Seeing medieval and baroque squares sparkling with lights and, usually, a sprinkling of snow around Christmas is a magical sight in Europe’s old cities. Christmas markets, where food is generally the main attraction, are not unique to Germany, which has been putting on holiday shows since the 15th century. Traveling by seasonal stands offering not only bratwurst and glühwein but also grog, pierogi, and spicy plum brandy, you’ll want to make sure you bring a hearty appetite. Explore the top European Christmas markets with our help.

German city of Cologne

Cologne features many Christmas markets, the largest of which is in the city center, beneath the cathedral, and has been a popular holiday destination for decades. Some of the most enchanted times can be spent in Markt der Engel, where hundreds of lights dangle from the ceiling like stars and angels glide between ornately carved gable ends. The 13th-century Hahnen gate towers majestically in the background of Nikolausdorf (Saint Nicholas’ village), which portrays the narrative of the actual St. Nick and is aimed at children. Even pirates and sea shanties may be found at a fair that celebrates maritime history and the mystical gnomes that populate it. Put on your skates and travel to the outdoor ice rink in Heumarkt for a more traditional experience.

 Where: in Salzburg, Austria

Mozart’s and Maria von Trapp’s picturesque birthplace shines brightest during the holiday season, when visitors may hear Silent Night sung amongst a blanket of snow (the carol was written and originally performed in the area) and shop at stalls that look little changed from when they were first put up in the 15th century. Expect hand-knitted socks rather than novelty candles this year as stocking stuffers, as the emphasis is on quality rather than quantity. Every day at 5 o’clock, there are free concerts in front of the cathedral, and every Tuesday from 6 o’clock to 8 o’clock, there are singalongs with Christmas carols.

Germany’s Berlin

Berlin’s vibrant art scene has all you need for a fresh perspective on age-old customs. Don’t try to see them all; there are over eighty Christmas markets in the city’s core alone (including one just for dogs). Spandau is the largest district in terms of population. The most beautiful and well-stocked Christmas market is Christmaszauber, located in the grand Gendarmenmarkt square. Winter World, located on Potsdamer Platz, is a great place to get your blood pumping with its tobogganing, curling, and ice skating rink (complete with free lessons for youngsters) rather than its focus on retail therapy. In order to avoid the crowds, your best bet is to visit at 10 a.m.

Pest, Hungary

Budapest’s mid-November Christmas market explosion features two major venues, Vorosmarty Square and Basilica. The oldest Christmas market in Budapest may be found on the city’s central Vorosmarty Square. Plenty of food stands, artisan shops, and free music may be found here. Basilica features everything mentioned above, plus laser projections of Christmas scenes onto the Basilica and an ice skating rink centered around a massive Christmas tree.

Czech Republic; Prague

Postcard-pretty The Christmas season is ideal in Prague. Instead of drinking mulled wine, act like a true native and have a glass of grog made with rum, water, lemon, and sugar. Our Lady Before Tyn, with its twin spires built in the 14th century, and the city’s famed astronomical clock, built in the 15th century, provide for a spectacular backdrop. They are separated by a sparkling sea of holiday pleasure. There are a lot of gifts, including frosted ornaments made of hand-blown glass. But it’s the local citrusy twist on mulled wine known as svarak, along with the warm, fatty sausages hot off the grill, fresh pancakes, and garlic-and-cheese flatbread, that will have you sticking around. The entire town plaza is scented with cinnamon spray. Bring the kids to Old Town Square, where sheep, goats, and a donkey patiently wait for the attention of well-meaning visitors.