Top 10 Best Christmas Markets in Europe You Shouldn’t Miss

If you dream of strolling through cobblestone streets surrounded by twinkling lights, sipping hot mulled wine, and listening to Christmas carols echoing through historic squares, Europe’s Christmas markets are pure holiday heaven.

From the centuries-old Christkindlesmarkt in Nuremberg to the fairy-tale setting of Tallinn’s snow-covered old town, these festive destinations capture the true spirit of Christmas.

Here’s your ultimate guide to the top 10 Christmas markets in Europe you absolutely shouldn’t miss this year.

1. Nuremberg, Germany – Christkindlesmarkt

When: Late November – December 24
Where: Hauptmarkt Square, Nuremberg

The Nuremberg Christmas Market is one of the world’s oldest and most iconic Christmas markets, dating back to the 16th century. Wooden stalls line the main square, decorated with red-and-white cloth and filled with handcrafted gifts, ornaments, and German treats.

Highlights:

• Watch the Christkind angel open the market in a traditional ceremony.

• Sample Nuremberg sausages and the famous Lebkuchen (gingerbread).

• Browse over 180 stalls selling unique handmade goods.

Pro tip: Visit at dusk when the cathedral bells ring and the market glows under thousands of golden lights.

2. Vienna, Austria – Rathausplatz Christmas Market

When: Mid-November – December 26
Where: Rathausplatz, Vienna

Vienna transforms into a winter wonderland every December, hosting over 20 themed Christmas markets. The one at Rathausplatz is the largest and most festive, with a sparkling ice rink, carousel rides, and one of Europe’s most stunning Christmas trees.

Highlights:

• Sip Glühwein (mulled wine) while browsing artisanal crafts.

• Enjoy Austrian pastries like Krapfen and Strudel.

• Take a romantic walk through the illuminated Rathaus Park.

Why go: Vienna’s elegant architecture, live choirs, and festive atmosphere make it one of Europe’s most enchanting Christmas destinations.

Strasbourg, France – Christkindelsmärik

When: Late November – December 24
Where: Place Broglie & Place de la Cathédrale, Strasbourg

Nicknamed the “Capital of Christmas”, Strasbourg hosts one of Europe’s oldest markets, first held in 1570. The entire old town glows with festive lights and Alsatian charm, surrounded by timber-framed houses and cathedral views.

Highlights:

• Wander through over 300 chalets selling handmade gifts.

• Try Bredele cookies and Alsatian mulled wine.

• Admire the giant Christmas tree in Place Kléber.

Why go: The blend of French and German influences creates a unique cultural and culinary experience.

4. Prague, Czech Republic – Old Town Square Christmas Market

When: Late November – Early January
Where: Old Town Square, Prague

Prague’s Gothic skyline and medieval charm make it one of Europe’s most picturesque Christmas destinations. The Old Town Square market feels straight out of a fairy tale, complete with a huge Christmas tree and traditional Czech folk music.

Highlights:

• Try Trdelník (chimney cake) dusted with sugar and cinnamon.

• Watch local choirs performing under the Astronomical Clock.

• Explore smaller markets at Wenceslas Square and Prague Castle.

Why go: Few cities can match Prague’s romantic winter atmosphere — especially when snow covers its historic rooftops.

5. Budapest, Hungary – Budapest Christmas Market

When: Mid-November – Early January
Where: St. Stephen’s Basilica, Budapest

Budapest’s Basilica market combines classic holiday spirit with modern flair. A 3D light show projected on St. Stephen’s Basilica creates a mesmerizing backdrop for shopping and skating.

Highlights:

• Sample Lángos, Hungarian goulash, and chimney cakes.

• Shop local artisan crafts at Vörösmarty Square.

• Glide across the city’s largest outdoor ice rink.

Why go: Affordable prices, hearty food, and stunning river views make Budapest one of Europe’s best winter city breaks.

Cologne, Germany – Cathedral Christmas Market

When: Late November – December 23
Where: Cologne Cathedral

With the stunning Gothic cathedral towering above, Cologne’s market is one of Germany’s most scenic. Wooden huts surround the square, offering handcrafted ornaments, toys, and regional delicacies.

Highlights:

• Sip hot Glühwein in souvenir mugs.

• Try local specialties like Reibekuchen (potato pancakes).

• Enjoy panoramic views from the cathedral tower.

Why go: The festive music, cathedral lights, and friendly atmosphere create an unforgettable Christmas experience.

7. Basel, Switzerland – Barfüsserplatz & Münsterplatz

When: Late November – December 23
Where: Basel Old Town

Basel hosts one of Switzerland’s biggest and most beautiful Christmas markets. The city’s medieval streets are filled with fairy lights, wooden chalets, and the scent of roasted chestnuts.

Highlights:

• Try Swiss raclette, fondue, and chocolate pralines.

• Visit the Christmas House on Münsterplatz for decorations.

• Enjoy cultural performances at the Basel Theatre.

Why go: Basel’s festive charm combines Swiss precision with warm, cozy hospitality.

8. Copenhagen, Denmark – Tivoli Gardens Christmas Market

When: Mid-November – Early January
Where: Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen

Step inside Tivoli Gardens and you’ll find a Christmas paradise filled with twinkling lights, rides, and wooden huts selling Scandinavian gifts. The amusement park’s historic charm and winter decorations make it one of the most magical markets in Northern Europe.

Highlights:

• Taste Danish Æbleskiver and hot chocolate.

• Watch the Tivoli light show reflected over the lake.

• Enjoy the cozy hygge atmosphere unique to Denmark.

Why go: It’s perfect for families and anyone seeking a mix of Christmas nostalgia and festive fun.

9. Tallinn, Estonia – Town Hall Square Christmas Market

When: Late November – Early January
Where: Tallinn Old Town

Tallinn’s Christmas market looks like it was designed for a holiday postcard. Snow-dusted rooftops, medieval buildings, and a beautifully decorated tree make it one of Europe’s most atmospheric markets.

Highlights:

• Sip Glögi (spiced wine) and try local black pudding.

• Browse hand-knit scarves, wooden toys, and local crafts.

• Enjoy folk music performances and festive carols.

Why go: Tallinn combines medieval magic with real winter snow — it’s a dream for photographers and romantics alike.

Zagreb, Croatia – Advent in Zagreb

When: Early December – Early January
Where: Various locations across Zagreb

Zagreb’s award-winning Advent celebration has repeatedly been named Europe’s Best Christmas Market. The entire city transforms into a festive playground with open-air concerts, ice rinks, and food stalls spread across multiple squares.

Highlights:

• Skate at King Tomislav Square.

• Try Fritule (mini doughnuts) and mulled wine.

• Explore themed zones like Fuliranje for live music and street food.

Why go: A perfect mix of local traditions, joyful music, and family-friendly fun — all at great value compared to Western Europe.

Tips for Visiting European Christmas Markets

1. Go early in the season to avoid peak crowds (late November to early December).

2. Bring cash, as some smaller stalls may not accept cards.

3. Dress warmly — temperatures can drop below freezing in Central and Eastern Europe.

4. Try local foods at each destination; every market has its own specialties.

5. Book hotels in advance, as festive weekends sell out quickly.

 

Whether you prefer the historic charm of Nuremberg or the storybook magic of Tallinn, each of these Christmas markets brings its own sparkle to the holiday season.

Visiting Europe in December is more than just a trip — it’s an experience filled with laughter, glowing lights, and the scent of cinnamon drifting through the air.

So grab your winter coat, pack your camera, and get ready to explore the best Christmas markets in Europe this year.