Tradition and winter magic among the mountains
The Christmas market, a true tradition in the Alps. Nowadays, you can find them in almost all major cities in the Alps, and smaller towns are also keen to participate. They reappear in November and usually last until around 22 December. All kinds of things are sold, but most of the products come from the region. Meat products, cheese, homemade Christmas decorations, wooden toys, delicious-smelling herbs and, of course, stalls selling mulled wine. Christmas markets are all about the atmosphere: Christmas trees, lights, nativity scenes and getting together in the cold and dark days before Christmas. However, this has not always been the case. The first Christmas markets probably arose out of necessity, rather than for the atmosphere.
Where do Christmas markets come from?
Christmas markets originated in Germany. According to sources, the first market was held in the town of Bautzen in December 1384. In winter, it was difficult to transport goods to other places to sell them. For this reason, a local market was organised where butchers could sell their meat. At that time, there was no such thing as a Christmas market as we know it today.
In Dresden, too, a precursor to the Christmas market was held as early as 1443. That too would have looked very different from today. It is not entirely clear when they became associated with Christmas and when Christmas trees and decorations began to be sold.
Christmas markets have even been used to spread political views among the people. The Nazis used Christmas markets to spread their ideas, but the Marxists and the Communist Party in East Berlin also tried to make their mark on the Christmas market. Fortunately, it is now once again a cosy market where everyone can sell their homemade and/or regional products and enjoy traditional refreshments.
Where can you find the most beautiful Christmas markets?
Christmas markets are now widespread and can be found in all Alpine countries, where they are part of the tradition. Especially for our Bergundbahn readers, we have listed a few beautiful Christmas markets for each Alpine country.
Germany:
Munich, Christkindlmarkt on Marienplatz
One of Germany's oldest and most famous Christmas markets. The smell of roasted almonds, bratwurst and mulled wine fills the air, while the large Christmas tree on the square sparkles. From the city, you can also take a trip to smaller markets in Bavaria, for example in Garmisch-Partenkirchen.
Oberstdorf, Bergweihnacht
Every year, the charming Alpine village of Oberstdorf hosts Bergweihnacht, one of the most atmospheric Christmas markets in southern Germany. Surrounded by snow-capped mountain peaks and wooden chalets, the village looks like something out of a Christmas card. The market is small-scale and authentic: local artisans sell hand-carved figures, wool products and delicacies such as Käsespätzle and warm Apfelstrudel. In the evening, torches and lanterns provide a magical glow in the winter cold.
Austria:
Innsbruck, Altstadt Christkindlmarkt
Between the mountains and the medieval facades of the old town, you will find one of the most atmospheric Christmas markets in the Alps. With views of the Golden Roof, local delicacies and Tyrolean music, this is pure Christmas magic.
Salzburg, Christkindlmarkt at the Cathedral
With the Cathedral as its backdrop, this market exudes an almost fairy-tale atmosphere. Here you can taste Mozartkugeln, drink warm punch and hear angelic choir songs echoing through the city.
Switzerland:
Zurich, Christkindlimarkt in the Hauptbahnhof
One of the largest indoor Christmas markets in Europe, with an immense Swarovski Christmas tree and dozens of stalls full of Swiss delicacies and handicrafts.
Montreux, Marché de Noël
This romantic Christmas market is located on the shores of Lake Geneva, complete with lights, chalets and even a visit from Santa Claus.
Liechtenstein:
Vaduz, Liechtensteiner Weihnachtsmarkt
Small but very charming. The market takes place at the foot of Vaduz Castle and offers regional products, music and a warm, friendly atmosphere.
France:
Annecy, Marché de Noël
Between the canals and snow-capped mountains, Annecy in December looks like something straight out of a Christmas card. The wooden chalets in the old town sell Savoyard delicacies, wines and handicrafts.
Chamonix, Marché de Noël
In the shadow of Mont Blanc lies one of the most atmospheric Christmas markets in the French Alps. The chalets in the centre sell regional specialities such as cheese, honey and charcuterie, and in the evening the snow-covered peaks glow golden in the light of the fairy lights.
Italy:
Bolzano, Mercatino di Natale
The most famous Christmas market in South Tyrol, with a perfect mix of Austrian and Italian atmosphere. The stalls offer handicrafts, wooden toys and local delicacies such as bacon and strudel.
Trento, Mercatino di Natale di Trento
Piazza Fiera is home to dozens of chalets selling regional specialities and handicrafts. The city exudes warmth, with lights and Christmas concerts everywhere.
Slovenia:
Bled, Winter Fairytale
Overlooking the fairytale lake and the illuminated castle, this is one of the most romantic Christmas markets in the Alps. Especially in the evening, when everything is reflected in the water, it is pure magic.
Christmas markets are a cosy tradition and there are many more than we have mentioned here. For a less crowded experience, it is better to choose markets in smaller towns, where they also know how to create atmosphere and offer local products. During the day, it is often less crowded, as many people prefer to visit the market in the evening. So if you want to avoid the crowds, it is a good idea to go during the day.
We hope you enjoy the Christmas market!
