27 Best Christmas Markets in Europe To Feel the Magic in 2024
When Christmas is around the corner there’s a certain magic in the air that’s a little extra palpable at some of the best Christmas markets in Europe. If you live in the United States, many small towns try to emulate these markets, offering reindeer petting zoos alongside handmade goods and vendors selling mulled wine and hot chocolate. But visiting the best Christmas markets in Europe is something of a bucket-list item. No photos will ever do it justice, though a few words about them might get you feeling inspired to book a ticket for next year.
Most people plan a European vacation for their summer holiday, and while there’s no denying the Greek Islands or South of France are a sun-kissed delight, there are benefits to planning a winter getaway. The crowds are significantly smaller, for one, but the airfare, along with accommodations, are typically cheaper too, according to Escape. Plus, there’s something magical about snowflakes falling as you pop into a café or duck into an ancient cathedral to warm up.
Each city and country abroad celebrates the holidays and winter season a bit differently, and there’s something to enjoy and appreciate with each one. On a winter trip to Scandinavia, for example, you’ll find plenty of fika spots to savor, hockey and even dog-sledding where you can camp in a glass igloo under the northern lights. London on the other hand is lit from top to bottom, with bows, wreaths and other decor adorning the main part of the city. Stopping in to see Harrod’s Christmas decorations will also leave you feeling festive. So read on to discover the best Christmas markets in Europe to get you in the holiday spirit ASAP.
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- Best Christmas Markets in Europe for Families
- Best Christmas Markets in Europe With Snow
- Most Magical Christmas Markets in Europe
- Best Christmas Markets in Europe With Toddlers
Best Christmas Markets in Europe for Families
1. Poznan, Poland
Not only is Poznan one of the oldest cities in Poland, it’s home to one of the best Christmas markets in Europe for families. The Old Market Square transforms into a winter wonderland, bedazzled with twinkling lights and brimming with activity as people move from one vendor to the next. They have all the classic handmade goods and gifts, but what really sets the market apart is the homemade pierogies, smoked cheeses and warm goulash available at every turn. You can also oversee the International Ice Sculpture Festival that happens here each year.
2. Vilnius, Lithuania
While Lithuania might not be the first place that comes to mind when you’re planning a European vacation, it should be. Clean, safe and remarkably beautiful, it also hosts one of the best Christmas markets in Europe. You’ll find one of the most beautiful Christmas trees year after year here, along with a truly dazzling light display. As you wander and shop, take frequent breaks in the chalets and igloos for honey cakes, gingerbread and warm tea.
3. Malaga, Spain
If you’re hoping to enjoy some milder temps along with one of the best Christmas markets in Europe for families, head south to Malaga along the Mediterranean. Beautiful light displays adorn the market where you can buy the usual handmade trinkets. Savor homemade nougat, shortbread and borrachuelos (wine-flavored fried pastries) as you shop. This market runs until early January so you can hold onto the holiday cheer a bit longer. Then, head north for some cooking classes in Barcelona for the perfect winter getaway.
4. Copenhagen, Denmark
Charming and walkable all year round, Copenhagen has one of the best Christmas markets in Europe for families that happens to be hosted at their world-famous amusement park, Tivoli Gardens. It’s the real-life inspiration for Disney and the third-oldest amusement park in the world. When the winter months approach, it transforms with twinkling lights (500,000+ to be exact) and holiday decor. Listen to festive tunes from the Tivoli Youth Guard as you warm up by the fire and enjoy rollercoasters or stage shows for entertainment. Then, fuel up with aebleskiver (puffed pancakes topped with sugar) or honninghjerter, a dense gingerbread-honey cake hybrid that’s filled with jam and buttercream and finished with a chocolate glaze.
5. Budapest, Hungary
You can get into the Christmas spirit as early as mid-November here at one of the best Christmas markets in Europe. There are actually two distinct markets right in Budapest, one in Vorosmarty Square and the other at the Basilica. Both have plenty of spirit, great food, free concerts and, of course, fun homemade gifts. However, the Basilica gets a slight edge because it also features laser projections onto the Basilica itself, along with an ice rink that encircles the massive Christmas tree.
6. Basel, Switzerland
While there’s no shortage of beautiful and luxurious handmade gifts and goodies here, the food really steals the show and makes this one of the best Christmas markets in Europe for families. Arrive hungry and try everything from gourmet sausages to Basel Lakeri (like gingerbread) along with fondue, melty raclette and some hot punch, of course. The market has two parts, one mainly offering jewelry, gifts and nativity scenes and the other, a fairytale forest loaded with kids' activities like bauble-making and gingerbread decorating.
Best Christmas Markets in Europe With Snow
7. Helsinki, Finland
It’s fairly safe to expect cold temps and a few flurries in Finland this time of year, and this capital city has one of the best Christmas markets in Europe with snow for an extra-festive feel. It’s the ideal combination of quirky and traditional here. Visitors can play bingo for a chance to win prizes from vendors, though you’ll hear live Christmas carols echoing through the square as you shop too. Enjoy some hot mulled wine or step into the wood-fired sauna to warm up as you finish your shopping.
