Finest Christmas Markets in Europe 2024

That is your final information to the perfect Christmas markets in Europe! I’ve traveled to tons of of Christmas markets to carry you the perfect locations for Christmas Markets in Europe for 2024.

Image this: You’re strolling the traditional cobblestone streets, on both aspect 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. May in the present day get any higher? Sure, sure it may.

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 recent minimize pine timber. Hand carved wood stalls promoting meals, drinks, and handmade trinkets line the road, every yet one more 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 repeatedly to Christmas markets throughout Europe and writing about my discovering.

One issues for certain: it’s price it. I do know that many don’t take into consideration visiting Europe throughout the vacation season, however I discover it really 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 perfect of the European Christmas markets so you possibly can guarantee to take advantage of your time.

Finest 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 positively deserves its nickname because the “Capital of Noel”! This metropolis has among the best Christmas markets in all Europe and it is an extremely festive place to go to throughout the vacation season. With fantastically adorned stalls and open each 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 resorts, the lit up Notre Dame Cathedral with angels that line the streets, and naturally vin chaud- mulled wine! A number of nice meals, drinks, and hand crafted presents. 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: If in case you have 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’ll be able to see my full information to those Alsace villages at Christmas right here.

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

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

Cologne, Germany

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

A few of my favorites are the Cologne Cathedral Market, that is the biggest and takes place outdoors the spectacular cathedral with reside music, an enormous tree, and gluhwein (scorching, mulled wine!). I additionally adore the Angels’ Market the place you may discover it in Neumarkt Sq. and is likely one of the authentic markets that options girls wearing angel costumes handing out sweets to youngsters. There’s additionally a good looking carousel and beautiful mugs which might be excellent to take dwelling as souvenirs. I am keen on the one within the Previous City as a result of it is stuffed with what seems to be like gnomes, however it’s a lot extra! The Alter Markt calls itself the Residence of the Heinzelmännchen (who have been little creatures from a Cologne legend who used to do all of the house responsibilities till they have been irritated by an inquisitive housewife).

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

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

See the perfect Christmas markets in Germany right here.

Vienna, Austria

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

There are a number of massive markets situated across the metropolis, every with their very own distinctive really feel. The most well-liked might be at Rathausplatz in entrance of the attractive City Corridor. With over 150 chalets, this is likely one of the largest in Europe. It is excellent for choosing up presents and grabbing a chunk to eat. The Glühwein right here is a few of the greatest I’ve ever had!

If you need 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 at last, 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 ambiance. It is the right place to seize a cup of scorching chocolate and a slice of Sachertorte (a chocolate cake that could be a Vienna specialty!)

Vienna Christmas Market Dates for 2024: November eleventh by means 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 looks like one thing out of a storybook.

The primary market is situated in City Corridor Sq., in entrance of the beautiful medieval City Corridor. This is likely one of the largest markets in Tallinn and is ideal for choosing up presents and souvenirs. You will discover handmade Estonian crafts, decorations, and loads of locations to seize a chunk to eat. The gluwein right here can be wonderful! This can be a good spot to choose up a hand-crafted wool sweater and stick round for reside music and leisure at night time.

When you’re searching for one thing somewhat completely 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 presents and souvenirs right here.

I extremely suggest 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 means of December twenty seventh, 2024.

Basel, Switzerland

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

The primary market is situated in Munsterplatz and is stuffed with stunning handcrafted items, a big choice of food and drinks, and twinkling lights. You should definitely attempt 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 a few of 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 purple sandstone cathedral. This can be a good spot to do some Christmas purchasing as you may discover every part from jewellery to wood toys.

PRO TIP: When you’re searching for one thing somewhat completely different, make sure to take a look at the Introduction Calendar Home. This can be a home with 25 home windows, every with a special shock behind it!

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

Prague, Czech Republic

When you’re searching for a market with a extra medieval really feel, then Prague is the place for you! With its beautiful Gothic structure and cobblestone streets, Prague lends itself completely to a festive ambiance. The markets listed below are a few of the most original in Europe with stunning handmade items on provide.

