendly attractions.
• Culinary Delights: In addition to traditional fare, this market features international cuisine, reflecting Frankfurt’s cosmopolitan vibe.

Special Events

• Christmas Tree: Admire the giant Christmas tree, one of the tallest in Germany, beautifully decorated and illuminated, creating a stunning focal point for the market.
• Frankfurt’s Skyline: For a breathtaking view, take an evening river cruise along the Main River to see the city’s skyline and the festive lights reflecting off the water.

This unexpected detour of our last cruise added an extra layer of magic to our adventure, reminding us that sometimes, the best experiences come from the unplanned moments. Whether it was the charming streets of Amsterdam or the bustling markets of Frankfurt, each stop on our journey offered a unique and enchanting holiday experience.

A Magical Ending to Our Winter Wonderland Adventure

As our enchanting journey through Europe’s Christmas markets comes to a close, we reflect on the magical moments that filled our hearts with joy. From the twinkling lights of Vienna to the cozy markets of Dusseldorf, each destination offered its own unique charm and festive spirit.

The snowy streets of Munich, the historic beauty of Prague, and the vibrant energy of Frankfurt created memories we’ll cherish forever.

Thank you for following along on this winter wonderland adventure. We hope our experiences have inspired you to explore these magical markets yourself. For more updates and travel inspiration, connect with us on Instagram and join our Facebook group.

We can’t wait to share more journeys with you and hope you’ll join us on our next adventure soon. Happy holidays and safe travels!

Map of our 21 Day adventure below.

TRANSPORT: We started in Munich and ended in Frankfurt. We used Uber between Munich and Passau (was meant to be train but snowed in). River Cruise down the Danube was 4 nights, Vienna, Bratislava, Linz and back to Passau. Private driver from Passau to Prague with Blacklane Transfers. Train from Prague to Nuremberg and Cologne. 5 night river cruise down the Rhine to Dordrecht, Amsterdam, Nijmegen, Dusseldorf. Rail to Frankfurt.

Traditional Trdelník Pastry (Below in video) is an absolute delight and a must-try. This beloved treat, rooted in Central European tradition, is made by wrapping dough around a wooden or metal rod, then roasting it over an open flame until golden brown. The pastry is coated in a mixture of sugar and cinnamon, which caramelises to create a sweet, crunchy exterior. While Trdelník can be filled with ice cream and a variety of toppings, the simple, warm version with just the sugary coating is truly amazing on its own. It’s like a crispy, sugary donut, with a soft, fluffy interior—perfect for enjoying while strolling through the snow covered streets.