8. Gothenburg, Sweden
Another Scandinavian city has claimed a spot as one of the best Christmas markets in Europe with snow. Take a stroll around the Liseberg Amusement Park as it glows with over a million lights adorning stalls and trees across the grounds. Sip on mulled wine or hot chocolate as your kiddo waits to visit Santa’s workshop or take a twirl on the ice rink. The neighboring harbor joins in the festivities with a decorative, light-up boat show featuring decked-out trees on boats.
9. Montreux, Switzerland
The Swiss Alps are famous for luxury and indulgence, and their Christmas market brings snow and cheer. Overlooking a beautiful Swiss lake, Montreux hosts more than 170 merchants, craftsmen and restaurateurs for their holiday market. Definitely one of the best Christmas markets in Europe for foodies. The food alone is worth a trip, with offerings like the fondue-dog, a hollowed-out crispy baguette that’s filled with melty cheese, or a chic Christmas cocktail in the Star Bar. Kids can catch Santa Claus flying through the sky via an amazing projection on the mountainside.
10. Bratislava, Slovakia
Even adults will feel a child-like sense of wonder with one of the best Christmas markets in Europe that’s dusted in snow. Located in the capital of Slovakia, trees are adorned with twinkling lights and the stalls billow out tempting aromas of handmade cakes, sausages or pancakes. They are famous for hand-crafted wooden goods that make great gifts or stocking stuffers.
11. Tallinn, Estonia
All the way up in Tallinn you’ll find one of the best Christmas markets in Europe, and chances are good there will be plenty of fluffy white snow, too. Right in the heart of their gorgeous Estonian medieval town, you’ll enjoy an impressive selection of crafts, foods and other festive goodies. Local art, handmade wreaths and sheepskin rug outfitters are everywhere, dotted with homemade sweets and honey. You can also enjoy dance troupes, bell ringers and brass bands before arriving at the winter grotto where Santa is waiting with his sleigh.
12. Sibiu, Romania
This Transylvanian city packs a big Christmas spirit into Piata Mare, the city center. Here, you’ll find one of the best Christmas markets in Europe with snow, surrounded by stunning Baroque buildings. Purchase goodies like handmade jewelry, ornaments and one-of-a-kind leather goods along with some tasty treats. There’s also a massive ice rink to get you even more in the spirit of Winter.
13. Dresden, Germany
This fairytale town in Germany has been hosting one of the best Christmas markets in Europe with snow since 1434, making it Germany’s oldest holiday market. It’s ultra-traditional from handmade wooden toys to a wintery train ride for kids and tons of fragrant pines that fill the square with the smell of Christmas. Check out the 45’ tall Christmas pyramid while you enjoy a stollen, a fruity, spiced bread made from a buttery dough. For extra fun, check out their gingerbread fest on December 10th.
Most Magical Christmas Markets in Europe
14. Colmar, France
After flying into Paris and enjoying some shopping and dining (and maybe a specialty cooking class in Paris), catch a train or drive yourself out to Colmar for one of the most magical Christmas markets in Europe; in fact, it's an entire Christmas city. In the town center alone, you can find six unique markets, each lined with charming chalets selling artisan crafts. You simply have to try Alsatian wine; a local delicacy and a great souvenir to bring home. The sound of children’s choirs singing carols rings out on Wednesdays and Saturdays, as they ride down the river on illuminated boats in the “petite Venise” district.
15. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague is charming year-round, but the city is also known for having one of the most magical Christmas markets in Europe. Cobblestone streets and classic architecture are the perfect backdrop for a massive decorated tree in the center of tons of tiny decorative stalls. You can buy everything from traditional food to homemade arts and crafts or handmade wooden goods that make great Christmas gifts for dad.
16. Bath, United Kingdom
While the hustle and bustle of London around Christmas time is something special, the charming market in Bath is one of the best Christmas markets in Europe, specifically in the U.K. Wooden chalets line cobblestone streets, selling an impressive selection of housewares, which the market is known for.
17. Brussels, Belgium
Brussels is already a fairytale town, but it somehow gets even better when it hosts one of the best Christmas markets in Europe. More than 200 wooden chalets pop up in the city center, each decorated like a scene from a snow globe. Plus, an ice rink, ferris wheel and light and sound show provide plenty of entertainment for young kids. Enjoy some hot and crispy fries, dipped in mayonnaise of course, along with waffles topped with pearl sugar or some Belgian chocolate that doubles as a great gift. In a pinch, it makes a nice Christmas gift for mom from your travels.
18. Frankfurt, Germany
The roots of one of the most magical Christmas markets in Europe date back to the 14th century, and that charm still lives on today in Frankfurt. The snacks are legendary with offerings like lebkuchen (German gingerbread), roasted chestnuts and smoked salmon. Nearby, there’s also a Pink Christmas in honor of the LGBT community where everything is pink from top to bottom.
