Finest Christmas Markets in Europe 2024

That is your final information to one of the best Christmas markets in Europe! I’ve traveled to tons of of Christmas markets to convey you one of the best 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 a slight chill regardless of your heat winter coat. You see a fort within the mist on the hill forward of you. Might as we speak get any higher? Sure, sure it may.

As you flip the nook you’re first hit with the odor. 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 other people 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 contemporary reduce pine timber. Hand carved picket stalls promoting meals, drinks, and handmade trinkets line the road, every another embellished than the subsequent.

It’s Christmas Markets in Europe and it’s probably 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 time and again 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 in the course of the vacation season, however I discover it actually sensational. It’s such a way of neighborhood 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 one of the best 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 the most effective Christmas markets in all Europe and it is an extremely festive place to go to in the course of the vacation season. With superbly embellished stalls and open day by 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 inns, 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 items. 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 massive 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 may 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 one of the best Christmas markets in France. Or, my full information to Strasbourg, France at Christmas.

Cologne, Germany

Cologne, Germany is among the hottest Christmas markets in Europe and for good cause! 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 embellished Christmas markets sparkle all through the town.

A few of my favorites are the Cologne Cathedral Market, that is the most important 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 among the authentic markets that options girls wearing angel costumes handing out sweets to youngsters. There’s additionally a gorgeous carousel and lovely mugs which might be good to take house as souvenirs. I am keen on the one within the Previous City as a result of it is crammed with what appears like gnomes, however it’s a lot extra! The Alter Markt calls itself the Dwelling of the Heinzelmännchen (who have been little creatures from a Cologne legend who used to do all of the housekeeping till they have been aggravated by an inquisitive housewife).

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

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

See one of the best Christmas markets in Germany right here.

Vienna, Austria

Since 1296 Vienna has hosted an incredible Christmas market- one of many first ever! You may 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 among the finest.

There are a number of giant markets positioned across the metropolis, every with their very own distinctive really feel. The preferred might be at Rathausplatz in entrance of the gorgeous City Corridor. With over 150 chalets, this is among the largest in Europe. It is good for choosing up items and grabbing a chew to eat. The Glühwein right here is among the finest I’ve ever had!

If you would like a extra conventional really feel, then head to the Spittelberg Weihnachtsmarkt market (Weihnachtsmarkt means Christmas in German). That is positioned 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 eventually, my favourite market in Vienna is the Altwiener Christkindlmarkt at Freyung. This market is positioned in a stunning park and has a extremely relaxed and charming environment. It is the proper place to seize a cup of scorching chocolate and a slice of Sachertorte (a chocolate cake that may be a Vienna specialty!)

Vienna Christmas Market Dates for 2024: November eleventh by means of December twenty sixth, 2024.

Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn appears 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 principle market is positioned in City Corridor Sq., in entrance of the beautiful medieval City Corridor. This is among the largest markets in Tallinn and is ideal for choosing up items and souvenirs. You may discover handmade Estonian crafts, decorations, and loads of locations to seize a chew to eat. The gluwein right here can be glorious! It is a excellent spot to choose up a home made wool sweater and stick round for reside music and leisure at night time.

In the event you’re searching for one thing a bit completely different, try the Rotermann Quarter. This market is positioned in an outdated 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 items 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 positioned on the river Rhine and is understood for its lovely Previous City, medieval structure, museums, and naturally Christmas markets! This metropolis has one of many longest working Christmas markets in Europe because it dates again to 1521.

The principle market is positioned in Munsterplatz and is crammed with lovely handcrafted items, a big collection of foods and drinks, and twinkling lights. Be sure you 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 among the finest I’ve ever had!

There are additionally a number of different markets positioned all through the town together with one within the sq. in entrance of Basel’s lovely purple sandstone cathedral. It is a excellent spot to do some Christmas procuring as you may discover every little thing from jewellery to picket toys.

PRO TIP: In the event you’re searching for one thing a bit completely different, remember to try the Creation Calendar Home. It is a home with 25 home windows, every with a unique shock behind it!

