Insider Christmas Market tips that will make you look like a pro

The time has arrived for your long-awaited European Christmas market adventure! Welcome to your Complete Guide! It’s full of the best Christmas Market tips to help make navigating this wonderful tradition a smooth and enchanting experience!

Growing up in Germany, I thought that Christmas must be the most magical time of the year! It’s a veritable feast for your senses!

Imagine yourself standing in a centuries-old European town square, surrounded by twinkling lights. Wooden stalls draped in fresh greenery are overflowing with handcrafted treasures and culinary delights! The aroma of roasting meats and gingerbread mingled with spiced mulled wine wafts through the air… it is indeed magical!

*Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn commission from qualifying purchases made through links in this post. For more information see my privacy policy.

From grand markets to medieval markets in Germany and tiny village markets in France, I’ve been collecting the best Christmas market advice for years.

Whether you’re visiting for the first time, or looking for some helpful hacks, the information in this article will have you navigating your market trip with the confidence of seasoned pro! Here are my favorite Christmas Market Hacks!

Packing Tips and What to Bring

No, you don’t need to bring ALL of these. Choose your favorites!

Facial Tissue

Those handy packs of facial tissue. My nose runs constantly when it’s cold (12-hour Sudafed works miracles for this) but you may find you need them if the bathrooms run out of toilet paper! If you really want to cover your a$$ you can bring a roll of toilet paper!

Hand Warmers

These are the perfect solution to frozen fingers! Tuck one into each of your pockets and thank me later! (I like the Hot Hands Hand warmers) They also have reusable hand warmers. I have not used them, but you can also find foot warmers.

FOOTWARMERS! I decided to give these a try on a winter trip to Chicago. It was bitterly cold, in the teens, and my snow boots and wool socks weren’t quite cutting it. These were lifesavers! Get some!

Masks

These crowded areas are hotspots for spreading germs. Trust me, I came home with the unwelcome gift of COVID a few years ago. It’s not uncommon to see people in masks still, so if you feel more comfortable wearing one, then by all means wear it!

During COVID Europe was requiring KN95 masks. I like these black masks because I feel like they don’t stand out as much the white. I like to melt into the shadows.

Rain Gear!

Leave the umbrella behind. Your fellow market go’ers want to keep their eyeballs intact! Instead, bring a poncho or raincoat. Some recommend a waterproof rain hat. Preferable to a hood they say but I’m suspicious of getting rain down my neck. Thoughts?

Collapsible Shopping Bag

When browsing turns to buying, a packable shopping bag saves the day. This package of 6 reusable bags folds down into almost nothing! Small enough for your front pants packet! I also bring a collapsible duffel bag for lugging everything home. See more about that later!

Wet Wipes

These come in handy for a variety of things. Clean your sticky hands or sticky mug before you store it in your bag. Portable toilets are common and you’ll want to make sure you can clean your hands afterwards.

Worried about the environment? Bring a washcloth for cleaning your hands instead. Simply moisten it and keep that in a Ziplock bag to reuse when needed.

Reusable Water Bottle

You’ll want to stay hydrated so it’s a good idea to bring a water bottle. I like the collapsible kind. These ones come in fun colors and take up almost no room in my luggage. Sparking mineral water is very common in Europe and I don’t like it. This way I’m sure to have regular water whenever I need it.

ziplock bags

Can be used for a variety of things, including storing your mug when you’re done with its contents. I have these environmentally friendly reusable Ziplock bags that I travel with. Some recommend doggie poop bags instead?

A Frisbee…

What???? Tables are few, far between, and often taken. Food is often served on flimsy paper. Bring a frisbee to use as a more stable “plate.”

Hand Sanitizer

Self-explanatory … It’s cold and flu season!

Bubble Wrap

Some people like to bring bubble wrap to pack their delicate items in to bring home. It’s one of the most common tips you’ll hear. I find it unnecessary and it does take up space in your luggage.

You can find more information on packing under “how to get it all home” later in this article. If you do decide to go the bubble wrap route you may want to add some tape and a small pair of scissors (don’t try to take those on the airplane though!)

