Cities in 2023 with the best European Christmas Markets for teenagers

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Christmas Markets in Europe are a dream travel destination for many parents. They conjure a winter wonderland ideal that hits straight to the heart of anyone with even a hint of wanting to visit.

Some are centuries old, and some are new and innovative, but where are the very best European Christmas markets for teenagers?

Table Of Contents
  1. What are Christmas Markets?
  2. When are Christmas Markets held?
  3. The best Christmas Markets in Europe for teenagers
  4. Freiburg Germany
  5. Strasbourg, France
  6. Christmas Markets in Europe for families with teenagers – Paris, France
  7. Warsaw, Poland – teen friendly Christmas Markets in Europe
  8. Lisbon, Portugal
  9. Best Christmas Markets in Europe for teens -Tallinn, Estonia
  10. Winter Wonders – London, England
  11. Krakow, Poland
  12. Prague, Czech Republic
  13. Munich, Germany
  14. Berlin Germany
  15. Ravennaschlucht Christmas Market
  16. Why did we choose these European Christmas Markets for teenagers
  17. Frequently asked questions about European Christmas Markets with teenagers
  18. Top tips for your European Christmas Markets for teenagers vacation

Some of the most popular European Christmas markets with teenagers can take you to countries like Germany, The Czech Republic and France. These countries know exactly how to celebrate Christmas and know how to hold a successful market.

A young female adult looking at colourful ornaments displayed in a wooden stall at one of the best European Christmas Markets for teenagers
European Christmas Markets for young travellers and teenagers

What are Christmas Markets?

European Christmas Markets are usually held in a town or city’s largest square. They usually consist of many small wooden stalls that sell anything from souvenirs to delicious food and drinks.

Many will also have a small stage with performances from locals during the day and at night for the visitors and locals to enjoy.

It is a very family-orientated mood in most of the European Christmas Markets and you will find small rides for the younger kids that are at the markets with their families. The area around the market is normally decorated with twinkle lights or has a lights display as well.

They are a very popular European experience for families in the winter months, but more countries are starting to jump on board, with any places that celebrate Christmas in winter having their own take on them.

While they try, there is nothing that beats the unique and original European Christmas Market experience with teenagers.

When are Christmas Markets held?

While many might find this a silly question to ask about European Christmas Markets for teenagers it is actually one that is asked very often.

Some of the larger markets start being set up in the last weeks of November to kick off at the start of December or the week prior.

Many Christmas Markets in Europe will finish before Christmas Day giving the stallholders time to celebrate the festive season with their own families. On the other hand, there are some that will continue into early January.

So it is wise to plan your trip to the Christmas Markets in Europe with teenagers as early as possible to avoid disappointment.

The best Christmas Markets in Europe for teenagers

There are so many wonderful European Christmas Markets for teenagers that will give you a wonderful experience. These are just a few of the ones we can recommend for your European Christmas Market experience with teens.

Freiburg Germany

Most of the larger part of the Christmas Market in Freiburg (Weihnachtsmarkt Freiburg) is located around the Munster in the heart of the city. You will find so many wonderful stalls here and lots of amazing things to eat.

A young teenage girl looking at Christmas gifts at a market in Europe
European Christmas Markets with shopping and fun for teens

Gluhwein will keep you warm as you wander and if you want to you can branch out into the surrounding streets where the stalls continue.

Freiburg Christmas Market traditionally starts in the last week of November and finishes just before Christmas Day. You can visit the Freiburg Christmas Market from 10 am to 8.30 pm Monday to Saturday and 11.30 am until 7.30 on Sunday.

Main area the Freiburg Christmas Market is held

You will find that nearly every small square outside of the large Munster Square will have an area where you can stand around tables and eat or have a drink.

