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Top 10 Best Christmas Markets in Europe
Visit the Christmas markets in Europe throughout Austria, Germany, Sweden, and so much more. Marvel at the mesmerizing lights and traditions.
December 7, 2023
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When the snow falls and it gets chilly, wear your boots and get ready to visit the top 10 Christmas markets in Europe. In many places worldwide, you’ll be able to find these little commercial areas that sell all types of goodies and perfect gifts for your loved ones.
It’s truly an experience to marvel at and enjoy. Today, we want to show everything there is to know about the best Christmas markets during the winter. Read about when these markets come alive, how to get there, and even what makes each one stand out from the rest!
1. Timeless Christmas Charm in Salzburg (Austria)
Outstanding feature: Nestled against the backdrop of the snow-capped Alps, Salzburg’s Christmas market in Austria, Europe, exudes timeless charm. The market unfolds in the historic Old Town, offering a variety of handcrafted gifts, delicious treats, specialties like mulled wine and hot punch and traditional Austrian festivities.
Opening dates: November 23, 2023–January 1, 2024
The heart of the city transforms into a winter wonderland where visitors can indulge in local delicacies, explore traditional crafts, and immerse themselves in the festive spirit. There are also activities for children, like singalongs, traditional music, the visit of Christ Child and his Angles and a read-along.
2. Festive Delights in Budapest Christmas Market (Hungary)
Outstanding feature: Budapest’s Christmas markets stand out with their stunning backdrop of the Budapest Basilica and the Vorosmarty Square, symbols of Europe. These markets are a haven for those seeking unique, handcrafted gifts and the flavors of Hungarian cuisine.
Opening dates: November 17–December 31
Set in front of the Budapest Basilica or on Vorosmarty Square, these markets offer a delightful mix of artisanal crafts, local delicacies, and a festive atmosphere. Explore the wooden stalls, savor chimney cake, and enjoy the live performances that capture the season’s spirit. There will be a laser projection against the Basilica, and you’ll have a great time with the family.
3. Magical Enclave of Christmas Traditions in Prague (Czech Republic)
Outstanding feature: Prague’s Christmas market is a magical enclave in the Old Town Square, with plenty that will captivate your holiday spirit of Europe. The market is renowned for its medieval setting, with the imposing Tyn Church as a breathtaking backdrop. This has been cataloged as one of the most beautiful markets in the world by several news outlets. This is the perfect spot to get an impressive picture and post it online!
Opening dates: December 2–January 6
Wander through the medieval streets of Prague’s Old Town Square, adorned with festive lights and decorations. The market offers an array of handcrafted goods, Czech specialties, and a festive ambiance that transports visitors to a bygone era. Drop by to get your family gifts and try out the roasted chestnuts, gingerbread, sausages, or dumplings! Show others how the holidays are celebrated by uploading a video on social media.
4. Vienna’s Dream Christmas Market (Austria)
Outstanding feature: Vienna’s Christmas market is a dreamy affair set right in front of the city hall, the Rathaus. The market is celebrated for its classical music performances, adding an extra layer of elegance to the festivities.
Opening dates: November 10–December 26
The Rathausplatz transformed into a winter wonderland, with the market featuring classical concerts, beautiful handicrafts, and an ice rink for skating enthusiasts. Experience the grandeur of Vienna’s Christmas traditions in this enchanting setting. Set your sights on the kissing spot for couples. You can take the children to a special ice skating rink and there are also cooking lessons for the little ones.
5. Festive Cheer at Cologne Majestic Cathedral (Germany)
Outstanding feature: The Cologne Cathedral provides a majestic background to the city’s Christmas market, making it a perfect place to visit during the holidays in Europe. The stunning location and dominating presence of the cathedral set the market apart from others on the continent.
Opening dates: November 22–December 23
The shadow of the Cologne Cathedral sets the stage for a festive euphoria, featuring over 160 wooden chalets offering everything from crafts to culinary delights. The atmosphere is brimming with holiday cheer, making it a must-visit destination. For the little ones, every Tuesday to Thursday, the market offers a special program called “Sternwarte,” where they can linger around the market. You can arrive by bus, car, train, or cab.
6. Winter Wonders in the Heart of Brussels (Belgium)
Outstanding feature: Brussels’ Winter Wonders is a dazzling spectacle in the heart of the city. The market is renowned for its stunning light displays, captivating visitors from near and far.
Opening dates: November 24–December 31
The Grand Place transforms into a winter fairyland, boasting a Christmas market, an ice rink, and a Ferris wheel, available until January 7th. Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere, sample Belgian treats, and marvel at the mesmerizing light shows that illuminate the historic square. There will also be cultural activities and events like the Magic Sundays.
