Christmas Markets

I have been to Munich and liked it very much. I have also been to the one in Vienna in front of the town hall and really liked it alot. I went to a couple of them in Salzburg on both sides of the river and thought they were ok.
I am going back this year to Munich and also Prague and Budapest so I am hoping they have good ones too.
But IMO they all have mostly the same items so after a couple different markets you will feel like you have seen it all.

You might take a look at this website as it has the locations of many smaller markets that might be held in castles, etc. I know the website is in German, but once you see a town that looks promising, try going to the towns website. I think the Christmas market in Buedingen is very traditional, using lanterns and torches and it is held in the moat that surrounds the castle which I think was built in the 1400's and never destroyed. Pretty cool atmosphere.

http://www.weihnachtsmarkt-deutschland.de/burgweihnacht.html

I've been to many and there is not one that i did not love - absolutely love - the hot spiced wine, the ambience of locals gathering together - the nickknacks and crafts for sale

Frankfurt was the biggest i've seen - in the Romerplatz.

But i do not think you can go wrong

I agree with Palenque, you can't go wrong! I enjoyed Munich and Nuremberg very much. Just don't go to Nur. on the weekend. There is an international section up behind the market in N that has items from Poland, CZ and others. Very interesting and lower prices. I enjoyed Salz. too but mostly for the location - all over the historic dist. Haven't been to Bamberg. Wasn't impressed with Heidelberg. But go where it is convenient and you will have a ball. And, if you are into that sort of thing, start a collection of the gluhwein mugs. I love to look at mine. Each market will have it's own design. Enjoy! CJ

I have been to Berlin, Baden Baden and Strasbourg. I will be in Munich this December.

Baden Baden was quite small, Berlin had several markets and Strasbourg was in a wonderful setting but it was the atmosphere in all of them that I loved. They all had tack, food, music, Christmas decorations and the all important gluhwein.

I loved them all which is why I am returning to Germany this December.

Agree with the others - you can't go wrong

For me Christmas Markets are much the same. It is most important for us to visit a town that we will enjoy and take the market with its atmosphere as an added bonus.

We lived in Nürnberg over a couple Advent seasons and it is a very nice to town to visit. It is not our favorite.

When we visited Würzburg last year, it had both an artist market in the town hall and a medieval market in the castle, in addition to the Christmas Market. We thought that made for nice variety. I love Würzburg in any case.

Rothenburg was not so overwhelmed with tourist in Advent Season as it normally is in the summer. Many of the tourist shops carry Christmas items that are a cut above those found in the stalls. It probably made for a best shopping experience. It is beautiful in any case.

http://mcchelsea.smugmug.com/Germany-2008/Rothenburg-ob-der-Tauber-2008/6787052_w2d22/1/433656478_iwoYP

Bamberg was beautiful during Advent last year. We even got a little snow. The Christmas Market was only adequate. Bamberg was still much worth the visit.

http://mcchelsea.smugmug.com/Germany-2008/Bamberg-2008/6785879_WWuYE/1/433579617_FpWtT

Regards, Gary

We have done several Christmas markets cruises, and my favorite town is Regensburg. The Medieval market there is special, and there are some smaller markets in addition to the one in the main square.

If you are planning on a Christmas markets cruise, you better book soon. A number of the best dates are already sold out on some of the more popular cruise lines.

Gary_Mc, I have not been, but my Son is starting a new craft hut in the Wurzburg Fair this Xmas. It is good to know that it is a good location. He also has a couple in Aachen, one in Duisburg, and one in Oberhausen. He has had one in Cologne in the past, but that fell through this year.

I have not been to any of them, as his every waking moment form September through Xmas is spent getting ready, and working the fairs. Someday I will go and just watch from the sidelines.

Your decisions should be based on what you enjoy, not not the market itself. Do you like crowds? Will you be bored if there aren't too many stalls? Are you looking for a particular treat? Do you want more than one market in the same city? Do you want to experience just a few markets or many?

Like the others, I have been to many Xmas markets, big and small. Some are better than others, but they all have their own personality.

I suggest picking a city, or part of the country you are interested in and make that your "home." From that location, do day trips to other places and stay long enough to enjoy the market.

Or, if you know you are a "big city" person or a "small town" person, build your trip based on that.

Whatever you choose, you won't be disappointed.

Thank you all for your insights.
Yes... it is getting late to book a trip.
But, we will see what is available.
That will help with the decision
DH isn't totally sold on it yet.

"DH isn't totally sold on it yet."