There are some that will also have small amusement rides for children at the Christmas Market.

stalls at the Freiburg Christmas market in Germany
Freiburg Christmas market

Kinder-Gluhwien is a non-alcoholic mulled wine or punch for children and while I love Gluhwein my daughters did not take to Kinder-Gluhwein at all! They did love holding it though to stay warm

You will need approximately 2 hours to wander the Freiburg Christmas Market with kids and also enjoy some things to eat. You may find that there are not many places to sit down to eat or drink.

If you are driving in Freiburg Germany you may find you have to park and walk to the Market.

Book a place to stay on your trip to Freiburg

In Freiburg, you will find charming hotels nestled within the heart of the historic city to cozy apartments that offer a home away from home. Book early to avoid missing out.

Tips for visiting the Freiburg Christmas Market with teens:

There are a few FAQs that we can help with when you visit the Freiburg Christmas Market with teenagers.

  • Entry to the Freiburg Christmas Market is free
  • Watch out for the Bachle. It is a small, open drain that runs through some areas of the city
  • You can visit from noon onwards
  • There are also activities you can take part in like candle-making, baking and a gemstone treasure hunt
  • Find the Kartoffelmarkt if you love cheese and sample some Raclette

Expert advice: Do I need an anti-theft bag in Europe?

Strasbourg, France

One of the most famous European Christmas Markets, Strasbourg France is stunning in any season but Christmas time is when it shines.

Must-visit Christmas Markets in Europe for teenagers include Strasbourg

Known as the Christkindelsmärik this is one of the top European Christmas markets for families and is definitely the Capitale de Noel…the Capital of Christmas!

You can start anywhere in the city to pick up a Christmas vibe and wander every street for hours seeing and tasting everything this gorgeous area in the Alsace region of France has to offer.

You will find the Strasbourg Christmas Market starts on the last week of November and finishes on Christmas Eve. You can visit the Strasbourg Market from approximately 10 a.m. until 8 p.m.

The main area where Strasbourg Christmas Market is held

You’ll find the Strasbourg Christmas Market snakes its way through many of the smaller streets but many of the wooden stalls are placed around the stunning Strasbourg Cathedral.

Look out for the Giant Christmas Tree, as well as some of the themed decorations, dotted around the square.

Enchanting Strasbourg Christmas collaboration
Older teens and young children enjoying Strasbourg Christmas Market

You can easily spend 1-1.5 hours wandering the Strasbourg Market with teenagers but it also may be a good idea to visit some of the Strasbourg top attractions while you are there to break up the trip.

The Palais Rohan, The Strasbourg Cathedral, Le Petite France and a visit to the Ponts Couverts will easily extend your time in Strasbourg.

Towns surrounding Strasbourg with Christmas Markets:

Strasbourg is a part of the Alsace Region which is world-famous for its Christmas Markets. If you are looking for some smaller towns to visit European Christmas Markets with teenagers then some of the surrounding towns are perfect.

  • Eguisheim
  • Riquewihr (Riquewihr also has an amazing Christmas Shop)
  • Kaysersburg
  • Mulhouse
  • Colmar

Looking for accommodation in Strasbourg

As you can imagine, Strasbourg with teens gets busy around Christmastime. Make sure you book your hotels and apartments early so as not to miss out.

Tips for visiting the Strasbourg Christmas Market with teens:

Strasbourg is one of the most popular European Christmas Markets for teenagers and travellers from all over the world.

  • Entry to the Strasbourg Christmas Market with teenagers is free
  • Strasbourg as a whole gets extremely busy during Christmas Market time
  • Mulled wine in France is called Vin Chaud. You can try the red and white variety
  • Some stalls will ask for a small deposit on the cups Vin Chaud is served in and will return it when the cup is returned
  • The Strasbourg Tourist Information Center is in the Square where the market is and they have a great selection of maps as well as a Strasbourg Pass that can easily get you into the city’s attractions at a discounted price

See more of the Alsace: All the best things to do in the Alsace

Christmas Markets in Europe for families with teenagersParis, France

Paris is a city that people either love or hate but add in a Christmas Market and people seem to love it just a little more. The Marchés de Noël are dotted throughout the city with around 15-20 to choose from.

