Best Places to Visit in Liechtenstein for Christmas Cheer

As the festive season approaches, Liechtenstein transforms into a winter wonderland, offering expats and digital nomads a unique opportunity to experience the holiday spirit in a quaint European setting. Despite its small size, this picturesque country and its surrounding regions are home to a variety of Christmas markets, festive events, and charming towns that come alive in December. Here are some of the best places to visit to soak up the Yuletide joy and create unforgettable memories.

Vaduz

The capital city of Liechtenstein, Vaduz, is a must-visit destination during the holiday season. The city's Christmas market, usually held in the Städtle area, is a cozy gathering of stalls selling handcrafted gifts, decorations, and local delicacies. The scent of mulled wine and gingerbread fills the air, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. In addition to the market, Vaduz often hosts a range of festive concerts and events throughout December, making it a hub of holiday cheer.

We Recommend: Don't miss the chance to try the traditional Liechtensteiner Ribelmais, a corn-based dish that is often enjoyed during the festive season. Pair it with a cup of the local mulled wine for a truly heartwarming experience.

Malbun

Malbun, Liechtenstein's winter sports paradise, offers more than just skiing and snowboarding. During December, this alpine village is adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations. The crisp mountain air and snow-covered peaks provide the perfect backdrop for a winter holiday. While Malbun does not host a traditional Christmas market, its intimate and peaceful setting is ideal for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy the serene side of the holiday season.

We Recommend: After a day on the slopes, warm up with a hot chocolate or a glass of Glühwein at one of the cozy mountain restaurants, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the winter wonderland.

Zurich's Old Town

Just a short trip from Liechtenstein, Zurich's Old Town (Altstadt) in Switzerland is transformed into a magical Christmas destination. The highlight is the "Zürcher Christkindlimarkt" at the main train station, one of the largest indoor Christmas markets in Europe. The market features a giant Christmas tree adorned with Swarovski crystals and over 150 stalls selling everything from artisan crafts to Swiss treats. The old town's narrow streets are also lined with lights and decorations, adding to the festive ambiance.

We Recommend: Be sure to indulge in some Swiss raclette or fondue at the market, and don't forget to try the luxurious hot chocolate, often topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings.

Innsbruck's Old Town

Another neighboring gem for those in Liechtenstein is Innsbruck's Old Town in Austria. The city's Christmas markets are famous, with the Old Town market set against the backdrop of the snow-capped Nordkette mountains. The Golden Roof, Innsbruck's iconic landmark, overlooks the festive stalls that offer Tyrolean specialties, hand-blown glass ornaments, and hand-carved wooden toys. The market typically features live music and a traditional Christmas parade in early December.

We Recommend: Try the Kiachl, a Tyrolean fried pastry that can be enjoyed sweet with cranberry sauce or savory with sauerkraut, a local favorite at the Christmas market.

Munich's Marienplatz

Crossing over to Germany, Munich's Marienplatz hosts one of the oldest and most traditional Christmas markets, the "Münchner Christkindlmarkt." The market is famous for its handmade crafts, festive decorations, and a towering Christmas tree. Visitors can enjoy a variety of Bavarian treats, including Lebkuchen (gingerbread) and Bratwurst. The market also features a live Nativity scene and the enchanting "Krampuslauf," a parade featuring the mythical Krampus, in early December.

We Recommend: Don't leave without tasting the Feuerzangenbowle, a potent German drink where a rum-soaked sugarloaf is set on fire and drips into mulled wine. It's a spectacle and a treat all in one!

Strasbourg's Grande Île

Strasbourg, France, known as the "Capital of Christmas," is home to one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe, dating back to 1570. The market spreads across the Grande Île, the historic city center, and features hundreds of stalls. The "Christkindelsmärik" on Place Broglie and the market by the iconic Strasbourg Cathedral are particularly festive. The city is beautifully decorated, and the markets sell Alsatian Christmas delicacies, ornaments, and mulled wine.

We Recommend: Sample the local bredele biscuits, a variety of traditional Alsatian Christmas cookies that come in different shapes and flavors, perfect for a sweet souvenir.

Colmar's Old Town

Not far from Strasbourg, the town of Colmar is another Alsatian jewel. Its Christmas markets are spread across the old town, with each market having its own theme. The "Marché de Noël" at Place des Dominicains is set around a beautiful church, while the market at Place Jeanne d'Arc focuses on local gastronomy. The town is known for its "Little Venice" district, which is especially picturesque during the holidays with its canal-side Christmas market.

We Recommend: Enjoy a glass of vin chaud (mulled wine) as you stroll through the markets, and be sure to try the local Munster cheese, often served warm with cumin seeds.

These destinations, each with their own unique charm and festive offerings, are sure to fill your December with holiday spirit and joy. Whether you're looking for traditional markets, stunning decorations, or simply a cozy winter atmosphere, these places will provide an unforgettable holiday experience.