Where are the Best Christmas Markets in Europe?

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By Elena Porter
Updated November 22, 2024 7:36 AM EST

Christmas is just around the corner, and if a European holiday tops your wish list, you're here to hop in for some special event. Create a timelapse for intertwined evenings through strolling within glowing markets, sipping on spiced mulled wine, and experiencing one-of-a-kind & magical treasures with your family and friends.

All Europe's Christmas markets are packed with wandering festive glow & surprises that go beyond gifts, as they're experiences waiting to be unwrapped in a precious moment. So grab the best tour package for Christmas Getaways Europe Christmas fairs in Europe, and let's make this Christmas season an unforgettable one.

When do Christmas markets start in Europe 2024?

The Europe Christmas markets usually begin in late November and run through December, ending just before Christmas. Whether you're hunting for unique gifts or enjoying cozy treats, it's the best time to explore the heart of Europe's holiday charm. It's the perfect time to soak in the festive spirit & endless celebrations for the entire month.

Why should I visit the best Christmas markets in Europe?

Visiting the best Christmas markets in Europe offers a remarkable experience, immersing you in a festive wonderland of twinkling lights, traditional food and drink, handcrafted gifts, and live music. These markets capture the season's magic, set against the backdrop of historic towns. It's a chance to explore local traditions, savor seasonal treats, and find unique, handcrafted gifts while enjoying the warmth of festive cheer.

Why Visit European Christmas Markets?

• 🎄 Authentic festive atmosphere: Experience local Christmas traditions with unique decorations, music, and food.
• 🎁 Unique shopping: Find handcrafted gifts and exclusive decorations.
• 🍷 Delicious food & drink: Savor mulled wine, gingerbread, roasted chestnuts, and more.
• 🏰 Charming settings: Enjoy picturesque markets in historic town squares.
• 🎶 Live entertainment: Delight in carolers, live music, and festive shows.
• 🌍 Cultural immersion: Learn about European holiday customs.
• ⛸️ Family fun: Ice skating, rides, and activities for all ages.

What are the best European Christmas markets in 2024?

From Vienna to Prague, Europe's best Christmas markets are a winter wonderland of charming wooden huts, sparkling lights, and the warm scents of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts. These magical markets, which originated in Germany during the Middle Ages, now light up cities across France, Switzerland, Italy, and beyond.

First-time visitors? Start your festive journey in Strasbourg, France, or Cologne, Germany. For a unique twist, explore the best places to go in Europe for Christmas markets of Tallinn, Estonia, or Seville, Spain. Keep reading to discover the top Christmas markets in Europe for 2024—and where to stay nearby!

Antwerp, Belgium

Location: Grote Markt & Beyond (Suikerrui, Groenplaats, Hendrik Conscienceplein, Handschoenmarkt, Operaplein) – Antwerp, Belgium

Why We Love It: Step into a living Christmas fairy tale! Antwerp's historic Grote Markt transforms into a dazzling wonderland, with over 100 charming stalls spreading through cobbled streets. Glide across the ice rink near the Antwerp Cathedral, stroll through the sparkling "Magical Winter Forest," and catch breathtaking views from the Ferris wheel along the River Scheldt. Warm up with Belgian delicacies like moules frites, mulled wine, and decadent chocolates.

Where to Stay: Hotel Matelote (0.14 miles)

Wrocław, Poland

Location: Market Square & Plac Solny, Wrocław, Poland

Why We Love It: Wrocław's Christmas market captures the magic of the season with its cozy charm, even with a simpler light display. It's a sensory delight starting on December 6 with festive tree lighting and Santa's arrival. Feast on warm potato pancakes, pierogi, bigos, sausages, and indulgent mulled wine.

Where to Stay: Hotel Monopol (just 0.2 miles away)

Trento, Italy

Location: Piazza Fiera & Piazza Cesare Battisti, Trento, Italy

Why We Love It: Trento becomes a winter wonderland, or Città del Natale, adorned with sparkling lights and 90 cozy wooden stalls. The breathtaking Alps are the perfect backdrop as you savor local delights like tortel di patate and treccia mochèna. Explore unique crafts and cheeses, and don't miss the enchanting nativity displays by the fountains, all beneath the historic Buonconsiglio Castle.

Where to Stay: Il Torrione (just 0.04 miles away)

Vienna, Austria

Location: City Hall (Rathausplatz), Vienna, Austria

Why We Love It: Step into a winter wonderland at Vienna's Viennese Dream Market, where the majestic City Hall sets the scene for festive joy. Glide across the ice, ride the Ferris wheel, and hop on the merry-go-round with a warm drink. Delight in cheese-stuffed sausages, melt-in-your-mouth vanillekipferl, and steaming mulled wine—pure holiday bliss.

