Best Christmas Markets in Europe 2024

That is your final information to the very best Christmas markets in Europe! I’ve traveled to a whole bunch of Christmas markets to deliver you the very best locations for Christmas Markets in Europe for 2024.

Image this: You’re strolling the traditional cobblestone streets, on both facet heat lights of cafes and retailers beckon you inside, you’ve got a slight chill regardless of your heat winter coat. You see a fortress within the mist on the hill forward of you. Might in the present day get any higher? Sure, sure it might.

As you flip the nook you’re first hit with the scent. It’s a mix of true merriment: candied nuts roasting in sugar, mulled wine being poured right into a tall espresso mug, and roasted meats over the open hearth.

Subsequent you’re hit with the noise. Christmas carols sung in German, laughter of all ages, and folks greeting one another on the prime of their lungs.

You spherical one other nook and there it’s, shimmering and glittering because the solar units: 1000’s of twinkle lights strewn alongside contemporary reduce pine bushes. Hand carved picket stalls promoting meals, drinks, and handmade trinkets line the road, every yet another adorned than the following.

It’s Christmas Markets in Europe and it’s essentially the most joyful place on earth!

I like to consider myself as a Christmas market knowledgeable having lived in Germany, the place Christmas markets actually began, I spent years going time and again to Christmas markets throughout Europe and writing about my discovering.

One issues for certain: it’s value it. I do know that many don’t take into consideration visiting Europe throughout the vacation season, however I discover it actually sensational. It’s such a way of group and pleasure, everybody on the town will get collectively, regardless of the chilly climate to have a good time Christmas and share their handmade wares and scrumptious household recipes of conventional meals.

I am sharing the very best of the European Christmas markets so you possibly can guarantee to profit from your time.

Greatest Christmas Markets in Europe 2024

I’ve tons of guides to Christmas markets in Europe! From itineraries, maps, and particular person guides to every place! I hope to make planning your Christmas market journeys a breeze. For all my posts on Christmas markets in Europe click on right here.

Strasbourg, France

Strasbourg, France undoubtedly deserves its nickname because the “Capital of Noel”! This metropolis has among the finest Christmas markets in all Europe and it is an extremely festive place to go to throughout the vacation season. With superbly adorned stalls and open every single day from November twenty fourth to December twenty fourth, you may end up surrounded by twinkling lights and decorations galore. The Strasbourg cathedral towers over the market and there is even an actual 30 meter tall tree within the sq.!

The streets are BURSTING with decor, from the teddy bear half-timbered inns, the lit up Notre Dame Cathedral with angels that line the streets, and naturally vin chaud- mulled wine! Plenty of nice meals, drinks, and hand crafted items. Take your time right here, there are markets all through the town. There are over 300 stalls so that you’re in for a deal with!

PRO TIP: When you’ve got time, head into the Vosges mountains, the place the large tree of Strasbourg is grown, and go to some Christmas markets there! The cities of Ribeauvillé, Kaysersberg, Eguisheim and Riquewihr are completely magical for Christmas! You may see my full information to those Alsace villages at Christmas right here.

Starsbourg Christmas Market Dates for 2024: November twenty seventh by way of December twenty seventh, 2027.

See my full information to the very best Christmas markets in France. Or, my full information to Strasbourg, France at Christmas.

Cologne, Germany

Cologne, Germany is among the hottest Christmas markets in Europe and for good motive! With seven markets, all with totally different themes, all through the town, you may discover no scarcity of issues to see and do right here. Giant, lavishly adorned Christmas markets sparkle all through the town.

A few of my favorites are the Cologne Cathedral Market, that is the most important and takes place outdoors the spectacular cathedral with stay music, an enormous tree, and gluhwein (sizzling, mulled wine!). I additionally adore the Angels’ Market the place you may discover it in Neumarkt Sq. and is among the unique markets that options ladies wearing angel costumes handing out sweets to youngsters. There’s additionally a gorgeous carousel and beautiful mugs which might be good to take residence as souvenirs. I am keen on the one within the Outdated City as a result of it is crammed with what seems to be like gnomes, nevertheless it’s a lot extra! The Alter Markt calls itself the Dwelling of the Heinzelmännchen (who have been little creatures from a Cologne legend who used to do all of the housekeeping till they have been aggravated by an inquisitive housewife).

