In just one week, you can explore the beauty and festive charm of 4 of the best Christmas markets in Europe. This 1-week European Christmas market guide covers the best of both German Christmas markets and French Christmas markets! That means you’ll be able to savor the classic, traditional vibe of the bustling Christmas markets in Cologne and Frankfurt, while also venturing to France’s renowned Alsace region to explore their charming and festive Christmas villages and impressive decorations.
This itinerary covers 3 days in Germany and 4 days in France. Explore the vast holiday scene of Christmas markets in Cologne and feast your eyes (and your mouth!) on the massive Christmas market in Frankfurt. Then, we’ll move on to France, where you’ll be able to enjoy the world-famous decor of Strasbourg at Christmas—also known as the Capitale de Noel—and feel like you’re walking in a storybook with the fairytale towns of Colmar and Eguisheim. So let’s get started!
When to Plan Your European Christmas Market Trip
In general, the Christmas markets in Germany and France open around Thanksgiving in the United States, or in the last 2 weeks of November. The markets last all the way until a day or two before Christmas. The official dates change every year, so you’ll want to check official sources for the year to make sure your dates are confirmed.
The Christmas market season in Europe always kicks off with a bang and it will always be crowded no matter what time you go. However, the least crowded time is on a weekday morning just after the market opens—which is usually around 10-11 AM. The Christmas markets are also generally less busy in November and gradually become busier and busier until the end of the season, when everyone and their families will be out at the Christmas markets celebrating the holidays.
We planned our trip starting around November 24th to try and catch the beginning of the Christmas season in Germany and France. It’s an excellent time to go as it’s also less cold than in December and there are fewer crowds! However, note that “fewer crowds” doesn’t mean that much when it comes to Christmas in Europe—we were still packed shoulder-to-shoulder most nights!
Weather in Germany and France During Christmas Market Season
Depending on when you plan your Christmas market trip, the temperatures can range from mildly chilly to quite cold. In Germany, temperatures can range from as high as 49° Fahrenheit (9.5° Celsius) at the end of November to just around freezing at the end of December (32°F or 0°C).
In France, temperatures are similar, ranging from about 48°F or 9°C at the end of November to 32°F or 0°C in December.
One major thing to note is that it can be quite rainy during this time of year. We actually got quite lucky and only experienced one day of mild drizzling during the week that we were in Europe, but it’s not uncommon to experience light rain throughout the days and weeks. Even if it’s not actively raining while you are out and about, the ground tends to be quite wet. Make sure to pack an umbrella just in case!
What to Pack and Wear For Christmas Markets
Because all of the Christmas markets in both Germany and France are outside, you’ll want to bundle up to keep yourself warm during all that eating, drinking, and shopping. Especially because the weather can be a bit wet, the cold really soaks into your bones if you aren’t adequately prepared.
Make sure to have a nice thick coat, a hat, a scarf, and boots. With full coverage, you also add layers underneath to help protect you from the cold. Gloves aren’t a bad idea either, since you’ll be holding food or a mug often!
Gloves: Since you’ll be shopping, eating, and drinking, you’ll be using your hands a lot. Having gloves can help protect your hands from the cold! Check out these winter gloves from SIMARI. They’re warm and sleek and also have those little touchscreen fingers so that you can use your phone without taking them off.
Fleece-Lined Hat: Having a knit beanie in the winter is a must, not just for the warmth but also for the aesthetic! Having a hat will keep your head nice and warm through the wintry days and nights of exploring Christmas markets. I got this adorable one with double faux fur pom poms and got so many compliments. Bonus points: it’s washable!
Heat Stickers: This is my secret weapon for staying warm during the winter. These are a trick that I learned from Chinese social media! These heat stickers are similar to hand warmers, except they’re adhesive on one side. You can stick it to your clothing and it’ll keep you warm for the whole day. The package says it’ll keep you warm for 10 hours, but I’ve worn them for 14-15 hours and they’re still warm when I take them off!
Earmuffs: I recently started really enjoying wearing earmuffs during the winter season! They really add that cute and cozy holiday vibe while also keeping your ears nice and warm. Seriously, you won’t realize how much you need a pair of these until you put them on. I got these super-cute fluffy lavender ones off of Amazon and have worn them in many a winter photoshoot!
