The best pre-Christmas afternoon teas

Afternoon tea has its roots in the United Kingdom, where it established itself as an integral part of the daily social routine in the 19th century - a snack that combines peace, conversation and small moments of culinary pleasure. This ritual has a special charm, especially during the Advent season: a short break from the hustle and bustle, accompanied by warm tea and fine cookies.

The most festive afternoon teas in the run-up to Christmas

Falstaff TRAVEL presents hotels in Germany, Austria and Switzerland where afternoon tea is particularly atmospheric at Christmas time.

Mandarin Oriental Savoy, Zurich

Located in the heart of the Swiss capital, the Mandarin Oriental Savoy radiates splendor, especially during the Christmas season. Afternoon tea brings the magic of winter to coffee tables: with a selection of fine teas, oven-fresh scones and artful sweet creations by Andy Vorbusch, named "Pastry Chef of the Year 2025" by Falstaff magazine. Hearty dishes are also a must, as is the cozy atmosphere of the Mandarin Lounge by the fireplace.

The seasonal offer will be served daily from 2 to 5 p.m. until March 31, 2026.

Breidenbacher Hof, Düsseldorf

English tradition meets Düsseldorf flair in the warm atmosphere of the Breidenbacher Hof Lobby Lounge. The Advent Afternoon Tea is served in the run-up to Christmas - with festive dishes such as sweet baked apple slices, Florentines, pistachio biscotti or hearty baked Faroese salmon praline. Martina Rademacher is a Tea Master with Gold status and is happy to assist guests with their tea selection.

The Advent Afternoon Tea will be served daily from November 21 from 2 to 5.30 p.m. as an option and exclusively on Advent Sundays.

The Fontenay, Hamburg

Afternoon tea at this elegant Hamburg address is given a special touch during the Advent season. Executive Chef Pâtissier Marco D'Andrea and his team interpret the classic tea culture in their very own way: seasonal, creative, savory and sweet. In the run-up to Christmas, this concept is at its most atmospheric: artisan desserts, freshly baked scones and carefully selected teas create an indulgent break in the midst of the hectic season. The focus is on the moment spent together at the table - a simple but elegant ritual that rounds off the Advent season with culinary delights.

Thursday to Sunday from 14:00 - 17:00.

Anantara Palais Hansen Vienna Hotel, Vienna

A new dimension of afternoon tea has just opened in the prestigious hotel with "Theo's Tea Time". Star chef Paul Gamauf from the hotel's own Michelin restaurant "EDVARD" and Executive Chef Dieter Stamminger present a combination of classic coffee house culture and innovative star cuisine - the first Michelin Afternoon Tea in Vienna. In "Theo's Lounge & Bar", guests can enjoy hearty creations such as pumpkin goulash, roast veal with dumplings or char tartare as well as tempting desserts. As the name suggests, tea is of course a must. Gamauf also interprets an aperitif variant to the exquisite tea selection : the Sparkling Tea.

From November 30, 2025, daily from 2 to 5 pm.

Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Kempinski Munich

The hotel celebrates festive moments of indulgence in the listed "Nymphenburg Room". Chef patissier Ian Baker presents fragrant scones, sweet delicacies and savory sandwiches, accompanied by exquisite teas recommended by tea sommelier Roberto Campanelli. The menu includes Baumkuchen with foie gras, apple and walnut, truffle brie with thyme honey and Jerusalem artichoke with mushroom foam, as well as sweet highlights such as Christmas baubles with mandarin and tonka, gingerbread canelle, classic English mince pie and a "gift box" with nougat and cassis.

The Christmas Afternoon Tea is held from Thursday to Sunday from 3 to 6 pm.

Rosewood Munich, Munich

The winter garden of the Munich luxury hotel is transformed into a magical fairy-tale atmosphere for the winter season in keeping with the Brothers Grimm's motto. The Afternoon Tea picks up on the Snow White motif and combines selected teas with festive, finely tuned delicacies. In an elegant atmosphere, guests can take a relaxing break in the middle of the wintry days.

Until January 1, 2026, daily from 2 to 5:30 pm.