Best Christmas Markets in Europe

Every year travellers flock to airports to experience the festive spirit of Europe’s Christmas markets. Town and city squares fill with twinkling lights, local businesses showcase their crafts, and people enjoy seasonal treats like pretzels, mulled wine and bratwurst.

Each region has its own Christmas traditions and offerings, catering to every traveller’s preference. In this guide, we’ll explore the best European Christmas markets by three categories so you can find the destination that suits you. Romantic and storybook settings are great for couples and photography enthusiasts. Christmas classics are famous markets that have earned their reputation, and we’ve included food and culture hotspots for the culinary enthusiasts.

“Berlin is the easiest to reach, well-covered all over the country. Prague and Vienna are also strong in terms of coverage. Strasbourg, Cologne and Colmar usually require connecting flights, although the journey is relatively short.”

For more winter travel advice, check out our top 10 family-friendly winter wonderlands, and where to go for winter sun. 

Which markets are easiest to fly to?

Of the markets included in our list, we’ve researched direct flights from major UK airports. This sample data is from a Monday in December, and doesn’t include connections.

Berlin is the easiest to reach, well-covered all over the country. Prague and Vienna are also strong in terms of coverage. Strasbourg, Cologne and Colmar usually require connecting flights, although the journey is relatively short.

Top Christmas Markets in Europe

Here’s our breakdown of Europe’s best Christmas markets, ordered by the easiest to reach first:

Berlin, Germany

Berlin is home to over 70 Christmas markets, with something for every taste and itinerary. The Gendarmenmarkt is one of the most elegant, set in a historic square flanked by the German and French cathedrals. Here, visitors find handmade crafts, artisan goods and lots of live performances and the festive glow of illuminated stalls.

Culinary delights are a massive draw, with Currywurst, roasted nuts, and mulled wine to craft chocolates and international foods. Berlin is ideal for market-hoppers, nightlife enthusiasts, and cultural explorers. Its variety, scale, and big-city atmosphere make it stand out among the best European Christmas markets.

Prague, Czech Republic

Prague’s Christmas markets reflect centuries of tradition that the city still takes seriously. Markets can be found at Wenceslas Square, Peace Square, Republic Square and other locations throughout town. Old Town Square is the centrepiece. A towering Christmas tree anchors the space, ringed by rows of wooden chalets offering handcrafted ornaments, local textiles and classic seasonal foods. As dusk settles, the medieval facades warm under thousands of lights, to create a setting that’s both atmospheric and unmistakably Prague.

You’ll find plenty of opportunities to try trdelník (the city’s signature cinnamon-sugar pastry) or grab a freshly roasted sausage. Beyond the markets, Prague offers plenty to round out a winter visit. Landmarks like Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, and the Astronomical Clock are especially beautiful during the colder months. Between sightseeing activities, consider warming up in the city’s world-class cafes and museums.

For couples, photographers, and anyone chasing a storybook holiday feel, Prague remains one of Europe’s best Christmas destinations.

Vienna, Austria

Vienna’s Christmas markets feel both grand and welcoming. In front of the Gothic Town Hall is the famous Rathausplatz market, with rows of twinkling stalls. The shelves are packed with crafts, presents and sweet treats. Christmas time brings a unique glow to the city, as its streets and palaces light up in soft, golden light.

Just a short ride away, you can find a calmer, more romantic atmosphere at the Schönbrunn Palace market. It’s a perfect place to slow down with ice skating, small workshops and occasional classical music performances.

Vienna is a dream destination for anyone who loves culture and old-world magic. It’s a great choice for first-time visitors, and a classic European Christmas staple.

Budapest, Hungary

Budapest’s Vörösmarty Square Christmas Market is the city’s largest and most popular. Here you can browse wooden stalls filled with traditional Hungarian crafts and enjoy folk performances.

The winter food is a major strong point. Try the chimney cake (kürtőskalács), Hungarian goulash, roasted chestnuts and mulled wine. Budapest’s grand architecture makes for a stunning backdrop. Stroll over to the Danube Promenade for river views or visit the nearby St. Stephen’s Basilica. To escape the cold, you can even warm up in the thermal baths at Széchenyi.

If you want to explore Christmas markets without Western Europe’s crowds, Budapest is a good alternative.

Cologne, Germany

Cologne offers several themed Christmas markets, the most famous set directly in front of the towering Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The combination of Gothic architecture, bustling stalls, and festive lights creates an unforgettable holiday atmosphere. Each market has its own unique vibe, from medieval-inspired crafts to family-friendly ice-skating rinks.

