Montreux Joins Vienna, Munich, Strasbourg, and More as Europe’s Unmissable Christmas Wonderland for Canadian Tourists Seeking Magic, Tradition, and Holiday Cheer!

Published on December 25, 2025

Every winter, Europe transforms into a magical holiday wonderland, with cities across the continent offering Christmas markets, seasonal festivities, and holiday experiences that capture the essence of the season. For Canadian tourists looking to explore the best of Europe’s festive charm, Montreux, along with Vienna, Munich, Strasbourg, Prague, Cologne, and Zagreb, offers an unforgettable holiday experience. From the Swiss Alps to the grand Christmas markets of central Europe, these cities promise an adventure filled with culture, festivity, and holiday cheer.

In this guide, we’ll delve into why Montreux, known for its spectacular Christmas market, now joins some of Europe’s finest Christmas destinations. We’ll also explore what to expect in the cities of Vienna, Munich, Strasbourg, Prague, Cologne, and Zagreb, offering Canadian tourists detailed travel tips on where to stay, what to eat, and how to explore these festive destinations.

Montreux, Switzerland: A Lakeside Christmas Wonderland

Montreux, nestled on the shores of Lake Geneva and surrounded by the majestic Swiss Alps, is often considered one of Switzerland’s most picturesque cities. Known for its legendary music festivals, Montreux turns into a Christmas paradise each winter, offering one of the most unique Christmas markets in Europe. The Montreux Noël (Christmas Market) is set against the stunning backdrop of the snow-capped Alps, making it the ideal destination for those looking to experience a magical Christmas.

What to Expect in Montreux During Christmas

The Montreux Noël market is located in the town centre and is considered one of the best Christmas markets in Switzerland. It’s a place where you can enjoy festive food, handcrafted goods, and the scenic beauty of the Alps reflected in Lake Geneva. With over 150 chalets, this market is a hub of activity where visitors can sample Swiss specialties like fondue, raclette, and roesti (Swiss potato dish), and purchase unique local crafts and Christmas decorations.

The market’s centerpiece is the Montreux Christmas Tree, towering over the festivities. You’ll find a wide array of holiday treats including hot mulled wine and traditional Swiss chocolates. But what makes the Montreux Noël experience even more special is the presence of the Santa Claus train, which takes children on a festive ride through the town, and the ice skating rink, perfect for those wanting to add some action to their holiday.

Where to Stay in Montreux

Montreux offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. For those looking for luxury, Fairmont Le Montreux Palace offers a five-star experience with views of the lake and mountains, a perfect base for exploring the town and Christmas markets. Alternatively, for a more budget-friendly option, Hotel Helvetie offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, just a short walk from the Christmas market and the lakeside promenade.

Vienna, Austria: The Classic Christmas Experience

Vienna, the capital of Austria, is a timeless Christmas destination that combines royal elegance with festive cheer. Known for its historical charm, Vienna comes alive during the Christmas season, especially at its Christmas markets. The Viennese Dream Christmas Market at the Rathaus (City Hall) is one of the largest and most popular markets in the city. It’s set against the backdrop of Vienna’s neo-gothic architecture, with over 150 stalls selling everything from handmade ornaments to warm beverages. Expect to find traditional Austrian gifts, local delicacies like strudel and roast chestnuts, and much more.

What to Expect in Vienna

Vienna’s Christmas markets are legendary. The Rathausplatz market features over 150 stalls offering everything from handcrafted ornaments to delicious Austrian pastries such as strudel and gingerbread. Visitors can enjoy a steaming cup of mulled wine while exploring the stalls, taking in the festive atmosphere, and listening to the sound of Austrian Christmas carols.

In addition to Rathausplatz, another notable Christmas market is the Schönbrunn Palace Christmas Market, located at the famous palace grounds. This market is perfect for those seeking a more regal experience, with luxury handicrafts and traditional gifts.

Where to Stay in Vienna

Vienna offers a wide range of accommodation options. For luxury, Hotel Sacher is the epitome of Austrian elegance, located near the opera house. For more affordable options, Motel One offers stylish and budget-friendly rooms near the city centre.

Munich, Germany: A Bavarian Christmas Spectacle

Munich is another classic Christmas destination in Europe, offering a combination of Bavarian tradition and holiday spirit. The Christkindlmarkt at Marienplatz, Munich’s central square, is one of the oldest and most authentic Christmas markets in Germany.