You will find some of the big tourist locations in Paris have their own Christmas Markets for families like Sacre Coeur, held in Place des Abbesses, The Tuileries Gardens and Hotel De Ville to name a few.

The Paris Christmas Market typically starts 4 Sundays before Christmas taking in the complete Advent season.

As there are so many Christmas Markets in Paris you will find some are only pop-ups that are open for only days to some that extend their opening times into early January.

scenes from a christmas market in Paris
Paris is one of the best teen-friendly Christmas markets in Europe

The main area where the Paris Christmas Market is held

The Christmas Market at La Defence, the La Défense Marché de Noël is the largest held in the Paris area but you can find more at the Eiffel Tower and Gare de l’Est which is an Alsatian-inspired market.

You will find there are not many places to sit and eat when you visit the Paris Christmas Markets. You may find that wandering and eating are difficult. Public transport in Paris is the best way to get to the markets as parking and driving in Paris can be difficult.

Other areas in Paris for Christmas Markets:

If you have time you may want to visit as many areas in Paris with Christmas Markets with teens as you can. Here are some other areas in Paris that have Christmas Markets

christmas sttall in the Tileries gardens in Paris
Top European destinations for Christmas markets with teenagers include Paris
  • Square Viviani (Near Notre-Dame)
  • Saint-Germain-des-Prés
  • Quai Branly (Near the Eiffel Tower)
  • Tuileries Gardens

Looking for somewhere to stay in Paris

Paris has a huge variety of accommodation options for families, from budget hotels to fancy apartments with all the facilities to 5-star accommodation in the best locations.

Tips for visiting the Paris Christmas Market with teens:

There are a few FAQs that we can help with when you visit the Paris Christmas Market with teenagers

  • Try the roasted Chestnuts in Paris with teens
  • Paris is a large city, so know how to get to your Christmas Market with teenagers before you go to save time
  • You can easily tick off some of the top Paris attractions while visiting the Paris Christmas Markets

See more of France: 13 best day trips from Paris

Warsaw, Poland – teen friendly Christmas Markets in Europe

Poland is an emerging travel destination in Europe and a great place to visit with families. Warsaw has one of the best European Christmas Markets for teenagers, especially for variety.

Part of the impressive Christmas lights display in Warsaw
The Christmas lights in Warsaw are truly special.

Not only do they have the traditional market in the Warsaw Old Town the city is thoroughly decorated with light displays. You will find things like buses, peacocks, angels and the usual Santas Village along the Royal Route. The gigantic Christmas Tree in front of the Royal Palace cannot be missed.

Warsaw Christmas Market is one of the only Christmas Markets in Europe for teenagers that extends until January taking in Sylvester which is the Polish name for New Year’s Eve.

While you may see some stalls opening in the last week of November they typically don’t open fully until the first week of December. Opening times are 11 am to 8 pm, and the markets close at 9:30 pm on Fridays and Saturdays.

Main area, the Warsaw Christmas Market is held

You can walk through the Warsaw Old Town, starting at Castle Square, which holds the magnificent giant Christmas Tree.

In a sqaure of the old town market stalls and ice skating rink in warsaw
Evening at Old Town Square with Christmas Market and ice rink in the city of Warsaw

In the Old Town, you will find the smaller squares have places to sit and eat as well as an Ice Skating rink. The small market at St Anne’s just up from Sigismund’s Colum has some great food.

You can easily spend an afternoon wandering the Warsaw Old Town and taking in the sites of the area. If you want to get the best of the lights that brighten the city you are best to start just after dark.

Book accommodation in Warsaw

Don’t miss out on securing your ideal stay for an unforgettable experience in Warsaw. You will find a large range of accommodation options for families, including hotels and apartments

An African American teenager in Lisbon
Lisbon is a fun and festive European Christmas market for young travellers

Tips for visiting the Warsaw Christmas Market with teens:

Warsaw with teens is a great city to visit in winter and you will find plenty of extra things to do in Warsaw on your European Christmas Market for teens holiday.

