How to choose the perfect Christmas market in Europe: expert tips and life hacks for travelers

Christmas markets in Europe offer a unique atmosphere with lights, mulled wine, and festive traditions. Learn how to choose the best market, avoid crowds, and pick out quality souvenirs

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Christmas markets are one of Europe's most vibrant traditions. From mid-November, millions of lights begin to flash in cities, wooden houses with decorations appear, and the smell of cinnamon, hot chocolate, and mulled wine fills the air. But with dozens of festive locations in Germany, Austria, Poland, the Czech Republic, and France, choosing just one is not easy.

The Daily Mirror published recommendations from GetYourGuide expert Maren Schüllerus, who has visited more than 60 Christmas markets around the world. Based on her experience — and taking into account relevant advice for Ukrainian travelers — we have prepared a detailed guide to help you choose the perfect market for your winter trip.

When is the best time to visit Christmas markets?

According to Maren Schüllerus, the best time is on a weekday in mid-December, around 4 p.m. At this time, children are still at school, there are fewer tourist groups, and early winter darkness sets in, creating the most beautiful atmosphere for photos and walks.

If you don't like large crowds, it's best to avoid Friday evenings and weekends, when the squares in some cities are literally packed.

Read also: 11 best Christmas markets in Europe to visit in 2025

How to choose the perfect Christmas market?

Not all markets are the same: some are geared towards family entertainment, others towards gastronomic tourism, and there are those that are suitable for a romantic getaway or a quiet vacation.

For example, Hamburg has the Santa Pauli Christmas market, created specifically for an adult audience. Here you can see unusual performances, including the “Burlesque Christmas Tree Baubles” show.

Families with children will find the markets in Cologne, Munich, or Nuremberg more suitable, as they offer many attractions, themed areas, and gastronomic locations.

Reminder: if you are traveling by car, it is important to obtain a Green Card — compulsory insurance for traveling abroad. The most convenient way to do this is online at Visit Ukraine: the policy arrives instantly, is available on your phone, and is accepted by all EU countries. This saves a lot of time before departure and protects you from fines.

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How to avoid falling into a tourist trap when buying souvenirs?

A wide variety of goods are sold at fairs — from designer jewelry to factory imitations. The expert advises paying attention to three signs of genuine handicrafts:

● No photography allowed — artisans protect their designs.

● The seller can explain the manufacturing process — from technology to materials.

● You can touch and carefully examine the product — artisans do not hide their work.

Avoid identical “symmetrical” goods in dozens of stalls — these are definitely factory mass-market products.

What to bring to a Christmas market?

Maren emphasizes: be prepared for the cold. In some European cities, the temperature in December drops to –15°C. On the must-have list:

● warm clothes, a scarf, and a hat;

● hand warmers (sold directly at the locations);

● cash — some sellers do not accept cards;

● a bank card as a backup;

● a power bank for photos and navigation.

Keep in mind that ATMs at fairs often charge a commission, so it is better to prepare cash in advance.

How to choose quality mulled wine and avoid a headache?

Maren advises looking for the words Winzer-Glühwein on signs. This is:

● mulled wine made from natural wine,

● produced by local wineries,

● aromatic without excess sugar,

● less “heavy” — without harsh additives and chemical flavorings.

Such drinks are usually more expensive, but significantly higher in quality.

We remind you! This week in Kyiv, they will begin installing Ukraine's main New Year's tree on Sophia Square. Read about what the 16-meter tree will look like, who can join in decorating it, and when the festive location will open.

Photo: Shutterstock

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