How to Get Around Germany and France
We explored Germany and France on our Christmas markets trip entirely by train, sans one 15-minute drive to and from the tiny village of Eguisheim. The rail system in Western Europe is extremely advanced and provides everything you might need to get around, especially because all of these Christmas market stops are popular with locals and visitors alike!
Even during the Christmas season, we didn’t have any trouble getting rail tickets day-of. If you like, you can of course book beforehand! However, buying your tickets at the station has a few advantages. You have more flexibility in when you want to leave, and you don’t have to pay an online booking fee.
Some of the train stations in Germany and France still only take cash for tickets, but you can circumvent this problem by downloading a rail app, which will still let you get around the booking fees (I don’t know why, but hooray!) While I do recommend having some cash on hand for the Christmas markets, paying for your rail tickets without cash means that you can reserve some of that money for shopping and food instead. It’s a win!
Now that we’ve gotten all the logistics out of the way, let’s get on with the itinerary. First stop: Cologne, Germany!
Cologne (Köln): 2 Days
Cologne is one of the largest cities in Germany, with a population of over 1 million residents. And the city sure knows how to come alive during the Christmas season, with incredible traditional Christmas decorations and markets for all to enjoy!
The Cologne Christmas market scene is one of the best Christmas markets in Europe and absolutely should not be missed! In fact, Cologne raises the bar with not just one major Christmas market, but three large ones along with numerous smaller Christmas markets that are fun to explore.
Where to Stay in Cologne
When staying in Cologne, the most important factor is seeing how close you can stay to the Cologne Christmas markets. There are quite a few Christmas markets in Cologne, but the largest and most important one is the market underneath the Cologne Cathedral. Here are some suggested options, all within walking distance from the cathedral Christmas market:
Budget Hotels in Cologne:
- Hotel Drei Könige am Dom Walking Distance: Approximately 5 minutes This cozy budget hotel offers a convenient location right by the Cologne Cathedral. Simple yet comfortable rooms provide a good night’s rest after exploring the city’s attractions.
- Meininger Hotel Köln City Center Walking Distance: Approximately 15 minutes Situated within a short walk from the Cologne Cathedral, this budget-friendly hotel features modern rooms and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for travelers looking for comfort without breaking the bank.
Upscale Hotels in Cologne:
- Excelsior Hotel Ernst am Dom Walking Distance: Approximately 1 minute A luxurious option right next to the Cologne Cathedral, this upscale hotel offers elegant rooms and a range of amenities, ensuring a lavish stay in the heart of the city.
- Stern am Rathaus Walking Distance: Approximately 10 minutes This upscale hotel offers a comfortable and sophisticated stay just a short walk away from the Cologne Cathedral. With well-appointed rooms and a convenient location, it’s a great choice for travelers seeking both luxury and proximity to the city’s attractions.
Exploring Cologne Christmas Markets
There are three main Christmas markets in Cologne, each with its own unique vibe and attractions. I’ll cover all of them here! If you take my advice and are staying in central Cologne near the cathedral, you’ll have an easy time getting to all of these.
Weihnachtsmarkt am Kölner Dom
The largest Christmas market in Cologne is the cathedral market, which doesn’t really have a name, but is simply known as the Christmas market under the Cologne Cathedral, or Kölner Dom. This market is, in my opinion, one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in all of Europe!
The market may not look like that much during the day. Most of the stalls open around 11 AM but are open until late in the evening. You can easily get lost wandering through the maze of red booths, all of which are labeled with a cute star on top, sampling all the delicious foods and browsing the adorable crafts and gifts. However, nighttime is when the market really shines—literally!
At night, the enormous tree in the center of the market lights up with hundreds of beautiful lights. The string lights strung over the top of the market are connected in the center by the gigantic Christmas tree, enveloping the entire market in a web of glowing Christmas lights. It’s a sight to see and absolutely stunning!
Plus, you can listen to live music and grab a steaming mug of hot chocolate, hot apple cider, or Glühwein, which is a hot mulled wine with plenty of spices like cinnamon, star anise, cloves, and other goodies. Glühwein is often only available in the winter and is a popular traditional drink found in many winter and Christmas markets across Germany and Austria.