  • If you can get to Wilanow Palace, there is another light display out there that is beautiful
  • Stop for a hot chocolate at E Wedels to warm up
  • In the Old Town, you will find the most market stalls, and some even sell shots of Polish Vodka
  • You can also try Grzane Piwo, mulled beer!
  • If you are going through the day, climb to the top of St Anne’s Bell Tower and get a great overview of Castle Square and the Warsaw Christmas Tree

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Lisbon, Portugal

If you prefer a little bit of a warmer place for a Christmas Market then Lisbon is a beautiful city to visit. Lisbon is known as the city of 7 hills but it is also blessed with nearly 300 days of sunshine per year, making it a great destination in Lisbon with teens for European Christmas Markets.

While it is not one of the biggest cities in the world for Christmas Markets with teens the weather that Lisbon experiences is not to be dismissed.

You may also find that many of the Churches are holding Mass at Midnight during the festive season. If you like, you can take in a Mass, but please be mindful of the people there to worship.

The main area the Lisbon Chrismas Market is held:

The main area of the Lisbon Christmas Market is held in Rossio Square. We found child-friendly Christmas Markets in some of the smaller squares in the residential areas away from the big tourist sites in Lisbon.

a collage of pictures from christmas time in Lisbon Portugal
Families will enjoy the Festive Holidays in Lisbon

You can easily see the market in Rossio Square in under an hour if you have seen a few. You may want to extend your family travel time in Lisbon and spend some time in Sintra or take an afternoon day trip to Evora to experience the Christmas time market there.

Other areas in Lisbon for Christmas Markets during the holiday season:

There are some other areas in Lisbon for you to visit to experience more of the best European Christmas Markets for teenagers.

  • Wonderland Lisboa
  • Campo Pequeno

Book your stay in Lisbon

Create unforgettable holiday memories! Book your family-friendly Christmas getaway in Lisbon, where festive charm and teen-friendly adventures await. Stay in a fully self-contained apartment with cooking and washing facilities.

Tips for visiting the Lisbon Christmas Market with teens:

You may not need to rug up as much in Lisbon while visiting in the winter but there are a few things you should know about the Lisbon Christmas Markets.

  • A visit to Praça do Comércio to see the Christmas Tree is a must
  • Discover all of the light displays through the streets of Lisbon
  • Some of the smaller squares will have a Santa’s Village too

Discover the amazing Lisbon: 44 ultimate things to do in Lisbon with teens

Best Christmas Markets in Europe for teens -Tallinn, Estonia

If you love a European Christmas market with teenagers and some history all in one, then the Tallinn Christmas Market is for you.

A collage of pictures of Tallinn, Estonia at christmas time
Take advantage of a winter vacation and visit the Tallinn Christmas market

In 1441 a Christmas Tree was erected in Town Hall Square in the Tallinn Old Town, making it the first ever Christmas tree to be displayed in Europe. This is a magnificent tradition that still continues today. It is a cultural experience combined with a festive atmosphere in Tallinn.

The Tallinn Christmas Market runs from the first week in December to the first week in January. This gives you plenty of time to experience seasonal traditions and local cuisine.

Main area the Tallinn Christmas Market is held

You will find the majority of the small wooden stalls are in the Town Hall Square.

christmas market stall and goods at the Tallinn Christmas market
All sorts of shopping and gifts can be bought in Tallinn.

Where to stay in Tallinn

Tallinn is a small and compact city, with ferries from Finland arriving daily. Most of the family friendly hotels and self-contained apartments are located in and around the old town area of the city.

Tips for visiting the Tallinn Christmas market with teenagers:

  • Don’t forget to try the traditional gingerbread cookies that are on sale
  • Have a small amount of cash on you as some stalls only take cash. The currency in Estonia is the Euro
  • Mulled wine is called glögi in Estonia

Read more: 10 of the best cities in Europe for the best vacations for families with teenagers

Winter WondersLondon, England

You will not be disappointed with your choice of Christmas Markets for families in London. Here you will find one that has some things for everyone but you might need to pick the ones that are the best for you!

christmas festivities in London
Fun and Entertainment go hand in hand with seasonal treats.

