Guide to Christmas Markets: What to Expect, Tips for Exploring, and Insider Tricks

 by Cindi H. Fries, Max Travel Abroad LLC

What is a Christmas Market?

Christmas markets across Europe share a festive ambiance, yet each region adds its unique cultural touches, making each market a distinct experience. Generally, European Christmas markets feature wooden stalls adorned with twinkling lights, offering handcrafted goods, local delicacies, and plenty of mulled wine. Yet, each country (and sometimes each city) brings its own flair.

Our Max Travel Abroad Christmas market tours help our travelers make sense of the variations and differences between the various Christmas Markets across Europe.

The Basics between different European Christmas markets -

• Almost universally held outdoors in plazas, city squares, or near historic landmarks, adding to the festive ambiance with lights and seasonal decorations

• Open air markets with wooden chalet-style huts strung with twinkling lights, the scent of cinnamon and roasted chestnuts in the crisp, cold air.

• Crowds gather to sip steaming mugs of Glühwein, chatting with friendly vendors who are eager to share their treasures.

It might be chilly, but the festive atmosphere keeps you warm. While the big markets can get a bit crowded, this insider’s guide will help you find the cozier, less-traveled spots where the locals go.

Essentials You’ll Find at Every Austrian Christmas Market

• Glühwein that hits the spot: Warm, spiced, and potent, mulled red or white wine is enough to keep you toasty.

• Handcrafted goods: Quirky ornaments, woolen scarves, and artisanal crafts.

• Street food and regional treats: roasted Sausages, gingerbread cookies, cheese-y pasta , sugared roasted almonds—you’ll want to try it all.

• Chalet-style wooden huts: Cozy, charming, and packed with unique finds.

• Bright festive lights: Making the cold evenings feel magical.

• Crowded, but worth it: The big markets are bustling, but I’ll show you where to find the quieter gems. Read some of Max Travel other travel tips for a list of our favorite Christmas Markets!

• Warm drinks galore: Glühwein, warm fruit punch, Eirliquor or spiked hot chocolate—your cup will never be empty and you'll warm up with the extra boozy zing in each cup.

• Open-air experience: Dress for the cold—it’s chilly, but snow is rare before December.

• Local favorites: These markets aren’t just for tourists, you’ll see plenty of local residents enjoying them too. On our Max Travel Christmas Market Tours we take travelers to the off the beaten path Festive Christkindlmarkt, however what they lack in tourists, they make up for with locals because they are usually still crowded!

Austrian Christmas markets are a magical experience no matter where you find them. Whether you’re wandering through Vienna, Salzburg, or St. Wolfgang, these festive markets offer a delightful taste of Austrian holiday traditions. At Max Travel Abroad these are some of our favorite cities for our Christmas Market Tours.

Tips and insider knowledge to enhance your yuletide adventure

1. Dress Warmly: Layer Up for Austrian Winter Austrian winters can be chilly and wet, so it’s essential to dress in warm layers from head to toe. Christmas markets are typically outdoors, and you’ll want to stay cozy while savoring the festive atmosphere. Think of it as fashion meets function: stylish yet snuggly!

2. Know the Local Names for Christmas Markets In Austria and Germany, Christmas markets have a few names that might get tossed around like festive confetti. The German term is “Weihnachtsmarkt,” but in Austria, you’ll hear “Christkindlmarkt” more often. Sometimes they’re also called Advent Markets. Either way, you’re in for a treat!

3. Time Your Visit: Day vs. Night The Christmas market experience transforms as day turns into night. During the daylight hours, you’ll find a more family-friendly atmosphere with strollers, balloon vendors, and the occasional snowball fight. Once twilight hits—around 4 PM—prepare for a dazzling display of lights and holiday cheer that will make even the Grinch’s heart grow three sizes.

4. Be Prepared for Higher Prices Christmas markets are like fair food stands or stadium venues—prices can be steep because they know you’re there for the holiday magic. Don’t fret if you’re not rolling in dough; the experience and memories you’ll make are worth every cent!

5. Sustainability & Eco-Friendly Practices Austrian markets are ahead of the curve when it comes to sustainability. Say goodbye to plastic and hello to wooden utensils, reusable ceramic mugs, and high-efficiency dishwashers. It’s all about keeping the holiday spirit green and clean.

6. When Do Christmas Markets Start each year? Most Christmas markets open around the first Advent, with some kicking off in late November. They generally run until Christmas Eve, though in cities like Vienna and Salzburg, many stay open through New Year’s Eve. So, if you’re still reveling in holiday cheer post-Christmas, you’re in luck!

7. Use the Holiday Lights as location guides: With the long winter evenings, darkness can disorient many European visitors, however in many cities the distinctive holiday decorations provide guidance and descriptions for locations.

   For example - Vienna’s historic 1st district aglow with holiday lights, including what I like to call “Waltzing Chandelier Street” (Graben) and “Red Ball Street” (Rotenturmstrasse).

   On Max Travel Abroad Christmas tours, I point out these glowing landmarks to make navigating easier. Trust me, it’s far simpler to find your way when you’re guided by shimmering chandeliers rather than cryptic street names!

Christmas Market Mugs and Drinks Each market has its own signature ceramic mug that’s as much a part of the experience as the mulled wine itself. When you order a drink like Glühwein or hot cocoa, you’ll receive it in one of these charming mugs. The price includes a deposit for the mug—so if you decide to keep it as a souvenir, congratulations! You’ve scored a piece of holiday magic. And here’s a fun fact: most drinks are spiked with alcohol unless labeled “Kinder” (for kids). Don’t worry, Kinder drinks are alcohol-free and come in the same generous size as adult drinks—so you get all the festive flavor without the booze!

Rest Your Feet: Find a Place to Sit Most Christmas markets don’t offer places to sit, so prepare to be on your feet as you wander from stall to stall. If you need a break, look for a nearby restaurant or café to warm up and sit down. It’s a great excuse to enjoy some local cuisine and recharge before diving back into the festive fun.

Cash is King: Bring Small Change Christmas markets often require cash for those smaller purchases, so keep some Euro cents handy.The change comes in hand for the public toilets! Some vendors may even charge extra for credit card payments, so small change is your best friend.

Getting Euros: Plan Ahead Before you jet off, get Euros from your local bank. Once you’re in Austria, you can withdraw cash from ATMs (Bankomats), usually found on the side of banks or in entrances. Be sure to check with your bank about foreign transaction fees for ATM withdrawals.

Ready to Experience the Magic? Austrian Christmas markets are a festive wonderland brimming with unique traditions and local flavors. From Vienna’s grand displays to the charming markets of Salzburg and St. Wolfgang, there’s so much to explore. For an insider’s perspective and a seamless holiday adventure, join one of my Christmas Market tours. You’ll enjoy expert guidance, insider tips, and a journey through the heart of Austrian Christmas magic. Let’s make your holiday season unforgettable—one Glühwein and dazzling light display at a time!