18 Best Christmas Markets in Europe to Visit in 2024

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I can almost guarantee that the best Christmas markets in Europe will make even the biggest Scrooge light up inside. Especially if you love glühwein, bratwurst, and ice skating!

For most of Europe, winter festivities typically start at the end of November and continue until early January – they pretty much symbolise the beginning of winter. And they’re spectacular!

Whether you’re looking for quaint market stalls in the countryside or one that’s more lively like those found in big cities, there is no shortage of European Christmas markets.

I’ve personally visited a great selection, from small events in Bruges to the Yuletide festival that is Strasbourg. I’ve also visited the festivities in the UK, Germany, and even winter sun destinations like Malta.

With so many great places across Europe offering up their own unique spin on traditional holiday festivities, there really is a fantastic selection to choose from.

What European countries Have Christmas markets?

I’m hesitant to say this, but possibly all of them? The tradition originated in Germany and was primarily a way for locals to trade goods and prepare for the festive season.

Like anything good, the idea caught on and today, there are hundreds (possibly thousands) of European Christmas markets across the continent.

While the specific details and traditions surrounding these events can vary from country to country, here are some of the European countries known for hosting the best Christmas markets:

• Germany: Arguably the most famous Christmas markets in Europe are in Germany. Destinations from Frankfurt to Dresden, and even cities like Baden-Baden are pretty spectacular in winter
• Austria: While Germany in winter is pretty famous, Austria is a close second. Vienna actually has the largest Christmas market in Europe attracting over 3 million people per year!
• France: France is another great place to go for the festive season. Strasbourg, a city in the south along the German border, is actually known as the ‘Capital of Christmas’.
• Belgium: Brussels and Bruges both host charming Christmas markets, but you can find festivities up and down the country. The selection of Belgian waffles is to die for!
• United Kingdom: London in winter is epic, but Edinburgh, York, and other cities like Leeds, Cambridge, and Manchester are well worth the trip.
• Poland: Both Krakow and Warsaw are well known for their festivities. Poland is also one of the best places to go if you’re looking for an affordable winter break.

18 Incredible Christmas markets in Europe

So, to get you in the festive spirit, here are the 18 best Christmas markets in Europe, from smaller, more unique events, to some of the biggest markets on the continent.

1. Brussels, Belgium

Brussels is home to one of the best Christmas markets in Europe. The main square of the city, the Grand Place in the heart of Brussels, is decorated with Christmas lights and many traditional crafts are on display. Illuminated against the glow of the palace, you’ll find such a great festive event.

The majestic tree in the centre has more than 130 presents underneath it (this is for visitors who donate money or bring an item worth donating themselves)!

You’ll also find countless stalls selling everything from scrummy foods to mulled wine, arts and crafts, paintings and Christmas decorations, and even handmade wooden toys.

We had great fun in Brussels jumping from stall to stall trying everything from delicious stews to Belgian frites with spicy sauce. It was fantastic – and we definitely didn’t need dinner that night!

If you want to explore more of Belgium, you can also travel north to Bruges and Ghent. On a slightly smaller scale, these are just as festive and the Bruges markets are especially pretty against the canals in the city.

The Brussels Christmas markets run from the end of November to the start of January and are open daily. The best time of day to visit, without as many crowds, is around lunchtime. But it certainly gets more atmospheric when the sun goes down.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Brussels

2. London, England

The beautiful city of London has some of the best Christmas markets in Europe and is literally a wonderland of winter fun.

These are set up in different locations across the city and every one of them is full of beautiful decorations, traditional food, street artists and lots of entertainment for everyone – adults as well as children.

The city has so much choice, from popular spots to more hidden gems. London has so many places worth visiting in December. From the large ice rink and Christmas carols to the chance to meet Santa Claus, London at Christmas is pretty magical.

Some of the best places include:

• South Bank,
• Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park,
• Portobello Road
• Leicester Square
• Regent Street,
• Covent Garden

✅ Discover the best places to stay in London

3. Cologne, Germany

Undoubtedly home to one of the best German Christmas markets is the city of Cologne. Located against the backdrop of the magnificent Cologne Cathedral, the magical market is spread across the most popular areas in the heart of the city.

It’s one of Germany’s most renowned and enchanting events during the holiday season. You can explore a wide range of decorated stalls including wooden chalets decorated with sparkly tinsel and fairy lights.

The stalls sell so much, from unique gifts and ornaments to traditional German treats like bratwurst, roasted chestnuts, and mulled wine. And don’t forget one of my favourite parts – the gingerbread lollipops which you absolutely have to try!

There’s also live music, animated figurines (the ones going up the pretend ski lift were my favourites), a huge ice rink, and the aroma of spiced gingerbread and cookies.