Where to Stay: Hotel Sacher Wien (0.9 miles)

Budapest, Hungary

Location: St. Stephen's Square, Budapest, Hungary

Why We Love It: Nestled beneath the majestic St. Stephen's Basilica, this vibrant market boasts 160 vendors, an ice-skating rink, and lively weekend folk dance shows. Celebrate the season with holiday cheer, or ring in the New Year with lencseleves (lentil soup) on January 1—a Hungarian tradition for prosperity. Recently crowned the best place to spend Xmas in Europe Christmas Market.

Where to Stay: Aria Hotel Budapest (0.08 miles away)

Colmar, France

Location: Place des Dominicains, Place Jeanne d’Arc, Place de l’Ancienne Douane, Koïfhus, Petite Venise & Gourmet Market Place de la Cathédrale – Colmar, France

Why We Love It: Out of all the best places in Europe for Christmas, Colmar is the best. Step into a Christmas fairytale in Colmar, where every corner sparkles with twinkling lights and festive cheer. Glide on the ice rink, take a spin on the vintage carousel, and soak in nativity scenes and carolers' melodies. Food lovers can savor oysters and Alsatian wines at the gourmet market.

Where to Stay: Hôtel Le Colombier (0.06 to 0.3 miles from the markets)

Alberobello, Italy

Location: Piazza del Popolo, Largo Martellotta, Largo Trevisani & Largo Pietra Ficcata – Alberobello, Puglia, Italy

Why We Love It: Alberobello's magical "trulli" houses transform into a winter wonderland at the Christmas Market Under the Trulli. Amid twinkling projections of stars, moons, and snowflakes, wander the enchanting streets, savoring cod fritters, sweet pettole, and cozy glasses of vincotto. After Christmas, be sure to catch the captivating "living nativity" scene.

Where to Stay: Le Corti del Casale (1 mile away)

Zagreb, Croatia

Location: The Heart of Zagreb, Croatia

Why We Love It: Zagreb's Advent is a festive wonderland sweeping the city with holiday magic. With its streets glowing with lights, you'll find everything from traditional stalls at Trg Bana Jelačića, ice skating at Tomislavac, to concerts at European Square. Don't miss the live nativity at Zagreb Cathedral! Indulge in mouthwatering pork sausage sandwiches, strudla, and rakija to keep you cozy.

Where to Stay: Esplanade Zagreb Hotel (0.5 miles from Trg Bana Jelačića)

Dresden, Germany

Location: Altmarkt Square, Dresden, Germany

Why We Love It: As Germany's oldest Christmas market (since 1434), Dresden Striezelmarkt is the perfect blend of tradition and charm. Enjoy handmade wooden toys, a festive train for kids, and the iconic 45-foot Christmas pyramid. Don't miss the buttery stollen cake and the annual gingerbread fest on December 10.

Where to Stay: Hotel Taschenbergpalais Kempinski (0.2 miles away)

Stockholm, Sweden

Location: Skansen Open-Air Museum, Stockholm, Sweden

Why we love it: For a truly traditional experience, visit Skansen on Djurgarden Island. Explore historic homes and farmsteads decked out for Christmas. Enjoy smoked turkey sugared almonds, and join in festive dances at Bollnäs Square. Don't miss the Christmas concerts in Seglora church and the magical candlelit Lucia procession on December 13.

Where to stay: Grand Hôtel (1 mile away)

Basel, Switzerland

Location: Barfüsserplatz & Münsterplatz, Basel, Switzerland

Why We Love It: Basel's Basler Weihnachtsmarkt is a true winter wonderland, with over 150 vendors selling handmade toys and local treats like Swiss raclette and läckerli. The twinkling lights and festive atmosphere are perfect for your Instagram feed. Don't forget to write your Christmas wishes in the Basel Wish Book.

Where to Stay: The Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois (1 mile away)

What are the key tips for visiting European Christmas Markets?

• Bundle Up & Stay Cozy

You're in for an outdoor adventure, so make sure to dress warmly. Layer up with your coziest clothes, hats, scarves, and gloves to enjoy the magic of the markets without feeling the chill.

• Arrive Early or Late for the Best Experience

If you want to avoid the crowds, aim to arrive early in the day or later in the evening. You'll have more space to enjoy the lights, shop, and grab those delicious treats!

• Cash Is Always Handy

While many stalls now accept cards, carrying some cash is still smart—especially for charming little vendors who prefer it.

• Taste the Local Delights

Each market has its own must-try treats. From mulled wine (Glühwein) to freshly baked gingerbread, roasted chestnuts, and sausages, indulge in the flavors of the season and experience true holiday magic.

• Get Off the Beaten Path

The markets are often near historic sites, beautiful streets, or hidden gems. Explore beyond the stalls to discover even more festive charm in the surrounding areas.

• Prepare for Crowds, But Enjoy the Buzz

Popular markets can get busy, and they are incredibly close to Christmas. Embrace the festive energy and soak up the vibrant atmosphere—but if you're after a quieter experience, consider visiting smaller markets off the beaten path.

• Make a Wish

Many markets have Christmas trees or wishing wells—take a moment to make a wish and snap a festive photo to capture the magic.