A good portable phone Charger!

For me, this one is essential! Batteries tend to drain even faster in the cold. All of that picture taking, pulling up maps, and using your google translate drains it even faster. You’re going to want one of these!

Keep in mind you these are not all created equal so check specs and get a good one. I’ve been very happy with this portable charger. It’s speedy and it comes in several colors.

Reusable Cutlery!

You might appreciate having something more substantial than the little wooden forks to eat with. I some inexpensive ones during the summer and they are pretty perfect for this!

Bring Your Own Lidded Insulated Mug!

Whether or not you decide to collect mugs, consider bringing an insulated mug from home. It will keep your drink warm longer. The lid saves you from worry about spills as you navigate jostling crowds! The one found in the link above is a fun stemless wine shape that has a handle, easier for gripping while wearing gloves!

Something to Pack Your Delicate Items In

I like to bring an empty tin box. My first set of tin boxes I bought in Germany when I needed to carry home some delicate items. Someone else suggested a lidded food storage box.

If possible, I always take delicate items home in my personal item or carry-on so that I know they are treated gingerly. throw some socks or gloves in there on the way home for a big of padding.

Products to combat that wind and cold air!

Being out in the cold and wind can wreck havoc on your body. You may want to consider a moisturizer for your skin, nasal spray for your delicate sinuses, and lip balm to counter dry and cracked lips.

Carabiner Clips and s-hooks

These come in really handy for a variety of things. I use them to secure zippers, but some like to clip their empty mugs to their bag or coat to free up their hands for other things.

Compression Bag

I’ve not done this before, but it was suggested to me and I love the idea! I always bring a packable coat, but some may want a regular coat. They can be a hassle, but with one of these compression bags you’ll be able to cut down on the bulk by nearly 75% when you aren’t using the coat! No vacuum or pump needed!

A Travel Blanket

Make your own seating anywhere you like without freezing your rear off with one of these handy travel blankets. When you’re not sitting on it, it’s a great way to keep your legs warm while seated! This travel blanket is nice and thick and comes in a carrying bag that can be clipped to the outside of your luggage or travel bag.

Phone Lanyard or Wrist Strap

Seriously, secure your phone. Sad but true, phones get stolen all of the time. I don’t know about you, but I don’t want to have to take time to purchase a new phone on my vacation! I have this lanyard, and these wrist straps. This set has both the neck lanyard and the wrist strap.

What to wear to European Christmas Markets

LAYERS! LAYERS! LAYERS! The best way to dress in cold temperatures or to pack for a winter trip to Europe is with warm layers. They tend to be less bulky and allow you to dress for the CURRENT temps.

I was just in Europe in October, and the forecast was very deceiving. I was expecting 57 degrees F during the day and 34 F at night. It didn’t quite shake out that way. What I didn’t realize was that it would be 57 for a couple of hours during midday and the rest of the time it would be closer to that 34. Layers also allow you to seamlessly move from a chilly market to a toasty restaurant or pub.

Here are the warmest layers:

• Wool: (socks, sweaters, glove liners, etc!)
• Fleece: It’s one of the warmest fabrics out there. I won’t go without my fleece base layers! (long sleeve undershirts, and fleece leggings) I also bring a fleece zip up jacket for layering under my…
• Down: A packable down jacket over a fleece jacket = toasty warm!

Don’t forget to throw these in your luggage:

• Gloves: (I like to double up with wool glove liners for ultimate warmth). I also prefer gloves that allow you to use your phone and take pictures and these heated gloves are a popular option!
• Hats: (you lose a lot of heat through your noggin!) This women’s hat with a visor is great for keeping rain off of your glasses and has drop-down ear warmers, and here’s a version for men.
• Scarves: They are a fun way to add a bit of fashion to your outfit while keeping your next warm. Better yet, I like to travel with a neck gaiter. I learned during the mask days of COVID how nice it is to have a warm face!

