29 Must-Try Christmas Market Foods (And Where to Find Them)

Heading to Europe for the Holidays and wondering what Christmas Market Foods you absolutely have to try? I totally get it! Food is one of the best parts of visiting Europe’s Christmas markets

I love food. Like, really love food. And whenever I plan a Christmas market trip, I make a must-eat list before I even think about anything else.

Over the years, I’ve tried just about everything—from cheesy street snacks to sweet treats I’m still dreaming about. So I pulled together this list of all my favorite Christmas market foods and where you can find them, based on my own travels to over 15 Christmas markets in 6 different countries.

Whether you’re new to the markets or already planning your return trip, this post will give you a solid list of what to look for, what not to skip, and a few tips to help you make the most of every bite.

29 Christmas Market Foods You Absolutely Must Try

There’s no better way to experience a Christmas market than by eating your way through it. These are my all-time favorite bites from across Europe—some classic, some unexpected, all totally worth trying.

1. Langos

Langos is deep-fried dough topped with garlic spread, cheese, and sometimes extras like sauerkraut or sausage. It’s crispy on the outside, fluffy inside, and super filling.

Kinda reminds me of an elephant ear but with savory toppings instead of sugar.

I had the best one right under the cathedral in Cologne—hot, doughy, and absolutely perfect after walking around in the cold. You’ll need to grab a napkin (or three) for this one.

2. Chimney Cakes

These spiral-shaped pastries cook over hot coals and smell like heaven. They’re soft on the inside with a caramelized sugary crust on the outside. Best eaten fresh and warm, and you can find them at nearly every market across Europe.

Sometimes they’re dusted with cinnamon, other times filled with Nutella or ice cream.

3. Kartoffelpuffer

These are crispy fried potato pancakes, usually served with applesauce or a garlicky sour cream-style sauce.

I preferred the savory version—it felt more like a proper snack than dessert. Besides, I’m not sure applesauce and fried potatoes go together, but if you want to stick with the transitional order, do it with applesauce.

They’re super popular in German markets, and honestly, it’s hard to eat just one. You’ll smell them before you see them.

4. Currywurst

Currywurst is one of Germany’s favorite street foods—sliced sausage covered in a spicy ketchup-curry sauce. It’s warm, bold, and packs a little kick.

I love how it wakes up your taste buds on a cold winter day.

You’ll find it all over Germany, especially in larger markets like Cologne.

5. Kasespatzle

This is mac and cheese on steroids— cheesy egg noodles topped with yummy crispy fried onions. It’s rich, comforting, and super satisfying.

I had an amazing bowl of it at the Basel Christmas Market, and honestly, it might have been my dinner that night. Worth every delicious gooey carb.

6. Flammkuchen

Flammkuchen is kind of like a super thin, crispy flatbread pizza—usually topped with crème fraîche, cheese, and bacon.

But the one I had in the Cologne Christmas Market under the cathedral was on a whole different level. They had these big balls of cheese hanging over an open bed of coals, slowly melting and dripping onto the flatbread.

I went with their recommended toppings—honey and bacon—and OMG, it was to die for. If I hadn’t been pacing myself for more food, I would’ve gone back for seconds right then and there.

7. Lebkuchen

These traditional German gingerbread cookies are grainy, chewy, and full of spice.

A doctor I work with raved about them—he asked me to bring some back because they reminded him of his childhood. So, of course, I went on the hunt for them.

I wasn’t sure about the texture at first (I’m picky like that), but they grew on me fast. If you like gingerbread, these are a must.

8. Champignons

Think sautéed mushrooms, but way better.

These come hot in a garlicky sauce, and I got mine smothered in a creamy beer cheese topping.

If you love mushrooms like I do, you’ll be all over this one. They’re usually served in a little bowl and are perfect to snack on while wandering through the markets.

9. Crepes

Crêpes are everywhere in the French markets—and honestly, they’re hard to resist. I always go sweet and fill mine in melted chocolate, but you can get them with fruit, jam, or even savory fillings.

They’re made fresh to order and folded into a neat triangle, so they’re easy to eat while you wander. A classic that never disappoints.

10. Oysters & Champagne

It sounds fancy, but oysters and bubbly are actually a thing at some Christmas markets!

I tried them in France and again in Basel—and they were fresh, smooth, and totally hit the spot. It’s the perfect little treat if you want something lighter but still indulgent.

Great for a break between all the fried dough and greasy snacks

11. Flammlachs

This was hands-down my favorite thing I ate at any Christmas market.

Flammlachs is salmon cooked over an open fire on cedar planks, usually smothered with honey mustard and served in a bun or on a bed of lettuce. I got mine on lettuce because I was saving room for more foods to try, and it was freaking amazing!

The best was at the Brussels Christmas market under the church next to the big market in the city, and it was so good I went back for seconds—and even sent bragging photos to my family.