A fun fact is that the price of a hot drink in Christmas markets includes a deposit for the mug (usually around 2-4 €). If you return the mug to one of the stalls after you’re done, you’ll get your deposit back. It doesn’t even need to be the same stall, as long as they use the same mugs. However, if you want a cute souvenir from your trip, you can keep the mug and take it home!
🍺 Tip: Most European Christmas markets have their own signature mugs! See if you can collect them all—some of them are really quite cute!
Heinzels Wintermärchen
Another fabulous Christmas market in Cologne that you must check out is Heinzels Wintermärchen. This market is particularly cute due to its adorable blue arch that beckons visitors to enter underneath adorable mechanical figurines of dwarves. If you’re looking for an authentic German Christmas market experience, Heinzels Wintermärchen is a must-visit.
What sets Heinzels Wintermärchen apart is its picturesque setting in the Old Town (Altstadt) of Cologne, surrounded by historic buildings and the iconic Cologne Cathedral. The market’s name, which translates to “Heinzel’s Winter Fairy Tale,” alludes to the whimsical atmosphere you’ll encounter.
As you wander through the market’s festively adorned stalls, you’ll be greeted by the delightful aroma of traditional German treats, including roasted chestnuts and sizzling bratwurst. One highlight that you absolutely shouldn’t miss is the mouthwatering waffles served fresh and piping hot. These sweet, doughy delights are a beloved staple of German Christmas markets and will undoubtedly satisfy your cravings for something sweet. I recommend getting one of the ones with berry and whipped cream—it was so light, crispy, and delicious!
Angel’s Christmas Market
The Angel’s Christmas Market is the oldest Christmas market in Cologne and one of the absolute cutest ones that you just have to visit. While the market isn’t as large or bustling as the Cologne Cathedral Christmas market or Heinzels Wintermärchen, this cute German Christmas market is a must-visit.
The Angel’s Christmas Market exudes a cozy, Old World charm that transports you to a bygone era. As you stroll through the market, the sweet scent of freshly baked gingerbread cookies and cinnamon fills the air, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Many of the stalls here sell fresh food and baked goods, so don’t forget to stop by for some spiral potatoes or gingerbread.
One of the highlights of Angel’s Christmas Market is the staff, who don angelic costumes complete with little white wings. These cute outfits add a touch of whimsy and enchantment to the festivities, and they are just beyond adorable! The staff are more than happy to pose for photos, give directions, and spread joy to visitors of all ages.
Departure from Cologne
After two days of enjoying bratwurst, pretzels, and Christmas cheer, it’s time to leave Cologne behind. But don’t worry! The next stop is Frankfurt, and the Frankfurt Christmas market will not disappoint.
I recommend traveling from Cologne → Frankfurt by train. The train system is excellent and trains run at least every two hours between these two popular German market locations.
Frankfurt: 1 Day
Frankfurt is a solemn and large city in Germany. In fact, it’s the 5th largest city in Germany, just after Cologne, with a population of 733,000. During most of the year, I have to say I am not a big fan of Frankfurt in general—the architecture feels imposing and heavy, and I don’t derive much pleasure from walking around.
However, Frankfurt’s Christmas market scene is anything but solemn. The Frankfurt Christmas market is massive and extremely lively, all underneath the enormous Römerburg Cathedral. This is one of the best Christmas markets in Germany and I highly recommend stopping by for one whole day to experience it for yourself! Make sure to stay at least one night so you can experience the magical twinkling of the Christmas lights.
Where to Stay in Frankfurt
Similar to the situation in Cologne, the most important factor in picking accommodation for Frankfurt is proximity to the main market. The biggest market in Frankfurt is located underneath the Römerburg Cathedral and features a sprawling set of stalls and a beautiful carousel. Here are some suggested options within walking distance of Römerberg.
Budget Hotels in Frankfurt:
- Hotel Miramar Walking Distance: Approximately 5 minutes Situated just a short stroll away from Römerberg, Hotel Miramar offers cozy rooms and a convenient location for exploring Frankfurt’s historic center. Its affordability and proximity make it an ideal choice for budget-conscious travelers.
