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15 minutes readContents
- Strasbourg, France
- Vienna, Austria
- Cologne, Germany
- Budapest, Hungary
- Dresden, Germany
- Zurich, Switzerland
- Prague, Czech Republic
- Seville, Spain
- Brussels, Belgium
- Govone & Asti, Italy
- Birmingham, UK
- Madeira, Portugal
Which are the top 12 Christmas markets in Europe?
This top 12 list covers the best Christmas markets in Europe in 2024. It includes fairytale-like villages, snowy wonderlands, and magical parks across top-rated tourist destinations. Each provides Nativity scenes and decorated trees with nostalgic ornaments, wreaths, garlands, and twinkle lights.
Photo: Alina Razvorskaya/ Shutterstock.com
Here are the 15 best Christmas markets in Europe:
1. Strasbourg, France
Christmas markets:
- Marché de Noël à Strasbourg (November 27, 2024 – December 27, 2024)
- Chrìstkìndelsmärik (November 27, 2024 – December 27, 2024)
Where to stay: voco Strasbourg Centre The Garden, an IHG Hotel
Strasbourg is a charming French city nestled in the picturesque Alsace region. It is home to one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe. This Capitale de Noel (Capital of Christmas) traces the origins of its Christmas-themed festivities to 1570. Millions of tourists flock to its Christmas markets yearly.
Why?
Photo: Boris Stroujko / Shutterstock.com
Top attractions
Strasbourg has some of the best Christmas markets in the world. Christkindelsmärik attracts around 2 million tourists annually and operates from November 27, 2024 to December 27, 2024 in 2024. You can tour Place Kléber, Strasbourg’s largest square, for an immersive Xmas experience with lights and charming wooden stalls. Other must-visit Christmas-themed venues include Cathedral Notre-Dame, Restaurant le Tire-Bouchon, Place Gutenberg, Rue de Orfèvres, and Petit France. Each location has a unique offering.
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Things to do
Strasbourg offers many indoor and outdoor activities. You can explore markets, cathedrals, and beautifully decorated streets like Rue des Orfèvres. This city’s stores, alleys, and houses are bedecked with tinsel, wreaths, and gingerbread. Le Tire Bouchon is known for its stunning exterior decoration, including gigantic teddy bears, ornaments, angels, and pine garlands. Don’t forget to sample delicious Alsatian cuisine and Strasbourg’s traditional foods and drinks.
2. Vienna, Austria
Christmas markets:
- Magic of Advent at Rathausplatz (November 15, 2024 – December 26, 2024)
- Upper Belvedere Palace Christmas market (November 15, 2024 – December 31, 2024)
- Am Hof Christmas market (November 15, 2024 – December 23, 2024)
Where to stay: Leonardo Hotel Vienna Hauptbahnhof
Vienna is a historical Austrian city with world-class museums and palaces. Its Christmas markets start from November 8, 2024 to January 6, 2024 and attract millions of tourists.
Why is Vienna worth exploring during the holidays?
Photo: Diyana Dimitrova / Shutterstock.com
Top attractions
Vienna is perfect for history lovers seeking iconic Christmas markets, museums, and palaces in a single trip. Its Magic of Advent at Rathausplatz offers beautiful light displays, live performances, and over 150 stalls. You can stay at Fleming‘s Selection Hotel, only 162 meters from Rathausplatz. The historic City Hall sets the perfect backdrop for the market, enhancing guests’ experience. You can also find Christmas markets in the 18th-century Upper Belvedere Palace, Am Hof, and the Schönbrunn Palace. Am Hof is near a 600-year-old church. Other venues include Stephansplatz, Spittelberg, Freyung, and the Empress Maria Theresa monument towering over the Naturhistorisches and Kunsthistorisches museums. Each market blends holiday cheer with historical exploration.
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Things to do
Vienna offers more than Christmas-themed events and stunning architecture. Families with kids can engage in family-friendly activities. For example, the Magic Village has a park with lighted open-air skating routes. In 2024, the market in the forecourt of Schönbrunn Palace added skating, curling, and other family-friendly offerings. You can shop and sample scrumptious culinary delights like traditional punch, baked potatoes with cheese, and fluffy Germknödel dumplings with spiced jam in all Christmas markets. Then, attend light classical or church concerts in Karlsplatz or Stephansplatz.
3. Cologne, Germany
Christmas markets:
- Weihnachtsmarkt am Dom market (November 28, 2024 – December 23, 2024)
- The Angels’ Market in the Neumarkt Square (November 28, 2024 – December 23, 2024)
- Nicholas Village at Rudolfplatz (November 28, 2024 – December 23, 2024)
Where to stay: Steigenberger Hotel Koln
Cologne is a 2,000-year-old German city and a cultural hub spanning the Rhine River. The twin-spired Cologne Cathedral, the city’s landmark, is known for its Gothic architecture and reconstructed old town.
