Europe is a tough contender for throwing the best Christmas celebrations worldwide. With countless Christmas markets spread across every country, culture and tradition combine with the holiday cheer to promise locals and tourists a magical Christmas.
Luckily for you, cross-country travel in Europe is pretty much a breeze. There are numerous transportation options to choose from to make sure you get to explore as many Christmas markets as you want! Download the Rail Planner App to plan your journeys and make your seat reservations in advance for a smooth sailing experience.
Still trying to decide what will make it to your itinerary? Here are 20 of the best European Christmas markets you can't miss.
- Brussels Christmas Market
- Bruges Christmas Market
- Strasbourg Christmas Markets
- Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt
- Trier Christmas Market
- Rothenburg ob der Tauber Reiterlesmarkt
- Advent Basilica
- Prague Christmas Markets
- Bohemia Christmas Markets
- Liseberg Christmas Market
- Vienna Christmas Market
- Salzburg Christmas Market
- Copenhagen Christmas Markets
- Basel Christmas Market
- Edinburgh Christmas Markets
- Manchester Christmas Markets
- Zagreb Advent
- Kerststad Valkenburg
- Govone and Asti Christmas Markets
- Madrid Christmas Market
Belgium
Brussels Christmas Market
Bask in the waffle-scented air while going around the merry-go-round! Credits to @julianasnaps on Unsplash
Voted one of the best Christmas markets in Europe, the Brussels Christmas Market is a treat for all its visitors with over 200 wooden chalets selling the tastiest smoutebollen/oliebollen (deep-fried sweet dumplings), a cup of jenever (gin) or Glüwein (hot wine), and traditional chocolate logs; plus the biggest variety of souvenirs.
Apart from market stalls, the place is bustling with lively bars and pop-up restaurants! Don't forget to catch stunning views on top of the Ferris wheel and ride the merry-go-round to revive your inner child.
Brussels Christmas Market opens from November 24, 2023 to December 31, 2023.
Klook Tip: If you're coming from London, take a 2-hour train ride on the Eurostar from London St. Pancras to Bruxelles-Midi.
Bruges Christmas Market
Stroll around this picture-perfect scene at Bruges Christmas Market! Credits to Klook
A reliable indicator that you've arrived at the Bruges Christmas Market is the intoxicating scent of fresh waffles. This time around, Bruges has been put under a Christmas spell, enhancing the iconic cobbled streets and canals to lure in its visitors.
Surrounding the ice skating rink are two Christmas markets — the main one in Market Square and another in Simon Stevinplein. Will you be able to resist equally intricate and delicious yule logs, world-class hot chocolates, and hot crispy Kroketten with shrimp and cheese?
On top of wooden chalets selling delicious food, expect activities like ice skating, sightseeing from the bells, relaxing cafes, and a horse-drawn carriage ride around the city.
Bruges Christmas Market opens from November 24, 2023 to January 7, 2024.
Klook Tip: The train ride from London St. Pancras to Bruges takes 3 hours and 30 minutes, with a quick change in Brussels. Take a day trip to the Bruges Christmas Market if you're in London.
France
Strasbourg Christmas Markets
Take a trip to the place where the Christmas market tradition began! Credits to @akaa_akaa on Instagram
Coining itself the Capital of Christmas for a reason, Strasbourg is the OG of all Christmas markets, dating back to 1570 as the oldest Christmas market.
Festivities will take place at Cathedral Square and Place Broglie, with festively decorated shop windows along the streets dressed with twinkling lights as jazz and funk music play in the background. There are over 300 wooden chalets spread across the main town square — tempting its passer-by with scrumptious smells and eye-catching trinkets.
Indulge in fresh pretzels, spaetzle, knack sausage, and crepes in Christkindelsmärik, the most popular and traditional Christmas market in Strasbourg. Try local delicacies like craft beers, wines, truffles, and Bredele cookies in Alsace Market. Don't forget to buy unique Christmas souvenirs before you leave!
Strasbourg is a must-visit in your France itinerary. Make your holiday easier with an Interrail Pass for France to enjoy unlimited train rides across the countries at your desired schedule.
The Strasbourg Christmas markets open from November 24, 2023 to December 24, 2023
Germany
Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt
Delight in an abundance of sweet treats at the Christkindlesmarkt! Credits to Klook
Even the grinches can't resist the beautiful displays of Nuremberg's Christkindlesmarkt, Berlin, Germany's most famous Christmas market.
Did you really visit a Christmas market if you didn't take home some handmade crafts and splurge on food? Christkindlesmarkt has various scented candles, local jams, wool clothing, and hand-carved figures perfect for gifting. It's also impossible to choose from delicious variations of their famous Nürnberger rostbratwurst and lebkuchen, which are local snacks originating from Nuremberg.
Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt opens from December 1, 2023 to December 24, 2023.
Trier Christmas Market
One of the most magical Christmas markets in Europe welcomes you with heaps of treats and entertainment! Credits to @ryon.0123 on Instagram
Decked with romantic lights and lovely decorations, the festive atmosphere is truly unmatched in the Trier Christmas market, making it the best and most beautiful in Germany.
Going on its 43rd year, the romantic city allure will shine even more with 95 booths as the centrepiece of the medieval main market with a gorgeous backdrop of the Trier Cathedral.
Satisfy your sweet tooth with gebäckkringel, a sugar-coated pastry, and dampfnudeln, German sweet dumplings. Wash it down with some genuine vintner mulled wine served by Verena Mueller, the mulled wine queen this year.
The Trier Christmas market opens from November 24, 2023 to December 22, 2023.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber Reiterlesmarkt
Delicious scents and festive tunes fill the air at this Christmas market in Germany! Credits to @wandering_limma on Instagram
Get yourself walking in a winter wonderland through the Rothenburg ob der Tauber Reiterlesmarkt for snow-dusted stalls selling grilled sausages and falmmkuchen (a pizza-style "flame cake"), and Rothenburger schneeball (fried shortbread pastry balls coated in powdered sugar or chocolate).
This fairytale land has been following the 500-year-old tradition of setting up its Christmas market around the festive season before Christmas day itself. Celebrations are amplified with choirs and local brass bands.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber Reiterlesmarkt opens from December 1, 2023 to December 23, 2023.
Hungary
Advent Basilica
Christmas lights dot the beautiful scene of St. Stephen's Basilica! Credits to Klook
Three-time winner of the Best Christmas Market in Europe award, The Advent Basilica can compete as Europe's most beautiful Christmas market.
Positioned in front of St. Stephen's Basilica are 120 domestic craft exhibitors and mind-blowing gastronomic delights in food stalls offering lángos (deep-fried flatbread), chimney cake, roasted sausage, roasted chestnuts, and goulash soups.
Advent Basilica opens from November 24, 2023 to December 31, 2023.
Czech Republic
Prague Christmas Markets
Bustling stalls surround a beautiful, massive Christmas tree! Credits to @alinetravelchesterfield on Instagram
Old Town Square is home to one of the biggest Christmas markets in Prague, Czech Republic.
Hot mulled wine is a must in all Christmas markets in Europe, but we urge you to try grog — a local favourite mixture of rum, water, lemon, and sugar. Have it with local specialities like Czech Christmas biscuits, hot roasted chestnuts, gingerbread biscuits, or typical Czech grilled sausages and skewers.
Shopping is quite a luxury here with some of the rarest finds, such as traditional Czech blown glass balls, hand-embroidered tablecloths, wooden toys, and biscuit cutters.
The Prague Christmas markets open from December 2, 2023 to January 6, 2024.
Bohemia Christmas Markets
Walk right into a Christmas dream at the Bohemia Christmas markets! Credits to @budejce on Instagram
Head south from Prague to continue the Christmas market excursion in Bohemia at two Christmas with such thematic atmospheres — Ceske Budejovice and Cesky Krumlov.
The Ceske Budejovice Christmas market stalls are in the middle of beautiful gothic and classical structures selling wooden toys, other Christmas decorations, and lots of mulled wine.
At Cesky Krumlov, you'll immediately notice its fantasy-like baroque castle towering over the holiday market. The stalls are located in the town hall square, patterned after the magical nature of the castle with its dazzling lights and the scent of freshly baked cookies and grilled sausages.
The Bohemia Christmas markets open from November 24, 2023 to January 1, 2024.
Sweden
Liseberg Christmas Market
Watch the amusement park turn into a beautiful Christmas market! Credits to @historiasdeunaautocaravana on Instagram
One of the best transformations this Christmas season is the Liseberg amusement park evolving into an open-air Christmas market.
Dare to try some exotic local delicacies like smoked reindeer with glogg (mulled wine).
Kids will have the best time with the free entertainment. On top of that, Santa Claus awaits in his wooden workshop, bumper cars are available to ride, and the half-hour ice show will surely leave you amazed.
The Liseberg Christmas market opens from November 19, 2023 to December 30, 2023.
Klook Tip: Got time for another country? Norway is a short train ride away, made even more convenient with an Interrail Pass for Norway.