If you see it, do not skip it.

12. Sugared Almonds/Nuts

These are a total Christmas market classic. Warm, sweet, and perfectly crunchy, they’re sold in little paper cones and make a great walking snack.

I always buy an extra bag to take on the train between cities. You’ll smell them roasting from across the square.

13. Schaumkuss

This one took a bit of hunting to find, but it was worth it.

Schaumkuss is a soft, pillowy marshmallow dome on a wafer cookie, coated in chocolate. I finally found one at the Christmas market in Maastricht, and I was surprised they weren’t more common. It’s a delicious little desert if you can find it.

14. Mutzenmandeln

These are like mini donut balls dusted in powdered sugar. So light, so fluffy—you could easily eat a dozen without realizing it.

They’re especially popular in German markets and are often sold in big paper bags. Perfect for sharing… or not.

15. Würstchen (German Sausages)

Let’s be real—I ate so many sausages during my two-week Christmas market trip, and I’m still just as obsessed.

From classic bratwurst to spicy variations, these grilled-to-perfection links are everywhere in Germany, and each one somehow tastes better than the last.

They’re usually served in a crusty roll with mustard or curry ketchup, and they make the perfect handheld snack when you’re wandering through the stalls.

16. Laugenbrezeln

You really can’t go to a German Christmas market and not get a pretzel—it’s basically a rite of passage.

These soft, salty pretzels are everywhere and come in all kinds of flavors and toppings.

I’ve had the classic buttered version before, but this time I went with a sweet and savory twist: a pretzel coated in dark chocolate, because I’ve got a serious sweet tooth and one topped with salty ham and cheese.

They were both so delicious! The perfect combo of salty and sweet, and they didn’t last long in my hands.

17. Chasbangel

The moment I saw this, my eyes got huge—I knew I had to try it.

Chäsbängel is basically a hollowed-out baguette stuffed to the brim with hot, melty Swiss fondue cheese. I mean… fondue and baguettes are two of my favorite things, so this was a no-brainer.

Even better is that you can get it with a wiener stuffed inside.

I found this snack at the Basel Christmas Market, and it was rich, gooey, and totally worth every single bite (and the mess). If you’re a cheese lover, this one is non-negotiable.

18. Stroopwafel

I’d only ever had the store-bought kind before, so when I saw a fresh stroopwafel being made right in front of me at a market in Maastricht, Poland, there was no way I was walking past without trying it.

It was warm, gooey, and the caramel inside was perfectly melty.

Honestly, it blew the packaged ones out of the water—no comparison. And it was huge! I couldn’t even finish it in one go, so I wrapped up the rest and saved it for a late-night snack back at my hotel. Best decision ever.

PS. Maastricht is one of many easy day trips from Brussels. Highly recommend you consider making Brussels your home base and taking excursions from there to other Christmas markets.

19. Opfelchuechli

My second favorite thing I ate at the markets.

These are apple slices, battered and fried like donuts, served with hot vanilla sauce in an edible ice cream cone shaped bowl.

I found them in Basel under the cathedral and almost went back for a second round. They were sweet, but not too sweet, and tasted like apple pie. If you see them, do yourself a favor and try them.

20. Poffertjes

Tiny Dutch pancakes cooked on a griddle, puffed up and fluffy, then smothered in powdered sugar and butter. I had these at the Maastricht market in the Netherlands and could’ve easily eaten an entire tray. They’re warm, sweet, and impossible not to love.

21. Belgium Waffle

I’m not exaggerating—this was the best waffle I’ve ever had. Crispy on the outside, so soft and chewy on the inside, and loaded with toppings.

I got one every single day I was in Brussels because I just couldn’t resist. If you’re in Belgium, do not skip the waffles. I totally see what all the hype is about!

22. Belgium Fries

Belgium is actually where fries are believed to have originated, and wow, do they know how to make them right.

The best ones I had came from a little shop in Brussels, that draws lines just for fries every single day! I waited in line for 30–40 minutes for them (totally worth it).

They come piping hot and smothered in garlicky aioli (or any other flavor you want)—so good. Grab them as a snack or make them your whole meal.

23. Belgium Chocolate

Brussels is basically a dream for chocolate lovers.

The city is packed with chocolatiers, and the Christmas markets take it to the next level. The chocolate is unbelievably smooth, rich, and perfect for gifting—or just for snacking while you explore.

I highly recommend doing a chocolate tasting tour while you’re there, especially if you only have one day in Brussels. This is what I’d suggest when you want to take a break from the markets!

Christmas Market Drinks You Can’t Miss

Food isn’t the only thing worth indulging in—Christmas market drinks are just as iconic. Whether you’re into wine, beer, or sweet sippers, there’s something festive for everyone.

