A Magical Christmas Market Journey Through Central Europe: Czech Republic, Austria & Hungary
Curated By
Anna Hahn
Curator’s statement
If you’ve ever dreamed of sipping mulled wine under twinkling lights, surrounded by carolers and centuries-old architecture, this is the trip for you. This eight-day itinerary takes you through three of Europe’s most magical Christmas destinations—Prague, Vienna, and Budapest—each offering its own charm, festive treats, and cozy traditions.
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Things to do in Central Europe
Prague
Top Christmas markets:
Old Town Square Christmas Market: The heart of Prague’s festivities. Expect a giant tree, live choirs, handmade ornaments, and Czech treats like trdelník (sweet chimney cake).
Wenceslas Square Market: Just a short stroll away, this market offers cozy wooden huts selling glassware, toys, and local food.
Prague Castle Market: A bit quieter but unforgettable, with stunning views of the city lights and a majestic castle backdrop.
Things to do beyond the markets:
Take a river cruise on the Vltava—most offer mulled wine and Christmas treats onboard.
Visit the Lennon Wall for a dose of color and peace in the winter chill.
Vienna
Top Christmas markets:
Rathausplatz (Vienna Christmas Dream): Vienna’s most famous market, set in front of City Hall with over 150 stalls, an ice rink, and dazzling light displays.
Belvedere Palace Market: Elegant and romantic, with artisanal gifts and a palace backdrop straight out of a fairytale.
Spittelberg Market: Smaller and tucked into narrow streets, perfect for handcrafted goods and a local vibe.
Things to do beyond the markets:
Visit Schönbrunn Palace for imperial Christmas charm and gorgeous gardens.
Catch a holiday concert—from classical symphonies to choir performances, Vienna is alive with music.
Budapest
Top Christmas markets:
Vörösmarty Square Market: The main hub of Budapest’s Christmas cheer, featuring wooden stalls, folk music, and a massive tree.
St. Stephen’s Basilica Christmas Market: Famous for its 3D light shows projected on the basilica and a skating rink for kids.
Things to do beyond the markets:
Relax in Széchenyi Thermal Baths—especially magical with steam rising into the winter air.
Take a nighttime Danube cruise for spectacular views of the Parliament and Buda Castle lit up for the holidays.
Places to eat & drink in Central Europe
Prague
Café Savoy: A charming café with Belle Époque decor, perfect for morning coffee and pastries.
T-Anker Rooftop Bar: For views of the Old Town rooftops and festive city lights while sipping a local Czech beer.
Vienna
Café Central: A Viennese institution—sip melange coffee where Freud and Trotsky once did.
Zum Schwarzen Kameel: Great for festive aperitifs and open-faced sandwiches.
Budapest
New York Café: Often called the most beautiful café in the world—perfect for a cozy hot chocolate.
Raqpart Bar: Overlooking the Danube, it’s a local favorite for winter cocktails and riverside views.
Need to know
Local flavors & traditions
Prague: Try svařené víno (Czech mulled wine) and vanilkové rohlíčky (vanilla crescent cookies). The city’s nativity scenes and public Advent concerts in churches add a local touch to the Christmas magic.
Vienna: Warm up with glühwein (mulled wine), kaiserschmarrn (fluffy shredded pancakes), or Sachertorte (rich chocolate cake). Don’t miss the city’s ornate holiday lights along the Graben and Kärntner Strasse.
Budapest: Indulge in forralt bor (Hungarian mulled wine) and chimney cake, and try a hearty goulash stew to stay warm. The city’s trams are wrapped in twinkling lights—a must-see photo op!
Other tips for the trip
Best time to go: Late November to Christmas Eve (markets usually open mid-November and close around Dec 24–26).
Currency: CZK (Czech koruna, Prague), EUR (Euro, Vienna), HUF (Hungarian forint, Budapest).
Getting around: Trains between cities are scenic, comfortable, and budget-friendly—book early for the best rates.
Pro tip: Bring cash for market stalls, as not all accept cards.
Travel Advisor
Anna Hahn
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