As winter blankets Europe, festive cheer takes over cities, transforming streets and public spaces into magical holiday destinations. For digital nomad Arnab Nandy and his wife, the experience of visiting Europe’s renowned Christmas markets, with their festive displays, seasonal treats, and unique traditions, marked an unforgettable chapter of their travels.
A Visit to Montreux’s Flying Santa
Arriving in Switzerland in mid-November, Nandy began exploring the opening Christmas markets, with Montreux high on their list. Famous for its flying Santa, the market attracted throngs of families eager to catch a glimpse of the jolly figure. Although Santa isn’t actually airborne, his sleigh is suspended above the crowd, creating the illusion of flight as he waves at children below.
The market, located on the banks of Lake Geneva, was packed well before the 6 PM ‘flight’ time. As fireworks erupted from Santa’s sleigh, the crowd was caught up in the spectacle, with excited cheers filling the air. This magical moment was a highlight for the couple, who marveled at the festive energy.
Christmas in Italy: Milan and Rome
Traveling south to Italy, Nandy and his wife experienced Milan and Rome in early December. While the Christmas trees in both cities wouldn’t light up until December 8, the festive spirit was already evident, with holiday decorations and kiosks dotting the city centers.
In Rome, the holiday buzz was mixed with preparations for the upcoming 2025 Jubilee, an event held every 25 years. Though some landmarks were under renovation, the city’s holiday markets still offered a chance to enjoy mulled wine (Vin Brulé) and sample local snacks like supli (fried rice balls), adding to the Christmas cheer.
Lucerne: A Winter Wonderland
Back in Lucerne by early December, Nandy visited the Rudolf’s Weihnachtsmarkt, set amidst a heavy snowfall. Despite the challenging weather conditions, the three-kilometer walk to the market proved worth it as they were enveloped in a serene winter landscape. The market itself, lined with wooden stalls selling everything from trinkets to mulled wine, exuded a festive charm.
“We braved the freezing weather, but the celebratory atmosphere made the experience unforgettable,” Nandy shared. Although snow had brought public transport to a halt, the walk through the snow-covered streets added to the magic of the evening.
The couple also ventured into Lucerne’s Old Town (Alstadt) for another Christmas market, where they sampled international cuisines, including injera from Ethiopia, empanadas from Argentina, and Turkish dolmas and baklava.
Zurich: Cozy Cabins and a Singing Christmas Tree
Later in December, Nandy and his wife headed to Zurich, where they explored several markets, including one by the main train station. A unique feature of Swiss Christmas markets, Nandy observed, was the presence of cozy, beautifully decorated cabins where visitors could rest and enjoy the festive ambiance.
The couple also visited Zurich’s “Singing Christmas Tree,” a stage of performers dressed like a tree, offering festive songs to passersby. Under the Lucy lights—an iconic display inspired by the Beatles’ song “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds”—the tree’s melodies added to the city’s holiday spirit.
A Traditional Christmas in Vienna
Finally, the couple arrived in Vienna, where they spent Christmas Day. After a scenic train journey through the snow-covered Alps, they visited a Christmas market at the University of Vienna, which was largely frequented by locals. The market offered unique experiences like Eisstockschießen, a traditional sport similar to curling, where participants slide flat disks toward a target.
The festive drink of choice across European markets was mulled wine, often served in quirky cups—like the red boot-shaped mugs in Vienna, which became a memorable souvenir for the couple.
“We were amazed by the variety of snacks and the warm, welcoming atmosphere at each market we visited,” Nandy reflected, noting that roasted maroni (sweet chestnuts) were a common and delightful treat.
A Holiday to Remember
For Nandy and his wife, their European Christmas market tour was filled with first-time experiences—from the flying Santa in Montreux to cozying up in Zurich’s festive cabins, and sipping mulled wine in Vienna. Each market offered a new tradition and a deeper connection to European holiday culture, leaving them with lasting memories of the Christmas season.
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