Visiting Christmas markets is a magical experience full of festive decorations, delicious food, and holiday cheer. However, there are a few common mistakes that can detract from your enjoyment if you’re not prepared.
Christmas markets are an enchanting way to celebrate the holiday season, offering a mix of traditional food, beautiful crafts, and festive ambiance. By avoiding these common mistakes—such as underdressing, not bringing cash.
Here’s a guide to help you avoid those pitfalls and make the most of your visit to Christmas markets around the world.
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Mistakes To Avoid When Visiting Christmas Market
1. Not Dressing Appropriately for the Weather
Mistake: Many Christmas markets are held outdoors, often in cold or even snowy conditions. Underestimating the weather and not dressing warmly enough can leave you feeling uncomfortable and cut your visit short.
How to Avoid It:
Dress in layers to stay warm and comfortable. Opt for thermals, scarves, gloves, hats, and a warm coat.
Wear comfortable, insulated shoes as you’ll be walking and standing for long periods.
Consider bringing a small backpack for an extra layer or to store any items you pick up.
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2. Going at the Busiest Time
Mistake: Visiting the market during peak hours, especially on weekends or evenings, can lead to large crowds, long lines, and a more hectic experience.
How to Avoid It:
If possible, visit the market during weekday mornings or early afternoons when it’s less crowded.
Avoid visiting in the last few days before Christmas when markets are at their busiest.
If you do visit in the evening, plan to go early in the evening to avoid the late-night rush.
3. Not Bringing Cash
Mistake: Many Christmas market stalls, especially smaller vendors, may not accept credit or debit cards. Not having cash can limit your options for food, drinks, or souvenirs.
How to Avoid It:
Bring local currency in cash, as many vendors prefer or only accept cash payments.
Don’t carry large sums, but have enough for small purchases like food, drinks, and small gifts.
Some markets may have ATMs, but they can be expensive to use due to fees or long queues.
4. Not Trying the Local Food and Drinks
Mistake: Skipping the traditional food and drinks is a big mistake, as Christmas markets are known for their festive treats, such as glühwein (mulled wine), sausages, gingerbread, and other local specialties.
How to Avoid It:
Be adventurous and try local specialties. Each country or region has unique Christmas market foods (e.g., Bratwurst in Germany, Trdelník in Prague, or Raclette in Switzerland).
Warm up with a cup of mulled wine or hot chocolate to enhance the experience.
Take time to explore food stalls before choosing what to eat, and consider sharing dishes with friends so you can try more options.
5. Not Exploring Beyond the Main Markets
Mistake: Sticking only to the main or most famous Christmas markets in large cities can cause you to miss out on smaller, charming markets with fewer crowds and more local flavor.
How to Avoid It:
Research and visit smaller, lesser-known markets in nearby towns or different neighborhoods for a more authentic experience.
If visiting a big city like Vienna or Berlin, check out the smaller, local Christmas markets outside of the tourist zones for unique items and a more relaxed atmosphere.
In smaller towns, markets can have more artisan crafts and local products that make great, unique souvenirs.
6. Overpacking Your Day
Mistake: Trying to fit too many activities into one day can make your market visit feel rushed and stressful. Christmas markets are best enjoyed at a slow, leisurely pace.
How to Avoid It:
Plan to spend a few hours at the market so you can explore at a relaxed pace, enjoy the atmosphere, and sample food and drinks without rushing.
Avoid scheduling too many other activities on the same day, allowing yourself enough time to soak in the festive atmosphere.
Some larger markets, like Strasbourg or Munich, are spread out across different locations, so plan your route and leave time to wander.
7. Not Being Aware of Your Belongings
Mistake: Crowded Christmas markets are a target for pickpockets, especially in larger cities. Being too relaxed about your personal belongings can make you an easy target.
How to Avoid It:
Keep your valuables in secure places, such as an inside pocket or a money belt. Avoid placing wallets or phones in easily accessible pockets.
Use a crossbody bag or secure backpack and keep it in front of you when walking through crowded areas.
Stay alert in crowded areas, especially near busy stalls or entertainment areas.
8. Not Checking Market Schedules
Mistake: Assuming that Christmas markets are open all day, every day, can lead to disappointment if you arrive when the market is closed or on a day it isn’t operating.
How to Avoid It:
Check the opening times and dates of the Christmas markets you plan to visit. Many markets have limited hours during weekdays or close earlier than you might expect.
Be aware that some markets close before Christmas Day, while others may stay open until New Year’s Eve.
Double-check holiday schedules, as some markets may have special hours for holidays like Christmas Eve or Boxing Day.
9. Overpaying for Souvenirs
Mistake: While Christmas markets offer unique and beautiful items, some may be overpriced or mass-produced, especially in tourist-heavy areas.
How to Avoid It:
Browse several stalls before making purchases to compare prices and ensure you’re getting good value for money.
Look for locally made, artisan items rather than mass-produced souvenirs. Handcrafted ornaments, local food products, and unique gifts make for better souvenirs.
Avoid buying items too quickly—take time to explore the market fully before committing to a purchase.
10. Forgetting to Bring a Reusable Mug
Mistake: Most Christmas markets offer mulled wine or hot drinks in festive mugs, and many charge a deposit for the mug. If you don’t plan to keep the mug as a souvenir, you’ll need to return it for a refund.
How to Avoid It:
Bring a reusable cup or mug to avoid extra costs and reduce waste, especially if you plan on sampling multiple drinks.
If you want to keep the market’s mug as a souvenir, understand that the price of your drink often includes a small deposit (usually €2-€5), which you don’t get back if you keep the mug.
11. Not Planning for Public Transport
Mistake: Failing to plan your transport to and from the Christmas market can leave you dealing with crowded buses, long waits, or expensive taxi fares.
How to Avoid It:
Research the public transport options near the market and check the schedule, especially if you’re visiting in the evening when services may be limited.
Consider using a ride-sharing service or walking from your accommodation if possible.
If you’re driving, be aware that parking near Christmas markets can be difficult to find and expensive. Use park-and-ride options where available.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.