- Hotel Mainstation Walking Distance: Approximately 10 minutes Located within walking distance of Römerberg, Hotel Mainstation provides a comfortable and budget-friendly stay. With its accessible location and basic amenities, it’s a suitable option for travelers looking to explore Frankfurt’s landmarks.
Upscale Hotels in Frankfurt:
- JW Marriott Frankfurt Walking Distance: Approximately 10 minutes A luxurious option near Römerberg, JW Marriott Frankfurt offers elegant accommodations and top-notch amenities. With its central location and high-end services, it’s a fantastic choice for travelers seeking a lavish stay in the heart of the city.
- Steigenberger Frankfurter Hof Walking Distance: Approximately 15 minutes This upscale hotel, situated a short walk from Römerberg, provides a blend of historic charm and modern comforts. With its elegant rooms and renowned dining options, Steigenberger Frankfurter Hof offers a refined experience for discerning travelers.
Exploring the Frankfurt Christmas Market
The Frankfurt Christmas market is truly massive and takes up the entire Römerberg Square. The center is home to a gigantic Christmas tree, one of the largest in all of Europe, as well as a large spinning carousel. This festive delight is not just one of the best Christmas markets in Frankfurt but also ranks among Europe’s finest.
With its charming wooden stalls, ornate decorations, and the aroma of sizzling sausages wafting through the air, the Frankfurt Christmas Market instantly transports you to a world of holiday enchantment. You can spend hours just exploring the main square (which we did), and another half day just checking out the Christmas market stalls on the side streets!
Frankfurt’s Christmas market mugs are some of the cutest we saw on our trip. Unlike the ones in Cologne and many other cities, which are tin, the Frankfurt Christmas market has round ceramic mugs that change design every year. These mugs are perfect for sipping one of the market’s signature treats, the rich and aromatic Glühwein (mulled wine), keeping you warm as you explore the market’s multitude of offerings.
Speaking of treats, the Frankfurt Christmas Market is a paradise for food enthusiasts. Currywurst, a beloved German delicacy of juicy sausages smothered in a tangy tomato sauce and sprinkled with curry powder, is a must-try here. In fact, it’s my favorite traditional German food and I will fight anyone who says it’s not the best.
And don’t forget to wander among the charming stalls with handcrafted gifts, ornaments, and seasonal decorations! The Frankfurt Christmas market is so large that they even construct whole stores in the square, so stop by and do some holiday shopping.
The Frankfurt Christmas Market comes alive as the sun sets, with thousands of twinkling lights creating a captivating and festive atmosphere. Seeing the massive Christmas tree lit up in the center of the square is a must! Of course, the crowds will be almost unbearable (it was beyond packed for us, and it wasn’t even close to Christmas yet), but it’s truly a sight to behold.
Departing from Frankfurt
Goodbye, Frankfurt! We’ll be leaving this delicious and lively Christmas paradise behind and heading to France. Next stop on the itinerary is Strasbourg, which is often called the Capital of Christmas.
Strasbourg: 2 Days
Strasbourg, nicknamed the Capitale de Noel or “capital of Christmas,” is one of the most famous cities in the world for Christmas decorations. And aptly so! I was enamored with the incredible array of Christmas decor everywhere, from department stores to random streets to insanely decked-out houses and bakeries.
While the Christmas markets in France are not nearly as nice as the ones in Germany, France makes up for this in a big way with their incredible decor. The streets feel much more “Christmassy” and there is so much holiday charm everywhere you turn! Personally, I find France much more photogenic and aesthetically appealing than Germany, so make sure to get your camera out.
Where to Stay in Strasbourg
Strasbourg is fairly small compared to the massive cities in Germany that are earlier on this itinerary, but if you are here for Christmas decorations it still pays to live as close to the main Christmas market as possible. The main Christmas market in Strasbourg is located underneath the Strasbourg Cathedral (are you seeing a pattern here?) and there are plenty of hotel offerings nearby. Here are some of my suggestions.
Budget Hotels in Strasbourg:
- Hotel Roses Walking Distance: 5 minutes Hotel Roses offers affordable and comfortable accommodation just a short walk from Strasbourg Cathedral. It’s an excellent choice for budget travelers looking to explore the city’s historic center without breaking the bank.
