Best Christmas Markets in Europe
Which are the Best Christmas Markets in Europe? Like every year, tens of thousands of you have voted for the most beautiful Christmas markets. After Strasbourg, Zagreb, Tallinn and Budapest, awarded in previous years, discover your selection of the 20 best Christmas markets in Europe.
Need more inspiration? Discover a selection of the 100 most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe. Still not satisfied? Discover the most beautiful Christmas trees, the most beautiful Christmas lights, the best Christmas breaks, the sunniest Christmas markets in Europe as well as the best Christmas markets in the UK, Germany and France.
If you do not have a flying sleigh, book your flight at the best price as well as your activities and tours (can be cancelled up to 24 hours in advance). Need flexibility? Select the "free cancellation" option and pre-book your stay without obligation for your next Christmas holiday in Europe.
1. Basel
Switzerland
The Basel Christmas market has been voted the winner of the European Best Christmas Markets. Basel will therefore host the most popular Christmas market in Europe.
Basel has a deep-rooted tradition as Switzerland’s most beautiful and largest Christmas city, and is well worth a visit every year. Not only the well-preserved Old Town is radiant in the warm Christmas light, but the shops and the facades of many buildings glitter with a golden glow. Roughly a hundred tall pine trees border the streets and stand like brightly lit sentinels pointing the way for the visitor. The Basel Christmas Market can be found on Barfüsserplatz, and on Münsterplatz – one of the most beautiful squares in Basel.
A magnificent Christmas tree stands on Münsterplatz, with ornaments by the well-known decorator Johann Wanner.
In 2021 around 130 traders and artisans will offer their goods for sale in small, rustic wooden chalets. Anyone still looking for gift ideas can seek inspiration in the wide selection and enchanting ambience. The market is enriched by numerous pre-Christmas events.
Book your flights, accommodation and tours and activities at the best prices in Basel such as a private tour with a local.
Select the "free cancellation" option and pre-book your accommodation at the best price in Basel.
Opening dates: 23rd November to 23rd December 2023.
Nearest airports: Book your flights to Basel Airport.
Where to stay: "Hyperion Hotel Basel", just a short walk from the Old Town; it offers a sauna and a fitness center.
The Advent Basilica, winner of the Best Christmas Market in Europe award of 2020, is without doubt one of the most beautiful Christmas fairs in Europe. It will open this year on November 19th.
In love, and safety - with this slogan, the Advent Basilica, Budapest's uniquely beautiful Christmas fair, opens its doors. In 2020, in the online voting of the European Best Destinations, it has been voted as the most beautiful Christmas market in Europe. The Advent at the Basilica awaits its visitors from November 19 until the first day of the new year in front of St. Stephen's Basilica in one of the most impressive squares of the Hungarian capital.
True to the tradition of this year's 11-year-old Advent Basilica, it promises an unparalleled festive atmosphere, quality pastimes, a special gastronomic offer and a more colourful program than ever before - all with safety measures that allow for cloudless celebrations during a coronavirus epidemic.
Book your flights, accommodation, tours and activities in Budapest such as a night cruise with champagne and discover one of the most beautiful Christmas market in Europe.
Select the "free cancellation" option and pre-book your stay in Budapest at the best price.
Opening dates: From 19th November 2023 to 2nd January 2024.
Nearest airports: Book your flights to Budapest and your transfer.
Where to stay: Kempinski Hotel Corvinus situated close to Saint Stephen’s Basilica. Probably the best hotel in Budapest.
For smaller budgets Meininger Budapest Great Market Hall is one of our top picks in Budapest.
3. Poznan
Poland
This is your favourite Christmas market in Poland as well as your best Christmas city break in Europe.
This year's Poznań Bethlehem will take place in several locations. On November 18th, the Christmas market will start at Plac Wolności. It will take a bit longer than in previous editions and will last until December 26th. You can expect festive, holiday atmosphere, mulled wine or cocoa, as well as treats, gifts and additional events.