Austria
Vienna Christmas Market
Will you be able to resist the delectable food options? Credits to @alisaanton on Unsplash
Walk into another winter Christmas wonderland that is Vienna, Austria, with fairy lights that make the streets sparkle as the snow grazes the Habsburg buildings.
The city's charming narrow streets of the old town become a long lineup of stalls selling traditional wooden toys and handmade soaps. Check out the ice skating rinks in the area for a fun little activity to pass the time and soak in the city's beauty.
Good luck with choosing from so many delicious grubs, such as bread bowl soups, raclette, pulled pork, arancini (deep-fried risotto balls), and more with the lingering aroma of roasted chestnuts and baked pretzels. Like all the other Christmas markets in Europe, a cup of hot mulled wine is a must.
The Vienna Christmas market opens from November 11, 2023 to January 4, 2024, but the majority are closed by December 26, 2023.
Salzburg Christmas Market
We'll take a cup of hot chocolate for the sake of Auld Lang Syne! Credits to @kali_lowrie on Instagram
Salzburg is a city with many famous origins, like Mozart's birthplace, The Sound of Music, and classic Christmas carols like Silent Night.
There are over 90 Christmas events in Salzburg Christmas Market, including the Christmas mangers exhibit, exciting processions of Perchten in their frightening masks and costumes, traditional folk song performances, and the anticipated Advent Brass Concert.
Bask in the apple and cotton candy-scented air with a view of the stunning Cathedral. Find delicious open-faced sandwiches, fresh pretzels, fruit cakes, cheeses, and more to munch on while delighting in the festivities.
The Salzburg Christmas market opens from November 23, 2023 to January 1, 2023.
Denmark
Copenhagen Christmas Markets
Find hygge in the city's Christmas markets! Credits to @ishootambience on Unsplash
Copenhagen, Denmark, is home to several Christmas Markets scattered all over the city. Its Christmas markets are among the best places to find striking yet functional gifts such as ceramics and chunky knitwear.
Enjoy surreal moments on top of the Ferris wheel and gliding across ice skating rinks while the caramel and cinnamon-scented air induces your appetite for the Christmas market treats.
Besides mulled wine, kids would be thrilled to see tons of caramelised almonds, hot chocolate, and hot dog sandwiches for sale.
The Copenhagen Christmas markets open from November 17, 2023 to December 31, 2023.
Switzerland
Basel Christmas Market
Hop on the ultimate food adventure at Basel Christmas market! Credits to Klook
Just finished touring the historic museums and filling on delicious dishes in Zurich? Already gotten to see the fantastic nature views of Geneva? Don't leave Switzerland yet!
Use the Swiss Half Fare Card to travel around the country for 50% off unlimited tickets to premium trains, buses, and boats. If you have an Interrail Pass for Switzerland, you can enjoy unlimited train rides to aid your adventure.
With that in mind, stop by Basel's Christmas market for a gastronomic experience like no other. How can you resist not buying from the 160 stalls with sausages on the barbie, authentic Basel Lackerli (a local take on gingerbread), hot punch, fondue, and raclette?
The place is divided into two main areas — Barfuserplatz with artisanal crafts, nativity exhibits, and jewellery; and Munserplatz with bauble-making workshops and gingerbread decorating.
The Basel Christmas Market will be open from November 23, 2023 to December 23, 2023
United Kingdom
Edinburgh Christmas Markets
United Kingdom Edinburgh Christmas Markets [Add image and caption - A Christmas market with rides? Count us in! Credits to @rosssneddon on Unsplash
Two-in-one celebrations guarantee a bonza time. As Christmas and Hogmanay (New Year's Eve) come together, it's impossible to get bored at the Edinburgh Christmas markets.
Before you dig into the burgers and raclette, get a taste of thrill at the ice skating rink in Santa's Grotto and the 60-metre-high Star Flyer. Maybe you can also go on a search for the hidden elves' workshop by the Christmas Tree Maze.
Several viewing pleasures await you with special projections, live performances, and locally-made artworks. Plus, you can also purchase Harry Potter-themed gifts and wooden toys to commemorate this visit.
Klook Tip:
- Come during New Year's Eve to catch the Hogmanay street party, fireworks display, and ceilidh (traditional folk concert).
- If you have some extra time on your hands, take a trip to London; and check out these tips, attractions, and accommodations you can avail without breaking the bank!
The Edinburgh Christmas markets open from November 17, 2023 to January 6, 2024.
Manchester Christmas Markets
People all around the world gather for the best Christmas market in the UK! Credits to Manchester City Council on Flickr
Clinching the title of the best Christmas market in the United Kingdom, the Manchester Christmas Market dates back to 1999 and has been growing since.