This city offers top-rated Christmas markets from Nov 18 to Dec 23. Why is Cologne, Germany, unique?
Photo: cologne-tourism.com
Top attractions
While Germany offers many Christmas markets, Cologne is the most dazzling German event. It is perfect for first-timers seeking a classic German Christmas market experience. First, check the Weihnachtsmarkt am Dom market next to the Cologne Cathedral for live Christmas-themed entertainment.
It is also near the Market of Hearts with Cologne’s famed red-roofed stalls. Second, explore Heinzel’s venue on Heumarkt and its elongated rink and wooden bridge. Other themed venues in Cologne include The Angels’ Market in the Neumarkt Square, the Nicholas Village at Rudolfplatz, and Stadtgarten.
Extend your Europe Christmas market tour to Frankfurt if you have extra hours. Frankfurt is only an hour’s train ride away from Cologne.
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Things to do
The Weihnachtsmarkt am Dom has something for all merrymakers, including the classics like Glühwein mulled wine, crafts, and twinkling lights. It offers over 100 stage performances across disciplines, from swing and gospel music concerts to puppet shows.
Photo: fokke baarssen / shutterstock.com
You can skate near Heumarkt and explore shopping areas around Hohe Strasse and Schildergasse.
Then, sample German delights like waffles, grilled sausages, potato pancakes, and Glühwein. Don’t forget to keep your festive mug as a memento.
4. Budapest, Hungary
Christmas markets:
- Vörösmarty Square Christmas market (November 15, 2024 – January 1, 2025)
- St. Stephen’s Basilica Christmas market (November 15, 2024 – January 1, 2025)
Where to stay: Aurea Ana Palace by Eurostars Hotel Company
Budapest is Hungary’s capital and cultural hub along the River Danube. The Chain Bridge connects Buda and Pest districts on opposite sides of the river. What makes Budapest unique?
Photo: adventbazilika. com
Attractions
Budapest has several Christmas markets, including the Vörösmarty Square and St. Stephen’s Basilica. Both offer food and goodies. However, Vörösmarty is less crowded and provides more culinary experiences than St. Stephen’s Basilica. Watch out for the light show at the Basilica. The Vörösmarty market runs from Nov 17 to Dec 31. You can also tour the Fisherman’s Bastion, Gozsdu Court, and Opera House markets.
Things to do
Vörösmarty Square offers unique culinary experiences. Sample Hungarian foods, including beef goulash, sausages, langos with sour cream or cheese toppings, potato pancakes, paprika chicken, lamb shanks, and Kürtőskalács chimney cakes. You can find an ice rink in Városháza Téli Park. Then, explore the Budapest History Museum, 13th-century Matthias Church, and Fishermen’s Bastion.
5. Dresden, Germany
Сhristmas markets:
- The Striezelmarkt (November 27, 2024 – December 24, 2024)
- Winterlichter (November 28, 2024 – December 23, 2024)
- Weihnachtsmarkt (November 27, 2024 – January 5, 2025)
Where to stay: Dorint Hotel Dresden
Dresden, the capital of Saxony, is home to the Baroque Zwinger Palace, Semperoper, and Church of Our Lady. Dresden’s landmarks, streets, and buildings transform into magical Christmas villages.
But does Dresden offer beautiful Christmas markets?
Photo: Feel good studio/ Shutterstock.com
Attractions
Dresden festivities celebrate traditional customs and local industries like mining, woodworking, and pottery. The Striezelmarkt is one of Germany’s oldest Christmas markets, founded in 1434. It opens from November 27, 2024 to December 24, 2024 and dedicates each Advent weekend to one of the region’s traditions. You can access Augustusmarkt from Nov 27 to Jan 5 to explore its white pagodas and decorated boulevards. Other must-visit venues include the Winterlichter (November 28, 2024 – December 23, 2024) and Weihnachtsmarkt (November 27, 2024 – January 5, 2025).
Things to do
Visitors can tour galleries and museums in ancient royal residences to explore the history of the Electors of Saxony and their treasures and art collections. Then, stroll along the River Elbe Dresden and experience the vibrant nightlife in Neustadt. Winterlichter is near Dresden’s shopping streets.
Photo: Georgios Tsichlis / Shutterstock.com
Families can ride a mini train, buy handmade toys, and feast at the annual gingerbread fest in the Striezelmarkt. Don’t forget to sample traditional buttery fruitcake and other culinary delights as you explore Dresden’s 45-foot-tall Christmas pyramid and stollen.
6. Zurich, Switzerland
Christmas markets:
- Christkindlimarkt (November 21, 2024 – December 24, 2024)
- Münsterhof (November 21, 2-24 – December 24, 2024)
- Wienachtsdorf (November 21, 2024 – December 23, 2024).