Like most megacities, there are between 10 and 15 very popular Christmas Markets in London for families which are hosted in some of the top tourist attractions the city has.

Due to the large amount of different Christmas Markets in London, they will all have their own starting dates and opening times. Most start on the 3rd week of November and finish on the 1st of January with only a small few continuing further.

Main area the London Christmas Market is held

The Winter Wonderland Market is one top the top London Christmas Markets for families. Here you will find over 100 stalls with food, drinks, Christmas carols and souvenirs to remember your time in London.

If you want to get to the most Christmas Markets with kids in London, then the Covent Gardens may be the spot for you. Here there are 3 daily markets you can visit.

Other areas in London for Christmas markets for families:

Choosing the best Christmas market in London for families will really come down to how long you have and what you want to see.

stalls selling christmas good at hyde park
Christmas Market of Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland Park.

Some of the other most popular areas in London for Christmas markets are:

  • Leicester Square Christmas Market
  • Trafalgar Square Christmas Market
  • Hyde Park

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Christmas Market accommodation in London

Find the perfect accommodation blend of comfort, connectivity, and proximity to iconic sights at Christmastime in London. Do you want an apartment near the iconic landmarks or a hotel in one of the happening neighbourhoods of London?

Tips for visiting the London Christmas Market with teens:

There are a few FAQs that we can help with when you visit the London Christmas Market with kids.

  • Plan your route and use public transport as much as possible
  • Try not to fit too many in over a day. The distance and getting to the Christmas Markets in London with kids takes more time than you think
  • If you can take a River Thames Cruise to get a different look at some of the markets

Looking for epic adventures: 11 thrilling adventure activities in the UK for families

Krakow, Poland

Another European Christmas Market for teenagers of epic proportions! Krakow Christmas Market has to be experienced to be believed.

a teenage girl looking at christmas presents in Krakow
Seasonal Traditions live on in places like Krakow

Krakow Christmas Market has been held since the early 14th century, and it is amazing. From hearty food to a hearty shot of vodka, you can find so much to do at The Krakow Christmas market for families.

You will find that the stall and shops will close at 2 pm on Christmas Eve to make sure that people can get home to their families. Polish people celebrate Christmas on the 24th of December and most shops will reopen on the 26th.

Main area the Krakow Christmas Market is held

You’ll find most of the stalls in Rynek Główny where the famous Renaissance Cloth Hall in the Krakow Old Town is. You’ll need around 1.5 hours to really see the market and take in some of the local groups that play on the small stage.

a collage of pictures of a christmas market in Krakow poland
Magical Decorations and unique souvenirs await in Krakow

The amazing festive spirit really makes Krakow one of the very best European Christmas Markets for teenagers.

Book accommodation in Krakow

Kraków is a pretty compact city, with most of the accommodation options fairly close to the Old Town Market Square, where the Christmas market is held.

Tips for visiting the Krakow Christmas Market with teens:

There are a few things you should know about visiting the Krakow Christmas Market with teenagers.

  • The currency in Poland is the Zloty, so make sure you have some for the smaller stalls as they may not all accept cards
  • If you love cheese then you should try Oscypek a traditional smoked sheep cheese
  • There are not many places to sit but if you ask nicely many people will make room for you at their table
  • Feel free to join in with the signing of Christmas songs in Polish. A few times we knew the music but couldn’t speak Polish for the words. The people around us thought it was great!

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Prague, Czech Republic

The Prague Christmas Market is one of the top European Christmas Markets for teenagers. It has so much and in the amazing city of Prague too!

a young adult looking over the prague christmas market
A Festive trip to Europe with your teens

Prague is a hot tourist spot in any season, and you will find that accommodation and prices in Prague skyrocket at this time, but it really is a city that knows how to hold one of the best European Christmas markets for teenagers and their families.

