Christmas Market Tour: Paris to Prague via Reims, Budapest & Vienna

Epic Christmas Market Trip – Paris, Reims, Budapest, Bratislava, Vienna, Prague, Heidelberg, Michaelstadt – over 3,000 miles across Europe on a trek for Christmas cheer at European markets!

We’re excited to share highlights from one of our favorite Christmas market journeys, taken in 2017. With many markets closed in recent seasons, these photos and memories remind us of the festive experiences waiting when travel is safe again. We still cherish every moment of this trip.

Covering more than 3,000 miles across Western and Eastern Europe, this Epic Christmas Market Trip begins and ends in Paris and includes stops in Reims, Budapest, Bratislava, Vienna, Prague, Heidelberg, and Michaelstadt. It’s a joyful tour of historic squares, sparkling lights, and unforgettable holiday flavors.

Watch a short video of some favorite moments from the trip: [mv_video aspectRatio=”16:9″ key=”pdeot6bzhqv0vkz8yvou”]

See a short food-focused video from the markets here: [mv_video aspectRatio=”16:9″ key=”yvfio6ywzllfihnprbj5″]

The Reims Christmas market sits beneath the soaring Notre-Dame cathedral and blends French and Alsatian traditions. Expect classic Christkindl market stalls alongside Champagne tents and regional specialties that highlight Reims’s role in France’s Champagne region.

Cheesemonger Stands – Local and regional French cheeses are abundant. Sampling fromage while you stroll is a highlight for cheese lovers.

Champagne tents – Numerous Champagne tasting stands and even a dedicated Champagne bar make Reims special. It’s the perfect place to sip local bubbly.

Foie gras – As with many French markets, foie gras is available for sampling or to take home for a classic French meal alongside cheese and wine.

Buda and Pest, divided by the Danube, combine history and a vibrant contemporary scene. Budapest is known for great coffee, inventive and traditional food, and lively markets. The two main holiday markets are at the Basilica and the main city square near the pedestrian mall.

Budapest was our favorite city on the route; two days felt far too short. If you can, plan extra time to explore.

Chimney Cakes (Kürtőskalács) – A Hungarian specialty, this sweet dough roasted on a spit and coated in caramelized sugar is a must-try and one of the best market treats.

If you want to make them at home, check out the Chimney Cake recipe on the site.

We stayed in a comfortable apartment near the main market and pedestrian mall, which made exploring easy and convenient.

Bratislava charmed us with its winding cobblestone streets, pastel facades, carved wooden doors, and intimate courtyards. We only had an afternoon and evening, but the town felt like a place you could happily spend weeks exploring.

The Christmas market served some of the best food on the trip. Bratislava draws winter tourists—often from river cruises—so it’s lively but still less tourist-saturated than larger cities.

English is less common here, so have euros ready and a few coins for public restrooms. Basic gestures, a little German, or friendly patience help when communicating.

Try the deep-fried spiral potatoes on a stick—soft and potato-forward rather than crisp, they’re a tasty market snack.

Vienna hosts several large markets: near the museums, at the palace, and the prominent market in front of the Rathaus City Hall. The Rathaus market is lively with lights, rides, food stalls, and an ice skating rink that winds through the market—an especially memorable feature.

Chestnut soup – A rich, slightly sweet soup with earthy notes, similar to mushroom or pumpkin soups in texture and flavor.

Sausages and potato cakes – Austrian sausages and fried potato cakes are market staples. Don’t miss the savory potato cakes topped with garlic or lard, or the excellent sausages served hot.

We stayed in an Airbnb close to the Rathaus square with high ceilings, a full kitchen, and a washing machine—comfortable and practical for a festive stay.

Getting around – Uber is affordable and trams are efficient in Vienna. Traffic can slow travel near the markets and at rush hour, so trams often save time. Weekend parking near the Rathaus can be free but limited; check with your host or hotel for parking advice.

Prague 1, the Old Town area, is lively, safe, and full of cafés, shops, and historic sites. Staying here keeps you close to the Astronomical Clock, castle views, and the town center’s bustle. We stayed in a charming Airbnb within walking distance of top attractions and family-friendly amenities.

Prague’s market offers a wide range of foods: chimney cakes, langos, hearty potato and stew dishes, smoked cheeses from nearby countries, and even higher-end items like caviar and escargot at select stalls.

Don’t miss a bubble waffle while in Prague—served with ice cream in warm weather or whipped cream when it’s cold.

Heidelberg is one of our favorite towns—its architecture mixes German tudor style with French influence. It feels historic, romantic, and full of charm. I have family nearby, which makes visits extra special.

For detailed suggestions on Heidelberg, check the dedicated posts about visiting Heidelberg and the castle on the site.

We like staying in the nearby town of Weinheim for a calm base. The Ulner Kapelle, a converted historic chapel with boutique rooms, is one of our favorite charming accommodations.

Bratwurst and frankfurters – Classic German sausages are a market staple and a must-try.

Glühwein – Warm spiced wine (and non-alcoholic kinderpunsch) are the perfect way to stay cozy while wandering market stalls.

Gingerbread and baked goods – German bakeries deliver exceptional breads, cookies, and cakes; sample fresh-baked treats at the markets.

Michaelstadt, tucked in the Odenwald Forest, is a picture-perfect town of cobblestone streets and timber-framed buildings. Its Christmas market spreads throughout the old town and creates an enchanting small-town holiday atmosphere.

Deep-fried spiral potatoes topped with garlic and parmesan, paprika, or mustard are a delicious market treat in Michaelstadt. Also try schnitzel and spaetzle at local favorites like the town bräu for hearty regional cuisine.

Paris offers multiple markets; our favorite was a cozy market in the Saint-Germain neighborhood. Beyond markets, Paris during the holidays is magical: twinkling lights along Haussmann streets, festive store windows, and elegant displays inside cathedrals and department stores.

• Le Petit Chalet – A cozy neighborhood spot near Shakespeare and Company and the Saint-Germain cafés.
• Macarons – Iconic French macarons are everywhere. Laudrée is famous, but you’ll find excellent macarons at many patisseries; consider enjoying them at a bar or taking a pretty box to go.
• Maille mustard – For mustard lovers, artisan stores offer tastings and unique products to bring home.

Saint-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil – A slightly chilled cabernet franc blend that pairs well with festive treats.

Hot cocoa – French hot chocolate is rich and indulgent, perfect for cozying up in the city of light.

Vin chaud – Classic French mulled wine; there’s a homemade recipe on the site if you want to recreate it at home.

We stayed at Hotel Wilson Opera, a short walk from the Paris Opera and within easy reach of the Louvre, Notre-Dame, Arc de Triomphe, and Haussmann streets. For more lively neighborhood options, consider Saint-Germain, Notre-Dame, or the Latin Quarter for excellent food and nightlife.