Step off any train or plane in Europe this December and you’ll likely get in Christmas mood.

Spiced air (we swear it’s the cinnamon), hot pastry, thousands of colourful lights, and yes, the crowds.

Christmas markets are a staple in these legendary cities, but they’re not all the same.

Here’s what every traveler should know if you’re heading for the stalls this Christmas.

Each tip reflects up-to-date recommendations and the true local feel for 2025.

1. Dresden Christmas Market: Tradition and Flavors at the Striezelmarkt

Do:
Visit after 5 PM to see the Pyramid Tower lit up and catch live choirs. Taste a slice of the original Dresdner Christstollen straight from the source, and wander over to the Neumarkt for guild-made crafts and soothing choir music. Don’t skip side markets — the Frauenkirche Market has unique regional art.

Don’t:
Don’t wait to buy your Stollen until late—they run out. Don’t expect to negotiate prices, and never leave valuables in open coat pockets (it’s safe, but pickpockets love distracted tourists).

Essentials:
Reusable mug for Glühwein, cash for small stalls, layers for the riverside chill, and a good transport app for late trams.​

2. Vienna Christmas Market: Imperial Ambience, Easy Adventure

Do:
Map your markets: Rathausplatz (biggest, best for families), Karlsplatz (arts and crafts), Schönbrunn (splash of royal with your sweets). Start early for peace, or late dusk for a full glow. Bring a bag for local ceramics and glass ornaments.

Don’t:
Don’t expect hand-crafted goods at every stall—some mass-produced items creep in. Haggling is not welcome.

Essentials:
Cash for deposits (mug Pfand, usually €2–€5), reliable shoes (cobblestones), and your Wingman app for late detours and instant tips.​

3. Zurich Christmas Market: Markets for Shoppers, Music Lovers, and Food Nerd

Do:
Hit the main station market’s fondue chalet. Find the Werdmühleplatz market for local choir concerts at the Singing Christmas Tree. Use seating areas—Zurich’s markets make space for tired feet.

Don’t:
Don’t come for dinner too late, food stands pack up well before close. Don’t expect calm at peak shopping hours, especially at the railway market.

Essentials:
Cash (Switzerland is pricey, contactless isn’t everywhere), and a lined bag for delicate gifts.​

4. Strasbourg Christmas Market: The Capital of Christmas

Do:
Start with Place Kléber’s Grand Sapin (big Christmas tree) and branch out. Try food from Place de la Cathédrale’s night stalls—roasted salmon and fresh pretzels. Local jams and bio wine are must-buys. Find time for a music workshop or a quick Alsatian gingerbread.

Don’t:
Don’t just stick to the main squares. The smaller Advent Village or Place Benjamin-Zix have a more relaxed pace and better photo ops.​

Essentials:
Coin purse for smaller change, a rain jacket, and a photo plan for cathedral lights.

5. Cologne Christmas Market: The Festive Juggernau

Do:
Try Reibekuchen (potato pancakes) at the Cathedral market and buy collectible Glühwein mugs (you can return them, but most keep them!). Take in the Angels Market for scenery and browse paper lantern shops. The Stadtgarten is perfect for a local, slower pace.

Don’t:
Don’t underestimate crowd size. Arrive early or late to avoid the bottleneck at the Dom. Avoid open bags and keep your hands free.

Essentials:
Hand sanitizer, coin pouch, small umbrella for sudden showers.​

6. Colmar Christmas Market: Storybook Magic

Do:
Visit Place des Dominicains at sunrise for the best artisans and no crowds. Try bredele cookies along the Lauch River markets. Step inside Koïfhus if rain hits. Petite Venise district glows after 6 PM for photos and music.

Don’t:
Don’t rush—Colmar is built for wandering. Don’t miss the canal bridges at sunset, or the Place Rapp for city trees.​

Essentials:
Camera, powerbank, scarf for chilly canal breezes.

7. Hamburg Christmas Market: Harbor Lights and Historic Bites

Do:
Target the Rathausmarkt for central action, handmade toys, and flying Santa shows overhead at sunset. Smaller markets on Fleetinsel or Mönckebergstraße give a local feel. Take a boat tour after dusk to see city lights doubled on the lake.

Don’t:
Don’t come hungry without cash—classic Bratwurst and Glühwein are musts, and cards aren’t always taken. Avoid the harbor on harsh-weather evenings.

Essentials:
Reusable mug, gloves, map for market hopping, and slip-resistant boots.​

General Pro Traveler Tips (2025 updates)

• Download official city transit apps for crowdless trams and buses.
• Many markets give Glühwein mug discounts for bringing your own.
• Early weekday visits win on crowd control and better photos.
• Pack snacks, powerbank, and patience. Hotels fill up quick, so plan evenings for strolls, not sprints.

Wherever you go, use the Wingman app to unlock the best route, skip busy lines, and discover stories behind every sparkle.

Wingman Christmas Market Guides make each cup of mulled wine and every handmade ornament feel local. Ready to join the winter magic? Get the app!