Here are the best Christmas markets to visit in Europe, all winter wonderland destinations. Get in the spirit of Christmas and step into the magical Christmas world with a trip to one of these fabulous European Christmas destinations.
You will be walking in a real winter wonderland and if you’re lucky, it might even snow. If you fancy a bit of Christmas shopping in Europe, then look no further!
Strasbourg, France.
With over 300 stalls and the majestic ‘Great Christmas Tree’, Strasbourg Christmas market is unforgettable. Plenty of traditional and alternative Christmas events for all ages. Take in the beautifully scenic surrounds while enjoying the rich culture, food and heritage crafts on offer. Magical!
Vienna, Austria.
Christkindlmarkt, the Christmas illumination and the “Ice Dream” ice skating experience in the Rathauspark are top of the list of attractions. See the spectacular giant Christmas tree illuminated and take part in some fun Christmas workshops. Taste the yummy food and hop on a carousel ride while you’re at it. A wonderful Christmas market for all ages. Vienna has many Christmas markets worth visiting so check out a few if you have time!
Amsterdam, Netherlands.
Check out the giant Christmas tree at Dam square and make your way to Rembrantplein winter plaza for a true Dutch winter experience. Have fun ice skating at Rembrandtplein and taste some waffles whilst browsing the Christmas market stalls. See the Christmas lights along the canal from the 29th November til January 20th. There is a light festival featuring artists from all over the world with 35 installations along the canal where you can view from a boat on the canal for the best view. Very romantic! There is an Ice Christmas exhibition and also a World Christmas Circus worth checking out.
Prague, Czech Republic.
The medieval streets and historic square make the Christmas markets at the Old Town Square really special. Find the perfect gift for all the family with the wide range of hand crafted glassware, woodwork and metalwork available. Enjoy the interesting winter cuisine unique to the area whilst lapping up the atmosphere. A fabulous destination.
Budapest, Hungary.
The famous Christmas Fair takes place on the Vörösmarty Square in the centre. The winter market draws crowds from all over the world. It evokes a feeling of true Christmas spirit, with the scent of mulled wine, Hungarian honey cookies and cinnamon! See the many wooden stalls where craftsmen show their wares and join in the lighting of candles on the Advent Wreath. Listen to carol singing daily and be entertained through the evening with traditional music and dancing! Foodies will love it.
Brussels, Belgium.
Winter Wonders is the festival of the year, drawing in lots of tourists from all one the world. They go all out with the festive costumes, lights, massive tree and festive exhibitions. Browse the interesting trinkets on the many and varied novelty stalls. Take ride on the ferris wheel and see it all from above. A truly majestical experience. Enjoy the gourmet food and especially the chocolate!
Berlin, Germany.
You will be spoiled for choice in Berlin for the many Christmas markets to choose from. The Germans really love Christmas and it shows. People travel in their droves to Berlin at Christmas to experience the magic is has to offer. Believe it or not there are almost a hundred Christmas markets there! The most famous being Gendarmenmarkt, Alexanderplatz ,Red Town Hall and Opera Palace. Berlin is the place to be at Christmas, it has everything you could ever dream of!
Krakow, Poland.
If you’re dreaming of a white Christmas then Krakow is a good bet. The beautiful city is renowned for the white Christmas, since snow is common that time of year. It takes place in the central square, Rynek Glowny, in the middle of the Old Town historic district. Enjoy free entertainment by local performing artists and singers and find local artisans selling their crafts. Try some delicious gingerbread and spiced nuts while sipping a mulled wine or hot chocolate.
Cologne, Germany.
The beautiful setting is picture perfect for the Christmas market. Set in front of the stunning Cathedral in the main square, this is a Christmas market you won’t forget. The sophisticated decoration with amazing lighting displays is the stuff dreams are made of. Watch glass-blowers and wreath-makers at work and buy some souvenir Christmas decorations to remind you of the magical experience. It’s the most wonderful time of the year to visit.
Tallin, Estonia.
Visit the fairytale world of Tallinn Christmas market for a truly memorable experience. The giant Christmas tree is the showpiece. Standing tall in Town Hall Square, it is a tradition since 1441, making it the first Christmas tree ever to be put on display in Europe! How cool is that? Like something out of a children’s Christmas novel…
Saanen Gstaad, Switzerland.
The Gstaad Christmas market is an incredible sight to behold. It has a charming old town feel to it. Situated in front of the famous Gstaad Palace hotel, it looks like a fairy tale. With the snow being likely, you will be transported to a white Christmas immediately! Enjoy a traditional fondue, raclette or grilled sausages and don’t forget to try the gingerbread and waffles! Feel the joy of Christmas and the traditional charm of a Swiss Christmas in Gstaad. Expect a friendly welcome from Samichlaus and be enchanted by the carol singers. An experience not to be missed.
Montbeliard, France.
Also known as the City of the Princes, Montbeliard is the birthplace of the famous Peugeot car maker. Well known for its famous lightshow, they illuminate the town with Christmas designs on the old building walls. It is a true sight to behold. Only the best craftspeople get to display at the Christmas market as they are vetted throughout the year. It is one of the most popular Christmas markets in France, attracting around 400,000 people a year.
Copenhagen, Denmark.
Copenhagen has an abundance of Christmas markets to choose from so you will have a wonderful time. The festive hustle and bustle is dramatic, with twinkly lights, fun activities and general cheer. There is even a themed Christmas market dedicated to Hans Christian Anderson, the famous children’s storyteller. Each stall is named after and styled on one of his famous novels! Whether it’s traditional, oriental style, Renaissance castles or Danish pastries you’re after, you are bound to find the ideal market in Copenhagen at Christmas.
How stunning are these amazing markets? Which one of the best Christmas markets in Europe would you choose? Let us know if you have visited any of the above in the comments! We love hearing your feedback.
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