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

Prague, Czech Republic

In the event 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 environment. The markets listed below are among the most original in Europe with lovely handmade items on provide.

The principle market is positioned in Previous City Sq. the place you may discover a beautiful Christmas tree and the spectacular Tyn Church within the background. It is 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 lots to see the gorgeous decorations and seize some conventional Czech meals.

For one thing a bit extra low-key, try the markets at Wenceslas Sq. and Havel’s Market. These are each positioned in additional trendy 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 singular Christmas market expertise as a result of it isn’t solely concerning 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 you will discover on the Previous Market Corridor. This is among the few markets the place you will discover meals indoors, so it is good if you happen to’re visiting in colder climate or if you happen to simply want a break from the chilly. You may additionally discover handcrafted Christmas decorations, glassware, and textiles.

I liked the saunas positioned proper by the Christmas market glog stalls (glog is their model of mulled wine.) So that you would possibly 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 one of the uncommon markets I’ve ever been to in probably the most charming means. The complete city clothes up and participates. There are folks dressed up, on stilts, clever 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 totally completely different, medieval world.

You may discover all the standard Christmas market fare right here like mulled wine, gingerbread, and roasted chestnuts. However Ribeauvillé can be recognized for its glorious native wines, so remember to choose up a bottle or two to take house with you. You may 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 barely open for 2 weekends however is HIGHLY price it.

Heidelberg, Germany

The Heidelberg Christmas market is among the oldest markets in Germany, courting again to 1398! The principle market is positioned in Heidelberg’s outdated city, all through the Hauptstrasse. It is a bit completely different than among the different markets, and I discover it a pleasure! You may stroll almost a mile and luxuriate in completely different Christmas festivities alongside the best way. I am biased since I lived in Heidelberg, however with a gorgeous sixteenth century buildings, the fort towering over the skating rink, it is simply magical.

It is a actually charming place with round 100 superbly embellished stalls. You may discover loads of mulled wine and conventional German meals like bratwurst and pretzels. The views of the fort lit up at night time are merely beautiful.

There’s additionally a market in close by Mannheim which I additionally suggest testing in case you have time. It is a brief drive or prepare experience 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 actually a fairytale city and its Christmas market doesn’t disappoint. With over 300 stalls, this is among the largest markets in France. The setting could not be extra good both, because the market is positioned within the lovely outdated 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 may discover all the standard 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 items 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 presents a 35 euro plat du jour that makes my mouth water simply fascinated by it!

Take a look at my Christmas market street 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 among the most lovely in Europe and takes place in Vörösmarty Sq. in entrance of the magnificent Nineteenth-century Gerbeaud Home. With over 100 superbly embellished stalls, a large ferris wheel, an ice rink, and a nativity scene, it is easy to spend a couple of hours right here.

There’s additionally a gorgeous 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 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 superb Oktoberfest celebration, however do you know that it additionally has among the finest Christmas markets in Europe? The markets listed below are giant and vigorous with an ideal environment.

The principle market is positioned at Marienplatz within the coronary heart of the town. It is a actually standard spot, so be ready for crowds. But it surely’s positively price braving the lots to see the gorgeous Glockenspiel present that takes place day by day at 11 am and midday. There are additionally quite a lot of different markets positioned all through the town, so that you’re certain to search out one which fits your fancy.

There are various markets in Munich, however remember to begin on the iconic Christkindlmarkt positioned in Marienplatz. From there, you possibly can select from the traditional Neuhausen Christmas market or go for one thing completely different just like the Wintertollwood Pageant held on Oktoberfest grounds.

And if you happen to’re searching for an genuine Bavarian eating expertise, remember to try Hofbräuhaus, one in every of Munich’s most well-known beer halls. It is an ideal 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 positioned 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 record, however it greater than makes up for it with its beautiful setting. The market takes place within the outdated city sq. towards the backdrop of the snow-capped peaks of the Alps.

What I like most about this market is that it has an actual conventional really feel to it. You may discover all the standard Austrian Christmas Market staples like Glühwein (mulled wine), Lebkuchen (gingerbread), and Maroni (roasted chestnuts). However you may additionally discover some extra uncommon gadgets like Krapfen (fried dough balls crammed with jam) and Kernöl (pumpkin seed oil).

