What makes European Christmas markets so special?

They combine tradition, food, culture, and atmosphere, creating a festive experience you won’t find anywhere else.

When do European Christmas markets usually take place?

Most open in late November and run until just before Christmas Eve, with some lasting until New Year.

Which European Christmas markets are best for families?

Nuremberg and Brussels have child-friendly areas with rides and activities, while Prague offers magical settings loved by all ages.

Do I need to book hotels early for European Christmas markets?

Yes, festive periods are very popular. Booking at least three to four months in advance gives you better choice and prices.

Are European Christmas markets expensive?

Not necessarily. Food and gifts are reasonable, but costs vary by city. Budget around £30–£60 a day for food and drinks.

Is it easy to visit several Christmas markets in one trip?

Yes, many are close together. For example, Strasbourg, Brussels, and Nuremberg can be combined on one itinerary.

Do European Christmas markets only take cash?

Many stalls now accept cards, but it’s best to carry cash as backup.

What should I pack for a Christmas market holiday?

Warm layers, waterproof shoes, gloves, and a small day bag. Evenings can be cold, so bring extra layers.

Are the markets accessible by train from the UK?

Yes. Brussels and Strasbourg are easily reached by Eurostar, and other cities connect well by European rail.

Why should I book with Jamie Wake Travel instead of planning myself?

Because you get ATOL protection, Supplier Failure Insurance, and personal service. Your trip will be protected, flexible, and tailored to your wishes.

European Christmas Markets Tour | Jamie Wake Travel Ideas

The magic of European Christmas markets is unmatched. Few travel experiences capture the festive spirit like wandering through cobbled squares under twinkling lights with the smell of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts in the air. At Jamie Wake Travel, we believe these seasonal breaks are some of the most joyful holidays you can take, offering a blend of culture, tradition, and unforgettable atmosphere.

Whether you are drawn to fairy-tale German towns, elegant French boulevards, or lively Central European capitals, this guide will help you design the ultimate Christmas market tour. With our personal service, ATOL protection, and tailor-made holiday planning, you can look forward to a trip that is as unique as you are.

Why European Christmas Markets Capture the Imagination

The popularity of European Christmas markets lies in their ability to combine tradition and celebration. Each city offers something different, yet every market shares the same festive essence: candlelit stalls, artisans selling handcrafted gifts, and seasonal foods that taste like winter comfort.

Visiting these markets isn’t just about shopping. It’s about feeling part of a tradition that stretches back centuries. In Nuremberg, markets date from the 16th century. In Strasbourg, you’ll find one of the oldest and most beautiful festive gatherings in Europe. Families, couples, and groups of friends travel here year after year, returning home with stories, gifts, and lasting memories.

For UK travellers, the markets also provide a chance to soak in local culture on a short break. They’re accessible by plane or train, with many destinations reachable in just a couple of hours. That means you can spend more time enjoying and less time travelling.

If you’re curious about exactly how old some of these traditions are, the Smithsonian’s A Brief History of Christmas Markets offers fascinating insight into their medieval roots.

Protections When You Book with Jamie Wake Travel

When booking your European Christmas markets holiday through Jamie Wake Travel, you gain more than a festive itinerary. You gain peace of mind.

Here’s what you can expect as standard:

ATOL licence protection: when your trip includes flights in a package, your booking is fully ATOL protected. This means your money is safe and your return home is guaranteed even if a supplier fails.
Membership of Protected Trust Services (PTS): your payments are securely held in a trust account until your travel begins.
Supplier Failure Insurance: if a hotel, operator, or service provider closes, you are protected from financial loss.
Scheduled Airline Failure Insurance: should an airline fail, you are covered for refunds or replacement flights.

Because these protections are built into every tailor-made holiday, you never need to worry about the “what ifs.” You can focus fully on the excitement of the trip ahead.

Strasbourg is often called the “Capital of Christmas,” and with good reason. Its Christkindelsmärik dates back to 1570, making it one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe. The medieval Old Town, with half-timbered houses and cobbled lanes, provides a fairy-tale backdrop for over 300 stalls.

The centrepiece is Place Kléber, where a towering Christmas tree dominates the square. As you wander, you’ll discover Alsatian specialities like spiced biscuits, mulled wine, and flammekueche. Choirs and live performances add to the magical atmosphere, while side streets offer quieter corners with artisanal gifts.

Hotel recommendation: Hôtel Cour du Corbeau Strasbourg – MGallery

This boutique hotel, set in a restored 16th-century building, combines history with comfort. Its location near Strasbourg Cathedral means you’re only a short stroll from the markets. The rooms are warm and stylish, and the breakfast is an event in itself.

We often have exclusive winter offers here, including upgraded rooms or breakfast packages. Ask us about current Strasbourg deals when planning your trip.

The Nürnberger Christkindlesmarkt is one of the most famous Christmas markets in the world. Set in the Hauptmarkt square, with the Frauenkirche church as a backdrop, this market captures the essence of German tradition.

Stalls here focus on authenticity. You’ll find gingerbread (Lebkuchen), grilled sausages, and mulled wine, alongside wooden toys and decorations. The market is opened by the Christkind, a traditional figure dressed in white and gold who reads a festive prologue. Families love the Kinderweihnacht section, designed especially for children with rides and activities.

Hotel recommendation: Hotel Drei Raben

This boutique hotel is a short walk from the market and known for its creative interiors. Each room tells a story connected to Nuremberg’s history, making your stay both comfortable and unique. After a day of festive shopping, you can relax in their cosy bar with a glass of Franconian wine.

