The Best Christmas Markets in Europe
It’s the most wonderful time of the year – it’s time for Christmas (markets – at least in Europe)!
As a foreigner living in Europe, December is definitely my favourite month of the year. The twinkling lights, the smell of roasted chestnuts and spices in the air, the lively atmosphere – there’s just nothing else quite like it.
If you’re planning to visit Europe during winter, experiencing the magic of a Christmas market is a must. This guide will show you the 15 European cities that you should add to your itinerary.
1. Vienna, Austria
Vienna is one of the best places to visit Christmas markets in Europe. On top of the markets, the whole city turns into a winter wonderland. Because of its elegant, regal atmosphere, the lights and Christmas decorations turn Vienna into one of the most magical places during December.
The other experiences the city offers are also, in my opinion, best at Christmas time. For example, taking a horse-drawn carriage through the Old Town take you into a fantasy world when snow is falling outside.
For a guide to the best things to do in Vienna (besides visiting Christmas markets), check out my post here.
The Best Christmas Markets to Visit in Vienna
1. Christkindlmarkt am Rathausplatz
Austria’s biggest Christmas market is known as one of the most beautiful in Europe. It has great food options, an ice skating area, a beautiful lit-up ferris wheel, and a lot of photo opportunities.
2024 Dates: 16 November – 26 December
2. Stephansplatz
This Christmas market is right next to the stunning Stephansdom. It’s a great place to try different versions of mulled wine and shop for handmade souvenirs.
2024 Dates: 8 November – 26 December
3. Karlsplatz
My personal favourite Christmas market in Vienna. Its backdrop is the iconic Karlskirche. The market is less crowded than many of the others, because it’s not directly in the city centre. A highlight is the Bratapfelpunsch (baked apple punch) and it has some great craft stalls.
2024 Dates: 23 November – 23 December
4. Spittelberg
A really unique Christmas market, situated in a pedestrian street, between the buildings of Vienna. It’s a perfect place to try authentic Austrian dishes.
2024 Dates: 16 November – 23 December
5. Schloss Schönbrunn
This Christmas market is set up on the square in front of Schönbrunn Palace, the former residence of the Habsburg monarchs. Grab a Glühwein or lunch and take a stroll through the massive royal gardens. This market continues all the way into the new year.
2024 Dates: 8 November – 6 January
Best Foods to Try
- Kaiserschmarrn mit Zwetschgenröster: Pancake-type pieces with stewed plums
- Käsespätzle mit Röstzwiebel: Cheesy egg noodles with fried onions
- Maroni: Roasted chestnuts
- Bauernkrapfen mit Marillenmarmelade: An open doughnut with apricot jam
2. Nuremberg, Germany
Nuremberg has some of the most famous Christmas markets in Europe. The markets are some of the oldest in the world, dating back to the 1500s.
Because it’s so well-known for its Christmas markets, Nuremberg hosts the most tourists during December. So, make sure to book your accommodation and any activities well in advance to avoid them being sold out.
The Best Christmas Markets to Visit in Nuremberg
1. Christkindlesmarkt (the main market)
The biggest Christmas market in Nuremberg is very traditional, with about 180 stalls selling everything from handmade souvenirs to delicious traditional foods.
There is an opening ceremony on the first day of the market, in which a ‘Christkind’ (a woman dressed as an angel recites a monologue from the balcony of the Frauenkirche (Chruch of Our Lady).
2024 Dates: 29 November – 24 December
2. Kinderweihnacht (Children’s Christmas Market)
The Children’s Christmas Market is close to the main market, on Hans-Sachs square. The market is designed for children, with lots of fun activities – decorating Christmas cookies, candle-making, and crafting Christmas ornaments. There are also several family-friendly rides, including a merry-go-round, Ferris wheel, and a steam train.
2024 Dates: 29 November – 30 December
3. Markt der Partnerstädte (Sister Cities Market)
This is a unique type of Christmas market that you won’t really find anywhere else. It’s also close to the main market, so you can even experience all three markets in just a day.
This market aims to celebrate the sister cities of Nuremberg from around the world – you’ll find stalls dedicated to selling specialty items from these cities.You can, for instance, buy honey cookies from Kavala (Greece), plum brandy from Romania, and hot apple cider with whiskey from Atlanta.
2024 Dates: 29 November – 23 December
Best Foods To Try
- Nürnberger Bratwurst: The city’s famous grilled sausages, best enjoyed in a bun with sauerkraut
- Lebkuchen: The city is also known for its gingerbread – a must-try!
- Roasted Almonds and Chestnuts
3. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague is one of the most underrated cities to visit for Christmas markets in Europe. Its medieval architecture makes for a really unique backdrop, which is, in my opinion, best explored during the colder months.
The Best Christmas Markets to Visit in Prague
1. Old Town Square
The biggest and most popular Christmas market in Prague is on the Old Town Square, in front of the Gothic Tyn Church. One of the highlights is the massive Christmas Tree, which Is lit up every day at sunset.