24. Gluhwein

This is the drink of the Christmas markets.

Glühwein is a hot mulled wine spiced with cinnamon, cloves, and citrus—basically a warm hug in a mug.

It goes by different names depending on the country: vin chaud in France, vin brulé in Italy, and forralt bor in Hungary. Whatever it’s called, it’s everywhere and a must-try.

25. Lambic Beer

Lambic beer is a fruity, slightly sour Belgian beer that’s brewed with wild yeast. I found it in Leige, Belgium, and loved the unique taste.

It’s a little funky, kind of tart, and not too heavy. If you like cider or kombucha, you’ll probably enjoy it. It pairs really well with salty snacks like fries or cheese.

26. Feuerzangenbowle

This drink is like Glühwein’s wild cousin—hot red wine with a sugar cube soaked in rum set on fire and melted into the cup. It’s theatrical, a little intense, and absolutely delicious.

I loved the flavor, but was low-key nervous about the open flame. Just don’t lean in too close!

27. Heibe Schokolade

Hot chocolate at the markets is next-level.

It’s served with a rich, dark chocolate hunk of chocolate that you drop in hot milk and let it dissolve. It’s super chocolatey—not the watery stuff you get from a packet. Some stalls even offer it with whipped cream, marshmallows, or a splash of Baileys.

A solid non-alcoholic option if you prefer.

28. Eierpunsch

This is kind of like Europe’s version of eggnog but lighter and fruitier.

It’s made with egg yolks, white wine, vanilla, rum, citrus juice, and topped with whipped cream.

I found it in the Maastricht markets in Poland and loved how it tasted like warm apple strudel in a cup. It’s not everywhere, but it’s definitely worth asking around for.

29. Gluhbier

Mulled beer might sound strange, but it’s surprisingly good.

It’s usually dark beer heated with spices, and it has a rich, slightly sweet flavor. If mulled wine isn’t your thing, this could be your new favorite. I saw it at several markets, especially in Germany and Belgium.

Tips For Navigating the Christmas Market Food Scene

Eating your way through a Christmas market is half the fun—but it helps to go in with a few tricks up your sleeve. Here are some tips I’ve learned along the way to help you enjoy the food without the stress (or the mess).

Don’t Wear White

It might look cute in photos, but white is a magnet for spills, especially with red Glühwein. Between saucy sausages, chocolate-covered goodies, and bubbling cheese, things get messy fast. Stick to darker colors or patterns that won’t show every drip and drop.

If you want tips and a complete packing list, hop on over to my post on What to Wear to Christmas Markets.

Bring a Collapsible travel Mug With a Lid

A travel mug with a lid is a game changer. It keeps your drinks hot longer and seriously helps avoid spills while you walk, especially if you’re juggling food and trying to snap photos. Look for a collapsible one to save space in your bag.

Bring Wet Wipes

These are a lifesaver. Use them to clean sticky fingers, wipe down mugs you want to keep, or just freshen up after a sugary snack. Trust me, you’ll be glad you packed a few.

About The Mugs

Most markets serve drinks in souvenir mugs that require a small deposit (usually €2–€5). You’ll get the deposit back when you return the mug—but it has to go back to the same stall you got it from, so don’t forget where that was.

If you want to keep one (or all of them!), you can usually ask for a clean one, but vendors sometimes get a little annoyed—so just wipe it out yourself.

Some markets are switching to boring plastic cups, so if you’re a mug collector, keep an eye out and grab the good ones while you can.

Bring Cash

While some stalls do accept cards, many are still cash-only—especially the smaller, more traditional ones. It’s best to carry a mix of bills and coins to avoid any surprises when you go to pay.

Have Coins on Hand

Bathrooms in and around the markets often require coins to use—usually around 50 cents to a euro. It’s a small thing that makes a big difference when nature calls and you don’t have change.

Bring rechargeable Hand Warmers

You’ll be taking your gloves off to eat and drink, which means cold fingers are inevitable. Rechargeable hand warmers that heat up instantly in your pocket are a total win. I never go to a market without them now.

There’s Nowhere to Sit

Most Christmas markets don’t have much seating. Instead, you’ll find tall standing tables where people gather to eat and drink on the go. Embrace the casual vibe, and don’t expect a full sit-down meal.

More Christmas Market Guides You’ll Love

Best Brussels Hotels Near Christmas Markets For A Magical Stay

Complete Guide to Bruges Christmas Market (2025)

That’s a Wrap

The Christmas market foods is one of the best parts of the holiday season in Europe! I hope this guide helps you plan your own food-filled adventure and gives you a solid list of what to look for at the markets.

Before you go, don’t forget to grab my free Christmas Markets Guide and Packing List—it’s packed with loads of tips and resources to help you plan the perfect trip.

Catch ya on the next adventure!