On the second weekend of December, it is worth visiting the Kasprowicz Park. In the vicinity of Arena sport hall, the icon of modernist architecture from Poznań, another edition of the fair will appear, and the International Ice Sculpture Festival will also be held. Artists from around the world will again pick up long, hammers, chainsaws, and even irons to turn blocks of ice into works of art in front of the audience. This part of the event will last until December 22.
The third cosy version of Poznań Bethlehem will appear on the newly renovated Łazarski Market Square (Rynek Łazarski)
Book your flights to Poznan as well as your accommodation and tours and activities in Poznan such as a private traditional polish food tour.
Opening dates: 18th November to 22nd December 2023.
Nearest airports: Book your flights to Poznan.
Where to stay: "Puro Hotel Poznan Stare Miasto" located in the heart of Poznan, 200 m from the Old Market Square.
4. Vienna
Austria
Like every year, Vienna is at the top of your list of the best Christmas markets in Europe. Vienna is a must-see destination for Christmas. Considered a safe destination for families, it is also popular with lovers and is awarded among the best romantic destinations in Europe but also the best destinations for a marriage proposal.
From mid-November to Christmas, Vienna’s prettiest squares transform into magical Christmas markets. The aroma of Christmas baked food and hot punch creates a lovely pre-Christmas atmosphere.
One of the most well-known Christmas Markets is the traditional "Vienna Magic of Advent" which turns the City Hall Square into a shining fairytale land. Christmas gifts, tree decorations, sweets and warming drinks are awaiting you as well as a carousel and craft fun Christmas Workshops for kids. The trees of the surrounding City Hall park are festively decorated and radiate in a sea of lights - a Viennese experience, you'll definitely won't want to miss!
Opening dates: 11th November to 26th December 2023
Nearest airport: Book your flights to Vienna and your transfer.
Where to stay: Boutique Hotel Das Tigra is a family-run hotel with a very central location in a quiet street.
5. Brussels
Belgium
Winter Wonders is your favourite Christmas market in Belgium followed by Ghent, Antwerpen, Bruges and Liege. With its 2.5 million visitors, Winter Wonders is the unmissable end-of-year event in Brussels which, for the occasion, dons its festive costume and pulls out all the stops on the menu.
Capital of Europe, Brussels has also for several years been one of the Christmas capitals with Strasbourg, Budapest and Vienna. The teams in charge of this event set the bar higher every year to offer you moments of pure magic. The great classics are all awaiting you: magnificent Sound and Light shows at the Grand-Place, a majestic tree, a life-sized manger, a skating rink, magical lights and many exhibitions which dot the event and, of course, amazing Christmas markets bursting with treasures which will delight the curious and titillate the gourmets’ taste buds.
Book your flights and accommodation at the best price as well as your tours and activities in Brussels such as a "Brussels Chocolate Tasting Tour" and discover the best Christmas market in Belgium.
Select the "free cancellation" option and pre-book your stay without obligation.
Opening dates: From 24th November 2021 to 31st December 2023.
Nearest airport: Book your flights to Brussels and your transfer.
Where to stay: Hotel des Galeries. Stay in the historical heart of Brussels.
Once again you have classed the Trier Christmas Market among the best Christmas markets in Europe. Now in its 42th year, the Trier Christmas Market will again be one of the loveliest in all of Germany. Set on the medieval Main Market and in front of the imposing backdrop of Trier Cathedral, the 95 attractively decorated booths offer a fitting framework for this wonderful event.
The Trier Christmas Market is often described by travel organizers as being “romantic with wonderful ambience.” Germany’s only Mulled Wine Queen Sarah Schmitt is looking forward to welcome the international guests in Trier. A large selection with delicious specialties such as the “Original Moselle Vintner Mulled Wine” and festive arts and crafts attracts visitors from the world over.
Book your flights to Luxembourg Airport (30 min by car / public transport) or Cologne (2h30) as well as your accommodation in Trier.
Select the "free cancellation" option and pre-book your Christmas holidays in Trier at the best price.
Opening dates:
From 24th November to 22nd December 2023.
Nearest airports: Book your flights to Luxembourg Airport (30 min by car / train) or Cologne (2h30)
Where to stay: Ibis Style Trier for its stunning location in the heart of historical Trier.