Flammkuchen, bratwurst, roasted nuts, and Glühwein are available at nearly every stall. Cologne is ideal for visitors who want both traditional charm and big-city energy. It’s a popular destination for families, food lovers, and those looking to enjoy a variety of Christmas experiences in one city. The proximity of multiple markets within walking distance also makes it easy to explore the festive spirit across the city.

Colmar, France

Colmar is like a Christmas postcard brought to life. Its old town is dotted with canals and timber-framed houses, and the streets are lined with market stalls. Colmar Christmas markets sell lots of regional crafts and gifts, and the aromas of vin chaud (mulled wine), gingerbread and local cheeses fill the air.

The town is very walkable, which grants a calm and leisurely experience compared to the bustle of bigger cities. For couples and photography enthusiasts, Colmar is the perfect Christmas destination. Expect to see twinkling lights reflected in canal waters, and picture-perfect streets to wander down.

Colmar is well-linked with transport and great for day trips. You can easily take a short trip to nearby Eguisheim, one of Alsace’s prettiest villages, or hop on a quick train to Strasbourg to explore the Christmas markets there.

Salzburg, Austria

Salzburg feels like a place where two worlds meet. In the background, you’ll see rolling green alpine hills, and in the streets, polished baroque architecture. The Christmas markets sit beneath the city cathedral, with a whole host of nativity figurines, gifts and souvenirs to choose from.

Tourists can enjoy traditional Austrian treats like pretzels, roasted chestnuts, and Mozartkugeln chocolates while listening to carollers and live classical music performances. History is never far away. Head down to Mozart’s birthplace to glimpse the early life of the musical genius. Stroll the narrow, cobbled streets of the Altstadt, or climb to Hohensalzburg Fortress for views of the city and photo opportunities.

Nuremberg, Germany

Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt is one of Europe’s oldest Christmas markets, attracting millions of visitors each year. Held in the Hauptmarkt, the city’s main square, it’s a timeless festive experience with wooden chalets, handcrafted decorations and authentic German holiday fare. Longstanding traditions are still celebrated here. In the opening ceremony, the Christkind, a young woman dressed in white and gold marks, the start of the festive season.

There are almost 200 stalls to wander around, sampling Nuremberg bratwurst, gingerbread (Lebkuchen), and roasted almonds, while listening to carollers or watching live performances. The market also features a children’s area with a carousel and workshops, making it a perfect destination for families and anyone looking to experience the authentic German Christmas tradition.

Strasbourg, France

Strasbourg is often called the ‘Capital of Christmas’. Its Christmas market dates back to 1570, one of the oldest and largest in Europe. It hosts over 300 beautifully decorated chalets with handcrafted ornaments and seasonal gifts. The market stretches across the city centre, with a unique mix of French Alsatian culture with traditional German influences.

Food lovers will savour the market’s offerings, from bredele cookies, mulled wine, and spiced pastries to savoury specialties like Flammkuchen. The city’s bright squares, carollers, and Christmas tree at Place Kléber create a truly festive feel. Strasbourg is perfect for travellers who enjoy artisan crafts, regional delicacies, and festive culture, a top Christmas destination for food and culture enthusiasts alike.

FAQs: Best Christmas Markets in Europe

1. What are the best European Christmas markets?

Some of the most famous include Nuremberg, Vienna, Strasbourg, Prague, Colmar, Salzburg, Berlin, Cologne, Budapest, and Stockholm. Each comes with unique charm, festive food, and a magical holiday atmosphere.

2. When is the best time to visit European Christmas markets?

Most markets open mid-November through December, with peak festive activity in early to mid-December. Visit on weekdays or early mornings to avoid crowds as they build throughout the day.

3. Which European Christmas market is best for first-time visitors?

Nuremberg (Germany) and Vienna (Austria) are ideal for first-timers due to their iconic traditions, festive ambiance, and accessible locations.

4. Which European Christmas markets are best for families?

Nuremberg, Cologne, and Prague are family-friendly. They have children’s activities, carousels, and workshops alongside festive stalls.

5. What European Christmas markets are best for food lovers?

Strasbourg, Budapest, and Berlin are top picks for foodies. They’re famous for their local pastries, mulled wine, sausages, and other traditional treats.

6. Which Christmas markets are the most romantic in Europe?

Colmar, Salzburg, Prague, and Stockholm are perfect for couples, with storybook streets, cozy atmospheres, and twinkling lights.

7. Are European Christmas markets expensive?

It depends. Markets like Budapest tend to be more affordable, while Stockholm, Vienna, and Strasbourg are considered more premium. Food, souvenirs, and drinks vary by city.

---

Main image: Cmophoto – Unsplash