Best European Christmas markets

Nov 28 2023 Travel trends

The festive season in Europe is synonymous with enchanting Christmas markets that transform cobblestone streets into winter wonderlands. As the air becomes crisp and the scent of cinnamon and mulled wine fills the atmosphere, these markets offer a perfect blend of holiday cheer and cultural charm. Let's embark on a journey to explore some of the best Christmas markets in Europe, where twinkling lights, artisanal crafts, and seasonal delights create a magical experience for visitors.

Nuremberg - Nürnberger Christkindlesmarkt

Nuremberg's Christkindlesmarkt is one of the most iconic Christmas markets globally, dating back to the 16th century. The market is famous for its Christkind, a golden-haired angelic figure who opens the festivities. Visitors can explore the market's 180 wooden stalls offering Nuremberg sausages, gingerbread cookies (Lebkuchen), and traditional handicrafts.

Strasbourg, France - Christkindelsmärik

Known as the "Capital of Christmas," Strasbourg in northeastern France hosts one of the oldest and most renowned Christmas markets in Europe. The Christkindelsmärik dates back to 1570 and boasts over 300 stalls scattered around the city center. The picturesque setting, with its half-timbered houses and a towering Christmas tree at Place Kléber, adds to the market's charm. Visitors can indulge in local Alsatian specialties, handcrafted ornaments, and witness the breathtaking light displays.

Vienna, Austria - Christkindlmarkt

Vienna, the imperial city, turns into a fairy tale during the holiday season. The Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz is a true spectacle, featuring more than 150 stalls offering handmade crafts, festive decorations, and delicious Austrian treats. The backdrop of the illuminated Rathaus (City Hall) adds a touch of grandeur to the market. Attendees can enjoy classical music concerts and ice skate on the adjacent Rathausplatz ice rink, creating a truly magical atmosphere.

Prague, Czech Republic - Prague Christmas Markets

Prague, with its medieval charm, becomes even more enchanting during the Christmas season. The main Christmas market is held in the Old Town Square, surrounded by historic architecture and the famous Astronomical Clock. The market features traditional Czech handicrafts, ornaments, and a diverse selection of food and drinks. Visitors can warm up with a cup of svařák (mulled wine) as they stroll through the beautifully decorated stalls.

Brussels, Belgium - Winter Wonders

Brussels transforms into a winter paradise during the Winter Wonders event, featuring one of the most impressive Christmas markets in Europe. The Grand-Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site, serves as the backdrop for the market's dazzling lights and decorations. Visitors can explore the market's ice rink, Ferris wheel, and over 200 chalets offering Belgian chocolates, waffles, and handmade crafts. The sound of festive music and the aroma of roasted chestnuts create an unforgettable holiday atmosphere.

Copenhagen, Denmark - Tivoli Gardens Christmas Market

Tivoli Gardens, one of the world's oldest amusement parks, transforms into a winter wonderland during Christmas. With thousands of twinkling lights, festive rides, and Christmas stalls, it's a magical experience for families. Don't miss the Tivoli Youth Guard parades.

Edinburgh, Scotland - Edinburgh's Christmas

The Scottish capital comes alive with a festive market featuring European and Scottish crafts, food, and drinks. The market is part of a larger celebration that includes ice skating, live performances, and a spectacular light show on the historic buildings.

Budapest, Hungary - Budapest Christmas Fair

The Budapest Christmas Fair takes place in Vörösmarty Square, showcasing Hungarian handicrafts, folk art, and seasonal treats. The scent of chimney cake and mulled wine fills the air as visitors explore the stalls against the backdrop of the city's stunning architecture.

Stockholm, Sweden - Skansen Christmas Market:

Skansen, an open-air museum, hosts a traditional Christmas market with historic buildings and festive decorations. Visitors can purchase handmade crafts, traditional Swedish delicacies, and witness live demonstrations of old-fashioned crafts.

Zurich, Switzerland - Zurich Christmas Market

The Zurich Christmas Market is set against the backdrop of the Old Town and Lake Zurich. With over 160 wooden chalets, it offers a wide range of gifts, decorations, and Swiss specialties. The Swarovski Christmas tree is a sparkling highlight.

Bruges, Belgium - Christmas Market Bruges

The medieval city of Bruges turns into a winter fairy tale with its Christmas market. The Grote Markt hosts a festive ice rink, and visitors can explore stalls selling Belgian chocolates, lace, and other handcrafted goods.

Riga, Latvia - Riga Christmas Market

Riga's Dome Square transforms into a festive market with a large Christmas tree as its centerpiece. Visitors can enjoy Latvian cuisine, shop for local crafts, and experience the unique charm of the medieval Old Town.

Salzburg, Austria - Salzburg Christmas Market

Against the backdrop of the Hohensalzburg Fortress, Salzburg's Christmas Market offers a picturesque setting. Visitors can explore the traditional crafts, listen to carolers, and indulge in Austrian pastries and hot beverages.

Seville, Spain - Seville Christmas Market

While not traditionally known for Christmas markets, Seville embraces the festive spirit with its Christmas market in the Plaza Nueva. The market features local crafts, holiday decorations, and an array of Spanish Christmas treats.

Gdansk, Poland - Gdansk Christmas Market

Gdansk's Long Market transforms into a Christmas wonderland with stalls offering handmade gifts, local crafts, and traditional Polish food. The market is adorned with festive lights and decorations, creating a charming atmosphere.

Tallinn, Estonia - Tallinn Christmas Market

Tallinn's medieval Old Town hosts a Christmas market filled with Estonian crafts, traditional foods, and a Santa Claus meet-and-greet. The market's centerpiece is a towering Christmas tree in the Town Hall Square.

Amsterdam, Netherlands - Amsterdam Light Festival

While not a traditional Christmas market, the Amsterdam Light Festival is a winter celebration featuring illuminated installations along the city's canals. The festival showcases stunning light art, creating a magical atmosphere.

Dublin, Ireland - Dublin Christmas Market

The Dublin Docklands Christmas Market offers a festive experience with wooden chalets selling gifts, decorations, and international foods. The market is complemented by seasonal entertainment, including carol singers and live performances.

Ljubljana, Slovenia - Ljubljana Festive Fair

Ljubljana's Festive Fair takes place in the city center, featuring festive lights, a Christmas tree, and numerous stalls. Visitors can enjoy Slovenian crafts, traditional foods, and the lively atmosphere of this charming European capital.

Europe's best Christmas markets offer a magical blend of tradition, craftsmanship, and festive spirit. Whether you find yourself sipping mulled wine in the shadow of the Cologne Cathedral or strolling through the historic streets of Strasbourg, these markets provide an immersive experience that captures the essence of the holiday season. Each market has its own unique charm, making it a joyous adventure for locals and tourists alike. Embrace the magic of the season at these European Christmas markets and create lasting memories amid the twinkling lights and seasonal delights. And if you experience any flight delays or flight cancellations, MYFLYRIGHT is always there for you!