I am usually the one that gets more excited and earlier about our trips to Germany. I plan them and that gets me fired up. My wife will go along reluctantly as I buy the plane tickets. It is closer to the departure that she begins to get enthused. Then she will start letting me know that she really wants to visit this place or that.

Find whatever rings your husbands bell in travel. Make sure to plan some stops around that.

Regards, Gary

Nürnberg "not for the faint of heart?" Why? That person who told you probably visited on a Saturday, when all the big markets will be horribly crowded and are best avoided. Otherwise, Nürnberg is one of the most traditional and most special among Germany's markets. Visit on a weekday, though.

I am astonished that no one has mentioned Dresden and the Ore Mountains so far.

What does your husband like about travel? Any special interests? Finding a destination that has something he likes and a great Christmas market might do the trick...

I usually bribe my husband with food and drink -- lots of local specialties to choose from at Christmas markets. And, if he doesn't want to stand outside in the cold, there's always someplace nearby with a warm fire inside.

And, don't forget to do some standard sightseeing, too.

I completely agree with quokka! I wouldn't miss Nurnberg (or for that matter, Dresden and the Ore Mts.) I do understand that they are out of the way for some trips. On of my favorite places the last time I went was Annaberg-Bucholz. There is a very small church there with an almost life-size creche carved out of wood. I don't remember when they were carved but they are truly amazing. The cathedral is also quite something. Wherever you go you will have a great time.

I've been to a few Christmas Markets in Germany, Denmark, Norway, Belgium and the Netherlands. I agree most of the merchandise is the same. I don't care to visit the markets for the merchandise that is being sold, but rather for the atmosphere, food, drink, etc. Regardless, you really can't go wrong which ever place you choose to visit. I'm sure your husband will enjoy the experience too if he hasn't been to European Christmas Markets. Do not make the Christmas Markets the focus of your holiday either, you'll have a great time in Europe in December.

CarolJean, I cannot help but chuckle - Annaberg-Buchholz is on my schedule for this year's pre-Christmas trip with 'base camp' in Dresden...

Congratulations, quokka! I am envious. I would love to spend more time in Annaberg. The small church, I think, is called the Miner's church. It stayed open all hours and when the miners came home from the mines, they would stop in before going home.

We went to Germany in Sept. and I wanted to return to Annaberg with my husband but we decided to ride trains and didn't go to that area. Maybe another year... Have a great trip. CJ

I envy myself, LOL. This is my pre-Christmas gift to myself. It is my 6th visit to Dresden, a short one, only 5 nights/4 full days, and I still have an endless list of places to see in that area. That is the fault of Ingo who keeps telling about new places all the time
I plan to visit some of the towns in the Ore Mountains (and their Christmas markets) this time: Freiberg, Seiffen, and Annaberg for the miners' parade. Dresden itself and its markets again, of course, I especially loved the 'medieval' market in the Stallburg. Let's see what else, I have not yet decided. If there is a region in Germany that deserves being called "Christmas country" it is this.

Bamberg also has a walking route of nativity scenes.

CarolJean, I chuckled too

Yes, it is the Miner's church (Bergmannskirche) in Annaberg with the almost life-sized crèche. However, during Christmas season the figures are spread all over the town as a walking route (like Paul mentioned for Bamberg).

These woodcarved figures were made in the past 10 years by local craftsmen. Locals donated money. The special thing is that these figures are modeled after local people. Truly amazing.

I.

I hope I'll get to see them?!

Munich has many that are magical - a very nice small one in the English Garden. My favorite was in Salzburg - go on a weekday if possible...in the town square and the items were high quality, unique and reasonably priced. We went to Nurnberg on a weekend and as someone mentioned it was a mistake. It was so incredibly crowded we didn't enjoy it at all.

I will be staying outside of Zurich with my 9 year old daughter 11/30-12/12 and am hoping to be able to take the middle weekend (12/5,6) to rent a car and visit a couple of the Christmas markets in Germany. I know Zurich has a big one but I am more interested in experiencing some of the small town ones that many of you have mentioned on this thread. I am wondering if this hope is doable and if so might anyone have a recommendation for a "base" town for the two nights (or should we plan on staying two places?)I would love to surprise her with a Castle hotel.

Oh quokka - You are in for such a treat. When I was there (during Dec. ) they were around the room in the church. I will never forget the young girls - their expressions nearly made me cry. Thanks for the information, Ingo. CJ

Tell Ingo I am in for treats!
(Explanation for CarolJean: the plan involves quokka and Ingo going to Annaberg together.)

