10 things to see and do at a European Christmas market

Carols are being sung, the smell of the cinnamon is in the air and people are buzzing around the cobbled streets of European cities all over – the perfect way to get into the Christmas cheer.

If you’re hoping for a white Christmas this year, it’s never too early to begin planning. While each Christmas market in Europe has its own flair and wares, here are a few (of our favourite) things you can expect to see.

1. Lebkuchen

The humble lebkuchen has been a Christmas staple in Europe for hundreds of years, with Germany arguably being the best place to get one due to the Germans being the longest producers of the sweet, flat biscuit. They were so popular in the old town of Nuremberg that they were even once used as currency! The spice and soft texture of the biscuit really hits the spot in the chilly weather. 

2. Hand-blown glass ornaments

There’s something extra special about decorating the Christmas tree with something handmade. Knowing how much care and time has gone into its production makes it so much more precious and special than the plastic alternative. Glass blowing was often a tradition that saw the whole family get involved, with the men doing the glass blowing, the women doing the silvering and the children painting and decorating.

3. Traditional wooden toys

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If you’re looking for a present for the grandkids, you may just find the perfect one here. The traditional toys will take you on a trip down memory lane to a simpler time when things were built to last and not made of plastic. 

Read more: 5 magical Christmas markets in Europe

4. Glühwein

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A cup of Gluhwein is the perfect way to warm up when you arrive at the markets. Made from red wine and various fragrant spices, it’s served hot and enjoyed all over Europe. At the Christmas markets, you’ll usually pay a few dollars for a Christmas mug and then another few dollars for every refill. 

5. Nutcrackers

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Nutcrackers were said to bring good luck to families and protect their homes. Decorated so wonderfully, they were a whimsical addition and added talking point to a great feast. Nowadays, they’re used ornamentally on the Christmas table or hung on the Christmas tree.

6. Ceramics and homewares

Homewares make for a wonderful travel souvenir because it means you’ll be reminded of your trip in a beautiful and practical way when you return. Each European country has their own artisanal handicrafts, such as these traditional Hungarian ceramics. 

7. Hats

Stalls selling cosy woollen hats at Christmas markets will be hard to resist as the cold breeze freezes your ears. You can get all kinds of beanies made from different types of wool, and those with tails over the ears are particularly popular.

Read more: Food you must try at the German Christmas markets

8. Sweet and savoury pretzels

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Pretzels are the perfect pairing to a steaming hot glass of gluhwein – you’ll be doing a lot of walking at the markets, after all. As well as the traditional salt-covered pretzels, you’ll find all kinds of toppings on pretzels at the Christmas markets such as cheese and bacon, seeds, chocolate and sweet glazes. 

9. Puppets

Puppets are a popular item at the Christmas markets in Prague in particular, with puppeteering and puppet making being a proud artisan pursuit in the Czech Republic since the 18th century.

10. Nativity scene ornaments

The Europeans are the masters of nativity scenes and craft all kinds of ornaments, figurines, people and animals in every shape, size and material imaginable. The sheer number and variety of ornaments available means you can create any kind of scene you like, or just spend some time admiring the skill gone into making them.