I also loved the way that they avoid using single-use plastics here. You pay extra for a reusable mug for your mulled wine or other drinks, and once you’re done, either return it, and get your money back, or keep it as a handy souvenir.

It was certainly nice not to see plastic cups all over the floor!

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Cologne

4. York, England

One of the top Christmas markets in Europe, York is well worth a visit during the winter time. There’s a small selection of stalls around the infamous York Minster, and also a Christmas Tree Festival in this area too.

Then, in the main square, you have the main event. This is a long street lined with two rows of stalls. There is so much to choose from in York, and you can spend all day wandering up and down the rows, browsing the goodies and eating festive food.

You’ll find homemade fudge, jewellery, mulled wine and hot cider, arts, and crafts, and cuisines from all over the world. Plus, don’t forget to pay a visit to Thor’s bar for a hearty drink and a very festive atmosphere.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in York

5. Strasbourg, France

Dubbed the ‘Capital of Christmas’, Strasbourg is easily the best European Christmas market (or one of them at least!). Even without the festivities, the cobblestone streets of Strasbourg look like they’re out of a fairy tale.

With timbered buildings, small cobbled alleyways, and a canal running through the centre, the city is utterly gorgeous and you’ll easily fall in love with it.

The markets themselves are very popular. I think this was the only one I’ve visited where I had a bag search, so they’re also very secure.

You’ll find the usual selection of arts and crafts, mulled wine, beer and cider, but also local cuisines like baguettes topped with melted cheese, French stews, and pastries and cakes.

It was so much fun exploring the canals, wandering past the beautiful buildings and eating all we could find. If you want to have a fairy-tale experience in Europe, I cannot recommend Strasbourg enough.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Strasbourg

6. Malta

Malta is one of the best places in Europe to visit for winter sun. You’ll find cobbled streets, fantastic old towns across both Malta and Gozo (the neighbouring island), and so much cool history including ancient temples and pretty churches.

The festivities in Malta are mainly in Valletta, although, you’ll also find decorations around most of the island. In the capital, you’ll find a square full of stalls and games.

There’s food and drinks including traditional German fares, more everyday food, and also international cuisines like Caribbean curries and Mexican fajitas. You can also purchase hot wine, cider, beer and hot chocolate, but also ice creams, and gelatos.

Furthermore, there’s a great selection of fairground games, like hook-a-duck, a Ferris wheel, and basketball games. It’s definitely not as elaborate as some of the other festivities in Europe, but if you’re after a winter sun break with a festive feel, Malta is a great option.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Malta

7. Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh is a beautiful city. There’s no denying it. And when it has its winter outfit on, it takes on a whole new level of beauty. The main Edinburgh Christmas market is located in the square near the Scott Monument and it’s really quite impressive.

It’s huge. Walking from one side to the other, you’ll find stalls selling all sorts from German currywurst to Asian noodle dishes.

You’ll also find traditional Scottish fare like haggis and neaps and tatties but also interesting twists on this. I think we saw haggis nachos at one point – we were pretty intrigued but decided not to go for it.

There’s also a pretty good selection of artisanal gifts, homemade clothing (lots of knitwear, so great for finding unique scarves or hats are presents), and very detailed decorations too. And, of course, the usual selection of drinks – mulled wine, hot cider, and lots of beer!

There are rides too. We went on the Ferris wheel and saw great views over Edinburgh from the top. There is also a helter-skelter and plenty of arcade games to try.

One thing to bear in mind, however, is that it can get pretty busy. We ended up queueing for about 30 minutes to get in as security only let so many people in at a time to prevent it from getting too crowded.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Edinburgh

8. Frankfurt, Germany

Frankfurt holds one of the best Christmas markets in Europe and one of the oldest in the world.

The first record of the event dates back to 1393. Back then, people called it a “December market” as it lasted throughout December and only consisted of a few stalls in the centre of the medieval town.

Today, the Frankfurt Christmas Market sprawls out all across the Old Town and into many squares and plazas nearby. The best place to start your visit is on Römerberg, in front of the city hall.

Here, you can find lots of stalls that sell mulled wine and food. Make sure to try the hot Apfelwein, a regional delicacy from the area. Apfelwein, which literally translates to apple wine, is similar to cider.

The one sold at the Christmas market in Frankfurt is hot and infused with spices, making it the perfect drink to enjoy on a cold December day.

North of Römerberg, in front of the Paulskirche Church, you can then find lots of stalls selling handicrafts. This is a great place to stock up on gifts for friends and families.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Frankfurt

9. Prague, Czech Republic

The Christmas markets in Prague run from late November and run to early January. They are located in the centre of the old town square which is transformed into a winter wonderland every year, with beautiful lights and a huge tree.

You’ll find yourself in the heart of the action, right next to the famous astronomical clock and the Church of Our Lady before Týn.

