Germany is without any doubt Europe’s leader when it comes to Christmas Markets. Millions of people come every year from all over the world to visit them. Germany must clearly be doing something right! As a true Christmas fan, this time I want to stay far away from the classic and major Christmas Markets such as in Munich, Cologne, Berlin and Hamburg. This time, I am longing for real authenticity and you and I are about to find out where the cutest and most charming Christmas Market is located: in Traben-Trarbach!
Traben-Trarbach Town
Traben Tra… where?! Exactly, not a name you would immediately recognize. Nonetheless, Traben-Trarbach is only a 3-hour drive from Antwerp (Belgium), and in the middle of the Moselle (my favorite German wine region). Trier and Koblenz are the most known cities in the neighborhood. Now officially united, Traben and Trarbach are originally two villages, situated on opposite sides of the river. A large bridge connects the two parts.
For me, Traben Trarbach is one of the most charming wine towns along the Mosel river, and absolutely worth visiting. It has some castle ruins and beautiful Jugendstil architecture, an ideal place to forget time and enjoy life. Stroll along the lovely riverside boulevard admire the hillside vineyards on both riverbanks.
Christmas Market
The Christmas Market provides a romantic shelter to visitors in the large former wine cellars spread out under practically the whole town. As soon as you walk into one of the cellars, some of which date back to the 16th century, you can smell the comforting warm aroma of mulled wine, roasted almonds and fir sprigs. You will be charmed by this atmospheric, mystical and a dimly lit network of historic wine cellars in the underworld of Traben-Trarbach.
In the Christmas ambiance of the cellars, national and international artisans and exhibitors present high-quality decorative items, gifts, culinary specialties, products related to wine, spa products, antiques and creative fashion and jewelry. It is all about wine, indulgence and culture, and absolutely perfect for some Christmas fun below the ground.
The Christmas Market even offers a program dedicated to children, with a Playmobil exhibition and an ice rink for both beginning and advanced skaters.
If you are also looking for an authentic and romantic Christmas experience next year, then this could be the hidden gem among the Christmas Markets you have been looking for! Traben-Trarbach, see you next Christmas!
For me, Traben Trarbach is one of the most charming wine towns along the Mosel river, and absolutely worth visiting.