What to Expect in Munich

The Christkindlmarkt at Marienplatz is Munich’s Christmas heart. With over 150 stalls, it’s a place where you can sample Bavarian food, enjoy hot mulled wine, and find handmade ornaments and local crafts. One of the most iconic features is the giant Christmas tree at the market, which adds to the festive atmosphere.

Visitors can also enjoy the Tollwood Christmas Market, which is a more alternative market offering global cuisine, artisanal goods, and international holiday traditions.

Where to Stay in Munich

For a luxurious stay, book a room at the Bayerischer Hof, a five-star hotel in the heart of Munich. For more budget-friendly options, The 1st Creatif Hotel Elephant offers comfortable accommodations just steps from the main attractions.

Strasbourg, France: The Christmas Capital of Europe

Strasbourg is a must-visit destination for those seeking the ultimate Christmas market experience. Known as the Capital of Christmas, this French city has been celebrating the Christkindelsmärik (Christmas market) since 1570, making it one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe.

What to Expect in Strasbourg

The Christkindelsmärik market in Strasbourg’s Grande Île is a winter wonderland. The market offers handmade gifts, delicious Alsatian food, and hot drinks like mulled wine. Strasbourg is also known for its beautiful Christmas decorations and fairy lights, which adorn the streets and historic buildings.

Where to Stay in Strasbourg

For luxury, Hôtel Cour du Corbeau is a historic hotel close to the Christmas market. For more affordable options, Ibis Strasbourg Centre Historique offers a comfortable and budget-friendly stay near the city centre.

Prague, Czech Republic: A Fairy Tale Christmas

Prague, often called the city of a hundred spires, is one of the most magical places to spend Christmas. The city’s Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square markets are famous for their festive atmosphere, and the streets of the medieval Old Town look even more magical under a blanket of snow.

What to Expect in Prague

In Old Town Square, visitors are greeted with a towering Christmas tree, beautifully decorated with lights and ornaments. The wooden stalls sell Czech crafts, mulled wine, and traditional pastries such as trdelník (a sweet pastry rolled in sugar and walnuts). Stroll through the market and enjoy the Gothic architecture of the Old Town, all while listening to Christmas carols and soaking in the festive atmosphere.

Where to Stay in Prague

For luxury, The Augustine offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city. For more budget-friendly options, Motel One Prague offers stylish, affordable accommodation near the main attractions.

Cologne, Germany: A Festive Gem Along the Rhine

Cologne is another iconic German city known for its vibrant Christmas markets. The Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market, located right in front of the Cologne Cathedral, is one of the largest and most beautiful in Germany.

What to Expect in Cologne

Visitors to the Cologne Christmas Markets can expect traditional German food, including Bratwurst, gingerbread, and hot mulled wine. The markets also offer beautiful handmade gifts such as wooden toys, Christmas ornaments, and artisanal candles.

The Cologne Cathedral is the backdrop for the Christmas festivities, making this market one of the most scenic and iconic in Europe.

Where to Stay in Cologne

For luxury, Excelsior Hotel Ernst offers a top-tier stay with easy access to the markets. For more affordable options, Ibis Styles Köln City offers a budget-friendly stay in the city centre.

Zagreb, Croatia: A Rising Star in Christmas Tourism

Zagreb, Croatia’s capital, is an up-and-coming destination for Christmas lovers. The city’s Advent Market has been voted one of the best in Europe, offering a more relaxed and charming experience.

What to Expect in Zagreb

The Advent Market in Zrinjevac Park features beautiful Christmas lights, handmade goods, and a variety of local foods. The market’s intimate and authentic vibe sets it apart from larger markets, making it the perfect destination for those looking for a more peaceful holiday experience.

Where to Stay in Zagreb

Hotel Dubrovnik offers a luxurious stay with views of the historic city centre. For a more budget-friendly option, Hotel Jadran provides comfort and convenience at an affordable price.

Conclusion: Your Ultimate European Christmas Adventure Awaits

Whether you’re strolling through the Christmas markets of Montreux, enjoying the Bavarian charm of Munich, or exploring the historic streets of Strasbourg, Europe offers countless destinations that are perfect for Canadian tourists looking to experience the magic of Christmas. From lake views in Switzerland to royal Christmas markets in Austria, these cities promise an unforgettable holiday experience.

Book your trip today and create memories that will last a lifetime in these unbeatable Christmas destinations!