Traditionally the Prague Christmas Market starts on the first Saturday of Advent (it changes yearly but is usually late November or early December) and runs until Christmas Day.

There are a few stalls and shops that will continue on until The Three Kings Day which is held on the 6th of January.

Main area the Prague Christmas Market is held

You will find the main square in the Old Town where most of the stalls are. Here you will also find a little stage that has performers on at different times of the day.

a collage of pictures from the Prague christmas market
Plan a European getaway to Prague

You can easily wander taking in the items at the stalls but unfortunately, there are not many places to sit and eat unless you want to sit at a restaurant at the side of the square. If you sit here, be prepared to pay very inflated prices for the magnificent views!

The Prague Old Town Christmas Market is free to enter and is open from 10 am until 10 pm.

Other areas in Prague for Christmas Markets for families:

Like most places in Europe that hold a Christmas market, it is rarely the smaller ones that get mentioned as well. You can easily walk to some other Christmas Markets in Prague with teens if you like.

  • Tylovo náměstí
  • Republic Square (Náměstí Republiky)

Stay in Prague for Christmas

Discover Prague’s diverse accommodations, historic charm in Old Town, modern luxury by the Vltava River, and cosy boutique hideaways. Your perfect stay in Prague awaits.

Tips for visiting the Prague Christmas Market with teens:

  • The currency in Prague is the Czech Koruna or the Czech Crown
  • If you like baked ham, and you decide to buy some, be careful that it is served in weight. A small piece can be very expensive
  • It is always a good idea to make sure your belongings are safe when wandering the Prague Christmas Market with kids

Visit Prague like a local: All the best things to do in Prague with teenagers

Munich, Germany

One of our favourite cities in Europe really knows how to celebrate the festive season. The Christmas Market at Marienplatz in Munich Germany is one of the most festive and easy to get to in all of Europe.

Munch Christmas market near the Munich Residence
The best Christmas markets to visit in Germany

You can easily find so many wonderful themed Christmas Markets in Munich. Many will have food and beverages to keep you warm and fill your belly. Winter in Munich can get cold so make sure you are prepared!

The Münchner Christkindlmarkt runs from the last week in November until Christmas Eve.

Main area the Munich Christmas Market is held

You can easily catch public transport in Munich to Marienplatz and as you exit the train station you are right in the heart of one of the best Christmas Markets in Europe for teenagers.

You can then walk to some nearby Christmas Markets in Munich from there.

Other areas in Munich for Christmas markets for families:

Wandering the streets of Munich you will end up finding some of the best European Christmas markets for teenagers that are unknown to tourists. There are so many little hidden gems in Munich for you to discover.

  • Viktualienmarkt (great place for food and drinks in any season)
  • Karlsplatz-Stachus (it has an ice rink!)
  • Nymphenburg Palace
  • Munich Residenz
collage of pictures of scenes from the Munich Christmas markets
Adventure and Discovery await in Munich

Let us help you find the best place in Munich to stay

Experience the magic of Christmas in Munich with your teenagers. Find comfortable stays at family-friendly hotels like The Westin Grand Munich and Hilton Munich City for a memorable holiday. Maybe an apartment with a lounge and kitchen is more your style.

Tips for visiting the Munich Christmas Market with teens:

There are a few things to know before you visit one of the biggest European Christmas Markets with teens in Munich. We’ve been and it’s huge.

  • The streets leading up to the market can become congested during peak times
  • Watch the cobblestones in Marienplatz. If it is snowing it can be a little slippery if you are not used to the snow
  • Viktualienmarkt is probably the closest to Marienplatz and has some seating with local butchers who also cook their own meat, which is great for a cheaper meal

The ultimate day trip: How to get from Munich to the EPIC Neuschwanstein Castle

Berlin Germany

Berlin is another city where the Christmas markets are spread out, and you may need to do some research on where you want to go and what you want to see.

