Christmas markets are traditional winter markets set up in European city squares from late November through the end of December, featuring wooden stalls, handmade decorations, mulled wine and local delicacies. This page lists tours that visit Christmas markets and take place during the Christmas season; most itineraries cover Central Europe, Germany and France’s Alsace region.
The Most Famous Christmas Markets
The most visited markets include the Rathausplatz market in front of Vienna's City Hall, Old Town Square in Prague, Vörösmarty Square and the area in front of the Basilica in Budapest, the Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt, the area around Cologne Cathedral, and Dresden Striezelmarkt in Germany. In France, Strasbourg and Colmar are known for their markets set among the Alsace region's storybook half-timbered houses.
When Are the Markets Open?
Most markets are open from the last week of November through 23–24 December; some markets in Vienna and Prague stay open until New Year. Many shops, museums and markets are closed on Christmas Day (25 December) and 26 December. As a result, Christmas market tours mainly depart during the first three weeks of December.
Route Selection
Short itineraries focus on a single city (Vienna or Prague); 4–6-night tours combine the Vienna–Prague–Budapest triangle or the cities along Germany’s Rhine. Alsace tours visit Strasbourg and Colmar together with Germany’s Black Forest region. Travel between cities is usually by bus.
Visas and Preparation
All countries with Christmas markets are in the Schengen Area, and holders of burgundy passports need a visa. Visa appointments for December travel fill up in October and November, so it is recommended to apply early. Evening temperatures at the markets can fall below zero; layered clothing, gloves, and comfortable winter shoes are essential.
What to Eat and Buy at the Market?
Mulled wine (glühwein) and non-alcoholic hot fruit drinks, roasted chestnuts, gingerbread (lebkuchen), Nuremberg sausages and the Hungarian kürtőskalács chimney cake are classic market treats. Handmade glass and wooden decorations, candles and traditional textiles are among the most popular souvenirs. At most markets, drinks are served in souvenir mugs with a refundable deposit.
What Is a Christmas Market Tour Like?
On Christmas market tours, daytime is set aside for sightseeing, while late afternoons and evenings are for the markets; they look their best after dark, when they are lit up. Programs generally include accommodation in hotels in the city’s historic centre, a city tour with an English-speaking guide and free time at the markets. On combined tours such as Vienna–Prague–Budapest, travel between cities takes 3–4 hours by bus, and these journeys take place during the day. Markets get busier at weekends; tours departing on weekdays offer a more relaxed experience.
Christmas Season Prices
Prices for Christmas market tours are lower during the first weeks of the period; airfare and hotel prices rise as Christmas and New Year’s Eve approach. Weekday departures are often more affordable than weekend departures. City tours included in the itinerary, guide services and accommodation conditions are listed under each tour’s inclusions and exclusions; prices by date are shown on the calendar. Visa fees and spending at the markets are not included.
Frequently Asked Questions
When Do the Christmas Markets Start?
Most markets open in the last week of November and run until 23–24 December; some stay open until New Year’s Eve.
Do I need a visa for a Christmas markets tour?
Yes. Austria, Czechia, Hungary, Germany and France are in the Schengen Area; a Schengen visa is required for burgundy passport holders.
Which Christmas Market Is the Best?
Vienna, Prague, Nuremberg, Strasbourg and Colmar are the most popular markets; the Vienna–Prague–Budapest itinerary visits three major markets in one tour.
How many nights is the Christmas tour?
Itineraries featuring one city last 3 nights, while combined routes such as Vienna–Prague–Budapest last 4–6 nights.
How do I make a reservation?
Select your departure date and party size on the tour page and complete your booking online, or send us your preferred date and party size using the WhatsApp button to ask our team about availability and the final price.