7. Strasbourg’s Festive Market Marvels (France)
Outstanding feature: Strasbourg, known as the “Capital of Christmas,” hosts a market filled with activities and workshops that unite the community. The market’s outstanding feature lies in its blend of French and German traditions, creating a unique and enchanting experience.
Opening dates: November 24–December 24
Strasbourg’s market, spread across the Cathedral Square and surrounding areas, offers a perfect blend of Alsatian charm. Explore the stalls, indulge in regional specialties, and bask in the festive atmosphere that has made Strasbourg a Christmas destination like no other. You can also attend the mini Christmas tree and gift card workshop and participate in the various shows and presentations.
8. Gothenburg’s Winter Wonderland (Sweden)
Outstanding feature: There are many Christmas markets in Gothenburg. From the Liseberg amusement park to Gunnebo Castle, you’ll have a long list of activities and spectacles to participate in. These Christmas markets bring together traditional craftsmanship, fashion and millions of lights. For example, the Lisenberg market is renowned for its thrilling rides, festive decorations, and Scandinavian charm.
Opening dates: November 15–December 30
These markets host the perfect gifts to take home for your family, and you’ll definitely find the aesthetic background for that perfect vacation picture. Show everyone back home how you’re having a remarkable time. Write down the places where you’ll find these markets:
- Liseberg
- Kronhuset
- à la London
- Haga
- Nordstan
- Ringön
- HDK-Valand
9. Copenhagen’s Festive Frolic (Denmark)
Outstanding feature: Just like in Gothenburg, there are plenty of Christmas markets in Copenhagen, like in Højbro Plads, Kongens Nytorv, Tivoli Gardens and Nyhavn. For example, Tivoli Gardens Market has more than 60 stalls with different sounds, sites and delights.
Opening dates: November 18–December 31
Keep in mind that even though most markets are free, the Tivoli market does have an entry fee. The market stands out with its fairy tale atmosphere, complete with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and plenty of entertainment options. Tivoli Gardens transforms into a festive playground, offering an ice rink, Christmas-themed rides, and ice skating. Embrace the Danish holiday spirit in this iconic amusement park setting.
10. Krakow’s Winter Fantasy (Poland)
Outstanding feature: The heart of Krakows main square becomes a bustling center point for locals and tourists. Just by smelling the air, you can sense the cloves, ginger, orange slices and honey that make up the authentic mulled wine. Discover this and more Christmas markets in Eastern Europe.
Opening dates: November 25 – January 1
Stay warm with a few shots of mulled wine and spirits available in the stalls. If hunger creeps up, don’t worry; there is grilled meat ready for you. Try the spiced beetroot soup, which is a Polish family tradition during the holiday season. Help others find their way to this Christmas marvel by staying connected while in Poland and sharing all your adventures on social media. Don’t forget to go ice skating and get souvenirs for your loved ones.
Tips for First-Time Travelers
As you embark on this festive journey across Europe, consider practical recommendations for a seamless experience. Follow our recommendations to have an experience of a lifetime at the different Christmas markets in Europe:
- Take appropriate clothing for the cold and snow; cover up!
- Plan ahead; we recommend an itinerary
- Respect different traditions and customs
- Be open to new tastes and smells
- Stay in contact with family and friends
- Remember to have your permits and ETIAS up to date
Stay connected
There are plenty of options to stay connected when you travel abroad, like pocket WiFi, roaming, and even local SIM cards, which can be expensive. One of the innovative options is the eSIM, and plenty of operators, like Holafly, offer this option. Check out the benefits of connecting with a virtual SIM:
- Unlimited data
- Hotspots to share data with up to 1 GB daily
- 24/7 customer service
- Connected from the moment you land
- There is no risk of damage or loss
- Get it directly from the app and on the go!
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely! Christmas markets in Europe are worth a visit for their enchanting atmosphere, festive decorations, unique handcrafted goods, and a wide array of delicious seasonal treats. The markets offer a magical experience that captures the spirit of the holiday season.
Determining the “most popular” Christmas market can be subjective, but several markets are renowned for their charm and unique offerings. Markets in cities like Strasbourg, Nuremberg, and Vienna are often considered among the most popular, each with its own special traditions and attractions.
Several countries in Europe are celebrated for their outstanding Christmas markets. Germany is often regarded as a top destination, with cities like Nuremberg, Cologne, and Munich hosting iconic markets. Other notable countries with fantastic Christmas markets include Austria, France, Belgium, and the Czech Republic.
For seamless connectivity during your European travels, consider using a reliable international SIM card or an eSIM. Holafly’s eSIM, for instance, offers convenient and efficient data connectivity across multiple European countries. Simply order the eSIM online, download the profile, and stay connected throughout your festive journey.
