Are you wondering where the best Christmas markets in Europe are? We have got you covered!
Thousands of us enjoy the festive winter in Europe by visiting Christmas markets, whether that is locally or on a special trip abroad. Whether it is sipping on mulled wine, or shopping for gifts, the music and beauty of Christmas markets is one of our favourite things about the holidays.
10 Best Christmas Markets in Europe
Here is a list of 10 of the best Christmas markets in Europe. We will add more to the list soon!
1. Strasbourg, France
Photo – Strasbourg Tourism OfficeStrasbourg Christmas market is the oldest market in France, and considers itself the Christmas capital of the country. Its famous Christmas market, the “Christkindelsmärik” the Alsatian dialect name given to the traditional “Christ Child Market”, is one of the oldest in Europe.
There are Christmas markets throughout the town including Cathedral square and Place Broglie. There is also a small producers market in Alsace market. Plus, there is an alternative market on Place Grimmeisen where you will find sustainable gifts and products to buy.
Dates: 23rd November to 29th December 2023
More details on the Strasbourg Christmas Market
2. Basel, Switzerland
The Basel Christmas market is set in the historic town square, which makes for a quaint and charming backdrop for the festivities. ‘The Basel Christmas market on Barfüsserplatz and Münsterplatz is considered to be one of the prettiest and largest in Switzerland.’
Dates: 23rd November to 23rd December 2023
More details on the Basel Christmas Market
3. Budapest, Hungary
Photo by Krisztian Tabori on UnsplashBudapest Christmas Market is also known as The Advent Feast of Basilica is the slogan for the beautiful Christmas fair in Budapest. With stunning decorations and light show, and over 100 stalls serving food, drinks, and crafts, all amongst the backdrop of the striking architecture of Budapest.
2023 Dates to be confirmed
4. Vienna, Austria
Photo by Austria Tourist BoardVienna Christmas market is one of many. There are several Christmas markets in Vienna. In fact there are up to 12 Christmas markets in the city in total organised and supported by the Vienna tourism authority.
Vienna with its striking architecture is the best backdrop for the Christmas market. There is the Viennese Dream market set in front of the beautiful City Hall which has choirs singing Christmas carols at the weekends. The Christmas village at the Belvedere Palace is home to handcrafted goods. Plus so much more.
Dates: 10th November to 26th December 2023 (dates vary between different markets)
More details on the Vienna Christmas Markets
5. Trier, Germany
Photo by trierer-weihnachtsmarkt.deAnother beautiful setting for a Christmas market. The Trier Christmas market in Germany is located on the old mediaeval market square. Drink some classic mulled wine made from the local wine grown in the Mosel valley.
Dates: 24th November to 22nd December 2023
More details for the Trier Christmas Market
6. Bruges, Belgium
There are two markets in the city centre of Bruges. The Bruges Christmas market found on the Markt you will find everything you can expect from a traditional Christmas market and on the Simon Stevinplein the emphasis is on craft products. Bruges Christmas market is a chilled out, smaller, and easier to get around Christmas market. All set against the romantic and beautiful city of Bruges.
Dates: 24th November 2023 to 7th January 2024
More details about the Bruges Christmas markets
7. Prague, Czechia
Photo – Prague Tourism OfficeThe Prague Christmas market is one of the most beautiful in Europe. There you will find ‘local hand-made products, gifts, Christmas decorations, candles and refreshment such as roasted chestnuts, mulled wine, gingerbread, sausages, grilled chicken or dumplings.’
Dates: 2nd December 2023 to 6th January 2024
More about the Prague Christmas market
8. Tallinn, Estonia
Photo by Hert Niks on UnsplashTallinn Christmas market is in a beautiful UNESCO World Heritage city. There are carousels for the kids, and a Santa Claus who gives out candy in his little house. All against a stunning backdrop of a historical city square.
Dates: 1st December 2023 to 7th January 2024
More details about the Tallinn Christmas Market
9. Metz, France
Marché de Noël place Saint-Louis à Metz © Philippe Gisselbrecht/Ville de MetzOften touted as the most beautiful Christmas market in France. The Metz Christmas market is gorgeous. There are lots of activities and things to see – last year there was a Christmas pyramid and Christmas chalets.
Dates: 18th November to 30th December
10. Zagreb, Croatia
Photo – Zagreb Tourism BoardThe Zagreb Christmas market is also known as Advent in Zagreb, the Christmas market in Zagreb is full of lights and fun.
Dates: 25th November to 31st December 2023
–
European Christmas markets are a quintessential part of the festive season in many countries across the continent. Originating in the Middle Ages in German-speaking regions, these enchanting markets have since spread throughout Europe, offering a delightful blend of tradition, craftsmanship, and culinary delights.
Visitors are greeted by wooden stalls adorned with twinkling fairy lights, selling handcrafted ornaments, toys, and intricate decorations. The air is filled with the aroma of mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, and local delicacies, which are savored in the cold, crisp air of winter.
As the streets come alive with the sounds of carolers and the shimmering glow of lanterns, these markets capture the magical essence of Christmas, fostering a spirit of togetherness and joy.
Which Christmas market in Europe will you visit this year?