Christmas is approaching — a time when the cities of Germany and Austria glow with the warm light of festive garlands, the air fills with the aromas of mulled wine, cinnamon and freshly baked treats, and famous Christmas markets open on historic squares.
We invite you to explore Europe’s most atmospheric Christmas cities: admire the festive illuminations, choose gifts for loved ones, discover local traditions, and spend Christmas and New Year in a true winter wonderland. For each destination, we have selected hotels for a comfortable and elegant stay.
Germany: Christmas Traditions
Germany gave Europe the tradition of Christmas markets. Dresden’s famous Striezelmarkt dates back to 1434. Today, Christmas markets are an integral part of festive culture, with wooden stalls, handcrafted goods, gingerbread, traditional treats and a special sense of anticipation and wonder.
Munich
Marienplatz: 20 November – 24 December 2026 (closed on 22 November).
Chinesischer Turm: 19 November – 23 December 2026.
Munich’s main Christmas market takes place on Marienplatz in front of the magnificent New Town Hall. In the English Garden, by the Chinese Tower, guests can enjoy a more intimate atmosphere of Bavarian Christmas.
Recommended Hotels in Munich
Düsseldorf
19 November – 30 December 2026. Closed on 22 November and 25 December. On 24 December, the market is open until 3:00 pm.
Düsseldorf’s historic centre becomes a festive town filled with cosy wooden stalls, original gifts and fragrant Christmas treats.
Recommended Hotel
Hamburg
Rathausmarkt: 23 November – 23 December 2026.
Harburg: 19 November – 28 December 2026.
The historic market in front of Hamburg City Hall is one of the most atmospheric in Germany. Artisan stalls, festive illuminations and the famous flying Santa Claus create a true Christmas spectacle.
Recommended Hotels in Hamburg
Hotel Atlantic Hamburg
A historic hotel with the character of a European grand hotel, located by Lake Alster. Ideal for those who appreciate classic luxury and traditional hospitality.
Berlin
Weihnachtsmarkt am Roten Rathaus: 23 November 2026 – 3 January 2027.
Historischer Weihnachtsmarkt auf dem RAW-Gelände: 12 November – 22 December 2026.
In Berlin, Christmas traditions meet the spirit of a modern metropolis, from the magical market at the Red Town Hall with its ice rink and Ferris wheel to historic bazaars with artisan workshops.
Recommended Hotels in Berlin
Hotel Bristol Berlin
A classic Berlin hotel on Kurfürstendamm, ideally placed for exploring the western part of the city, its festive shop windows and Christmas markets.
Hotel Zoo Berlin
A stylish designer boutique hotel with a distinctive character and the spirit of contemporary Berlin.
Frankfurt am Main
23 November – 22 December 2026.
Frankfurt’s Christmas market stretches from historic Römerberg through the festively decorated city centre. Traditional sweets, handcrafted goods and the aroma of hot apple wine create a distinctive atmosphere.
Recommended Hotels in Frankfurt
The Florentin by Althoff Collection
An elegant urban retreat for discerning travellers, combining contemporary comfort with the atmosphere of a private residence.
Cologne
Rudolfplatz: 16 November – 23 December 2026.
Santa's Weihnachtsmarkt, MediaPark: 19 November – 23 December 2026.
Cologne enchants visitors with cosy Christmas villages, sparkling lights and a festive atmosphere set against medieval architecture.
Recommended Hotel
Althoff Grandhotel Schloss Bensberg 5*
A luxurious castle hotel near Cologne, offering magnificent views, exceptional cuisine and the atmosphere of a historic aristocratic residence.
Austria: A Christmas Fairytale with Imperial Character
Austria’s Christmas markets have a special charm. Majestic palaces, Baroque squares, traditional music, Viennese sweets and festive illuminations create the atmosphere of a refined European winter. The history of Vienna’s Christmas markets dates back to the 13th century, and their traditions have been carefully preserved to this day.
Vienna
Stephansplatz: 6 November – 26 December 2026.
Schwarzenbergplatz: 13 November – 26 December 2026.
Freyung: 14 November – 23 December 2026.
Rathausplatz: 13 November – 26 December 2026.
Vienna becomes a true open-air Christmas theatre. Against the backdrop of the Gothic St Stephen’s Cathedral, historic squares and the majestic City Hall, festive markets unfold with refined gifts, traditional treats and a uniquely Viennese atmosphere.
Recommended Hotels in Vienna
Mandarin Oriental, Vienna 5*
The refined atmosphere of an international luxury brand, combining an Eastern philosophy of hospitality with Viennese elegance.
Salzburg
Mirabellplatz: 19 November – 31 December 2026.
Mozart’s hometown is especially beautiful during the Christmas season. A cosy market unfolds on the square in front of Mirabell Palace, offering local crafts, traditional pastries and fragrant punch.
Recommended Hotels in Salzburg
May this Christmas be truly warm, magical and unforgettable. Discover festive Germany and Austria, while Panorama Assistance Service helps you choose the ideal hotel and arrange a bespoke journey tailored to every preference.
Wishing you every success with your sales!
We look forward to receiving your requests at panorama@evropas.fr.