- Ibis Strasbourg Centre Historique Walking Distance: 10 minutes The Ibis Strasbourg Centre Historique is a budget-friendly hotel within walking distance of Strasbourg Cathedral. It provides simple yet modern rooms, making it a convenient base for tourists on a budget.
Upscale Hotels in Strasbourg:
- Hôtel Cour du Corbeau Strasbourg – MGallery Walking Distance: 2 minutes Hôtel Cour du Corbeau is a luxurious boutique hotel located just steps away from Strasbourg Cathedral. This upscale hotel offers elegant rooms, a gourmet restaurant, and a charming courtyard, providing guests with a luxurious and historic stay in the heart of Strasbourg.
- Sofitel Strasbourg Grande Île Walking Distance: 5 minutes The Sofitel Strasbourg Grande Île is a 5-star upscale hotel located a short walk from Strasbourg Cathedral. It features luxurious rooms, a spa, and a Michelin-starred restaurant, ensuring a lavish and memorable stay in the city center.
Exploring the Strasbourg Christmas Market
The Strasbourg Christmas market is nestled in the heart of the picturesque Alsace region of France. Set against the backdrop of half-timbered houses and cobbled streets, the Strasbourg Christmas Market exudes a fairytale charm that sweeps visitors off their feet. Established in 1570, this market holds the distinction of being the oldest in France, and its rich traditions are woven deeply into the fabric of Strasbourg’s identity.
The Cathedral Square, with the stunning Strasbourg Cathedral as its backdrop, is a sight to behold. Here, the towering Christmas tree and a magnificent nativity scene add to the festive grandeur. Check out the artisanal crafts, festive decorations, and local delicacies. I recommend trying almond paste fruits and a warm cup of vin chaud (mulled wine), which helps keep the winter chill at bay!
Strasbourg Christmas Decorations
Goodbye, Frankfurt! We’ll be leaving this delicious and lively Christmas paradise behind and heading to France. The next stop on the itinerary is Strasbourg, which is often called the Capital of Christmas.
If you’re interested in chasing all the most beautiful Christmas decorations in Strasbourg, make sure to read my article. I’ve covered all the cutest spots in Strasbourg, including all the photos you see here!
📰 Read more: A Guide to Christmas Decorations in Strasbourg
Departure from Strasbourg
After soaking in the beauty of Strasbourg, it’s time to move on. But don’t worry. The next stop, the picturesque Alsatian village of Colmar, is sure to exceed your expectations! It’s one of the most charming villages I’ve ever seen in my entire life.
Colmar: 1.5 Days
Oh, Colmar. This little village in the Alsace region of France won my heart—along with hundreds of thousands of other visitors that flock to this Christmas paradise every year. While Colmar is tiny and only has 70,000 inhabitants, this is an indisputable stop on any European Christmas itinerary.
Unlike Cologne, Frankfurt, or Strasbourg, Colmar is so small that regardless of where you stay, you are only a short walk away from the adorable Christmas scene in Colmar. Colmar’s Christmas market is not very large or notable, but the entire town is decked out in gorgeous festive decorations for the Christmas season and you won’t want to miss it!
📰 Read more: The Cutest Christmas Decorations in Colmar, France
Where to Stay in Colmar
Again, due to its small size, you can stay in Colmar wherever you like. If you’re not sure where to pick, here are a few suggestions to get you started!
Budget Hotels in Colmar:
- Hôtel Turenne Hôtel Turenne offers affordable accommodation in the heart of Colmar. It’s a comfortable and conveniently located option for budget-conscious travelers exploring the picturesque town.
- Hotel Le Colombier Suites Hotel Le Colombier Suites provides a mix of comfort and affordability. It’s centrally located in Colmar, making it a great choice for those looking for a budget-friendly stay with easy access to attractions.
Upscale Hotels in Colmar:
- Hôtel Le Maréchal Hôtel Le Maréchal is an upscale boutique hotel located in the historic center of Colmar. With its charming ambiance, elegant rooms, and excellent dining options, it offers a luxurious experience for guests.