And Nikolausdorf or “NicholasVillage” in Rudolfplatz can be effectively definitely worth the cease! Many half-timbered buildings make this really feel like an actual village. It is all the time superb to me that this can come down come January!

Cologne Christmas Market Dates for 2024: November 18th by way of December twenty third 2024.

See the very best Christmas markets in Germany right here.

Vienna, Austria

Since 1296 Vienna has hosted a tremendous Christmas market- one of many first ever! You may see beautiful buildings decked out in bows and ribbons. However you additionally get unimaginable Christmas markets! I have been to markets all all through Europe and I can let you know, those in Vienna are among the greatest.

There are a number of giant markets situated across the metropolis, every with their very own distinctive really feel. The preferred might be at Rathausplatz in entrance of the attractive City Corridor. With over 150 chalets, this is among the largest in Europe. It is good for selecting up items and grabbing a chunk to eat. The Glühwein right here is among the greatest I’ve ever had!

If you would like a extra conventional really feel, then head to the Spittelberg Weihnachtsmarkt market (Weihnachtsmarkt means Christmas in German). That is situated in a pedestrian zone within the Spittelberg district and is made up of small, particular person chalets. This market has a extremely cozy really feel and is ideal for a romantic stroll.

And eventually, my favourite market in Vienna is the Altwiener Christkindlmarkt at Freyung. This market is situated in a stunning park and has a extremely relaxed and charming environment. It is the right place to seize a cup of sizzling chocolate and a slice of Sachertorte (a chocolate cake that may be a Vienna specialty!)

Vienna Christmas Market Dates for 2024: November eleventh by way of December twenty sixth, 2024.

Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn seems to be like a snow globe come to life! Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, is a medieval metropolis with a fairytale really feel. And through Christmastime, it is much more magical! With twinkling lights, snow-dusted rooftops, and Christmas carols within the air, Tallinn appears like one thing out of a storybook.

The principle market is situated in City Corridor Sq., in entrance of the beautiful medieval City Corridor. This is among the largest markets in Tallinn and is ideal for selecting up items and souvenirs. You may discover handmade Estonian crafts, decorations, and loads of locations to seize a chunk to eat. The gluwein right here can be glorious! It is a great spot to choose up a hand-crafted wool sweater and stick round for stay music and leisure at night time.

In case you’re on the lookout for one thing slightly totally different, take a look at the Rotermann Quarter. This market is situated in an previous salt storage constructing that has been transformed into a shopping mall. It is a actually distinctive setting for a market, and you will find loads of nice items and souvenirs right here.

I extremely advocate taking a strolling tour* to get a really feel of the historical past in Tallinn! We went on a themed strolling tour and it was a spotlight of my time in Tallinn. See my full information to Tallinn at Christmas right here.

Tallinn Christmas Market Dates for 2024: November twenty second by way of December twenty seventh, 2024.

Basel, Switzerland

Basel, Switzerland is a captivating metropolis situated on the river Rhine and is understood for its stunning Outdated City, medieval structure, museums, and naturally Christmas markets! This metropolis has one of many longest working Christmas markets in Europe because it dates again to 1521.

The principle market is situated in Munsterplatz and is crammed with stunning handcrafted items, a big collection of foods and drinks, and twinkling lights. You should definitely strive the scrumptious Basler Läckerli, a spiced gingerbread-like biscuits which might be an area specialty. I additionally love the mulled wine right here, it is among the greatest I’ve ever had!

There are additionally a number of different markets situated all through the town together with one within the sq. in entrance of Basel’s stunning pink sandstone cathedral. It is a great spot to do some Christmas buying as you may discover every thing from jewellery to picket toys.