Where to stay: Central Plaza Hotel
Zurich is a magical wonderland and Swiss financial capital. Its snow-capped mountains and resorts offer on-slope activities such as skating, snowboarding, and skiing. Over 10 million tourists travel to Zurich yearly.
Can you find memorable Christmas markets in Zurich?
Photo: Melinda Nagy / Shutterstock.com
Attractions
Zurich has several Christmas markets. First, the Christkindlimarkt at the Zurich train station welcomes travelers to the Swiss festive season from November 21, 2024 to December 24, 2024. The venue has a 50-ft decorated tree and about 150 stalls. You can also attend Christmas-themed events at Dörfli Weinachtsmarkt from November 21, 2024 to December 23, 2024. Other Zurich markets include Münsterhof (November 21, 2-24 – December 24, 2024), Wienachtsdorf, and Werdmühleplatz (November 21, 2024 – December 23, 2024).
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Switzerland also offers Europe’s best tourist trains, including the Bernina Express and Glacier Express.
These trains are perfect for exploring scenic landscapes and UNESCO sites around the Swiss Alps.
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Things to do
Zurich offers many outdoor and indoor activities all year round. Explore the Swiss National Museum near Christkindlimarkt and landmarks near Dörfli Weinachtsmarkt in the Old Town, Bahnhofstrasse, Lake Zurich, and the Lindt Home of Chocolate Museum. Families with kids can attend traditional events such as candle dipping, the Märlitram fairy tale tram, and the Conelli Christmas-themed Circus. Then, find kids’ areas with a cinema chalet, games, and Santa Claus at the Wienachtsdorf market. Don’t forget to explore snowboarding and ski trails, shopping experiences, and culinary delights.
7. Prague, Czech Republic
Christmas markets:
- Old Town Square Christmas market (November 30, 2024 – January 6, 2025)
- Peace Square Christmas market (November 20, 2024 – December 24, 2024)
- Havel’s Christmas market (November 30, 2024 – January 6, 2025)
Where to stay: Grandior Hotel Prague
Nicknamed “the City of a Hundred Spires,” Prague is home to colorful baroque buildings and Gothic churches. This Czechia capital attracted around 7.44 million overnight tourists in 2023.
Why choose Prague as your holiday getaway?
Photo: ecstk22/ Shutterstock.com
Attractions
Prague offers several Christmas markets from November 30, 2024 to January 6, 2025. These events are hosted in picturesque locations like the Old Town, Wenceslas, Republic and Peace Squares, and Havel’s. Each venue has unique offerings. For example, the Old Town Square market is a whimsical wintry wonderland with a spire-studded skyline and tasty street foods. In the Peace and Republic Square, you’ll find edible treats, mistletoe, wreaths, and candles. Havel’s market is known for its arts and crafts, wooden toys, puppets, and ceramics. Its Christmassy atmosphere captures Prague’s festive spirit.
Things to do
Prague’s history, monuments, and culture attract millions of tourists yearly. You can explore the Old Town with Gothic churches, the medieval Astronomical Clock, and statues of Catholic saints on Charles Bridge. The Wenceslas Square offers a rink and small art shops. Each venue provides local delicacies, such as trdelníks (chimney cakes), fish soup, klobása sausages, smoked meat dumplings, langoš (flatbreads), and palačinky (crepes). You can also find mulled wine, hot chocolate, punch, and grog.
8. Seville, Spain
Christmas markets:
- Feria del Belén in Seville (November 9, 2024 – December 23, 2024)
- Feria de la Artesanía Creativa (December 5, 2024 – January 5, 2025)
- Mercado de Navidad Plaza de la Magdalena (December 1, 2024 – January 6, 2025)
Where to stay: Hotel Doña Maria
Seville was founded by the Romans and evolved into one of Spain’s top tourist destinations. It has three UNESCO World Heritage Sites and several historic landmarks.
Why should you add Seville to your Christmas list?
Photo: Marti Bug Catcher / Shutterstock.com
Attractions
Seville Christmas markets have different opening dates, from November 6, 2024 to January 7, 2025. Must-visit attractions include Feria del Belén, Plaza de la Magdalena, Nervión, and Seville on Ice. 2024 marks the 30th anniversary of the Feria del Belén in Seville. This market displays the Nativity scene and Spanish festive traditions. You can find unique gifts, jewelry, and food at the Plaza de la Magdalena.
Things to do
Seville blends historical journeys with festivities. You can attend Christmas-themed events. For example, Las Setas de Sevilla offers a Santa Claus House, face painting, a theater with storytellers, a merry-go-round, a mini Ferris wheel, and a train. Explore Seville’s historic sites, including the stunning Alcazar Palace and the Cathedral where Christopher Columbus was buried. Then, shop for unique handmade crafts and enjoy culinary delights at Feria del Belén, Plaza de la Magdalena, or Nervión. You can also tour Seville on Ice, a winter theme park at the Muelle de las Delicias.
