Vienna City Hall Christmas Market- Weihnachtsmarkt, Rathausplatz
© WienTourismus/Julius Hirtzberger
This holiday season, charming Christmas markets offer a festive escape into picturesque European winter wonderlands. With twinkling lights, festive music, and the scent of roasted chestnuts in the air, these markets promise an enchanting experience for all who visit. And don’t worry if you haven’t made it yet — some markets will stay open until the beginning of next year, giving you plenty of time to indulge in the magic of the season. This guide will highlight the Heidelberg, Vienna and Basel Christmas markets with the best food and beverage options, ensuring you savor every moment of this unforgettable holiday experience.
Scenic Eurail train through Switzerland
Eurail
If you’ve got the luxury of time, there’s no better way to travel than by train with Eurail, especially for international travelers looking to explore Europe at a relaxed pace. Imagine winding through the snow-capped peaks of the Swiss Alps, the rolling hills of Austria, or quaint German towns while heading toward your next Christmas market. Some of Europe’s most unforgettable destinations are just a scenic Eurail train ride away. It’s a slower, more sustainable way to explore, offering the perfect chance to immerse yourself in the landscapes and festive spirit of Europe, one picturesque stop at a time.
Heidelberger Weihnachtsmarkt 2022, Universitätsplatz
TOBIAS SCHWERDT
Nestled in Heidelberg’s charming Old Town (Altstadt), the Christmas market stretches along the city’s Main Street (Hauptstraße), with five vibrant squares — Kornmarkt, Marktplatz, Universitätsplatz, Anatomiegarten and Bismarckplatz, each offering a unique holiday atmosphere. Heidelberg is an incredibly walkable city, so you can easily wander from one festive spot to the next, soaking in the holiday cheer along the way. As you meander through the market stalls, you’ll find mulled wine, known as glühwein, is the drink of choice at every stop. Served in a festive mug, this warm, spiced wine is a comforting treat, infused with a blend of cinnamon, cloves and citrus and often sweetened with sugar. It’s the perfect way to stay warm while taking in the sights and sounds of the season.
Woman buying hot dog at Christmas market in Germany
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When it comes to food, Heidelberg’s Christmas markets have plenty of hearty treats to savor. Enjoy a classic bratwurst, roasted maroni (chestnuts), or crispy potato pancakes (reibekuchen or kartoffelpuffer) served with apple sauce or garlic sauce. For something indulgent, try käsespätzle—a cheesy potato pasta similar to mac and cheese, especially when topped with melted raclette. These satisfying dishes are sure to keep you fueled as you enjoy the festive market atmosphere.
The landmark Barfüsserplatz and Christmas stalls in Basel (Switzerland)
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The scent of mulled wine fills the air as Basel’s Christmas market was once crowned Best Christmas Market in Europe 2021. The city’s Old Town transforms into a winter wonderland, with markets set up at Barfüsserplatz and Münsterplatz, where a towering Christmas tree adds to the seasonal charm. Don’t miss a quick detour to the Pfalz, where you can sip your warm beverage while enjoying stunning views of the Rhine and the sparkling city lights. For a cozy retreat, head to the alpine hut at the Claraplatz market, offering a delicious selection of cheese, meats and warm drinks, perfect for soaking up the holiday atmosphere.
Glühwein am Basler Weihnachtsmarkt Mulled wine at the Basel Christmas market
Basel Tourismus
As Christmas draws near, Rheingasse is transformed into Adväntsgass im Glaibasel, a festive neighborhood market brimming with delightful surprises for both the eyes and the stomach. The market offers a variety of delicious foods, from the indulgent chäsbängel (fondue baguette) to melted raclette to grättimaa (doughy bread shaped like gingerbread men) to crispy rösti (crispy potato pancake). Don’t miss the öpfelchüchli, deep-fried apple donuts that are the perfect sweet treat to round out your visit. It’s a holiday destination where you can savor the best Swiss comfort food while soaking in the seasonal cheer.
Christkindlmarkt, Rathausplatz / Christmas Market, Rathausplatz
© WienTourismus/Paul Bauer
Vienna’s Christmas markets are a time-honored tradition that dates back to 1296 when Albrecht I granted citizens the right to host a December Market, or “Krippenmarkt.” Since then, these markets have evolved into a vibrant part of the city’s holiday season. Today, over 20 official Advent markets fill the streets, offering everything from seasonal gifts to irresistible treats, making Vienna one of the best places to embrace the festive spirit.
Austria, Vienna, Rathaus, food stall in Christmas market in front of Vienna’s Town Hall
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One of the most awe-inspiring and larger markets in Vienna is The Viennese Dream Christmas Market in front of the City Hall, an unforgettable highlight for anyone eager to dive into the holiday spirit. The stunning backdrop of the City Hall adds a magical charm to the market, while the mouthwatering aromas wafting through the air draw visitors into the festive atmosphere. Mulled wine stalls will lure you in with their warm, spiced aroma, while artisans and vendors add to the exciting mood with handcrafted goods.
Wooden kiosk with traditional Christmas sweets in Vienna, Austria.
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Although you’ll find food options at all Christmas markets, The Am Hof market is all about food, with a central area packed with tempting stalls and the bonus of a champagne bar for those looking to add a little buzz to their visit. For a quieter, more local vibe, head to the Altes AKH Christmas market, a favorite among Viennese for its stellar food and drink offerings. This market is a go-to for hearty winter fare and regional specialties from Austria’s provinces like ofenerdäpfel (Viennese baked potato) to grammelknödel (large dumpling made from potatoes, filled with a mixture of slow-cooked pork, onions, garlic, and herbs) to bauernkrapfen (big donuts with vanilla, apricot, or chocolate filling). With plenty of food booths, you can also cozy up in their indoor rustic restaurant, where an à la carte menu awaits those wanting to take their holiday indulgence to the next level.
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Publish date : 2024-12-17 12:24:00
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