‘Tis the Season…
Feel the excitement of the holiday season at a European holiday market! From late November through late December, towns across Europe host Christmas and holiday markets where people come out to mingle, wine & dine, shop and spread holiday cheer. You’ll smell the aroma of delicious foods and baked goods long before you savor every. last. bite. You’ll see smiles on faces. You’ll hear traditional holiday tunes – perhaps in a language you aren’t used to hearing. You might be outside in the cold, yet you’ll feel toasty and warm.
So what goes on at a holiday market?
Each one is different – but frequently they are set up in a town’s common area or somewhere well-located with character or historical significance. You’ll have food and vendors selling products with a holiday theme. Chocolates, ornaments, knit caps and lots more. It’s a great place to do some holiday shopping for gifts that have a personal touch. There will be drink stands offering various beverages (get something nice and warm in alcoholic or non-alcoholic varieties). There might be live music, performances or recreational activities (rides, sledding, etc.).
We recommend…
Experiencing a few different holiday markets if your time and budget allow. They give you a cultural experience in a new area – even if it is only in a different neighborhood of a town you already know. You’ll meet new people. You’ll see different vendors. You’ll see more delicious baked good that you just have to try. It’s easy to see why tours of holiday markets are becoming increasingly popular.
European Holiday Market Tour Deals
Available tours through our affiliate partner Tourradar.com vary widely in price & destination. Here are several popular tour deal options to consider:
By Price: Lowest Priced Biggest Deals Under $1,000
By Destination: Austria Czechia England Estonia France Germany Latvia Lithuania Russia Switzerland
Do I have to book a tour?
Absolutely not! Visitors can attend European Christmas markets in the towns of their choice simply by traveling there and attending (and booking local lodging if needed). Every holiday market will be a little bit different…the advantage of a tour is that you can usually experience several markets with an informed local guide and without the logistical challenges of navigating unfamiliar areas. In other words, it takes the stress out of “getting there” so you can focus on the experience of feeling festive and enjoying the moment.