I WANT TO GO! CJ

The best Christmas market I have ever seen is one on the Vorosmarty square in Budapest. Most funny with delicious food and drinks (budget) all over. Gipsies and dancers from this part of Europe played till morning hours. The Austria and Germany markets are closed at 10 p.m. and are much more sterile.
zelika

Sounds interesting, zelika. I have never been to Budapest, maybe some day...

you don't regret if you decide to come in Budapest in Decembar. The town live intensively on the Danube shores. I think abouth two Austroungarian capitals that Vienna have a heart but Budapest have a soul.

Travellingmom3,

There are Christmas Markets (Weihnachtsmärkte) all over Germany. Würzburg and Rothenburg ob der Tauber are two of our favorites and close together; but, they are about 3 hours drive from Zurich.

Much closer to Zurich is Freiburg im Breisgau, which less than 2 hours drive. I have not visited the Christmas market but it is a very attractive town.

http://www.weihnachtsmarkt-freiburg.de/

http://www.freiburg.de/servlet/PB/menu/1140679_l2/index.html

Regards, Gary

Gary, Thank you so much for the information and the links. Freiburg im Breisgau looks like a beautiful town and the description of the Christmas market is lovely with crafters as well as the traditional items for sale.Its closer proximity to Zurich will work well for us and there are still plenty of rooms available.

Why do you want to drive at all? Trains are faster and less stressful and you don't have to worry about wintery road conditions, traffic rules, traffic jams, directions, vignettes and parking. Direct trains from Zürich to Freiburg take 2 hours.

Freiburg is beautiful. Basel is along the way and has another nice market. Besides, you are hitting St Nikolaus weekend (Dec 6 being the Saint's holiday) which is special in Basel. Be in Basel in the afternoon of Sat Dec 5, watch the many Santa Clauses around, and see the Harley Niggi-Näggi parade at 4:30/5 p.m. - The what?? A local Harley Davidson club does a Nikolaus parade, the drivers dressed up as Santas and angels and the motorbikes decorated with utmost imagination. This is fun to watch. Last year's photos here: http://members.virtualtourist.com/m/tt/a634d/#TL

A German St Nikolaus tradition for your daughter to observe: In the evening of Dec 5 kids polish their shoes and put one up next to the door. During the night St Nikolaus (i.e. the parents, so prepare) hides some goodies inside the shoe. Big joy in the morning of St Nikolaus day...

quokka,
Thanks so much for the train info. I would much rather take a train I just assumed (when will I learn!!) that I would have to drive (my US mentality with trains). Being able to visit two places sounds great! My daughter actually goes to a Waldorf school and they celebrate St. Nicholas day (as do we at home). The teachers put little gold-sprayed walnuts and a clementine in each of their shoes. It will be wonderful to be there that weekend. The Harley parade photos look very fun!

You have some fancy train options on that route. There are Swiss trains and there are German ICEs, between Zürich and Basel you can even take the French TGV, although this is no high speed route. Fast trains run at least once per hour, some direct connections between Freiburg and Zürich, others with a change in Basel SBB which is no big deal. Local trains are cheaper but take longer, and on such relatively short distances the fast trains don't cost an arm and a leg. For one weekend you won't have much luggage, so taking the train will be easy.
I'd go to Basel first and move over to Freiburg on Saturday evening (after the Harley parade). Attending mass at Freiburg's Cathedral in the morning will be a festive option. Shops are closed on Sunday, though, so the city will not be as busy as on weekdays, but the market is open and attracts people. See the old town, and take care not to step into the Bächle, the little streams in the streets (which won't have water in December but anyway).
Book seat reservations on the train back to Zürich, Sunday evenings are very busy with weekend commuters.

quokka, Thanks again for the information. I have been busy all morning on the computer (should have been working!). I see that there are many trains and I am so glad for this information as I didn't want to drive. I have contacted several places for room availability and the town looks so lovely. We are leaving in just 3 weeks so I am very excited to be adding this to our itinerary.

travellingmom3 -

I live in Zurich and am the mother of 2 girls - let me know if you need any more information.

Yes, take the trains. I never use my car here. The trains are fun, you can relax, no traffic and you can get from anywhere to anywhere in Switzerland by public transportation.

The markets in Zurich are actually not very special IMO although perhaps I am spoiled. Schuler (also from Switzerland) mentioned that Rapperswil has a market 11-13 of December - not sure if you are still here but that is right on the lake and a pretty spot to visit even with no market plus a lovely wooden bridge across the lake which is part of the St. Jakobsweg pilgrimage.

