Travel guides › Guide · Winter in Europe
Mulled wine in an old town square, twinkling lights, and a warm, beautiful hotel to come back to. A Christmas market weekend is one of the loveliest short trips of the year, and closer than you think.
Which city suits you?
- Munich: big, lively and an easy short flight away. Combine the markets with great food and museums.
- Salzburg: small, fairy-tale and musical, with the mountains as a backdrop. Ideal for couples looking for calm.
- Vienna: elegant and grand, with markets in front of palaces and the city hall, coffee houses and concerts.
How to make it a luxury weekend
- Stay in the centre. You walk to the markets and you're back in your room in minutes in the evening.
- Start midweek. Thursday to Sunday is calmer than the weekend alone.
- Plan one special evening. A concert, a great dinner or a night in the hotel bar.
Why plan now?
Hotels in the old town centres fill up quickly on Advent weekends. Book in October and you still have a choice. Tell me which city and which dates you have in mind, and I'll find the best options for you.
Frequently asked questions
When are the Christmas markets in Munich, Salzburg and Vienna open?
The big markets usually open in late November and run until around Christmas. Exact dates vary by city and by year, so check them before you book.
How many nights do you need for a Christmas market weekend?
Three nights is ideal: two full days to enjoy the markets at your own pace, plus relaxed evenings. Vienna and Munich also combine well with a day trip to a smaller town nearby.
When should you book?
As early as possible. Hotels in the old town centres fill up quickly on Advent weekends, and the best rooms go first.