It is one of the largest and most authentic Christmas markets in Germany. Each year you rank it among your favourite Christmas Markets in Europe.
It was first mentioned in 1434 when it was held to provide the citizens of Dresden with the meat for the Christmas meal. Since then, it has become a huge event with over 200 stalls which attracts 3 million visitors a year from all over the world.
Christmas tales also come to life in the city’s theatres whilst museums host special exhibitions and boats bejeweled with lights glide along the Elbe. If only Christmas could last more than just a few weeks…
Book your flights to Dresden (20 min by car or public transport) Leipzig (1h30) or Berlin (2h30) as well as your accommodation and your tours and activities as a historic walking tour of the "Florence on the Elbe".
Select the "free cancellation" option and pre-book your stay today.
Opening dates: From 29th November to 24th December 2023
Nearest airports: Book your flights to Dresden (20 min by car / public transport) or Berlin (2h30).
Where to stay: "Steingenberger Hotel de Saxe" stay in the heart of Dresden by booking your room at the best price at the Steingenberger Hotel de Saxe.
Considered the safest Christmas destination in Europe (during the Covid-19 pandemic), Madeira is also awarded the title of “Sunniest Christmas Market in Europe” and "Best Winter Sun Destination". Madeira is THE destination for an unforgettable Christmas holiday.
Madeira celebrates to the fullest the arrival of the Christmas season with a splendid traditional Christmas market held in Avenida Arriaga central walkways, at the heart of its main capital Funchal.
A great variety of products are on display, including exotic flowers, traditional souvenirs and, of course, typical delicacies and drinks of the season all adding to the merriment in a very welcoming ambience. Partake in the glee of this season festivities, enjoy the daily activities and entertainment shows, such as Christmas Carols and performances by folklore groups.
Book your flights, accommodation and tours and activities and discover the best Portuguese destination for a magical Christmas. Select the "free cancellation" option and pre-book your stay for the next edition of the Christmas market.
Opening dates: From 1st December 2023 to 7th January 2024.
Nearest airport: Book your flights to Funchal and your transfer.
Where to stay: “Castanheiro Boutique Hotel” located near the Christmas market.
The Capital of Georgia is a must-see destination at any time of the year. Awarded among the Best European Destinations but also the Safest Destinations in Europe (Covid-19), Tbilisi must be at the top of your wishlist for Christmas. Christmas markets are held almost in every corner of the capital city, where local entrepreneurs and start-ups sell their handicrafts, souvenirs, Christmas treats, Georgian candies, yummy street food and mulled wine.
Set up on First Republic Square, near Rustaveli Avenue, the place hosts visitors of all ages for theater shows, music performances, puppet theater, open-air movie-show, a gorgeous Christmas tree, wooden huts decorated with colourful bright lights and so much more. The annual Christmas events usually last throughout December.
Book your flights to Tbilisi as well as your accommodation and tours and activities in Tbilisi such as a 4-hour walking tour with wine tasting.
Still hesitating? Pre-book your accommodation without obligation by selecting the "free cancellation" option.
Opening dates: From 25th December 2023 to 14th January 2023
Nearest airports: Book your flights to Tbilisi and your transfer.
Where to stay: "King Gorgasali" Ideally located in Old Tbilisi.
For your next winter holiday, explore one of the UK's largest and most beautiful Christmas markets. The most original, biggest and - arguably - the best Christmas markets in the country, Manchester Christmas Markets are an ideal destination for a festive outing.
Arriving in the city in 1999, the first Christmas market in the UK has grown every year since, now attracting more than nine million visitors each year. Some 300 beautifully crafted stalls located across the city, offer mouth-watering international food, drinks and finely crafted Yuletide gifts in the heart of the buzzing city centre. Spread across 10 individual sites - each with its own distinctive character, the Manchester Christmas Markets have something to offer every festive visitor.
Book your flights to Manchester as well as your accommodation and tours and activities, such as a Manchester food tour with a local guide. Select the "free cancellation" option and pre-book your accommodation without obligation now.
Opening dates: From 11th November to 22nd December 2023.
Nearest airports: Book your flights to Manchester and your transfer.
