Northern European Christmas markets have been around since the fourteenth century originating in the German-speaking part of Europe. Although they have been popular with world travelers for a long time, the river cruise industry has shown a new spotlight on the fun, holiday shopping experience.
When I sailed with Viking River Cruises, I visited markets in Nuremberg, Kelheim, Regensburg and Passau, Germany; Krems and Vienna, Austria; and Budapest, Hungary.
Small stalls are set up in rows with merchants selling handmade treasures including Zwetschgenmännle– figures made of decorated dried plums, unusual ornaments and items you may not find elsewhere. And the food! The aroma of bratwurst, the festive Christmas cookies — many can be hung on the tree, Gebrannte Mandeln — candied and toasted almonds, gingerbread, and Gluhwein– the very popular mulled wine all add to the experience. Every market has its own mulled wine souvenir mug to commemorate your visit.
There’s also entertainment including singing and dancing.
The wooden stalls are decorated with lights and are often located in church yards or the town square making for a dramatic backdrop for each market. There is a nativity scene and lights strung overhead.
Although the markets are open duringthe day, try to visit at least one in the evening when the lights make theatmosphere seem like your surroundings are straight from a fairy tale.
Markets vary in size in comparison with the village or city where it is held. For example more than two million people visit the Nuremberg Christmas Market every year. The Regensburg Market is much smaller, but just as charming. There was even a carousel in Regensburg where bundled-up children rode brightly colored horses in the freezing weather.
On aViking River Cruise, the traditional excursion tour is provided. After the tourpassengers are able to meander through the market. The advantage is because it’sdaytime there aren’t the crowds and shopping is easier. Sometimes it ispossible to go back to the market during the evening. This is the time to drinkup the atmosphere and some mulled wine – with or without a shot of brandy.
The opportunity to meet people during this most festive and happy time of the year will no doubt be one of you greatest memories.
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Marilyn, the photos you have included are so compelling. This is the perfect time to release an article about the Christmas Market Tradition. Now we are wanting to visit these quaint spots for our own fun.
If you love Christmas, you will love the markets! The settings are magical!
I think I may be one of the only people alive that has not been to a Christmas market. Looks like there are so many fun things to see and buy in those European markets!
It really was a lot of fun to see each city and village’s take on the market. A shopper’s paradise!! So festive; you would enjoy it!
The first Christmas market I visited was the one in Nuremberg – I have happy memories of mulled wine and a brass band. At that time Christmas markets were unknown here in the UK, but now it seems that every town has one.
It is such a fun and festive way to celebrate the holidays!! I did see where England has Christmas markets too. I need to plan another holiday trip!!
I visited Christmas Markets in Monaco, Aix-en-Provence, and Barcelona with Viking Ocean Cruises around the Mediterranean. Loved seeing the local Christmas traditions in these ports, and I look forward to seeing Nuremberg and sone of the others you mention on a river cruise.
Your Viking/holiday cruise sounds wonderful too!! I should try to take it. There is just something magical about experiencing the holidays in another country!!
I’ve always wanted to visit the Christmas markets but never seem to time it just right. Thanks for giving some good examples for our next trip to Germany, especially the smaller less crowded market at Regensberg. Some great inspiration here to start planning for 2019!
You will have such a good time!! It is so much fun to mingle with the locals and enjoy their customs.