From this market, you can also see one of Prague’s biggest attractions, the Astronomical Clock.
2024 Dates: 30 November – 6 January 2025
2. Wenceslas Square
Wenceslas Square is the Christmas market right next to the National Museum. It’s a great place to find local foods and handcrafted souvenirs.
It’s also a great market to visit if you’re traveling with kids, because it has a petting zoo. At 5PM, there is a Christmas tree lighting ceremony, which is a great experience for the whole family.
2024 Dates: 30 November – 6 January 2025
3. Namesti Republiky (Republic Square)
The Christmas market on Republic Square is a bit smaller and isn’t as overrun by tourists as the other two. So, it’s a great place to try some local foods and buy souvenirs at much better prices.
It’s quite close to the city centre and Old Town, so there are lots of sightseeing spots nearby.
Best Foods to Try
- Trdelník (Chimney Cake): A hollow pastry baked on a tube, traditionally rolled in cinnamon sugar, but often filled with ice cream, whipped cream, nuts, etc.
- Vánočka (Houska): ‘Christmas Bread’ – a sweet braided bread made with raisins and nuts.
- Langoš: A classic Hungarian street food – deep-fried flatbread with toppings, from garlic butter and sour cream to cheese and vegetables.
4. Salzburg, Austria
Salzburg’s Christmas markets are some of the best in Europe. Because of the city’s location – surrounded by snow-capped Alps – it is one of the most beautiful cities to visit during the holidays.
The Best Christmas Markets to Visit in Salzburg
1. Christkindlmarket in the Old Town
The Christmas market in the Dom- and Residenzplatz in the Old Town of Salzburg is one of the oldest in Europe, so it’s a must-visit if you’re traveling to Salzburg.
This Christmas market hosts lots of weekly events, including a live choir and traditional wind music performances.
2024 Dates: 1 November – 1 January 2025
2. Hellbrunner Adventzauber
This Christmas market is set on the outskirts of Salzburg, on the beautiful grounds of Hellbrunn Palace. Due to its location, it’s usually not as crowded as the markets in the city centre.
It’s perfect for families, because of its petting zoo and rides. The market also has interactive crafting for children and a ‘Christmas post office’ that sends letters to Santa.
2024 Dates: 21 November – 24 December
3. Hohensalzburg Fortress Advent Market
The Hohensalzburg Fortress is one of the most recognizable landmarks of the city. The Christmas market is a bit smaller, but it’s a great place to enjoy beautiful panoramic views of Salzburg.
The market often hosts special events like live traditional music and choirs.
2024 Dates: 22 November – 22 December
Best Foods to Try
- Bauernkrapfen mit Sauerkraut: An open doughnut with Sauerkraut
- Kakao mit Mozartlikör: Hot chocolate with a shot of marzipan liqueur
5. Strasbourg, France
Strasbourg is home to one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe, and the world. Also known as the ‘Capital of Christmas’, the city is a must-visit if you’re looking for a really great holiday atmosphere.
Because Strasbourg is best known for its Christmas markets, it is one of the few cities that has the peak of its tourism during the festive season.
The Best Christmas Markets to Visit in Strasbourg
1. Chrìstkìndelsmärik
The oldest Christmas market in Europe – and probably its most famous – is situated in the heart of Strasbourg on the Place Broglie. It’s a fantastic place to try local seasonal foods and find beautiful handmade Christmas decorations and souvenirs.
2024 Dates: 27 November – 27 December
2. Place Kléber
Another huge and beloved Christmas market in the centre of Strasbourg is the one on Place Kléber. It is known for its iconic Christmas tree, ‘The Grand Sapin’, which is always exquisitely decorated and serves as a symbol for the city’s status as the Christmas Capital.
This Christmas market is particularly well-known for its handmade crafts and even hosts arts & crafts Christmas every year.
2024 Dates: 27 November – 27 December
3. Place de la Cathédrale
This Christmas market is situated on the square in front of the gorgeous Gothic cathedral in Strasbourg. Having originated as a St Nicholas market, it is now also a great place to find delicious holiday treats, special souvenirs, and handmade crafts.
2024 Dates: 27 November – 27 December
Best Foods to Try
- Pain d’épices: sweet spiced bread
- Bredele: Traditional Alsatian Christmas cookies
- Tarte flambée: A pizza-like dough topped with creme fraiche, onions, and bacon
6. Wroclaw, Poland
Although Poland probably isn’t the first place you think of when someone says ‘Christmas market’, people come from all over Europe to celebrate the festive season here.
Besides being some of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe, they also have interesting activities and celebrations that you won’t find anywhere else.