We frequently bundle packages that include accommodation, guided walking tours, and festive extras. Contact us to hear about current Nuremberg offers.

Vienna’s Christmas markets are a blend of elegance and charm. The largest, at Rathausplatz, features hundreds of stalls, an ice rink, and a carousel, all framed by the neo-Gothic City Hall. The market at Schönbrunn Palace offers a more refined atmosphere, with crafts, concerts, and fewer crowds.

Beyond the markets, Vienna delights with imperial architecture, opera, and coffee house culture. A concert at the Musikverein or a slice of Sachertorte in a traditional café adds extra sparkle to your stay.

Hotel recommendation: Hotel Sacher Wien

This legendary five-star hotel is opposite the State Opera House. Its luxurious interiors, impeccable service, and historic charm make it a destination in itself. Don’t miss a slice of the original Sachertorte at its café.

For festive stays, we often secure packages that include breakfast, a festive dinner, or even tickets to a seasonal concert. Ask us about tailoring your Vienna stay.

Prague is a city that feels like a Christmas card come to life. The Old Town Square market is the star attraction, with a giant decorated tree, nativity scenes, and wooden stalls selling gifts and treats. The backdrop of the Gothic Tyn Church and the Astronomical Clock only adds to the magic.

Don’t miss trying a Trdelník, a sweet pastry rolled in sugar and nuts, or enjoying mulled wine while watching the lights twinkle on Charles Bridge. Smaller markets in Wenceslas Square and near Prague Castle offer quieter options.

Hotel recommendation: Hotel Kings Court

Located in the heart of the city, this stylish hotel offers modern comfort while being steps from the main market. The spa and rooftop bar provide the perfect way to unwind after exploring.

We often arrange special packages here with added perks such as included breakfasts or discounted spa treatments. Ask us about the latest Prague offers.

Brussels’ Winter Wonders festival is one of the most vibrant European Christmas markets. Spanning several squares, including the iconic Grand Place, it combines over 200 chalets with light shows, an ice rink, and a Ferris wheel.

The food here is a highlight: Belgian waffles, frites, and chocolates sit alongside mulled wine and local beers. Families will enjoy the merry-go-rounds and light installations, while shoppers will find gifts ranging from handmade crafts to gourmet hampers.

Hotel recommendation: The Hotel Brussels

This modern high-rise hotel offers panoramic views over the city and is within walking distance of the markets. Spacious rooms, sleek design, and an excellent breakfast make it a reliable choice.

Our packages often include extras such as dinner vouchers or guided tours. Contact us to see which Brussels options are currently available.

How to Tailor-Make Your European Christmas Market Tour

Designing your own Christmas market itinerary means choosing the right balance of destinations and experiences. With our tailor-made approach, we help you decide how much time to spend in each city, whether to travel by train or air, and what extras to include.

You might start in Strasbourg, add Nuremberg for its historic market, and end in Vienna with a concert and palace visit. Or perhaps you’d prefer a two-city break, focusing on Prague and Brussels for a shorter but equally magical trip.

All our tailor-made trips come with Supplier Failure Insurance and Scheduled Airline Failure Insurance included as standard. That way, your personal festive adventure is as safe as it is memorable.

Final Thoughts on Your Christmas Market Holiday

The sparkle of European Christmas markets never fades. From Strasbourg’s historic streets to Vienna’s imperial grandeur, each destination brings its own style of festive magic.

When you book with Jamie Wake Travel, you get the confidence of full financial protection, access to exclusive hotel offers, and a team that listens to what you want from your holiday. Whether you’re seeking a romantic weekend, a family adventure, or a group celebration, we’ll help you design a trip that feels personal, secure, and unforgettable.

To start planning, call us today on 01495 400005 or use the holiday enquiry form on the Jamie Wake Travel website. You can also create and book your own bespoke holiday—“as unique as you are”—directly on our site. And remember, we are only ever a call or message away if you’d rather leave the planning to us.

What makes European Christmas markets so special?
They combine tradition, food, culture, and atmosphere, creating a festive experience you won’t find anywhere else.
When do European Christmas markets usually take place?
Most open in late November and run until just before Christmas Eve, with some lasting until New Year.
Which European Christmas markets are best for families?
Nuremberg and Brussels have child-friendly areas with rides and activities, while Prague offers magical settings loved by all ages.
Do I need to book hotels early for European Christmas markets?
Yes, festive periods are very popular. Booking at least three to four months in advance gives you better choice and prices.
Are European Christmas markets expensive?
Not necessarily. Food and gifts are reasonable, but costs vary by city. Budget around £30–£60 a day for food and drinks.
Is it easy to visit several Christmas markets in one trip?
Yes, many are close together. For example, Strasbourg, Brussels, and Nuremberg can be combined on one itinerary.
Do European Christmas markets only take cash?
Many stalls now accept cards, but it’s best to carry cash as backup.
What should I pack for a Christmas market holiday?
Warm layers, waterproof shoes, gloves, and a small day bag. Evenings can be cold, so bring extra layers.
Are the markets accessible by train from the UK?
Yes. Brussels and Strasbourg are easily reached by Eurostar, and other cities connect well by European rail.
Why should I book with Jamie Wake Travel instead of planning myself?
Because you get ATOL protection, Supplier Failure Insurance, and personal service. Your trip will be protected, flexible, and tailored to your wishes.