With over 100 local Christmas Markets on offer, you are in the right place to experience the very best European Christmas Markets for teenagers.

Some Christmas Markets in Berlin will also have a small entrance fee. We found at the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church (Christmas Market on Breitscheidplatz) there was a 2 euro entrance fee, but it did get you a free drink.

Main area the Berlin Christmas Market is held

There are so many Christmas Markets in Berlin for families it is hard to pin down the main area where you can have the Christmas Market experience.

christmas markets in Berlin
You will find magical decorations at European Christmas Markets

Alexanderplatz may be the easiest to get to with many of the public transport options beginning and ending here.

Other areas in Berlin for Christmas Markets for families:

You will find an abundance of European Christmas Markets in Berlin to choose from.

  • Gendarmenmarkt (Bebelplatz)
  • Christmas Market on Breitscheidplatz
  • The Charlottenburg Christmas Market
  • Medieval Christmas Market at Britz Palace

Berlin Christmas Market accommodation

Find comfortable family lodging in Berlin for Christmas, near the markets and festivities. Comfortable rooms for relaxing with a warm atmosphere await you in Hotels and apartments in Berlin, Germany.

Tips for visiting the Berlin Christmas Market with teens:

Some of the best small European Christmas Markets for teenagers are in Berlin.

  • Some will have a small entrance fee
  • Starting dates and opening times differ with all of the different Christmas Markets in Berlin

Ravennaschlucht Christmas Market

This has to be the very best European Christmas Market for teenagers. This one absolutely blew us away when we visited and it has stuck with us as one of the best Christmas Markets in Europe.

a market in the black forest under a train bridge
Local crafts are one of the best sellers at Christmas Markets

The Ravenna Gorge Christmas Market (Weihnachtsmarkt in der Ravennaschlucht) is located in the Black Forest just out of Freiburg Germany. It is unlike any you have been to and is held under a 40-foot arched train bridge surrounded by forest.

The Ravennaschlucht Market is held only on Friday and Saturday nights and is very family-orientated. You will find a themed story that winds its way through the forest for families to follow and listen to with matching scenes.

The arches are lit up periodically with red, green and blue lights with the occasional train travelling along the bridge adding to the unbeatable ambience.

Tips for visiting the Ravennaschlucht Christmas Market with teens:

There are a few things you must know before visiting the Ravennaschlucht Christmas Market with kids.

  • There is an entry fee to the Market
  • Tickets must be booked in advance and if you are driving you need to book parking too
  • Open fires will keep you warm but you do need to wear appropriate clothing
  • Take some extra toilet paper for the toilets

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Why did we choose these European Christmas Markets for teenagers

We have been to many Christmas Markets in Europe with kids and these are the ones that stood out to us. These European Christmas Markets for teenagers offer many different aspects to visiting Christmas Markets in Europe with kids.

One thing that we did discover when we were visiting European Christmas Markets with teens is that they can become very addictive and then very underwhelming.

Small-town Christmas Markets in Europe have the best vibe about them but going to many, many places that hold the larger European Christmas Markets with kids can become tiresome for them. One blends into another and kids quickly become bored.

Frequently asked questions about European Christmas Markets with teenagers

You will find there are plenty of frequently asked questions about European Christmas Markets for teenagers. While we can do our best to answer them your experience at the Christmas Market with teens may be very different.

Is visiting European Christmas Markets with teenagers safe?

You will need to take proper precautions with your belongings while you are visiting the European Christmas Markets with teenagers. Pickpockets will use this as a perfect time to target people both tourists and locals alike.

a teen boy enjoying a warm drink at a christmas market
A teenage boy enjoying a non-alcoholic Glühwein

Be aware of your surroundings and do not go out of the well-lit-up areas if you are visiting the Christmas Markets with family at night.

Have a central meeting point for you to meet at if you get separated, and always make sure you know what the official Police uniform is in that country.