More than 9 million visitors look forward to mouthwatering culinary delights like Glüwhein (mulled wine), bratwurst, loaded crepes, and finely crafted Yuletide gifts presented in 300 stalls across 10 individual sites.
When the market opens this November 2023, a designated family site with fun rides will go for its first run this year, along with LED light performers, magicians, and street theatre.
Klook Tips:
- Start your trip in early or mid-November in London for a grand time experiencing the city's iconic attractions. Get to Central London quickly by taking the Heathrow Express, which cuts down the journey to only 15 minutes!
- Plan a day of road-tripping to these 11 essential stops to maximize your time.
- Ireland is a land border away from the United Kingdom with charming cities and historical attractions worth exploring conveniently with an Interrail Pass for Ireland.
Manchester Christmas Market opens from November 11, 2023 to December 22, 2023.
Croatia
Zagreb Advent
Enter a grub paradise disguised as a winter wonderland! Credits to Miroslav Vajdic on Flickr
The food-focused and culturally symbolic stalls made Zagreb a three-peat champion of the Best Christmas Market in Europe award.
For all the foodies out there, your heads will surely turn at every corner. Snack on spicy sausages, sarma (stuffed cabbage rolls), fritule (chocolate-covered fritters), plum brandy, and other local wines at Lower and Upper Town.
Expect the long-awaited comeback of the popular ice skating rink on King Tomislav Square, representing the return to Zagreb Advent. Skate and slide around to take a break from eating.
Planning to hit as many of the best Christmas markets in Europe? The Eurail Global Pass allows unlimited train rides for over 40,000 destinations across 33 countries! Learn more about what trains can take you around Europe.
Zagreb Advent opens from December 2, 2023 to January 7, 2024.
The Netherlands
Kerststad Valkenburg
Let the Christmas lights guide you around Kerststad Valkenburg! Credits to @kingsukpasari on Unsplash
After visiting the Brussels and Bruges Christmas markets, use an Interrail Pass for Benelux to make a stop at Valkenburg, Santa's rumoured hometown.
This humble town by the river Geul in Zuid-Limburg channels Kerststad Valkenburg during the festive season.
Numerous food options are provided at the cosy Christmas market with hotdogs, waffles, and soup at stalls, and sit-down restaurants around the area you can discover at the Route d'Amuse tour.
Kerststad Valkenburg opens from November 17, 2023 to January 7, 2024.
Italy
Govone and Asti Christmas Markets
The Magical Christmas Village welcomes you with mouthwatering food selections and cultural exhibits! Credits to @realitalytravelling on Instagram
Govone Christmas Market goes on its 17th year of the "Magical Christmas Village" in the Unesco World Heritage Site of Piedmont hosted by San Damiano d'Asti.
On November 18, the doors of Santa's House will open to the public. Located inside the Royal Castle, enter the fairytale home of your dreams, where Santa and his elves crank it out for the Christmas preparations.
You will also be able to come across the 14th edition living Nativity scene, where local actors portray the Three Kings, carpenters, and merchant — bringing the Christmas market visitors to a tour of the shops and restaurants in the area.
Food stalls here give out delicious grub like gourmet pizzas, Piedmontese beef hamburgers, roasted chestnuts, and more.
Klook Tip: The Interrail Pass for Italy allows you to go around the country without having to purchase train tickets for every journey!
The Govone and Asti Christmas markets are open from November 11, 2023 to December 17, 2023 (weekends only).
Spain
Madrid Christmas Market
See the amazing finds that await you at each stall! Credits to @thepaul_oficial on Instagram
As a crowd-favourite destination, Madrid Christmas Market is considered one of the best Christmas markets in Spain and one of the best Christmas markets in Europe with warmer weather.
12,000 items of antiques, artworks, and collectables will be showcased, along with vintage pieces from the 1960s to the 1980s — a collector's Christmas dream!
Sinful bites of entremeses (appetizers), suckling pigs, galettes, marzipan, and more will surely leave you wanting more.
Klook Tip: See the best of Spain from city to city for a fun cultural immersion with the help of the Interrail Pass for Spain.
Madrid Christmas Market opens from November 25, 2023 to December 31, 2023.
Touring Christmas markets in Europe is the perfect holiday activity to get a taste of the area's local cuisine, shop for city-specific Christmas gifts, and gather lots of insights about European history.
The magical winter wonderland-like ambience promotes the holiday cheer, giving local and visiting families the most wonderful time of the year.
We recommend you drop by starting either late November or early December 2023, as most markets close before Christmas day. If you're lucky, you'll find some open until January 2024.
Written by: Celestine Chua
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