Where to stay: "Motel One Manchester-Piccadilly" offering a central-city location.
The Govone Christmas Market is the most beautiful Christmas market in Italy. For the second year in a row, you have also ranked it among the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe. “Magico Paese di Natale” takes place in the little village of Govone in the hills of Langhe-Roero, the wine region in Piedmont, a Unesco World Heritage Site.
This is one of the most important Christmas events in Italy, a magic experience in a very special place. In winter time, the entire village of Govone turns itself into the magic kingdom of Santa Claus, with many cultural and gastronomic attractions.
There is, of course, the wonderful Christmas market with artisans selected all over Italy. You will find a Street Food area and a Magic Kingdom Wine shop where visitors can find all the traditional local delicacies. But the unique experience that singles out this incredible Christmas village from the rest, is the amazing musical show of Santa Claus hosted every day in the Royal Castle of Govone.
Book your flights to Cuneo (1h by car / public transport) or Turin (1h15) as well as your accommodation in Govone. Select the "free cancellation" option and plan your next winter vacation without obligation.
Opening dates: From 11th November to 17th December 2023.
Nearest airports: Book your flights to Cuneo (1h by car or public transport from Govone) or Turin Airport (1h15).
Where to stay: Castello di Guarene. Offering a spa with an indoor pool and a restaurant.
For 4 consecutive years you have classed Vilnius as the destination with the most beautiful Christmas tree in Europe. Much more than that, the whole city of Vilnius is adorned with fabulous Christmas decorations.
Its authentic Christmas market located at the foot of the Christmas tree, is considered one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in the world. The capital of Lithuania is seen today as a must-see, a safe and authentic destination for unique experiences. Here you will find Christmas delicacies sweetening winter evenings - gingerbreads, honey cakes, teas, home-made cheeses, colourful sweets and all sorts of pastries… So, hurry to the bustling streets, take photos by the Christmas tree, admire the decorations which wrap the Old Town and stop by in the Christmas Town to taste Christmas delicacies; do look around because Santa Claus has been spotted there before, not to mention the Three Wise Men or elves whizzing past by train!
Book your flights, accommodation and tours and activities such as a Lithuanian food tour and discover Vilnius, ranked among the best Christmas destinations in Europe.
Pre-book your accommodation at the best price for the 2021 edition by selecting the "free cancellation" option.
Opening dates: 26th November 2023 to 1st January 2024.
Nearest airports: Book your flights to Vilnius and your transfer.
Where to stay: "Hilton Garden Inn Vilnius City Center". Stay in the heart of Vilnius.
Already awarded the title of the most beautiful Christmas market in Europe 2 years ago, Tallinn has become a must-see destination at Christmas. The Tallinn Christmas Market delights everyone with its coziness, historical location, centuries-old buildings and long traditions.
Every year, more than half a million people from close by and far away come looking for magic at the Tallinn Christmas Market. Children will love the carousels and Santa Claus who distributes candy in his little house to those who are better at reciting verses. You will be spoilt for choice: high-quality handicraft, practical winter accessories and all sorts of nick-nacks too; and your tummy will enjoy gingerbread and hearty Christmas roasts.
Book your flights, accommodation and tours and activities at the best prices in Tallinn such as an Estonian Craft Beer tasting tour.
Opening dates: From 1st December 2023 to 7th January 2024.
Nearest airport: Book your flights to Tallinn and your transfer.
Where to stay: "Centennial Hotel Tallinn" located in the best part of Tallinn.
The romantic city of Bruges has one of the most beautiful Christmas Markets in Europe and you are guaranteed to fall under its spell during your stay. From the end of November, the historic city centre of Bruges will be transformed into a giant Christmas market.
In addition to a wonderful atmosphere and plenty of seasonal jollity, you will also be able to find that unusual last-minute present for someone special.
The Bruges Christmas and winter market will be located on the Markt and Simon Stevinplein, in the cosy city center. There will be a good range of stalls offering all kinds of scrumptious local food and drinks. Home-made hot chocolate, ice-cold jenever, spiced glühwein... along with Belgian beers, cheeses and hearty dishes. There will be something for everyone.
