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A Guide to Top Christmas Markets in Germany, Switzerland and Austria

There is no better way of getting into the festive spirit than going to a Christmas market. These traditional events, usually held in town squares, have been popular in Europe for centuries and, as they coincide with Advent, mark the beginning of the festive season.

The markets, which typically operate from the end of November until Christmas Eve, offer a real taste of local culture. Many of the stalls sell regional specialities, particularly food and drink. They offer much more than somewhere to do your Christmas shopping as the communities often lay on plenty of musical and dance events, plus a nativity play.

Hamiltons Removals organises removals to Germany, Switzerland and a host of other European destinations. Here are six of the most famous Christmas markets on the continent.

Dresden

This is one of the oldest markets, not just in Germany but the whole of Europe, and dates back to 1434. The main event is known as Striezelmarket after the so-called ‘Dresden Christmas cake’ which was originally called ‘striezel’. It is held in the town’s old market square, and the focal point is a 14 metre high Christmas pyramid.

There are also lots of separate, themed markets in other neighbouring streets. Arts and crafts items are among the most popular purchases, and you can watch woodcarvers and glassblowers in action at some stalls. Festive concerts are also held in various venues throughout the city.

Berlin

The German capital has more than 60 different markets, catering for every conceivable taste. The Gendarmemarket features jugglers, fire-eaters and acrobats, while the market in front of the Red Town Hall is aimed more at children, with pony and sleigh rides, street artists and storytellers.

For the environmentally conscious there is also a Green market, with lots of ethically-sourced goods, and even Santa is dressed in green. The largest and most traditional market is held in Spandau, a western district of the city, where up to 400 stall-holders sell their wares.

Stuttgart

More than 250 wooden chalets fill the Market Square and neighbouring Schillerplatz for this lively Christmas market. Family entertainment includes a miniature steam railway, and an outdoor ice skating rink for the sporting types.

As well as a full range of local culinary specialities, the event includes an antiques market held on Karlsplatz which offers rare books, jewellery, porcelain and other collectibles. Christmas concerts take place in the courtyard of the Old Castle.

Berne

For those people interested in removals to Switzerland, the country has embraced the traditions of Christmas markets, with Berne hosting two events, each with its own character.

At Munsterplatz you will find plenty of locally-made arts and crafts, including pottery, hand-painted silk scarves, glassware and textiles. Waisenhausplatz offers more traditional Christmas market fare, including food and drink plus clothes and children’s toys.

Basel

One of the largest in Switzerland, Basel Christmas market is split between two main sites, on Barfusserplatz and Munsterplatz. The former has plenty of tempting culinary treats, including gluhwein, grilled sausages and gingerbread. Munsterplatz, as well as plenty of stalls, is also home to a fairy-tale forest, where children can make and decorate candles and gingerbread and enjoy train rides.

Vienna

The Austrian capital has had a Christmas market since 1298, when it was called a December market. The principal venue is in front of the City Hall, although there are around 20 other markets running throughout the capital. The hall’s windows are made up to look like an Advent calendar, while inside the building children can learn how to make candles and cookies. For the musically minded, international choirs sing carols at free concerts from Fridays to Sundays while the markets are running.

Hamiltons Removals organises commercial and domestic removals to Germany, Switzerland and Austria. You can find a full list of countries we offer removals to in Europe by following the link above. We pride ourselves on our friendly, professional service and will be happy to advise you on all aspects of your move, and can provide a packing service for all your possessions, including bulky items like motorbikes and pianos.