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Lifestyle

European Christmas Market : Where to Go & What to Wear

Nov 7

There is nothing more beautiful — or more fun — than a European Christmas market. About twenty years ago, I spent Thanksgiving in Prague and wandered the Old Town Square market. It was so cold, but it was so beautiful and so fabulous. It was also the first time I ever had hot wine, even though I am more of a hot cocoa girl at heart. Experiencing a culture like that, with the lights and the music and the smell of something warm on every corner, is a memory I hold close.

I hope to make it to every one of these destinations in my lifetime. Until then, I styled six outfits to spark the mood and get you in the holiday spirit — warm, polished, and made for long evenings on cobblestone streets.

The Rathausplatz Market in Vienna

Vienna does Christmas with imperial grandeur. The Rathausplatz market has a spectacular setting in front of City Hall, and the season extends to palace markets like Schönbrunn. It is also known for its hot punch and collectible mugs — the souvenir you will want to bring home.

Christkindelsmärik Market in Strasbourg

Strasbourg is France’s Christmas capital. Its Christkindelsmärik dates to 1570, making it one of Europe’s oldest Christmas markets. The city is known for its giant tree, Alsatian treats like bredele cookies, and streets decorated from end to end.

The Classic German Market in Nuremberg

Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt is one of the most famous in Germany, and each year it is opened by the Christkind, a golden-robed figure who brings a sense of ceremony to the season. Come hungry for Lebkuchen (traditional gingerbread) and the city’s small Nuremberg bratwurst, then browse the handmade toys and charming prune figures.

The Old Town Square Market in Prague

Prague is pure Gothic romance. The Old Town Square market is framed by dramatic spires, a towering tree, and rows of wooden stalls. It is all about atmosphere here. Shop the Czech crafts, warm up with roasted ham, and try the trdelník — a sweet pastry that is more of a tourist favorite than an old Czech tradition, but delicious on a cold night all the same.

The Christkindlmarkt Market in Salzburg

Salzburg is music and Alpine tradition. The Christkindlmarkt sits in the baroque old town below the fortress, and the city is closely tied to “Silent Night,” which was first performed nearby in Oberndorf. The season is filled with carols, choirs, and traditional Krampus runs.

Storybook Charm in Colmar

Colmar’s small, walkable markets are set among half-timbered Alsatian houses and canals. The whole town feels like a fairy tale, and it is especially known for its local crafts and its Little Venice district.

Whether you are planning a trip this season or simply dreaming of one, I hope these looks bring a little of that European Christmas magic home to you. Happy holidays, friends.

xx, Jess