Immerse yourself in the festive magic of snow-kissed landscapes, cozy winter camps, and the joyous spirit of the season.
This 14-day itinerary lets you experience some of the best European Christmas Markets like never before, all while reveling in the unique thrill of winter camping.
Your winter escapade awaits – let the road trip of a lifetime begin!
DAY 1 ︱NUREMBERG, GERMANY
Nuremberg’s medieval Old Town is the perfect backdrop for the Christkindlesmarkt, one of Germany’s oldest Christmas markets. The cobblestone streets and medieval castle add to the festive atmosphere, and the iconic red and white striped stalls make this Christmas market a not-to-miss stop on the roadtrip.
Don’t forget to try the Nürnberger Bratwurst, Nuremberg’s traditional sausage that has been made for over 700 years.
Where?
Hauptmarkt
When?
December 1, 2023, ⏤ December 24, 2023
Camping
You can check out where Tourism Nuremberg advised you to park your camper here.
DAY 2-3︱PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC
This year, Prague’s Christmas market is exceptionally enchanting, with its theme of “Popelka”, the Czech rendition of Cinderella. A 24m Christmas tree towers over the Old Town Square, surrounded by charming wooden huts showcasing local crafts and delightful traditional foods, creating a truly magical ambiance.
For those with a sweet tooth, the tempting trdelník, a sweet Czech pastry, is a must-try. If you lean towards something more savory, do not miss out on the rich flavors of rybí polévka, a traditional Christmas fish soup.
Route
Drive from Nuremberg to Prague. Distance is approximately 300 km (185 miles) with a driving time of around 3,5 hours.
Where?
Old Town square, Wenceslas square, Republic square, Peace square
When?
December 2, 2023, ⏤ January 6, 2024
Camping
Camping Sokol Troja, AutoCamp Trojská
The Czech Republic has toll roads. Get your e-vignette here. If your vehicle is over 3.5 tons, you can get it here.
DAY 4-5 ︱VIENNA, AUSTRIA
Love is in the air at the Wiener Christkindlmarkt. Take your loved ones to the famous Heart Tree, decorated with over 200 illuminated hearts, embark on a romantic Ferris wheel ride, or glide together on the ice rink.
Make sure to visit the Giant Advent Calendar, where daily presents are handed out for an extra festive touch to your Christmas Market road trip.
Route
Drive from Prague to Vienna. Distance is approximately 330 km (205 miles) with a driving time of around 4 hours.
Where?
Rathausplatz
When?
November 10, 2023, ⏤ December 26, 2023
Camping
Motorhome Parking space, Bahnhofplatz
Austria has toll roads. Get your motorway toll sticker here.
DAY 6-7︱BUDAPEST, HUNGARY
Voted Europe’s Best Christmas Market for the third time, the Christmas market at St Stephen’s Basilica is one you don’t want to miss. Wander past the artisan stalls that showcase an array of handcrafted goods and warm yourself with some mulled wine or goulash.
Make sure to try the Hungarian langós, a fried flatbread with sour cream and shredded cheese.
Route
Drive from Vienna to Budapest. Distance is approximately 240 km (150 miles) with a driving time of around 3 hours.
Where?
Vörösmarty Square Christmas Market, St. Stephen’s Basilica, Óbuda
When?
November 17, 2023, ⏤ January 1, 2024
Camping
Arena Camping, Pázmány Péter sétány
Hungary has toll roads. Get your e-vignette here.
DAY 8-9︱MUNICH
With the original Munich Christmas Market dating back to the 14th century, this is the ideal place to celebrate the Christmas season. Marvel at the 25m Christmas tree on Marienplatz, lit by 3,000 lights, and explore the large nativity market at the Old Peter. Children can craft Christmas decorations to their heart’s desire and dress up as angels at the Himmelswerkstatt.
Don’t miss the Krampus run, an old tradition where 300 Krampusses take over the streets of Munich.
Route
Drive from Budapest to Munich. Distance is approximately 650 km (400 miles) with a driving time of around 7 hours.
Where?
Marienplatz, Rindermarkt
When?
November 27, 2023, ⏤ December 24, 2023
Camping
Langwieder See, Werner-Heisenberg Allee
Munich has a low-emission zone with a diesel ban. You’ll need a green sticker to drive here.
Click here to get more information.
DAY 10-12︱STRASBOURG, FRANCE
Discover the unique blend of Alsatian and German traditions at the Strasbourg Christmas market, rightfully crowned ‘The Christmas Capital.’ Prepare to be awestruck by the 30m Christmas tree at Place Kléber, and feast on Gingerbread and Bredle, the traditional Alsatian Christmas cookies.
Make sure not to miss the iconic Christkindelsmärik at Place Broglie. Dating back to 1570, this ‘market of the Christ child’ is one of Europe’s oldest and a must-see.
Route
Drive from Munich to Strasbourg. Distance is approximately 370 km (230 miles) with a driving time of around 4,5 hours.
Where?
Strasbourg City Center
When?
November 24, 2023, ⏤ December 24, 2023
Camping
Tourism Strasbourg has collected all the information on visiting in a motorhome here.
Strasbourg has a low emission zone. You’ll need a Crit’air sticker to drive here.
Click here to get more information.
If you want to make the roundtrip, the journey from Strasbourg back to Nuremberg is about 340 km (210 miles), which will take you approximately 4 hours to drive.
As you conclude this “Winter Camping Wonderland” journey through the heart of Europe’s enchanting Christmas Markets, we hope you’ve found inspiration for a memorable roadtrip filled with festive magic and cozy camping adventures.
DISCLAIMER
The suggested itinerary is just that – a suggestion. As it’s designed as a round trip, feel free to start the road trip from any point you prefer. You can opt to complete only a portion of the journey or modify the duration of your stay to accommodate your schedule.
While the advised camping spots are recommendations, please ensure to check in advance whether the spot aligns with your personal preferences and is accessible by your vehicle.
Whether you decide to follow our european christmas market itinerary or go on your unique path,
may the snow-kissed landscapes and joyful spirit of the season accompany you on every mile.
Don’t forget to Share your heartwarming experiences, favorite market finds, and unforgettable moments with us! #pdchristmasroadtrip
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