PRO TIP: In case you’re on the lookout for one thing slightly totally different, be sure you take a look at the Creation Calendar Home. It is a home with 25 home windows, every with a distinct shock behind it!

Basel Christmas Market Dates for 2024: November twenty eighth by way of December twenty third, 2024.

Prague, Czech Republic

In case you’re on the lookout for a market with a extra medieval really feel, then Prague is the place for you! With its pretty Gothic structure and cobblestone streets, Prague lends itself completely to a festive environment. The markets listed here are among the most unusual in Europe with stunning handmade items on supply.

The principle market is situated in Outdated City Sq. the place you may discover a beautiful Christmas tree and the spectacular Tyn Church within the background. It is a actually widespread spot, so be ready for crowds, which is why I like to recommend weekdays. However it’s undoubtedly value braving the plenty to see the attractive decorations and seize some conventional Czech meals.

For one thing a bit extra low-key, take a look at the markets at Wenceslas Sq. and Havel’s Market. These are each situated in additional fashionable areas of the town and supply a refreshing change of tempo from the Outdated City.

Prague Christmas Market Dates for 2024: November thirtieth by way of January sixth, 2025.

Helsinki, Finland

Helsinki, Finland is a novel Christmas market expertise as a result of it isn’t solely in regards to the market stalls, but in addition the ice skating rink that units up in Senate Sq.. It is so festive and beautiful to skate round with the Helsinki Cathedral within the background.

The market itself has Finnish crafts and design, together with conventional meals like reindeer meatballs, which you could find on the Outdated Market Corridor. This is among the few markets the place you could find meals indoors, so it is good in case you’re visiting in colder climate or in case you simply want a break from the chilly. You may additionally discover handcrafted Christmas decorations, glassware, and textiles.

I cherished the saunas situated proper by the Christmas market glog stalls (glog is their model of mulled wine.) So that you may see somebody hop out of a sauna in only a towel, grabbing a mulled mug of steaming wine!

Helsinki Christmas Market Dates for 2024: November twenty ninth by way of December twenty second, 2024.

Ribeauvillé, France

This market is small and solely supplied for a pair quick weekends however SO WORTH IT. It is some of the uncommon markets I’ve ever been to in essentially the most charming means. The complete city clothes up and participates. There are individuals dressed up, on stilts, smart males with actual camels, fires in the course of the streets to heat up and medieval traditions.

This space is well-known for its charming half-timbered homes however the Christmas market makes it really feel such as you’ve entered a totally totally different, medieval world.

You may discover all the standard Christmas market fare right here like mulled wine, gingerbread, and roasted chestnuts. However Ribeauvillé can be identified for its glorious native wines, so be sure you decide up a bottle or two to take residence with you. You may additionally discover loads of handmade items on supply.

Ribeauvillé Christmas Market Dates for 2024: December seventh, eighth, 14th, and fifteenth – as you possibly can see it is a tremendous quick season however so value it! The Ribeauville Christmas market is just open for 2 weekends however is HIGHLY value it.

Heidelberg, Germany

The Heidelberg Christmas market is among the oldest markets in Germany, courting again to 1398! The principle market is situated in Heidelberg’s previous city, all through the Hauptstrasse. It is a bit totally different than among the different markets, and I discover it a pleasure! You may stroll almost a mile and revel in totally different Christmas festivities alongside the best way. I am biased since I lived in Heidelberg, however with a gorgeous sixteenth century buildings, the fortress towering over the skating rink, it is simply magical.

It is a actually charming place with round 100 superbly adorned stalls. You may discover loads of mulled wine and conventional German meals like bratwurst and pretzels. The views of the fortress lit up at night time are merely beautiful.

There’s additionally a market in close by Mannheim which I additionally advocate trying out when you’ve got time. It is a quick drive or practice experience away!

Heidelberg Christmas Market Dates for 2024: November twenty fifth by way of December twenty second, 2024.