Do you want some kid-friendly restaurants in Zurich? My kids love 'Movie' and 'The Spaghetti Factory'. Don't worry, you will still feel like you are in Zurich even if the names don't sound that way!

Regarding Castles - it is not so far from Zurich to Bavaria where you and your daughter can see the Neuschwanstein (The one Disney was modeled after) and another (sorry forgot the name) castle in the same village - plus this is a lovely area with the Romantic Road taking you back to Switzerland. These are both close to Munich which has another lovely Castle just on the edge of the city. Plus, Munich is a wonderful, walkable city that you and your daughter would love - also great museums and such. The train ride is around 4 hours from Zurich but if you go to the other castles take your car or arrange for a bus from Zurich (plenty of tours available).

Not too far from Zurich again by train and boat is the Chateau Chillon http://www.chillon.ch/en/ and this can be combined with a trip to Glasi Hergiswil http://www.glasi.ch/ where your daughter can blow her own glass ornament and experience a very charming interactive museum about this oldest glass factory in Switzerland. Wonderful gift shop here with discounted "seconds" as well.

Have a wonderful trip - wishing you some sunshine here!!

gruezi

gruezi-

I am so very appreciative of your posting to me! What fabulous information. I did go ahead and make a hotel reservation for Freiburg so if we choose to go we can (I think I booked one of the last in the town!). I also appreciate the restaurant suggestions.

We are actually staying just outside of St. Gallen for the 2 weeks. We will only have the weekend between the weeks for sightseeing although we will have some time to go into Zurich.We are leaving for Paris on the 12th so Rapperswill on the 11th may be a possibility as I am planning to stay that night in Zurich. I would love to go to Neuschwanstein - that was my original hope and to visit along the fairytale road for the weekend. Then, I saw this posting about the markets and thought that might be better for the season and also we most likely wouldn't be able to visit much of the castle gardens.

Your suggestion for Chateau Chillon and Glasi Hergiswil also sounds wonderful. It's so hard to make choices.

Can you tell me what we might expect for weather. I'm expecting it to be cold like here in New England but wil it most likely be snowy as well?

Thanks again!

Dear Travellingmom,

First, I don't remember any castle gardens at Neuschwanstein... Perhaps they were there, but certainly not reason to go or not to go. The castle would be great fun - it looks gorgeous in the snow (I know from photos I saw). Also, there are two castles right in the same town - you can get a ticket for both. We went there after Dachau so my little group was drained and not into both castles - plus I had one moody teenager with me who polluted the other one We were there on a cold summer day in the rain which didn't help! Nevertheless the surrounding area and scenery was still beautiful. I would go here before Chateau Chillon if you have to make choices.

Rapperswil is very close to Zurich and very doable if you are staying here that night. You can take the train - it's about a 35 minute train ride and they run very frequently. There is a boat but I don't know how frequently it runs in winter and it takes a few hours. I have taken the boat one way (lovely) and returned by train. Since your time is limited, I suggest the train. You don't need reservations and 2nd class will be fine on this train. The town is small and the train lets you off very close to things so it is a very easy trip and hassle-free. It is right on the water and very pretty plus the train ride takes you all along the Zurich lake. If the weather is nice, it would be great.

Also, the Colmar Christmas market is really, really charming - animals and everything. Perhaps this fits into the trip to Paris? Or it is possible as a day trip from Basel. If you are taking the train to Paris you could possibly do this en route (not sure). I take the train to Paris but always direct so I don't know. (4 hours 15 minutes from Zurich. If you leave at 7ish you are in Paris for lunch.)

http://noel.tourisme-alsace.com/en/colmar-christmas/

I liked this market so much I'm thinking of going back this year. And, I have to say I'm not much of a shopper or Christmas person in general, nor do I like grog but this was really a special little spot. From Zurich, you can get a train that takes about 2.25 hours - google SBB in Switzerland for all the information. Usually, there are local and direct trains so look for the shortest time.

Regarding weather, I'm not sure about St. Gallen but Zurich tends to be a bit gray most of the winter with very little snow. It can be cold because you are outdoors a lot as a tourist, but nothing like winter in CT in terms of low temps or snow. It rarely gets much below freezing. Still, bring a hat and scarf and gloves plus warm comfortable walking boots and maybe a long underwear shirt - you will need them in Paris anyway and of course if you head to Germany. Last year in Colmar I remember being freezing cold at the market.

I check Fodor's every few days (or more) so let me know if you have any more questions.

gruezi