Waterproof, Comfortable Footwear Is Essential

European cobblestones become treacherous when icy or snow-covered. Waterproof hiking boots with good traction outperform fashion boots every time. You’ll walk miles more than anticipated (seriously, I usually average 10 miles per day when I’m traveling, assume you’ll do at least 5!) Blisters can ruin your entire trip.

Break in new boots before you leave home.
I nearly broke my neck on the icy streets of Regensburg one December. After seeing these on an Iceland travel group post, I won’t travel without YakTrax slip on traction for shoes!

Navigate the market like a pro

Pickpockets abound!

Pickpockets are SO BAD this time of the year! They take every advantage of shoulder-to-shoulder crowds at markets and at train stations. Never let them find you off-guard and never underestimate their “skill” in separating you and your belongings! Honestly, this could be a whole article.

Deter them by: securing cash and cards in interior pockets of your coat or jacket, wearing small purses UNDER your coat, using s-hooks to clip zipper tabs together ETC! and don’t forget to secure your phone with those wrist or neck straps.

Figuring out the Mug Deposit System

Ah the collectable Christmas market mug craze! Whether or not you want to bring your mug home, you’ll want to know how it all works. Let’s discuss the common mug situation confusion. If your mulled wine or hot cocoa comes in a reusable mug (usually ceramic) you are free to keep it as a souvenir. You were charged the price of the mug when you purchased your drink.

If you don’t want to keep the mug you can take it back and receive your €2-5 “deposit” back. Typically, you should return mugs to the same stall where you purchased your drink, not just any vendor.

Dirty mugs? Some ask to exchange their used mug for a clean one before collecting another drink. This prevents having to deal with carrying a sticky mug around. I think a better thing to do is just bring a few paper towels or grab extra napkins from a vendor and use wet wipes to clean yours out…it saves them from having to needlessly wash a mug?

Look for Authentic gifts, Souvenirs, and Handcrafted Items

Watch out for mass-produced import items that you could buy cheaper online. I must admit I’m guilty of picking up a thing here or there that may or may not have been made in Europe, just because I thought it was cute, and there’s nothing wrong with that! I still have the cherished memory of buying my treasure in Europe! Still, if it’s important to you check labels and ask the vendor.

Eat and Drink Strategically

Search out regional specialties. You’ll find a variety of hot and cold drinks to enjoy in addition to specialty mulled wines (white wine versions, alcohol-free options, or spirit-based variations). Look for local sausages, regional pastries, cheese varieties, and research signature dishes before visiting.

In Germany, try raclette or flammkuchen. In Austria, sample käsekrainer sausages. Each market often has at least one stall featuring something unique to that specific location. Macaroons in France, Glühwein (mulled wine) in Germany, Belgian waffles or Dutch stroopwafels in Low Countries, local cheeses and roasted chestnuts in alpine regions.

My sister-in-law’s favorite tip is to ask for some schnapps or other liquor in your hot chocolate!

Establish a meeting point with your travel companions

Christmas markets are perfect places to lose travel companions in crowds. Before entering, establish a specific meeting point that’s easy to find and describe. “By the Christmas tree” doesn’t work when there are five trees.

Choose specific landmarks like particular stalls, statues, or entrance gates, and make sure it’s on the outskirts of the market where it’s a bit less crowded.

Hire a Babysitter and Go Without the Kids.

While the markets are very kid friendly, it can also be anxiety inducing. Children can get lost in crowds, bumped into, stepped on etc. Consider having at least one outing with just the adults.

Pets at the Markets

Consider getting a sitter for the dog too. I’ve seen dogs at the markets and to me it just doesn’t look like a good idea. I’d be very worried about someone stepping on them or tripping over them and injuring not only your beloved pet but a fellow market goer. The leash is also a tripping hazard! Alternately, you could carry them.

How to pay

Cash? Card? It’s an ongoing discussion among social media groups. Here’s the deal, I use my card whenever possible (because I earn free flights!) You’ll always want to have some cash on hand for vendors who are “cash only.” Cash only is more common at smaller markets. It’s that simple, no need to make more out of the situation.