Innsbruck Christmas Market Dates for 2024: November fifteenth by means of January 1, 2025.

London, England

I 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. Situated in Hyde Park, Winter Wonderland is among the largest markets in Europe and it is fully free to enter!

When you’re inside, you may discover an array of points of interest 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 loads of time to take pleasure in all of the enjoyable. And once 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 Bathtub,a quintessential city in the UK that is additionally received an exquisite Christmas market!

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

Nuremberg, Germany

Nuremberg is a gorgeous medieval metropolis positioned within the German state of Bavaria – since 1313. It is best recognized for its conventional Christkindlesmarkt, which is among the oldest and largest markets in Germany.

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

In the event you go to Nuremberg Christmas Market on the primary Friday earlier than Creation 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 gorgeous metropolis positioned within the northeast of France, near the border with Germany. It is best recognized for its giant Christmas market, which is among the largest in Europe.

The market is unfold out throughout the town middle with over 200 stalls, so there’s a lot to see and do. You may discover all the standard 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 lovely 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 effectively – Notre Dame d’Auschwitz, the trendy artwork middle Centre Pompidou-Metz, and Le Temple Neuf is a gorgeous church that appears extra like a fort.

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

Trier, Germany

Trier is a gorgeous metropolis positioned 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 modifications 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 take pleasure in. With scrumptious foods 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 one of the best Christmas markets in Germany right here.

Bruges, Belgium

Bruges is a gorgeous metropolis positioned within the northwest of Belgium. It is best recognized for its canals, cobbled streets, and medieval structure. The Christmas market is positioned within the historic metropolis middle and is among the most atmospheric markets in Europe.

You may discover all the standard Belgian Christmas Market staples like Belgian chocolate, waffles, and beer. However you may additionally discover gadgets like gingerbread homes, candles, and handmade picket toys. Yearly Grote Sq. is remodeled to Bruges’ largest Christmas market and within the middle you may discover a skating rink. You may as well 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 stuffed with necessary historical past, it is received an unbelievable Christmas market that is been named one of many prime Christmas Markets in Europe through the years.

Aachen Christmas Market is positioned within the historic metropolis middle and is among the oldest markets in Germany. It dates again to 1434 making it even older than Nuremberg! You may discover all the standard German Christmas Market staples like Glühwein, Lebkuchen (gingerbread), and Bratwurst.

However what I liked most concerning the market have been the entire Aachener Printen on provide. Printen are a sort of gingerbread that originates from Aachen. They arrive in all kinds of styles and sizes 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 positioned on the jap coast of the nation. Town is stuffed with attraction with its canals, cobbled streets, and historic buildings. The Christmas market is positioned within the coronary heart of the town at Metropolis Corridor Sq..

You may discover all the standard 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 items.

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 experience the Polar Specific! Additionally, Kongens Nytorv is among the most lovely squares in Copenhagen and it actually comes alive throughout Christmas time. And remember to go 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 positioned within the northwest of the nation. Town is stuffed with tradition and historical past with a gorgeous outdated city that is good for exploring. The Christmas market is positioned in Tomislav Sq. within the middle of the town.

On the Zagreb Christmas Market, you may discover all the standard Croatian Christmas Market staples like mulled wine, sausages, and pancakes. You may as well discover handicrafts, jewellery, and pottery. Be sure you 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, be certain to go to the Zagreb Eye which is a big Ferris wheel positioned 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

Here 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 benefiting from your Christmas market journey!

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

Which nation has one of the best decorations for Christmas? France! France goes all out for decorations. It would not harm that the Alsace area already appears like an ideal gingerbread village!

What’s one of the best time to go for Christmas markets in Europe? I feel December is your finest guess to make sure you see the Christmas markets however many begin in late November. Some markets do go till January as effectively.

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 it, my record of one of the best Christmas markets in Europe for 2024! Which one are you most excited about- in case you have any questions, be happy to achieve out to me on Instagram @heleneinbetween – I reply all my DMs!