See my full information to Heidelberg’s Christmas markets right here.

Colmar, France

Nestled within the Alsace area of France, Colmar is actually a fairytale city and its Christmas market doesn’t disappoint. With over 300 stalls, this is among the largest markets in France. The setting could not be extra good both, because the market is situated within the stunning previous city, which is stuffed with half-timbered homes, canals, and cobbled streets.

The market itself is extremely festive, with an enormous Christmas tree, a life-sized nativity scene, and a formidable mild show. You may discover all the normal French Christmas Market favorites right here, from vin chaud (mulled wine) to ache d’epices (gingerbread), to baeckeoffe (a scrumptious Alsatian stew). There’s additionally all kinds of handmade items and decorations on supply.

When in Colmar, one in all my favourite French eating places can’t be beat! Winstub de la Petite Venise. This Michelin star restaurant gives a 35 euro plat du jour that makes my mouth water simply serious about it!

Take a look at my Christmas market street journey itinerary right here.

Colmar Christmas Market Dates for 2024: November twenty sixth by way of December twenty ninth 2024.

Budapest, Hungary

Budapest’s Christmas Market is among the most stunning in Europe and takes place in Vörösmarty Sq. in entrance of the magnificent Nineteenth-century Gerbeaud Home. With over 100 superbly adorned stalls, a large ferris wheel, an ice rink, and a nativity scene, it is simple to spend just a few hours right here.

There’s additionally a gorgeous mild present each night at 7 pm on the facade of the Gerbeaud Home that is undoubtedly value sticking round for. The market is open from November eleventh to January 1st, so you’ve got loads of time to go to. And remember to strive some conventional Hungarian dishes like lángos (a deep-fried flatbread) or kürtőskalács (a chimney cake)!

Budapest Christmas Market Dates for 2024: November seventeenth by way of December thirty first 2024.

Munich, Germany

Munich is famend for its superb Oktoberfest celebration, however do you know that it additionally has among the greatest Christmas markets in Europe? The markets listed here are giant and full of life with a terrific environment.

The principle market is situated at Marienplatz within the coronary heart of the town. It is a actually widespread spot, so be ready for crowds. However it’s undoubtedly value braving the plenty to see the attractive Glockenspiel present that takes place every single day at 11 am and midday. There are additionally various different markets situated all through the town, so that you’re certain to seek out one which fits your fancy.

There are various markets in Munich, however be sure you begin on the iconic Christkindlmarkt situated in Marienplatz. From there, you possibly can select from the basic Neuhausen Christmas market or go for one thing totally different just like the Wintertollwood Competition held on Oktoberfest grounds.

And in case you’re on the lookout for an genuine Bavarian eating expertise, be sure you take a look at Hofbräuhaus, one in all Munich’s most well-known beer halls. It is a terrific place to strive some conventional German dishes like Weißwurst (veal sausage) and Leberkäse (a kind of meatloaf).

Munich Christmas Market Dates for 2024: November 25tht by way of December twenty fourth, 2024.

Innsbruck, Austria

Innsbruck is a captivating metropolis situated within the Austrian Alps and its Christmas market is nothing in need of magical. With over 80 stalls, it is one of many smaller markets on this record, nevertheless it greater than makes up for it with its beautiful setting. The market takes place within the previous city sq. towards the backdrop of the snow-capped peaks of the Alps.

What I really like most about this market is that it has an actual conventional really feel to it. You may discover all the standard Austrian Christmas Market staples like Glühwein (mulled wine), Lebkuchen (gingerbread), and Maroni (roasted chestnuts). However you may additionally discover some extra uncommon objects like Krapfen (fried dough balls crammed with jam) and Kernöl (pumpkin seed oil).

Innsbruck Christmas Market Dates for 2024: November fifteenth by way of January 1, 2025.

London, England

I really like London for Christmas as all of the shops are decked out and there is a feeling of pleasure all over the place! Whereas London won’t be the standard spot, Christmas market is unquestionably value a go to. Situated in Hyde Park, Winter Wonderland is among the largest markets in Europe and it is fully free to enter!