• Book Your Stay in Advance

These markets are a major attraction, so book your accommodation early. Stay close to the action to make the most of your time at the markets.

What is a European Christmas Market Cruise?

A European Christmas Market Cruise offers a festive journey along rivers, visiting holiday markets in cities like Vienna and Strasbourg.

What are the best things to buy at European Christmas markets?

Wondering what to buy at Christmas markets? If you have never been, you are in for an enormous treat that comes in the form of devilishly good smells, little wooden stalls decorated with fresh greenery and twinkling lights, live concerts, Christmas carols, and maybe even a Ferris wheel! It is simply magical!!! And one of Europe's best culture trips.

Here's a list of what you need to buy at European Christmas Markets:

• Nutcrackers (Nussknacker)
• Smokers (Räuchermänner)
• Schwibbögen (candle arch)
• Weihnachtspyramide (Christmas Pyramids)
• German Christmas Stars
• Tiny Villages
• Beeswax Products
• Old Fashioned Christmas Cards
• Wooden Toys
• German Nativity Scenes (Krippe)
• Advent Calendars
• German Christmas Ornaments
• Christmas Decorations
• Jewelry
• Food
• Drinks

Plan a memorable trip to explore the charms and captivating scenarios of Christmas all around the European world. Contact our reservations at +1-571-378-7016 for personalized flight bookings and to snag the best Christmas airline deals.

What are the must-try foods and drinks at European Christmas markets?

The European Christmas markets are considered a feast for the senses, not just in sight and sound but also in flavor. Here's a quick overview list of delicious must-try treats that will make your holiday experience even more festive:

• Lebkuchen (Gingerbread Cookies) – A German and Austrian holiday classic, these spiced cookies are decorated with icing or sugar for that extra sweetness.
• Trdelnik – A warm, sweet pastry made from dough, rolled in sugar and cinnamon, perfect for a winter treat. You might even find it filled with chocolate.
• Kartoffelpuffer – Crispy potato pancakes, often paired with applesauce or sour cream, are a popular savory snack in Germany.
• Smažený Sýr – This gooey fried cheese sandwich is a favorite in the Czech Republic.
• Glühwein (Mulled Wine) – No visit to a Christmas market is complete without sipping on this warm, spiced red wine, especially popular in Germany and Austria.
• Stollen – A rich, fruit-filled cake dusted with powdered sugar is the perfect holiday dessert to bring some sweetness to your visit.

Whether you're indulging in a sugary snack or warming up with mulled wine, these holiday specialties capture the true spirit of finding the best place to spend Christmas in Europe.

Pro Tip: Take your time to enjoy each food stall—these treats add to the magic of the holiday markets.

What entertainment and activities can you enjoy at Christmas markets in Europe?

At Europe's Christmas markets, the air buzzes with excitement as live bands play carols, twinkling lights dance around festive stalls, and the smell of roasted chestnuts fills the air. Whether you're gliding on ice, riding a carousel, or creating your own holiday crafts, each market offers a world of festive fun that captures the season's true spirit. ��🎶⛸️

Check these spontaneous activities to make your Christmas Eve more worthwhile:

• 🎶 Live Music & Carols: Enjoy local bands, choirs, and festive performances, filling the air with Christmas spirit.
• ⛸️ Ice Skating: Glide around ice rinks set up in picturesque locations.
• 🎢 Holiday Rides: Fun rides for kids and adults, like carousels and Ferris wheels.
• 🎨 Craft Workshops: Try your hand at holiday crafts and create a festive souvenir.
• 🎁 Street Performances: Watch street entertainers, jugglers, and acrobats add to the festive fun.
• 🍷 Food & Drink Tastings: Enjoy seasonal treats, mulled wine, and regional specialties while enjoying the entertainment.
• 🛍️ Themed Stalls: Shop unique gifts, crafts, and ornaments while soaking up the festive vibe.

Are European Christmas markets worth visiting?

Yes, European Christmas markets are definitely worth visiting! They offer a magical atmosphere filled with twinkling lights, festive treats, unique gifts, and cultural experiences. Whether you enjoy local delicacies, shop for handcrafted ornaments, or soak in the seasonal charm, they're truly memorable. Book your Christmas flights with us for exclusive rates & amazing deals to explore the Best Christmas Destinations Europe.

Conclusion

Wrapping up your European Christmas market journey is like capturing a piece of the season's heart. From sipping warm mulled wine to finding handcrafted treasures, these enchanting markets offer memories that sparkle long after the season ends. So, pack your bags, pick your dream destination, and let the magic of Europe's best Christmas markets make this holiday undeniable and remembering.

If you need any specialized help booking flights or getting the best airline deals, Call FlyOfinder Reservations at +1-571-378-7016 for personalized assistance.

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About the author

Elena Porter

Experiences life to the fullest through travel; Elena Porter has been a travel author at FlyOfinder since 2019. She has extensively explored the best of over ten countries, offering unique skills to guide readers in discovering the most remarkable places in each city. Ensuring to provide the best of each destination and make your travel unforgettable.