Book your flights to Brussels Airport (1h30 by car or train) as well as your accommodation and your tours and activities in Bruges, such as a chocolate and beer tasting tour.
Select the "free cancellation" option and pre-book your accommodation at the best price, without obligation.
Opening dates: From 24th November 2023 to 7th January 2024
Nearest airports: Book your flights to Brussels Airport (1h30 by car or train).
Where to stay: "Hotel Patritius". Stay in the heart of Bruges.
One of the most romantic cities in Europe awaits you this winter. The Christmas markets in Old Town Square in the centre of Prague are the biggest project of its kind in the Czech Republic. Set in the very heart of the city is a traditional Czech marketplace, where, in dozens of wooden stalls, merchants offer typical Christmas goods such as traditional Czech blown glass balls, products made of glass pearls or straw, hand-embroidered tablecloths, wooden toys, biscuit cutters and many other things.
Grown-ups will enjoy the typical mulled wine, and all gourmet, young and old, will enjoy Czech Christmas biscuits, hot roasted chestnuts, gingerbread biscuits or typical Czech grilled sausages and skewered foods.
Book your flights, accommodation and tours and activities in Prague such as a sightseeing dinner cruise and discover the most beautiful Christmas market in the Czech Republic.
Select the "free cancellation" option and pre-book your accommodation at the best price without obligation.
Opening dates: From 2nd December 2023 to 6th January 2024
Nearest airport: Book your flights to Prague and your transfer.
Where to stay: Grandior Hotel Prague, located in the ciy centre.
16. Edinburgh
Scotland
World-renowned Edinburgh's Christmas celebrations will spread the festive cheer across the Scottish capital From mulled Irn Bru to vegan pigs in blankets, from Harry Potter-themed gifts to local handmade produce, the stunning Christmas Market in East Princes Street Gardens will offer treats for all! Santa Land will return to East Princes Street Gardens with rides for people of all ages to enjoy, whilst Santa’s Grotto once again will take residence on Castle Street.
Book your flights, accommodation and tours and activities at the best price such as a ghost bus tour.
Select the "free cancellation" option and pre-book your accommodation for the next edition of this Christmas market.
Opening dates: 24th November 2023 to 3rd January 2024.
Nearest airports: Book your Edinburgh flights and your transfer.
Where to stay: "Aparthotel Adagio Edinburgh Royal Mile" located in the real heart of Edinburgh.
The Rothenburg ob der Tauber Christmas market is one of the best Christmas markets in Germany and probably one of the most romantic and authentic too. Everything your heart desires can be found at this charming market, whether the traditional Christmas pastries or the mulled wine.
Gadgets and treasures as well as lovingly crafted Christmas decoration can be found in a variety of stalls and are sure to serve as a token of appreciation for loved ones at home as well as a welcome reminder of your time spent in Rothenburg.
Book your flights to Nuremberg Airport or Stuttgart (1h30 min by car or train) as well as your accommodation and your tours and activities in Rothenburg Ob der Tauber.
Take advantage of the best prices by pre-booking your accommodation today without obligation by selecting the "free cancellation" option.
Opening dates: From 1st December to 23rd December 2023.
Nearest airports: Book your flights to Nuremberg Airport or Stuttgart (1h30 by car or train).
Where to stay: Hotel Reichs-Küchenmeisteris a historic 4-star hotel located in the heart of the medieval old town.
As soon as you arrive, the enticing aroma of gingerbread, mulled wine and grilled sausages hits you at the Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt. First mentioned in 1628, its roots probably go back to the time of Luther, when the tradition of giving children presents at Christmas evolved.
Traditional wares such as handmade Christmas decorations and culinary treats have been offered ever since by the 180 wooden stalls decorated with red and white canvas. Take a stroll through the festively lighted lanes between the stalls and discover the enchantment of a totally unique atmosphere.
Book your flights to Nuremberg (20 min by car or public transport) Munich (2h) or Frankfurt (2h30) as well as your accommodation and your tours and activities such as a 1.5-Hour Culinary Walking Tour.