When you’re inside, you may discover an array of points of interest like an ice rink, a large ferris wheel, and a German-style market with over 200 stalls. And in case you’re feeling actually festive, you possibly can even go to Santa’s Grotto!

Winter Wonderland is open from late November till early January, so you’ve got loads of time to get pleasure from all of the enjoyable. And whenever you’re prepared for a break from the chilly, head to one in all Hyde Park’s many cafes for a cup of tea or some conventional English fare.

When you’ve got further time, head to Tub,a quintessential city in the UK that is additionally received a beautiful Christmas market!

London Christmas Market Dates for 2024: November 18th by way of January 1st, 2025.

Nuremberg, Germany

Nuremberg is a gorgeous medieval metropolis situated within the German state of Bavaria – since 1313. It is best identified for its conventional Christkindlesmarkt, which is among the oldest and largest markets in Germany.

The market is unfold out throughout the town middle with over 180 stalls, so there’s a lot to see and do. You may discover all the standard German Christmas Market staples like Glühwein, Lebkuchen, and Maroni. However you may additionally discover some extra uncommon objects like Nürnberger Christstollen (a kind of fruitcake) and Nürnberger Rostbratwurst (a grilled sausage).

In case you go to Nuremberg Christmas Market on the primary Friday earlier than Creation there’s a tremendous opening ceremony with performances and stay music.

Nuremberg Christmas Market Dates for 2024: November twenty ninth by way of December twenty fourth, 2024.

Metz, France

Metz is a gorgeous metropolis situated within the northeast of France, near the border with Germany. It is best identified for its giant Christmas market, which is among the largest in Europe.

The market is unfold out throughout the town middle with over 200 stalls, so there’s a lot to see and do. You may discover all the standard French Christmas Market staples like vin chaud, ache d’épices (gingerbread), and candies. However you may additionally discover some extra gormet meals like foie gras, tarte flambée (a kind of pizza), and quiche Lorraine.

Cathedral Saint-Étienne de Metz dates again to the eleventh century has a stunning Christmas market simply outdoors the doorways full with a ferris wheel. Inside are stunning stained glass home windows that have been constructed by well-known artists like Marc Chagall and Jean Cocteau. Metz has loads of different locations value visiting as effectively – Notre Dame d’Auschwitz, the fashionable artwork middle Centre Pompidou-Metz, and Le Temple Neuf is a gorgeous church that appears extra like a fortress.

Metz Christmas Market Dates for 2024: November twenty fourth by way of December thirtieth, 2024.

Trier, Germany

Trier is a gorgeous metropolis situated within the southwest of Germany, near the border with Luxembourg. Trier is understood for it is romantic setting and with the Christmas market’s backdrop of the beautiful cathedral, it is a pretty spot.

This system on the Trier Christmas Market modifications day by day, providing a wide range of leisure for the entire household. From historic puppet theater to star tenor and songsmiths, there’s something for everybody to get pleasure from. With scrumptious foods and drinks on supply, plus arts and crafts from world wide, the Trier Christmas Market attracts guests from far and vast.

To get a view from above like I did right here, head to the DE retailer proper earlier than you enter the market.

Trier Christmas Market Dates for 2024: November twenty second by way of December twenty second, 2024.

See the very best Christmas markets in Germany right here.

Bruges, Belgium

Bruges is a gorgeous metropolis situated within the northwest of Belgium. It is best identified for its canals, cobbled streets, and medieval structure. The Christmas market is situated within the historic metropolis middle and is among the most atmospheric markets in Europe.

You may discover all the standard Belgian Christmas Market staples like Belgian chocolate, waffles, and beer. However you may additionally discover objects like gingerbread homes, candles, and handmade picket toys. Yearly Grote Sq. is reworked to Bruges’ largest Christmas market and within the middle you may discover a skating rink. You can even head to Stevin Sq. for much more Christmas festivities.

