Christmas markets are the heart of the festive season in Europe - magical squares lit up with thousands of lights, where the smell of cinnamon, mulled wine and freshly baked goodies mingle with the melodies of Christmas carols. If you are looking for a real festive atmosphere, where you can simultaneously buy unique gifts, taste local specialties and simply indulge in the charms of Advent, visiting the European Christmas market is the perfect choice. It's hard to count all the wonderful markets Europe has to offer, but we've selected 20 of the most magical that you must visit in 2024.
From the classic elegance of Vienna's Christkindlmarkts to the mystical atmosphere in Strasbourg's alleyways or the lively bustle of Berlin's Gendarmenmarkt - every fair has its own story, its own character and special features. Some will impress you with their rich tradition and antique wooden stalls, others with modern touches, where you can treat yourself to luxury treats and exclusive products. Whether you're looking for a romantic Advent experience in the snow or a family adventure with Christmas lights, these fairs will transport you to a magical world where the holiday spirit truly awakens.
Top 20 destinations where you will experience the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe
1. Vienna, Austria
November 16 - December 24, 2024
Vienna with its countless lights and magnificent squares, it just begs to be visited. The most popular is the Christkindlmarkt in front of the town hall, where ice rinks, delicious cookies and handmade decorations await you.
2. Strasbourg, France
November 27 - December 30, 2024
Strasbourg, known as the "capital of Christmas", offers one of the oldest and most charming fairs in Europe. Stroll through the wooden houses and enjoy a French-German culinary experience.
3. Prague, Czech Republic
30 November 2024 - 6 January 2025
Prague turns into a magical fairy tale at Christmas time. The Old Town Square is transformed into a picturesque scene with Christmas music and traditional delicacies such as Prague ham and trdelnik.
4. Berlin (Gendarmenmarkt), Germany
25 November - 31 December 2024
Berlin has more than 60 Christmas markets, but the Gendarmenmarkt is definitely one of the most popular. The combination of top crafts and cuisine with spectacular architecture is a real treat.
5. Cologne, Germany
November 18 - December 23, 2024
Fair in front of the Gothic cathedral in Cologne is one of the most stunning in Germany. Fragrant stalls, Christmas decorations and cultural events will completely captivate you.
6. Copenhagen, Denmark (Tivoli Gardens)
November 17, 2024 - January 1, 2025
Tivoli Gardens v Copenhagen is fully lit and decorated during the holiday season. Romantic train rides, ballet and mulled wine are a real Scandinavian winter fairy tale.
7. Brussels, Belgium (Winter Wonders)
November 29, 2024 - January 5, 2025
Winter miracles in Brussels it features an impressive light show, ice rink and festive stalls where you can try Belgian waffles and chocolate.
8. Budapest, Hungary
November 17, 2024 - January 1, 2025
Christmas market on the square Vörösmarty is known for its traditional Hungarian delicacies such as kürtőskalács and langos, as well as unique handmade gifts.
9. Munich, Germany
November 27 - December 24, 2024
Munich With its long tradition, the Christkindlmarkt on Marienplatz offers a wonderful insight into Bavarian Christmas customs. Great for lovers of sausages, pastries and holiday drinks.
10. Tallinn, Estonia
November 21 - December 26, 2024
Tallinn is a true winter wonderland. The town square is decorated with lights and traditional stalls offering Estonian Christmas delicacies.
11. Krakow, Poland
November 29 - December 26, 2024
Kraków the fair on the main square is known for its beautiful wooden stalls where you can buy handmade decorations and taste traditional Polish cuisine.
12. Dresden, Germany (Striezelmarkt)
November 27 - December 24, 2024
Striezelmarkt v Dresden is one of the oldest fairs in Europe, known for stollen cake and exceptional festive atmosphere.
13. Stockholm, Sweden (Skansen)
November 30 - December 23, 2024
At the fair in Skansen you will enjoy traditional Swedish Christmas food such as baked salmon and Swedish meatballs.
14. London, Great Britain (Hyde Park Winter Wonderland)
November 21, 2024 - January 5, 2025
Hyde Park v London transforms into a huge winter wonderland with festive stalls, an amusement park and an iceland. The fair is ideal for everyone who loves adrenaline rides and a wonderful Christmas atmosphere.
15. Edinburgh, Scotland
November 17, 2024 - January 5, 2025
V Edinburgh the city center turns into a Christmas fair with beautiful lights, an ice rink and rides for children. The fair also offers excellent Scottish cuisine.
16. Zurich, Switzerland
November 23 - December 24, 2024
Zurich is a true Swiss fairy tale. Its Christmas market at the train station is one of the largest covered fairs in Europe.
17. Gothenburg, Sweden (Liseberg)
November 17 - December 23, 2024
Liseberg turns into a stunning Christmas town with 5 million lights, an ice rink and a huge selection of sweets.
18. Helsinki, Finland
December 1 - December 22, 2024
Helsinki they offer a magical fair where you can warm up with hot drinks and enjoy Finnish delicacies such as cinnamon cookies and fish delicacies.
19. Amsterdam, Netherlands
November 15, 2024 - January 5, 2025
Christmas fair in Amsterdam offers art installations, festive performances and delicious food on one of the most picturesque canals in Europe.
20. Riga, Latvia
1 December 2024 - 6 January 2025
Riga is known for its rich holiday traditions and beautiful wooden stalls offering handmade gifts and tasty treats.
No matter where you go, these Christmas markets are the perfect opportunity to create unforgettable holiday memories. Pack warm clothes and get ready for an unforgettable Christmas experience!