Select the "free cancellation" option and pre-book your stay to take advantage of the best deals.
Opening dates: From 1st December to 24th December 2023
Nearest airports: Book your flights to Nuremberg (20 min by car / public transport) or Munich (2h).
Where to stay: One of our top picks in Nuremberg is the "Sorat Hotel Saxx Nürnberg".
Whereas Manchester is considered one of the UK's largest Christmas markets, Bath is often considered one of the finest. The 18-day Christmas shopping extravaganza is the biggest Christmas Shopping event in the South West and consists of more than 170 beautifully decorated wooden chalets in the heart of Bath’s World Heritage Site.
This year there will be lots of new and exciting stallholders from across the South West. In keeping with Bath Christmas Market’s tradition of being distinctively British, each chalet will be selling a variety of high-quality artisan products. Over 70% of stallholders are businesses from Bath and the surrounding region, and 60% of goods available at the market are handmade in the UK.
Products include handmade Christmas decorations, personalized gifts, hand-made toys, festive food and drink, local artwork and designer jewelery to name but a few.
Book your flights to Bristol Airport (50 min by car / public transport) or London Gatwick (2h30) as well as your accommodation in Bath and your tours and activities in Bath such as a day trip to Stonehenge.
Select the "free cancellation" option and pre-book your Christmas holidays in Bath without obligation.
Opening dates: From 23rd November to 10th December.
Nearest airports: Book your flights to Bristol Airport (50 min by car / public transport) or London (2h30)
Where to stay: Z Hotel Bath. Located in our guest’s favourite part of Bath
20. Malaga
Spain
Ranked among the sunniest Christmas Markets in Europe but also the Best Christmas Lights in Europe, Malaga has been a must-see destination for Christmas for several years.
For your next Christmas holiday, forget about the snow and the cold. Instead of skating on a frozen lake, swim in the Mediterranean. If there is one thing that epitomizes the spirit of Christmas in Málaga, it is without a doubt the city’s Christmas lights. Each year, hundreds of people wait excitedly in Larios Street for the switching on of the lights, marking the start of the Christmas season, a period which local residents and visitors live with great passion.
The spirit of Christmas imbues every corner of the streets of Málaga and in the centre there are daily light and music performances to captivate all those who enthusiastically gather there.
Book your flights, accommodation, tours and activities in Malaga at the best price, such as a sunset catamaran trip with glass of Cava.
Still hesitating? Select the "free cancellation" option and pre-book your accommodation for free.
Opening dates: 25th November 2023 to 6th January 2024.
Nearest airports: Book your flights to Malaga as well as your transfer.
Where to stay: "Soho Boutique Malaga". This stylish hotel is just 500m from the Cathedral.
Advent in Zagreb
European Best Christmas Market 2016-2017-2018
Advent Zagreb Christmas Market takes you back to your childhood: Grab your favourite toy and travel to some other times!
Warm lights give a feeling of welcome. We keep our hands warm on a cup of mulled wine or hot chocolate. Smiling faces spread a sense of love. Graceful Christmas carols from the balconies dance in the air together with snowflakes. It is the magic of Christmas that only Zagreb can offer during Advent.
In the past five years, Advent Zagreb has become a destination for visitors from Croatia and the world, due to the unsurpassed atmosphere, wide offer, various accompanying facilities and hospitality of locals who use this magical time of year to present their city in full glory. It is not surprising, therefore, that for three years in a row it has been awarded the prize for the best Christmas market in Europe.
This year, Advent takes us back to other times, in the most beautiful way possible, through a reunion with our dearest childhood friends - toys.
Come to the city at the foot of Sljeme and warm your hearts with that special serenity - this City of a Million Hearts will tell you the warmest Christmas story.
Book your flights, your best activities in Zagreb as well as your accommodation at the best price in the Capital of Croatia which is also your European capital of Christmas!
Opening dates: 2nd December 2023 - 7th January 2024.
Nearest airports: Book your flights to Zagreb
Where to stay: Situated in Zagreb city centre, right next to the Zagreb Main Railway Station, 5-star Esplanade Zagreb Hotel offers a fitness centre and sauna.
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