There is a wide range of stalls to browse; you’ll be able to pick up some amazing gifts such as handmade baubles, traditional Czech puppets, and intricate glass ornaments.

If you’re here for the food, then try some traditional Czech dishes such as Pražská Šunka (Prague Ham) or a Klobasa (hot dog)!

Getting around Prague is relatively easy. Most of the city is very flat and most of the attractions are close together. Since the main festivities are in the cathedral square, they’re very accessible to everyone.

If you’re staying in the old town then you’ll be able to get to the markets on foot but if you’re a little further away from the action you can always hop on a Tram or the Metro.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Prague

10. Vienna, Austria

Christmas in Vienna is very special. Whilst the Austrian capital is a fabulous destination at any time of year, from mid-November, festivities transform its prettiest squares into winter wonderlands. Better still, you have not one, not two, but 14 Christmas markets to choose from.

From the low-key event at the Schönbrunn Palace to the Christmas village at the Belvedere, each market has its own personality. But the biggest and busiest is the Christkindlmarkt, in a spectacular location in front of the city’s Baroque town hall (Rathaus metro station).

Stroll through the sparkling lights, mug of glühwein in hand, the air perfumed with the smoky aroma of roasted chestnuts. Keep hunger at bay with Viennese food.

This includes many varieties of sausages and Bratkartoffeln, a tasty pan-fried potato dish. If you have a sweet tooth then try the gingerbread, pancakes, or doughnuts.

This is one of the best locations to pick up tasteful gifts for those back home, including an authentic snow globe – this is where they originated – or an exquisitely decorated gingerbread house.

All of Vienna’s Christmas markets normally stay open until at least December 23rd, with some continuing into late December or early January.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Vienna

11. Riga, Latvia

Riga, Latvia is located in Eastern Europe and hosts one of the best Christmas markets in Europe. It is also one of the best hidden gems in Europe too as not as many tourists have it on their radar.  

The event happens every year from November to January 6th and is a real treat to visit. It takes place at Doma Laukums (Dome Square) which is in the heart of the city.

You can shop for many great items including hand-knitted mittens and socks, aromatic candles, woodwork, ornaments, and much much more. 

After shopping away, you can enjoy the food there which includes sausages with sauerkraut, and bacon, and for a sweet treat, you can try the gingerbread cookies. Of course, you will need to stay warm with traditional karstvīns (mulled wine) in hand. There is also live music to entertain you as you stroll around. 

Riga is a wonderful city to explore it’s great to just walk around the Old Town. After all, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. To get to Riga, there is a local airport, Riga International Airport, which is only 20 minutes away from the city centre.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Riga

12. Nuremberg, Germany

When visiting Germany in winter, Nuremberg is often one of the most popular and sought-after destinations. After all, Nuremberg is home to one of the oldest Christmas markets in the world.

It is really easy to get to the city by car and it’s also a major transportation hub with trains. While today, it has become a bit touristy and jam-packed with travellers, it is still a must-visit when in Bavaria.

There are plenty of foods to try at the German markets, including all the classics like Gluhwein, wursts (of course try the famous Nürnberger Bratwurst!), roasted nuts and so many others.

As you wander through the plethora of rows of stalls and stands, you’ll see beautiful carved wooden toys, jewellery, various decorations, and much more.

Nuremberg also has a funny little unique souvenir to be on the lookout for, the Zwetschgenmännle, or “Prune men.” In the evenings, a visit from the beautiful angel, the Christkind, is always a sight to see and you’ll often find bands or choirs playing festive music to add to the magic of the season.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Nuremberg

13. Bratislava, Slovakia

If you are looking for the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe, then you should definitely visit Bratislava in Winter. Here you will find a whole host of festivities with a unique atmosphere and a kind of fairy-tale scenery.

Probably the most beautiful and largest markets in Bratislava are located on the main square Hlavné and Hviezdoslavovo námestie. During a visit, you will enjoy regional specialities, delicious food, and sweet seasonal treats.

Locals, but also many tourists, from all over the world meet here to drink mulled wine or tea together and enjoy the atmosphere to the fullest.

But not only are the drinks delicious but fantastic food is also provided! You should definitely try Loksa, a savoury pancake with potatoes, and the traditional Strudl, a crispy cake with apple and raisin filling.

Next to these, you’ll find a wide range of traditional souvenirs and handicrafts made of wood – ideal to take home a few souvenirs for your loved ones.

This square gets the most beautiful towards evening when local artists, singers, and dancers perform – it’s truly an extraordinary experience.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Bratislava

14. Amsterdam, Netherlands

During the winter period, Amsterdam – the capital of the Netherlands – is a winter paradise. The people from the Netherlands love Christmas, and there are many festive events during this period.