19. Strasbourg, France
Known as France’s “capital of Christmas,” it should come as no surprise that Strasbourg hosts one of the most magical Christmas markets in all of Europe. It looks like a real-life Nativity scene, with over 300 traditional stalls, loaded with hand-painted Christmas decor. Look for the Market of the Irreducible Small Producers of Alsace for incredible gourmet sausages and kugelhopf that bring the best of fruity, almondy and brioche to every bite. It’s the ultimate location for a dreamy Christmas date idea.
20. Trento, Italy
This mountainous area of Northern Italy brings plenty of charm to one of the most magical Christmas markets in Europe each year. The cobblestone streets are filled with trees, tediously adorned with twinkling lights along with 90 wooden huts that overflow with goodies. Simple delights like local sheep cheese or dried orange slices are beautiful and tempting, but they pale in comparison to a warm jam-filled treccia mochèna or savory potato cake. The views of Buonconsiglio Castle and the Alps in the background really set the scene. After, check out cooking classes in Milan to re-create your favorite dishes.
21. Florence, Italy
As charming and romantic as Florence is any time of the year, it should come as no surprise that it hosts one of the most magical Christmas markets in Europe. Just outside the Basilica di Santa Croce, where the famous artist Michelangelo is lays to rest, the streets transform into a German-style market with gourmet goodies from around the world. The chimney cake with cinnamon and chocolate is a must-try! Once you’ve decided on your favorite treat, book cooking classes in Florence to learn how to make it at home.
Best Christmas Markets in Europe With Toddlers
22. Cologne, Germany
Many of the best Christmas markets in Europe have similar things from hand-crafted gifts to seasonal drinks and local food. This one in Cologne, Germany is great for toddlers because it has more than 100 live performances staggered across the grounds. From puppet shows to gospel songs or Christmas swing music, you’ll be entertained the whole time. Other attractions like ice skating are perfect for kids and adults, while St. Nicholas Village tells the story of Santa to your young ones.
23. Salzburg, Austria
This beautiful setup is one of the best Christmas markets in Europe for toddlers because it’s fairly small while still having plenty of options and entertainment choices. The old-fashioned stalls are charming and look just like when they were first built in the 15th century. This market focuses on quality over quantity, making it much more manageable for wandering with young kids. Enjoy the free daily concerts in front of the cathedral, or join in for a singalong on Tuesdays.
24. Berlin, Germany
This quirky and artsy city hosts one of the best Christmas markets in Europe for toddlers, believe it or not. The city center has more than 80 little markets, including one specifically for dogs. You don’t need to visit them all, and it’s best to do your homework ahead of time so you know where to head to first. Weihnachtszauber is stunning and filled with arts and crafts, but Potsdamer Platz is brimming with activities like tobogganing, curling and ice skating (plus free lessons for kids).
25. Gdańsk, Poland
While not as big as Warsaw or Wroclaw, the city of Gdańsk puts on a remarkable Christmas market in Europe for families. The city’s main square transforms into a winter wonderland, featuring more than 120 vendors selling warm pierogies alongside handmade goods. Kids can enjoy some rides like the Merry-Go-Round or take pictures in a giant snow globe.
26. Funchal, Madeira (Portugal)
Skip the frosty temps and head to Madeira for one of the best Christmas markets in Europe for toddlers. This subtropical island gets totally decked out in the Christmas spirit with rare flower displays, plenty of delicious homemade food and ample amounts of Madeira punch to ensure the parents have a good time too. You’re sure to find some unique Christmas gift ideas at the market. Enjoy live performances from folklore groups to carolers as you savor wine-marinated meats and mild temps for your holiday shopping.
27. Oslo, Norway
If you’re willing to brave the chilly temps like the Scandinavians do, Oslo has one of the best Christmas markets in Europe for toddlers. Bundle up and head to the city center for tree-lined streets overflowing with handmade goods and plenty of delicious homemade food that really set this festival apart. Expect delights like coconut cupcakes and caramel apples, warm porridge with a glass or two of gløgg and savory items like smoked salmon or currywurst. Test your luck by spinning the chocolate wheel, then take a spin on the ferris wheel or enjoy the various carnival rides.
Even many miles from home, the joy and spirit of Christmas is fairly universal. While many families enjoy a good summer vacation, you’re missing out on a certain magic if you don’t visit some of the best Christmas markets in Europe. After soaking up holiday cheer and experiencing the culture in a new way, check out cooking classes in Rome, cooking classes in Bologna or cooking classes in Sicily (for example) to learn how to make traditional holiday dishes from around the world.
The options are endless from fairytale villages to snow-capped mountains, you don’t have to brave the cold if you don’t want to. Either way, the vendors are loaded with gourmet bites and intricately crafted goods to make your holiday merry. These unique items are ideal for Christmas gifts for teens or young kids just as much as they are for adults.
For even more fun Christmas gift ideas, check out other experiences on Classpop!