The primary market is situated in Previous City Sq. the place you may discover a gorgeous Christmas tree and the spectacular Tyn Church within the background. This can be a actually standard spot, so be ready for crowds, which is why I like to recommend weekdays. But it surely’s positively price 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 provide a refreshing change of tempo from the Previous City.

Prague Christmas Market Dates for 2024: November thirtieth by means 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 yow will discover on the Previous Market Corridor. This is likely one of the few markets the place yow will discover meals indoors, so it is excellent if you happen to’re visiting in colder climate or if you happen to simply want a break from the chilly. You will additionally discover handcrafted Christmas decorations, glassware, and textiles.

I liked 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 means of December twenty second, 2024.

Ribeauvillé, France

This market is small and solely supplied for a pair brief weekends however SO WORTH IT. It is probably the most uncommon markets I’ve ever been to in essentially the most charming method. Your complete city clothes up and participates. There are folks dressed up, on stilts, sensible males with actual camels, fires in the midst 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 very completely different, medieval world.

You will discover all the same old Christmas market fare right here like mulled wine, gingerbread, and roasted chestnuts. However Ribeauvillé can be recognized for its wonderful native wines, so make sure to decide up a bottle or two to take dwelling with you. You will additionally discover loads of handmade items on provide.

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

Heidelberg, Germany

The Heidelberg Christmas market is likely one of the oldest markets in Germany, relationship again to 1398! The primary market is situated in Heidelberg’s previous city, all through the Hauptstrasse. This can be a bit completely different than a few of the different markets, and I discover it a pleasure! You’ll be able to stroll almost a mile and revel in completely different Christmas festivities alongside the way in which. I am biased since I lived in Heidelberg, however with a good looking sixteenth century buildings, the fortress towering over the skating rink, it is simply magical.

It is a really charming place with round 100 fantastically adorned stalls. You will 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 gorgeous.

There’s additionally a market in close by Mannheim which I additionally suggest testing when you’ve got time. It is a brief drive or practice journey away!

Heidelberg Christmas Market Dates for 2024: November twenty fifth by means 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 really a fairytale city and its Christmas market doesn’t disappoint. With over 300 stalls, this is likely one of the largest markets in France. The setting could not be extra excellent 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 powerful gentle show. You will 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 presents and decorations on provide.

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

Try my Christmas market highway journey itinerary right here.

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

Budapest, Hungary

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

There’s additionally a good looking gentle present each night at 7 pm on the facade of the Gerbeaud Home that is positively price 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 attempt some conventional Hungarian dishes like lángos (a deep-fried flatbread) or kürtőskalács (a chimney cake)!

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

Munich, Germany

Munich is famend for its wonderful Oktoberfest celebration, however do you know that it additionally has a few of the greatest Christmas markets in Europe? The markets listed below are massive and vigorous with an amazing ambiance.

The primary market is situated at Marienplatz within the coronary heart of the town. This can be a actually standard spot, so be ready for crowds. But it surely’s positively price braving the plenty to see the attractive Glockenspiel present that takes place each day at 11 am and midday. There are additionally quite a few 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 make sure to 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 completely different just like the Wintertollwood Competition held on Oktoberfest grounds.

And if you happen to’re searching for an genuine Bavarian eating expertise, make sure to take a look at Hofbräuhaus, one in every of Munich’s most well-known beer halls. It is an amazing place to attempt some conventional German dishes like Weißwurst (veal sausage) and Leberkäse (a sort of meatloaf).

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

Innsbruck, Austria

Innsbruck is an enthralling metropolis situated within the Austrian Alps and its Christmas market is nothing wanting magical. With over 80 stalls, it is one of many smaller markets on this checklist, however it greater than makes up for it with its gorgeous setting. The market takes place within the previous city sq. in opposition to 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 will discover all the same old 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 stuffed with jam) and Kernöl (pumpkin seed oil).

Innsbruck Christmas Market Dates for 2024: November fifteenth by means 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 in all places! Whereas London won’t be the everyday spot, Christmas market is certainly price a go to. Positioned in Hyde Park, Winter Wonderland is likely one of the largest markets in Europe and it is fully free to enter!