In Amsterdam, one of the best is the Ice Village. Every year one of the most popular places in Amsterdam turns into a cosy and charming winter village. 

You can skate on the ice-skating rink in front of the Rijksmuseum, enjoy music that is played live by local music bands and buy something unique at one of the stalls.

These sell a range of typical Christmas items but also handmade items from Dutch designers. You can also go bowling and enjoy delicious meals and drinks here.

From the city’s central station, it’s just a short walk – around 35 minutes – to the Ice Village. You can also use the metro. Check the official Dutch travel planner for the best way to travel from Central Station to Museum Square.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Amsterdam

15. Paris, France

Paris is magical any time of the year, but it becomes even more magical around the holiday season. Streets and buildings are adorned with twinkling lights. Christmas trees pop up in front of storefronts, and festive markets appear in some of the most popular neighbourhoods of Paris.

The best (and largest) Christmas market in Paris is located in the Tuileries. The Tuileries is right between the Louvre and the Champs Elysées, an ideal location for anyone visiting Paris.

At the Tuileries, you’ll find booths selling cute gifts, hot food stands, and carnival games, making this a great place to take kids.  Enjoy roasted nuts, crepes, Gluhwein, and more while you watch your kids interact with animatronic reindeer and laugh on the carnival rides. 

The Tuileries market offers something for everyone and cannot be missed if you’re in Paris during the holiday season!

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Paris

16. Berlin, Germany

The Gendarmenmarkt is one of the prettiest markets in Berlin. The Gendarmenmarkt Square is a gorgeous setting with three historic buildings – the German Cathedral, the French Cathedral, and the Konzerthaus – framing the festivities.

White tent toppers and twinkling lights add to the sophisticated vibe, and it feels a bit upscale. But it still has a cosy atmosphere as you wander from stall to stall with a mug of mulled wine.

Vendors here sell everything from traditional Christmas decorations to fancy handcrafted candles and glass items. Even though it’s cold outside, there are heated tents where you can warm up.

The food here is gourmet too, and many of the restaurants are set up in heated tents. Traditional Bavarian and Austrian dishes, as well as more local Berlin specialities, are on offer. Be sure to try the Kaiserschmarren, which are Austrian sweet pancakes.

Even though there are so many wonderful Christmas markets in Berlin, the one at Gendarmenmarkt is one of the best. There’s a 1 euro entry fee, but if you go on a weekday before 2pm, it’s free. The closest Ubahn station is Hausvogteiplatz.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Berlin

17. Munich, Germany

Visiting Munich during winter might not be for everyone, since the city can get really cold and snowy. However, that’s just one thing that makes it the idyllic destination for visiting a Christmas market in Europe.

The official holiday season opens every year in late November and lasts until the 24th of December. Tourists and locals have plenty of time to enjoy strolling through this winter wonderland. 

Every year, there are several markets set up in some of the most important squares in town, each with its own particularity and charm. Stroll (or take the festive tram) from the English Garden, stop in the interior garden of the Residenz, and don’t miss out on seeing the best spot in town: Marienplatz. 

The whole pedestrian street linking Marienplatz to Karlsplatz is filled with small wooden houses. They are packed with colourful toys, lights, mulled wine, and sweets galore. You will find it hard not to try the roasted nuts that will lure you with their sweet smell, the gingerbread, or the German fruit bread.

Just make sure you bring one of your winter jackets, a hat, a scarf, and some gloves to stay warm.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Munich

18. Tivoli, Denmark

Another magical Christmas f to visit in Europe is situated in the Tivoli Gardens in Denmark. Tivoli Gardens is the world’s third-largest (operating) amusement park located in the city centre of Copenhagen. 

Although the Gardens are a beautiful attraction to visit throughout the year, they look particularly magical during the festive season. The entire park is decorated with around a million twinkly lights during winter and is a sight to behold.

Adorned with nearly 60 stalls selling everything from Glögg to hot chocolates to freshly made Danish doughnuts called æbleskiver, there is something delicious worth indulging in for everyone. The Christmas market there is surrounded by thrilling rides and festive plays that visitors can enjoy too. 

There are also enormous trees wrapped in fairy lights that are fascinating to admire. Besides, if you are visiting between Christmas and New Year’s Eve, there is also a fireworks festival each evening that week.

Tivoli Gardens is easily reachable on foot and by public or private transport from most places in Copenhagen. Being the Danish capital, Copenhagen is a well-connected destination. Depending on where you are coming from, you can get there by flight, train, or road.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Copenhagen

Final Thoughts on the Best Christmas Markets in Europe

Overall, Europe is a wonderland at Christmas. There are some completely incredible Christmas markets from the bustling streets of Germany to the quieter streets of English villages. If you love embracing the festive atmosphere, I guarantee you’ll love these Christmas markets.

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