There’s sure to be an ATM near the market, but there may be long lines, or it may run out of cash. I prefer to think ahead and use a bank ATM. Have plenty of small bills (€5, €10) for easier transactions, mug deposits, and PAY TOILETS (yes, that’s a thing in Europe so be prepared!)

Many places also accept Apple Pay and Google Wallet.

How to Get it all Home!

Instead of bubble wrap I simply pack items in the center of my luggage surrounded by as many clothes as possible. (make sure if it’s hollow like a mug you pack something inside it like socks.) The wine angels are a great way to bring home those bottles of mulled wine!

How to use that packable duffel:

For the journey home, I make room in my hard-sided luggage by putting clothes in the duffel and my souvenirs go in the luggage. I check the luggage and use the duffel as my carryon item. It cost me NOTHING except the cost of the duffel that can be used over and over again! I have (and love) this packable duffel! We’ve made many trips together and hope to do many more!

Shipping

It can be expensive however, you’ll want to weigh the expense with the scenario of having to drag all of your purchases along for the remainder of your trip. Imagine schlepping it all over Europe one cobblestone at a time! Post offices offer much cheaper rates than private shipping companies like DHL.

Christmas Market Tips for Avoiding crowds

Master the Art of Timing! The internet has increased the popularity of the European Christmas market and so they can become quite hectic. You’ll often find yourself shoulder to shoulder with other market go’ers, and it’s hard to shop when you can’t even find your way to the stalls because of people 10 deep waiting to make their way to the front.

The best ways to combat market crowds are:

Choose Smaller Markets

In countries like Germany, France, and Austria nearly every little town has their own market where you’ll find a much more intimate experience. THESE are my personal favorite market experiences. Do be aware though that these markets often have limited opening dates so be sure to confirm dates.

Visit on Weekdays

Weekdays are often less crowded than weekends. One of my favorite strategies is to avoid the larger markets with their sardine-packed chaos on the weekend, opting for the small-town markets on the weekend and visiting large markets during the week.

Visit Earlier in the Day

Mornings are often less crowded than evenings. Still, you won’t want to miss the lighted magic of the markets after dark. Here’s my best tip. Make your way to the market as it is opening. Shorter lines mean you’ll be able to shop till you drop, gorge yourself on the delightful market foods, then go have yourself a refreshing nap. Come back after dark but prepare yourself for the crowds. I like to keep to the fringes rather than make my way into the fray.

Visit Earlier in the Season

Earlier in the season tends to be less crowded. In other words, the closer it gets to Christmas, the larger the crowds.

Tips for avoiding major disappointment

Do Your Research! Some markets may require tickets, and not all Christmas markets follow the same schedule. Most open in mid-to-late November and run until Christmas Eve or December 23rd, though some continue until early January, and small markets may only be open a few days per year!

The dates vary year to year, so always verify specific opening times for your target markets ON THE OFFICIAL MARKET WEBSITE. Having trouble finding it? Check the official city website.

Ravenna Gorge Christmas Market, (below) one of Germany’s most magical requires a ticket and some preplanning!

Less travel = less stress

Want to see as many markets as humanly possible? Understandable! All that moving around, rushing between cities with heavy luggage, and having to unpack every day or two can be stressful though. One great strategy for visiting multiple markets is to choose a home base and then do day trips from there. PLUS you may save money by booking multi-day stays at one location.

The “Best Of” Lists

These lists, in actuality, tend to be “The Most Popular.” I’ve seen a lot of “best of” lists and in my experience, these are the grandest and most popular markets. There isn’t anything wrong with that unless you are like me and adverse to crowds.

Yes, the markets in Dresden and Cologne Germany, or Strasbourg France are indeed something to behold, but they are also some of the most popular (i.e. crowded) Christmas markets. If you want a more intimate and personal experience, consider digging deeper when making your Christmas Market itinerary!

General Tips for Travel during Christmas Market Season

Download Google Translate for Offline Use

While many vendors speak English in major markets, language barriers exist, especially in smaller towns. Before you leave home download the Google Translate app and any required languages. This tool helps with translating menus, asking questions, and navigating unexpected situations without requiring data. Here are some tips on how to use Google Translate when traveling.

