The fascination of Christmas markets: short trips to the festive neighboring country!

The fascination of Christmas markets: short trips to the festive neighboring country!

Vienna may be famous for its own Christmas markets, but our neighboring countries have equally tempting Advent offers that are worth a short trip. During Advent, the cities blossom and offer a magical mix of festive atmosphere, culinary delights and colorful market activity. So if you're still looking for the perfect destination for a weekend trip, you should take a look beyond the borders.

Cathedral and Residenzplatz in Salzburgattracts with romantic flair and a comprehensive program. The market is open from November 20, 2025 to January 1, 2026. The opening times are practical for anyone who wants to stop by after work: Monday to Thursday from 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., on Friday until 9 p.m. and on weekends even from 9 a.m. There is not only mulled wine here, but also various delicacies that should definitely be tried. Getting there is easy, both by train via Deutschlandticket and by car.

The markets in the Czech Republic

If you're looking for more adventure, you should check out the Christmas marketStaroměstské náměstínot to be missed in Prague. It is open daily from November 29th to January 6th, 2025 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and can be reached by train from Munich or Regensburg. In the middle of the impressive old town, visitors can expect a festive atmosphere with traditional handicrafts.

The Christmas market is also worth a visitPilsen, which opens its doors from November 22nd to December 23rd, 2025. There is a wide range of culinary delicacies here every day from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Getting there is easy via direct train connections or by long-distance bus.

Fascination with Alsace and Switzerland

Another highlight are the Christmas marketsStrasbourgandColmar. In Strasbourg, which is considered the Christmas market capital, the market opens from November 27th to December 23rd, 2025. Here, visitors can expect not only a festive atmosphere, but also numerous light installations that transform the streets into a winter magic land. Access is possible both on foot and by car, although the Park & ​​Ride spaces are recommended here.

In Switzerland, however, the market is inBaselan attraction in itself. It is open from November 27th to December 23rd, 2025. Visitors can enjoy the festive atmosphere and taste the delights of Swiss cuisine. In the evening, Münsterplatz and Barfüsserplatz become the scene of Advent romance.

A detour toMuensteris also worth it. The Christmas market in the city center offers a variety of stalls and events. Here, in the town hall courtyard, you will find most of the attractions, such as a children's carousel and arts and crafts stalls. The opening traditionally takes place on the Monday after the Sunday of the Dead and the market is open until December 23, 2024. Getting there is easy thanks to the well-developed transport network.

For anyone who wants to experience the special Christmas feeling in a festive atmosphere, these markets are a wonderful opportunity to fully enjoy the anticipation of the festival. Whether with a glass of mulled wine or browsing through the colorful stalls – Christmas can be so beautiful.

If you are interested in further information and tips, Infranken offers interesting insights while [WN].