Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year. The ultimate Christmas markets in Europe give an enchanting atmosphere with old European traditions, fresh food, and twinkling lights.
Turn up the air-conditioning and soak up the Christmas Spirit in some of Europe’s most scenic cities by checking out some of our favourite European Christmas Market destinations to visit next year
Advent in Zagreb features a series of holiday events held in and around the city square, including concerts, ensembles, and dance groups among others.
There’s also an ice park, Christmas Fair, and a live nativity scene to get you in the holiday spirit. Enjoy a cup of warm mulled wine and the igloo-shaped rakija bars.
But make sure you warm up with some mulled wine!
The Budapest Christmas Fair and Winter Festival takes over Vörösmarty Square, the heart of the city.
122 wooden stalls serve up snacks like sumptuous honey cookies, as well as festive Hungarian dishes like the stuffed cabbage or roasted pork knuckle. An outdoor stage hosts over 200 events for adults and children throughout season.
A quick soak in one of Budapest’s thermal baths will have you well-rested.
Vienna really gets into the spirit, with Christmas markets popping up all over the city, including right in front of the palace!
Christmas World in City Hall Square features 149 stalls with traditional Christmas gifts, crafts, food, and more.
Here. visitors can enjoy the festive lights, ice skating in the park, and even a gingerbread decorating workshop.
Munich, Germany
For one month, Munich turns into Christmas Town, with around 20 different Christmas markets popping up all over the city.
Right in front of the Munich Town Hall, the Christkindlmarkt has a prime location in the heart of the city.
Festive live music, children’s crafts and games, gospel singing, ice skating, and delicious culinary delights are all part of this winter wonderland.
Prague, Czech Republic
Visit the most famous Christmas market in Prague which fills the Old Town Square with light and wonder.
Enjoy a hot mulled wine and a sweet trdelnik (cinnamon rolled pastry) while basking in the glow of the huge Christmas tree.
Beneath the famous Astronomical Clock, vendors offer traditional Czech products and homemade crafts.
Berlin, Germany
Germany’s capital, Berlin, transforms into its Christmas capital with between 50-100 Christmas markets filling the city.
Some of the most well known are the Gendarmenmarkt, Opera Palace, and Alexanderplatz.
In each, expect to find festive holiday food, crafts, and live performances. ice-skating. Enjoy the ferris wheel at the Red Town Hall market.
Salzburg Christkindlmarkt, Austria
With its roots in the 15th century, Salzburg’s Christkindlmarkt brings Austrian tradition to life at the foot of Hohensalzburg fortress.
Stalls serve up delectable treats alongside stalls offering holiday gifts including: textiles, natural products, crafts, and toys.
Along with the Christmas stands, the event program consists of several concerts, and even a sing-along!
Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt, Germany
Known as Germany’s ‘Christmas City’, with over 180 market stands you’re sure to find something to fulfill your Christmas wishes.
The market is heady with the aroma of sizzling sausage as stands serve up the famous Nuremberg sausages.
And don’t forget to sample the famous Nuremberg gingerbread, which has been baked in the city for over 600 years.
Dresden Striezelmarkt, Germany
Dresden is home to Germany’s oldest Christmas market.
With 11 different markets to explore, this already captivating city comes alive with festivities.
Watch glass-blowers, bakers, and carvers practice their crafts while enjoying some seasonal treats.
Also be sure to check out the world’s tallest Christmas pyramid (14 meters) and the world’s biggest nutcracker.
Have we inspired you to visit the ultimate Christmas Markets in Europe? Contact us now for an obligation-free consult!