Learn a few words in the local language

Learning basic phrases in the local language (please, thank you, how much) goes a long way towards creating positive interactions.

Book Early

It just makes sense that with all of these extra people ascending on market towns that hotels book up. Book accommodations months in advance.

Consider Rail Passes

If visiting multiple markets across one region or country, Eurail or regional train passes can provide significant savings compared to individual tickets. Take it from me when I say that plans change. There may be issues with train cancellations or delays, and weather is unpredictable this time of the year.

It’s nice to have options to change in a matter of minutes notice sans rebooking fees! The best way to find out if a pass will actually save you money is to price tickets out separately and then compare the cost of the pass.

Tips on Driving

I prefer to drive. Getting between cities with a car is easy and I often find it more economical than the ever unreliable train systems. However, there are some things to consider.

Parking in European city centers during the Christmas market season is a nightmare. Winter is unpredictable and you may have to drive on snow or ice, which can be nerve wracking. Many mountainous regions require snow tires /chains/ socks.

Final Thoughts: Your Christmas Market Adventure Awaits

The magic of centuries-old European Christmas markets present the chance to create memories that last long after the decorations come down. The difference between a good Christmas market visit and an extraordinary one comes down to preparation.

Armed with these Christmas market tips, you’re ready to navigate Europe’s holiday markets like a seasoned pro. The markets are waiting. Your mulled wine mug is ready. And now, so are you.

Looking for more tips? I get a wealth of information by following subject focused Facebook Groups. My favorite one is Magical Christmas Markets of Europe.

Frequently Asked Questions About Christmas Markets

Christmas Market tips questions answered!

When is the best time to visit Christmas markets?

Early December on weekday afternoons offers the ideal balance of festive atmosphere without overwhelming crowds. Markets are fully decorated, all stalls are open, and the pre-Christmas rush hasn’t peaked. Avoid final weekend before Christmas unless you enjoy very large crowds.

How much money should I budget for Christmas markets?

Budget €30-50 per person per day for food and drinks, plus separate funds for souvenirs. Mulled wine costs €3-5, meals €5-15, and quality handcrafted souvenirs range from €10-100+. Entrance is typically free, though some smaller castle or special markets charge €3-10 admission.

What should I wear to Christmas markets?

Layer thermal base clothing. Include warm hats, scarves, and gloves. Waterproof boots with good traction are essential for navigating cobblestones. Stuff a waterproof rain poncho or raincoat in your bag before you head out.

Can I use credit cards at Christmas markets?

Cash is often preferred at smaller stalls. Bring plenty of small bills (€5 and €10 notes) for easier transactions, mug deposits, and restroom fees.

Are Christmas markets family-friendly?

Yes! Most markets feature carousels, children’s activities, and family-friendly entertainment. Visit during daylight hours on weekdays for the most comfortable experience with children. Strollers are possible but challenging in crowded conditions, baby carriers often work better.

How do I get my mug deposit back?

Return your mug to the same stall where you purchased your drink to receive your €2-5 deposit refund. Alternatively, keep the mug as a souvenir. Many markets feature unique, collectible designs.

What are the must-try foods at Christmas markets?

Beyond mulled wine (Glühwein), try regional specialties like bratwurst, raclette, flammkuchen, roasted chestnuts, lebkuchen (gingerbread), stollen (fruit bread), and potato pancakes (Reibekuchen). Each region offers unique items—research local specialties before visiting.

Should I visit famous markets or smaller ones?

Visit both! Major markets like Vienna, Nuremberg, and Prague offer spectacular scale and atmosphere ideal for first-timers. Smaller village and castle markets provide intimate, authentic experiences with better opportunities to interact with artisans. A mix provides the best overall experience.

Want to hear more about my travels around Europe? You may be interested in my Europe page! and don’t forget to check out my “Travel Resources” page for more great resources for booking your trip from hotels to tours to travel insurance!