When you’re inside, you may discover an array of sights like an ice rink, a large ferris wheel, and a German-style market with over 200 stalls. And if you happen to’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 every of Hyde Park’s many cafes for a cup of tea or some conventional English fare.

If in case you have additional time, head to Tub,a quintessential city in the UK that is additionally acquired an exquisite Christmas market!

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

Nuremberg, Germany

Nuremberg is a good looking medieval metropolis situated within the German state of Bavaria – since 1313. It is best recognized for its conventional Christkindlesmarkt, which is likely one of the oldest and largest markets in Germany.

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

When you go to Nuremberg Christmas Market on the primary Friday earlier than Introduction there’s an incredible opening ceremony with performances and reside music.

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

Metz, France

Metz is a good looking metropolis situated within the northeast of France, near the border with Germany. It is best recognized for its massive Christmas market, which is likely one of the largest in Europe.

The market is unfold out throughout the town heart with over 200 stalls, so there’s loads to see and do. You will discover all the same old French Christmas Market staples like vin chaud, ache d’épices (gingerbread), and goodies. However you may additionally discover some extra gormet meals like foie gras, tarte flambée (a sort 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 price visiting as properly – Notre Dame d’Auschwitz, the trendy artwork heart Centre Pompidou-Metz, and Le Temple Neuf is a good looking church that appears extra like a fortress.

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

Trier, Germany

Trier is a good looking 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 beautiful spot.

This system on the Trier Christmas Market adjustments each 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 food and drinks on provide, plus arts and crafts from all over the world, the Trier Christmas Market attracts guests from far and broad.

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 means of December twenty second, 2024.

See the perfect Christmas markets in Germany right here.

Bruges, Belgium

Bruges is a good looking metropolis situated within the northwest of Belgium. It is best recognized for its canals, cobbled streets, and medieval structure. The Christmas market is situated within the historic metropolis heart and is likely one of the most atmospheric markets in Europe.

You will discover all the same old Belgian Christmas Market staples like Belgian chocolate, waffles, and beer. However you may additionally discover objects like gingerbread homes, candles, and handmade wood toys. Yearly Grote Sq. is reworked to Bruges’ largest Christmas market and within the heart 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 means of January fifth 2025.

Aachen, Germany

I simply went to Aachen final 12 months for my first time and completely liked it! Not solely is Aachen filled with essential historical past, it is acquired an unbelievable 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 heart and is likely one of the oldest markets in Germany. It dates again to 1434 making it even older than Nuremberg! You will discover all the normal German Christmas Market staples like Glühwein, Lebkuchen (gingerbread), and Bratwurst.

However what I liked most in regards to the market have been the entire Aachener Printen on provide. Printen are a sort of gingerbread that originates from Aachen. They arrive in all types of sizes and styles and are completely scrumptious!

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

Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen is the capital of Denmark and is situated on the japanese coast of the nation. Town is stuffed with appeal 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 will discover all the normal Danish Christmas Market staples like æbleskiver (a sort of pancake), Gløgg (mulled wine), and Danish Christmas beer. There are additionally loads of stalls promoting handmade Christmas decorations, toys, and presents.

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 journey the Polar Specific! Additionally, Kongens Nytorv is likely one of the most stunning squares in Copenhagen and it actually comes alive throughout Christmas time. And remember to move to iconic Nyhavn the place you may additionally discover a market.

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

Zagreb, Croatia

Zagreb is the capital of Croatia and is situated within the northwest of the nation. Town is stuffed with tradition and historical past with a good looking previous city that is excellent for exploring. The Christmas market is situated in Tomislav Sq. within the heart 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 attempt the strukli which is a sort of pastry that is standard in Zagreb.

And if you wish to get a birds eye view of the market, make sure that to move to the Zagreb Eye which is a big Ferris wheel situated within the coronary heart of the town.

Zagreb Christmas Market Dates for 2024: November thirtieth by means 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 all around the continent!

Christmas Market High Suggestions

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

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

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

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

Listed below are some extra useful guides:

What to Eat and Drink at a Christmas Market

Europe Christmas Market Itinerary and Information

Finest Christmas Markets in Germany

Finest Christmas Market in France

Finest Christmas Markets in Switzerland

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