If you are staying at a hotel get a card with the name, address and phone number on it for extreme emergencies in case you do get separated while visiting Christmas Markets with kids.

Why should you visit a Christmas Market with teens?

They can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience or if you are lucky enough, like us you may end up visiting them many times. They are a stunning way to see how something that brought communities together centuries ago can still unite people with a common goal of celebrating at Christmas.

They are also a great way to experience a new culture and for some celebrate Christmas in the opposite season than their home country.

Why shouldn’t you visit a European Christmas Market with kids?

Many people will say they are too touristy but let’s be honest things are touristy for a reason right?! These fantastic Christmas Markets in Europe for families are also a hive of overpriced souvenirs but at the same time, they are lovely to have displayed in your home.

On the other hand, it is the peak season for some of the cities in Europe that hold Christmas Markets. It is rare that you will get cheap accommodation in the city or town that is holding one of the world-famous ones. Shops, food stalls and flights to that destination will all be inflated.

What should I eat and drink at a Christmas Market with teens?

Don’t limit yourself and have a try of what you think looks good. You will find many tourists wandering about and all very happy with plenty of festive spirit. If you are unsure ask someone!

A mum and daughter having fun and eating food a christmas market
Christmas Markets are a good place for Parent-Teen Bonding

You do need to be aware though in some places they charge the food by weight so you can be taken for a bit of a ride with inflated prices if you are not paying attention to what the stall holders are doing.

What souvenirs should I buy at a European Christmas Market with kids?

You will find so many amazing handmade and even mass-produced souvenirs at the European Christmas Markets for teenagers. We like to buy some of the more unique items but at times have also bought the ones that everyone has too!

We have some small tin cups from the market in Strasbourg, Christmas Tree ornaments and some hand towels that hang in our bathroom.

We have also purchased kitchen mitts, teatowels, gingerbread, tablecloths and spices to make our own Ghulwein when we got home.

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Top tips for your European Christmas Markets for teenagers vacation

There are a few things we learned when doing a couple of organised bus tours of the Christmas Market with teens and plenty more when we visited European Christmas Markets with teens on our own.

a mom and a young teen daughter having fun at a christmas market laughing
Making memories and enjoying the time together at European Christmas Markets

You can easily learn from our experience with these top tips for visiting European Christmas markets with teenagers.

  • Make sure you have layers. It can be cold outside when at the Christmas Markets
  • Gloves and beanies can go missing easily. Make sure you have a backup in case especially if you plan on visiting many
  • You don’t always have to go on a guided tour of the European Christmas Markets for teenagers but if you have limited time a tour will get you to all the very best very quickly
  • If you find they are not exciting you any more have a rest. You can do something else in all of the above cities and then return to a Market. If you start to not enjoy them any more it can affect your entire European Christmas Market holiday
  • Take a small bag with you to put anything you buy in. It will free up your hands to make sure you stay together.

Travelling with young adults, teens and tweens has just as many issues as travelling with young children. Choosing the best teenage vacation destinations, what bags and suitcases to take, travel essentials and more can be so time-consuming.

We hope this article from us here at Wyld Family Travel has inspired you to visit European Christmas Markets with teenagers. There are so many European Christmas Markets for teenagers that will make your holiday in Europe unforgettable.

Planning family travel with teenagers and tweens can be stressful, and finding the best tips for travel is essential. 

Our Travel with Teenagers Destination Guides have you covered! With insights from around the globe, these guides will spark inspiration for your next family vacation, making it an epic adventure with your teens.


More travel with teenagers inspiration


Rebecca Wyld

bec.wyld@wyldfamilytravel.com

Content Creator/SEO Editor

Co-founder and SEO editor here at Wyld Family Travel. Bec has travelled to over 45 countries across 3 continents and is a journey with kids advocate. When Bec is not planning travel, she creates content for our family travel blog or does local community service work. You can find all of Bec’s detailed travel guides here on Wyld Family Travel and on other popular websites such as Lonely Planet.