- La Maison des Têtes – Relais & Châteaux La Maison des Têtes is an upscale hotel belonging to the prestigious Relais & Châteaux group. This historic hotel offers a unique and luxurious experience in a beautifully restored building in the heart of Colmar.
Explore Christmas Decorations in Colmar
There are some tiny Christmas markets in Colmar, sprinkled around the tiny town. However, the best thing to do in Colmar is to simply walk around and enjoy the Christmas decorations, stepping into shops and stopping at stalls whenever you feel like it!
Make sure to swing by the beautiful Maison dite Au Pelerin, a famous house in Colmar that looks like a pink gingerbread house. And take a stroll around La Petite Venise to enjoy the Christmas decorations on the iconic canal and take in the signature half-timbered houses that are famous in the Alsace region.
If you’re interested in finding all the cutest Christmas spots in Colmar, you’ll want to check out my Colmar Christmas article below!
Plus, Colmar has some of the most delicious pastries and desserts! Stop in a patisserie or boulangerie to pick up some goodies, or make a reservation at one of the many postcard-worthy restaurants in town. Just know that Colmar is quite small, so the most popular places fill up very quickly.
📰 You might also be interested in: Where to Find the Best Christmas Decorations in New York City
Eguisheim: Half Day
While you are in Colmar, I recommend making a half-day trip out to one of the cute and picturesque smaller villages in the Alsace region. This area is famous for its tiny and postcard-worthy villages that get a complete makeover during the holiday season and transform into winter wonderlands.
I can guarantee that you’ll feel like you’re walking through a Disney movie in these incredibly photogenic towns! In fact, several of these towns served as the inspiration for many animated movies, famously including Beauty and the Beast.
Eguisheim is one such village. This little town, built in a fascinating set of concentric circles, is one of the cutest Christmas villages in France. Eguisheim is packed with cobblestone streets, colorful pastel half-timbered houses, and adorable Christmas decorations at every turn.
There is an extremely tiny Christmas market in Eguisheim, worth stopping by if you’re already here. The market barely takes up one small square and is extremely charming!
Eguisheim is super close to Colmar and we just ended up taking a taxi here. The ride was only about 15 minutes and we stayed for 2-3 hours. Even with such a small amount of time, we got to see all of the town and even try pretzels and gingerbread here!
Other Cute Christmas Villages in Alsace
We only stopped at Eguisheim on our Christmas village tour, but there are countless other cute Christmas villages to see in Alsace.
Riquewihr is nestled in the heart of the Alsace wine region and renowned for its well-preserved medieval charm. During the holiday season, the village transforms into a winter wonderland, with its cobblestone streets adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations. Visitors can explore the delightful Christmas market, sample local wines, and savor traditional Alsatian treats.
Ribeauville is best known for its enchanting architecture and historical significance, making it another must-visit Christmas village in Alsace. Its Christmas market is a visual treat, with stalls nestled amidst the medieval half-timbered houses. The aroma of spiced mulled wine and gingerbread fills the air as you browse handcrafted gifts and holiday treats.
Kaysersberg is a charming village, crowned with a picturesque castle. This village is a hidden gem during the Christmas season. Kaysersberg’s Christmas market exudes a cozy ambiance, with wooden chalets selling artisanal products and local specialties. The scenic setting along the river adds to the village’s allure.
Obernai is just a short drive from Strasbourg and a delightful destination for a festive getaway. Its Christmas market is held in the town center, where you can explore a variety of stalls offering handcrafted goods and delectable Alsatian cuisine. The town’s medieval streets provide a charming backdrop for holiday celebrations.
Conclusion
Now that you’ve been on an incredible one-week journey through Germany and France’s stunning Christmas markets, you’ll never be able to see Christmas the same way again!
The Christmas markets in Germany are just too lively and festive to pass up. And France’s Christmas markets have some of the best Christmas decorations you’ll ever see! From the timeless traditions of Cologne and the aromatic delights of Frankfurt to the picturesque charm of Strasbourg and the fairytale allure of Colmar, this itinerary offers a glimpse into some of the best Christmas markets in Europe.
From the heart of Germany to the charms of Alsace, this one-week guide ensures that you’ll create cherished memories and experience the true spirit of the season in every light-bedecked market square.
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