9. Brussels, Belgium
- Christmas market: Wintry Wonders (November 29 2024 – January 5, 2025)
- Where to stay: Juliana Hotel Brussels
Brussels is the EU capital, offering unforgettable Christmas experiences. Its landmarks transform into magical wonderlands with beautiful decorations and chalets. In 2023, Brussels attracted over 3.5 million tourists.
Why?
Photo: MKavalenkau/ Shutterstock.com
Attractions
Brussels will open its Wintry Wonders from November 29 2024, to January 5, 2025. This event is one of Europe’s most beautiful Christmas markets. Twinkling lights and decorations create an immersive festive experience. You can explore Brussels’ breathtaking Grand-Place, a UNESCO Heritage Site.
Things to do
Brussels’ Winter-Wonders has something for all guests. Families can find fun activities, including an ice rink, a Big Wheel, merry-go-rounds, a giant 45m dinosaur, and Christmas-themed shows.
Photo: Parilov/ Shutterstock.com
The city-centre has around 250 wooden chalets and many shops and food courts. You can also tour Belgian Beer World to experience Belgian beer culture. Indulge in unique tastes while learning brewery secrets.
10. Govone & Asti, Italy
- Christmas market: Govone’s Magical Village (November 16, 2024 – December 22, 2024)
- Where to stay: Stella delle Langhe
Govone and Asti are beautiful Italian towns in neighboring provinces in the Piedmont wine region. Both offer iconic Christmas markets. Why should you add Govone and Asti to your holiday portfolio?
Why is Govone & Asti unique?
Most of Europe’s top Christmas markets are in bustling cities and capitals. Govone and Asti stand out because they are idyllic Italian towns. Over half a million Italians attended the 2022 Christmas-themed event at the Royal Castle of Govone. You can also explore the Asti market and the Langhe-Roero wine region, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Photo: Roman Samborskyi/ Shutterstock.com
Attractions
Govone’s Magical Village opens on weekends between November 16, 2024 and December 22, 2024. This event features decorations and light shows in an enchanted park, a fairy-tale atmosphere with elves, live musical performances, and the iconic Santa’s House. You can find toys, gifts, and Italian foods in over 100 stalls operated by reputable artisans.
11. Birmingham, UK
- Christmas market: Frankfurt Christmas Market (November 1, 2024 – December 24, 2024)
- Where to stay: Castle Bromwich Hall
Birmingham evolved from an 18th-century manufacturing powerhouse to a cultural hub in the 21st century. Its Industrial Revolution-era landmarks, museums, galleries, and trendy cafes and bars attract millions of tourists annually. Why visit Birmingham during the holidays?
Attractions
Birmingham hosts the Frankfurt Christmas Market from November 1, 2024 to December 24, 2024. It is an authentic German Christmas-themed event with over 100 stalls selling toys, ornaments, and culinary delights. Visitors can combine Christmas festivities with other adventures, such as museum tours and shopping.
Photo: Ground Picture/ Shutterstock.com
Things to do
Birmingham offers many Christmas-themed events and historic sites. First, attend enchanting Candlelight concerts at St Philips and St Paul’s Church. Then, go to Winter Funland to enjoy funfair rides, ice skating, and a circus with clowns and acrobatics. Another family-friendly spot is the Birmingham Hippodrome, offering musical performances for 3 to 7-year-olds. History geeks can explore the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery to learn about the city’s renowned scientists and inventors.
12. Madeira, Portugal
- Christmas market: Funchal Christmas market (December 1, 2024 – January 7, 2024,)
- Where to stay: Hotel Quinta da Penha de França
Madeira is a Portuguese archipelago with four islands. Its wine and warm, subtropical climate attracts millions of tourists yearly. What makes Madeira unique?
Festivities
Madeira is known for its sunny Christmas markets and top-rated New Year’s Eve celebrations. From December 1, 2024 to January 7, 2024, its capital, Funchal, hosts traditional Christmas-themed events in Avenida Arriaga. Funchal welcomes the New Year with a stunning fireworks show.
Photo: Alexandre Rotenberg/ Shutterstock.com
Attractions
Madeira is perfect for tourists seeking to combine Christmas-focused activities and outdoor adventures in a single trip. It has many things to do in December, including whale and dolphin watching, hiking, and jeep tours. You can also tour the Madeira Botanical Garden and Blandy’s Wine Lodge for an immersive wine-tasting experience. Then, explore Porto Moniz’s bathing pools and the Valley of the Nuns in the crater of an extinct volcano.
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