10 Delicious Foods You Must Try at European Christmas Markets
One of the best parts of visiting European Christmas markets is the food.
Every market stall seems to offer something warm, sweet, or deliciously comforting. Between the scent of roasted nuts and the sound of sizzling sausages, it is nearly impossible to walk through a market without stopping for a snack.
Here are some of the foods we discovered (and sometimes ate more than once).
Glühwein
The classic drink of Christmas markets.
Glühwein is warm mulled wine spiced with cinnamon, cloves, and citrus. It is served in festive mugs unique to each market, which is why many travelers collect them.
My mom certainly did.
Bratwurst
One of the most popular foods in German Christmas markets.
Served inside a crusty bread roll with mustard, it is simple, filling, and perfect on a cold evening.
Roasted Chestnuts
Roasted chestnuts are a traditional winter treat sold from small stands across many European markets.
The smell alone feels like Christmas.
Potato Pancakes
Also called Reibekuchen in Germany.
These crispy potato pancakes are often served with applesauce or sour cream and are incredibly comforting in cold weather.
Pretzels
Soft, warm pretzels are easy to find throughout the markets.
Some are plain, while others are topped with cheese, seeds, or butter.
Raclette
One of the most delicious market foods.
Raclette is melted cheese scraped onto bread or potatoes. It is rich, warm, and unforgettable.
Candied Nuts
Roasted almonds and hazelnuts coated in sugar are sold in paper cones throughout the markets.
They smell incredible and make great snacks while walking.
Gingerbread (Lebkuchen)
Traditional German gingerbread cookies are often beautifully decorated and sold in heart shapes.
They also make wonderful edible souvenirs.
Chocolate
European Christmas markets are full of chocolate stands selling everything from handmade truffles to large chocolate bars.
My mom considered these essential purchases.
Hot Chocolate
Perfect for travelers who prefer something without alcohol.
Many markets offer rich, European-style hot chocolate topped with whipped cream.