Common Questions

Most European Christmas markets open in late November — usually the last Friday before Advent — and close on 24 December or shortly after. Some, like Strasbourg's, run to 27 December; a few, such as Vienna's Schönbrunn market, continue into early January. Every market publishes its own dates, and they shift slightly each season, so always confirm on the official city website before booking travel.

A mulled wine costs roughly €3.50 to €6 depending on the city, a bratwurst or similar snack €4 to €8, and a mug deposit €3 to €5 on top of the first drink. A comfortable evening of two drinks and two snacks runs about €20 to €30 per person in Germany or Austria, and a little less in Prague, Budapest or Kraków. Markets themselves are free to enter; the exception is Copenhagen's Tivoli, which charges admission.

Small stalls in Germany, Austria and central Europe still prefer cash, and many are cash-only. Bring small denominations in the local currency. Bigger markets and cities such as Copenhagen are increasingly card-friendly, but a wad of small notes is never a mistake at a Christmas market.

The Pfand (deposit) on mulled wine and punch mugs is a few euros added to the price of the drink. Return the mug to the stand that issued it and you get the money back, or keep it as a souvenir — mugs are designed per city and year. Some stands accept any mug back, but the safest rule is to return it where you bought it.

Very. Children's markets, carousels, puppet shows and non-alcoholic Kinderpunsch are standard at most German and Austrian markets. Nuremberg's Kinderweihnacht and Vienna's markets are especially good. Pushchairs work on the main squares but struggle in narrow lanes, so plan the wide routes and pick a meeting point near the tree or fountain.

Most markets close early on 24 December — often by noon or 2pm — because the stalls' owners have their own dinners to cook. Many are fully closed on 25 and 26 December, and a few stay closed for the whole holiday. Check the official opening hours for the specific market; the final days change every year.

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In most cases yes, and at outdoor markets dogs are common. The practical constraints are crowds, cobbles and the fact that many warm-up spots inside museums and churches do not allow dogs. Some markets set their own rules, so check the official site if a dog is coming along.