Best 5 Things to Do Alone: European Christmas Markets

There’s something undeniably magical about Europe’s Christmas markets. Visiting them solo? That adds a whole new layer of charm. Picture this: sipping mulled wine under twinkling lights, wandering through cozy booths filled with handmade crafts, and indulging in holiday treats—all at your own pace. A solo trip to these festive markets is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit while creating unforgettable memories.

Traveling alone lets you embrace the magic without distractions. You can savor your favorite snacks (no sharing required!) and linger where the ambiance feels just right. Ready to plan your solo holiday adventure? Let’s dive into five must-have experiences at Europe’s Christmas markets.

Table of Contents

Best 5 Things to Do Alone: European Christmas Markets

Sip on Mulled Wine

Let’s start with a classic! Mulled wine is a staple of any Christmas market experience. The reusable mugs make it even more special—you’ll often pay a small deposit for the mug (like 4€) and get it back when you return it. However, you’ll need to go back to the same booth for refills, which is worth it for the warm, spiced goodness.

Pro tip: Learn the local lingo! Glühwein is German for mulled wine, while the French call it vin chaud.

Attend a Holiday Concert

One of my favorite moments happened at the Marienplatz Christmas market in Munich. I stumbled upon a holiday concert where the entire square stopped to watch a choir and instrumentalists perform carols in German. It was magical.

If I had done more research, I would have booked tickets to a performance of The Nutcracker or another traditional holiday experience. Keep an eye out for carolers and concerts—many are free and hosted by local choirs or student groups. Trust me, this experience is a 10/10!

Learn Local Holiday Traditions

Every Christmas market has its own local traditions, and discovering them was one of my favorite parts of the trip. If you have time, join a Sandeman’s free walking tour and ask your guide about the city’s holiday traditions.

For example, I learned that garden gnomes originated in Cologne (Köln), Germany. That’s why they were everywhere at the markets! I regret not buying a gnome ornament to take home.

Best Authentic Market Snacks

The food is arguably the best part of any Christmas market. Here’s a rundown of everything I tried:

Belgium: Waffles
Cologne: Beer & Apfelpfannkuchen (fried apple ring donut)
Munich: Tornado potatoes & Apfelstrudel mit Vanillesoße (apple strudel with vanilla cream sauce)
Salzburg: Obertrumer beer
Vienna: Brezelvielfalt (Bavarian pretzel) & Gulaschsuppe (beef goulash soup in a bread bowl!)

My favorite? The beef goulash in Vienna. It was a lifesaver while I was recovering from a terrible cold. Pro tip: Try everything! The markets are a foodie’s dream.

Shop for Unique Handmade Gifts

The gifts are so wonderful and unique at the Christmas markets! I wish I could have brought more back Christmas markets are the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind treasures. While I couldn’t bring back as much as I wanted, here’s what I did snag:

Belgium: Chocolates (my family wanted more—lesson learned!)
Cologne: A handmade wooden Yew hairclip for my mom (wish I’d bought more of these too).
Munich: A glass-blown German ornament that matched a set my grandmother owned (gifted to my sister).
Salzburg: Goat wool reindeer knee-high socks (another win for my sister).

Finding the perfect gifts became a fun treasure hunt, and I loved knowing each item had a story behind it. Check out my Christmas Market ornament post for more!

Final Thoughts

Traveling solo to Europe’s Christmas markets was a magical experience, and I hope this guide inspires your own winter adventure. Whether you’re sipping mulled wine, hunting for unique gifts, or soaking in local traditions, these markets are pure holiday magic.