The Best Christmas Market Areas to Visit in Wroclaw
1. Rynek (Market Square)
Situated in the Old Town, the main Christmas market is the most picturesque, surrounded by stunning Gothic architecture. It is the perfect place to wander around and look for unique souvenirs and delicious local dishes.
At this market, you’ll also find Bajkowy Las, the ‘Fairytale Forest’, where you can visit animated sceneries from your favourite fairytales.
2024 Dates: 29 November – 7 January 2025
2. Plac Solny (Salt Square)
Only a five-minute walk from the Market Square, it is ideal to visit the Christmas market at Plac Solny right after the one on Rynek. It’s a bit smaller, but has just as many exciting stalls that sell artisanal crafts and local foods.
2024 Dates: 29 November – 7 January 2025
3. Świdnicka Street and Oławska Street
These two streets connect the Old Town (where the Christmas markets are) to the rest of the city. So, you’ll probably pass them on your way there.
Along the streets, you’ll find lots of stalls selling warm beverages, foods, and handmade souvenirs.
2024 Dates: 29 November – 7 January 2025
Best Foods to Try
- Oscypek: A smoked Polish cheese, usually served with cranberry sauce.
- Pierogi: Polish dumplings, which can be filled with meat, mushrooms, cabbage, or even fruit!
- Sernik: Traditional Polish cheesecake.
7. Trento, Italy
Everyone loves Italy during summer and it might not be as famous for its Christmas festivities as countries like Germany, Austria, or Switzerland. But Trento actually has one of the best Christmas markets in Europe!
Situated in the province Trentino, in the north of Italy, it offers a unique blend of Italian, Austrian, and German Christmas traditions. Its setting in the Dolomite mountains makes it one of the most picturesque places to spend a day celebrating the holidays.
The market often has live performances and holiday concerts, along with a bunch of fun family-friendly activities. There is, of course, an ice skating rink, as well as a place called ‘Santa’s House’, where children can meet Santa Claus and make crafts.
The largest part of the Trento Christmas market, with about 60 stalls selling local foods and handmade crafts, is on Piazza Fiera. From here, it’s only a short walk to the smaller square, Piazza Cesare Battisti.
2024 Dates: 17 November – 6 January 2025
Best Foods to Try
- Strauben: A sweet fried dough that is topped with powdered sugar and served with stewed fruit or jam.
- Canederli: Bread dumplings that are usually made with smoked ham or cheese, served in a broth or with butter.
- Hot Chocolate: The Italian hot chocolate is thicker and richer than the normal one you probably know and is perfect for warming you up while you explore the market.
8. Basel, Switzerland
Switzerland is another country that is known for having some of the best Christmas markets in Europe. Basel is, in my opinion, the best place to visit for a unique Christmas market experience.
The city has an intriguing blend of French, German, and Swiss traditions, as it is located near the border where the three countries meet.
The Best Christmas Markets to Visit in Basel
1. Barfüsserplatz
The biggest Christmas market in the city, the backdrop of the Barfüsserkirche makes this one of the prettiest markets on this list.
It is the best place to try traditional Swiss Christmas delicacies and shop for souvenirs for loved ones.
9. Tallinn, Estonia
If you’re looking for a unique Christmas market that isn’t overrun by tourists, Tallinn is the perfect destination for you!
The Tallinn Christmas market is known for its medieval backdrop and fairytale vibes. Situated in the city’s beautiful Old Town, the market is home to the oldest Christmas tree to ever be displayed in Europe, a tradition which began in 1441.
Like most Christmas markets, it’s a great place to find special handmade souvenirs and to try delicious local foods. The highlight of this market are the handcrafted goods made from local alpaca wool, including socks, scarves, and hats.
The Tallinn Christmas market also has a full schedule, constantly hosting local and international singers and choirs, as well as Estonian folk dance performance groups.
2024 Dates: 22 November – 27 December
Best Foods to Try
- Black Pudding
- Honey Cakes
- Gingerbread
10. Zagreb, Croatia
Zagreb is another underrated destination to visit during Christmastime. The stunning decorations around the city and the gorgeous, atmospheric Christmas market transform the capital of Croatia into a magical place at this time of year.
The Christmas market in Zagreb even won the title of Best Christmas market three years in a row – in 2016, 2017, and 2018!
The central part of the Zagreb Christmas market is on Ban Jelačić Square. This is where you’ll find the beautifully decorated Christmas tree, as well as seasonal performances and traditional festivities. Of course, there is also an abundance of food and craft stalls to visit.
Some other locations around the city that have wooden stalls selling handcrafted souvenirs and local delicacies include Zrinjevac Park, European Square, and and Strossmayer Promenade.
2024 Dates: 30 November – 7 January 2025
Best Foods to Try
- Sarma: stuffed cabbage leaves
- Štrukli: baked pastry filled with cottage cheese and sour cream
- Fritule: mini ‘doughnuts’ dusted with powdered sugar and topped with caramel or chocolate, often flavoured with citrus or rum
