Where to Find Warm Drams and Cold Cobblestones: Christmas Markets for Wine and Whiskey Lovers

If your love language is a hot drink and a passport stamp, this one’s for you.

This December, skip the cookie-cutter snow globes and lean into the real magic: centuries-old town squares, fairy lights, and something steamy (and possibly spiked) in your hand. Whether you’re team mulled wine, whiskey, or “I’ll take one of each,” (my personal favorite) these three European cities serve up a blend of charm and cheer for spirits lovers who like to travel well…and drink even better.

🎄 Glühwein tastes better when someone else handles the hotel reservations. Schedule your planning call today and let’s turn your Christmas Market wishlist into a passport-stamped reality.

🎄 Nuremberg, Germany

For the Glühwein Purist (With a Wild Side)

Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt is the OG of Christmas markets: iconic, wildly popular, and serving high-caliber holiday energy. Sure, you’ll find traditional glühwein, but look closer and you’ll spot a whole lineup of spiced reds, whites, and blueberry-infused creations.

Germany’s craft whisky game is stronger than you’d expect. Look for local single malts like Slyrs or St. Kilian at specialty stalls or tucked into cozy nearby bars. Turns out, the land of beer and bratwurst also knows its way around a barrel.

Want to impress your travel companions? Order a Feuerzangenbowle (a flaming rum-drenched sugar loaf over wine)…don’t believe me??...just ask google.

Pro tip: Look for stalls advertising "mit Schuss." That’s code for “we spiked it for you.”

🍷 Strasbourg, France

For the Fancy French Glühwein Vibe

Strasbourg isn’t called the Capital of Christmas for nothing. It’s got that “my snow globe came to life” energy. With over 300 stalls, cathedral views, and vin chaud that tastes like it was made by angels who trained in Burgundy, this city is a wine lover’s winter fantasy. Expect spiced whites, elegant reds, and enough cheesy tartes flambées to justify another cup.

French whiskey is having a moment. Local bars may offer pours of unique whiskys and whiskey-blends from Alsatian distillers like Distillerie Bertrand or Domaine des Hautes Glaces. Pair with a wedge of aged Comté and pretend you're writing your memoir.

Bonus points: The local wines (Alsace whites in particular) are chef’s kiss. Some vendors even let you taste before you buy. Dangerous. Delightful.

Extra Bonus Points: Stroll into one of the many local cheese shops along the way to sample their collection of goodness…I promise you won’t be disappointed.

❄️ Zurich, Switzerland

For the Classy, Cozy Cocktail Crowd

Zurich is like the chic older cousin who shows up to the holiday party in head-to-toe cashmere and still knows how to throw down. From the Swarovski tree at the train station market to the Illuminarium outside of the Swiss National Museum, this city does winter right. Expect glüwein, apfelwein (that’s hot spiced cider), and local liqueurs that pair beautifully with raclette.

And if you’re more dram than glühwein: Switzerland makes a mean whiskey too. Try Säntis Malt or Langatun for a rich, alpine-aged pour that’ll warm you up faster than your cashmere gloves. Some Christmas bars even offer it mulled or mixed into cocktails.

Don’t skip: Fondue. Then: champagne and oysters accompanied by snow flurries. Because your winter itinerary should be equal parts twinkle lights and soft luxury.

✈️ Tips for Traveling Like a Spirits-Loving Holiday Pro

• Stay walkable: You’re drinking in public. Let’s keep it cute and car-free.

• Layer like a Euro market pro: Puffy coat. Stylish scarf. Merino wool socks. Hand warmers…Repeat after me: fashion is fine, frostbite is not.

• Bring the good bag: Yes, you can bring home a bottle or two. No, duty-free is not always the best option. I’ll help you pack it like a pro.

Ready to plan your own “warm drams + cold cobblestones” adventure?

I specialize in travel for wine and whiskey lovers who want to skip the cookie-cutter tours and make December sparkle in their own way. Whether you want to turn a market crawl into a milestone trip or just get your annual glühwein fix somewhere prettier than your neighborhood strip mall…I’ve got you.