Bruges Christmas Market Dates for 2024: November twenty second by way of January fifth 2025.

Aachen, Germany

I simply went to Aachen final yr for my first time and completely cherished it! Not solely is Aachen filled with necessary historical past, it is received an unimaginable Christmas market that is been named one of many prime Christmas Markets in Europe through the years.

Aachen Christmas Market is situated within the historic metropolis middle and is among the oldest markets in Germany. It dates again to 1434 making it even older than Nuremberg! You may discover all the normal German Christmas Market staples like Glühwein, Lebkuchen (gingerbread), and Bratwurst.

However what I cherished most in regards to the market have been the entire Aachener Printen on supply. Printen are a kind of gingerbread that originates from Aachen. They arrive in all kinds of sizes and shapes and are completely scrumptious!

Aachen Christmas Market Dates for 2024: November twenty second by way of December twenty third 2024.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen is the capital of Denmark and is situated on the japanese coast of the nation. The town is stuffed with attraction with its canals, cobbled streets, and historic buildings. The Christmas market is situated within the coronary heart of the town at Metropolis Corridor Sq..

You may discover all the normal Danish Christmas Market staples like æbleskiver (a kind of pancake), Gløgg (mulled wine), and Danish Christmas beer. There are additionally loads of stalls promoting handmade Christmas decorations, toys, and items.

Tivoli Gardens is a well-known park and it is a should for Christmas because it’s arrange like Santa’s village- you possibly can even experience the Polar Specific! Additionally, Kongens Nytorv is among the most stunning squares in Copenhagen and it actually comes alive throughout Christmas time. And remember to go to iconic Nyhavn the place you may additionally discover a market.

Copenhagen Christmas Market Dates for 2024: November fifteenth by way of January fifth, 2025.

Zagreb, Croatia

Zagreb is the capital of Croatia and is situated within the northwest of the nation. The town is stuffed with tradition and historical past with a gorgeous previous city that is good for exploring. The Christmas market is situated in Tomislav Sq. within the middle of the town.

On the Zagreb Christmas Market, you may discover all the normal Croatian Christmas Market staples like mulled wine, sausages, and pancakes. You can even discover handicrafts, jewellery, and pottery. You should definitely strive the strukli which is a kind of pastry that is widespread in Zagreb.

And if you wish to get a birds eye view of the market, be certain that to go to the Zagreb Eye which is a huge Ferris wheel situated within the coronary heart of the town.

Zagreb Christmas Market Dates for 2024: November thirtieth by way of January seventh, 2025.

Christmas Markets in Europe Map

This is a map of all my favourite Christmas Markets in Europe. I’ve mapped out not solely the highest 10 Christmas Markets in Europe from this information, however a few of my favorites everywhere in the continent!

Christmas Market High Suggestions

As your resident knowledgeable on Christmas in Europe, listed here are a few of my prime suggestions for taking advantage of your Christmas market journey!

Which nation has the very best Christmas Markets? That is clearly up for debate, however the award has to go to Germany! Germany has among the oldest and greatest markets round. The custom runs deep and even small cities and villages take part. See the very best Christmas markets in Germany right here.

Which nation has the very best decorations for Christmas? France! France goes all out for decorations. It would not harm that the Alsace area already seems to be like an ideal gingerbread village!

What’s the very best time to go for Christmas markets in Europe? I believe December is your greatest guess to make sure you see the Christmas markets however many begin in late November. Some markets do go till January as effectively.

Listed below are some extra useful guides:

What to Eat and Drink at a Christmas Market

Europe Christmas Market Itinerary and Information

Greatest Christmas Markets in Germany

Greatest Christmas Market in France

Greatest Christmas Markets in Switzerland

So there you’ve got it, my record of the very best Christmas markets in Europe for 2024! Which one are you most excited about- when you’ve got any questions, be at liberty to succeed in out to me on Instagram @heleneinbetween – I reply all my DMs!