Do you scent that? It is sizzling spiced wine wafting via the air blended with roasting sausages and nuts. It is Christmas in Europe which implies probably the most festive methods to get into the spirit of the season: Christmas Markets! Ornately embellished stalls nestled collectively in metropolis squares promoting hand painted glass ornaments, seasonal meals, and all-around yuletide cheer. Rising up in America (Texas to be precise) I by no means skilled the magic that’s Christmas in Europe.
Now that I’ve had the pleasure of going to among the finest markets throughout Europe I am creating my final information to the European Christmas Markets! I made it my mission to go to among the finest in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, France, and past. I’ve bought you coated in your final information for the most effective Christmas markets in Europe.
*Fully up to date for 2023!
In the case of Christmas I at all times really feel like a child once more. However Europe appears so as to add an additional contact of magic. Strolling into the markets is simply an amazing sense of enjoyable, pals, and happiness. For this itinerary, I am breaking down the most effective Christmas markets in Germany, France, Switzerland, Austria and past. I’ve additionally bought a breakdown of what to purchase, eat, and I am exhibiting you a typical route with a purpose to get essentially the most out of your time!
See my picks for the finest Christmas markets in Europe and my present Christmas market highway journey itinerary!
What to anticipate
Europe’s Christmas markets are steeped in historical past. The primary market was mentioned to be held in Vienna, Austria courting again to 1296, however the first “winter market” was in Munich, Germany in 1310. The primary “official” market was Dresden’s Strietzelmarkt in 1434. Christmas markets are also referred to as Christkindlmarkt, Christkindlesmarkt, Christkindlmarket, Christkindlimarkt, and Weihnachtsmarkt and happen throughout the begin of Introduction. Every market has it is personal traditions, decorations, and meals. Germany’s markets are usually extra conventional whereas Austria’s are usually a bit extra elaborate. Most markets finish simply earlier than Christmas, however in cities similar to Speyer, Germany they lengthen the celebration. You may see beautiful stalls (or chalets) promoting handcrafted ornaments and crafts, native meals, and sizzling, mulled wine known as glühwein.
Keep away from the crowds: Europeans take Christmas markets very severely. Keep away from crowds and contours by going throughout the day, or go for going throughout the week, Mondays or Tuesdays are finest.
Good to know
Most of the stalls promoting glühwein (and a few meals) could have one thing known as a “pfand” that is extra cash that you will pay for the cup, normally a couple of euros. As soon as performed along with your drink you’ll be able to maintain the cup (normally they’re an incredible memento as they are saying the situation and date) or return it to get your a refund.
Deliver money, most sellers will solely take money at a Christmas market. The winter markets could be chilly, so be certain to convey one thing heat and comfy footwear. You may almost certainly be in your ft to peruse the stalls.
Most main European cities have Christmas markets, and they’re all beautiful. However, I’ve been to dozens so I am pulling out the most effective Christmas markets to get the “actual” expertise together with an itinerary that will help you in your approach.
Finest Christmas Markets in Germany
The German Christmas markets are the unique and the most effective. Since they date again to the 1300s, most of the German Christmas markets nonetheless have fun traditions from the previous days. You may discover richly embellished Christmas stalls and conventional Christmas meals like bratwurst and kartoffelpuffer. I recommend beginning your journey in Germany. My recommendations for Christmas markets in Germany are: Heidelberg, Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber, Munich, Nuremberg and Dresden. Most cities in Germany, together with the smaller ones, will all supply a Weihnachtsmarkt, so you actually cannot go fallacious!
See my full information to the most effective Christmas Markets in Germany right here.
Nuremberg is steeped in custom and you will find an enormous market with heaps to see, do, and eat. However my favourite is the extra laid-back Heidelberg. The markets are all through the Haupstrasse (the lengthy pedestrian road) and make it simpler for crowds to ebb and move via the road. You may discover ornately embellished stalls, roasting meats, and a car-free road to skip alongside from market to market. It exudes a small city and alluring feeling.
Munich began one of many first Christmas markets, so it is a disgrace to not go right here. They exit of their solution to adorn and even have themed markets, similar to their “pink” Christmas market. Bavaria tends to do issues just a bit bit otherwise and Munich actually takes Christmas up a notch.
Christmas Market Dates in Germany:
| Metropolis | 2025 Dates |
|---|---|
| Cologne | Nov 17 – Dec 23 |
| Heidelberg | Nov 24 – Dec 22 |
| Munich | Nov 24 – Dec 24 |
| Trier | Nov 21 – Dec 22 |
| Nuremberg | Nov 28 – Dec 24 |
| Dresden | Nov 26 – Dec 24 |
| Aachen | Nov 21 – Dec 23 |
| Berlin | Nov 24 – Dec 31 |
| Frankfurt | Nov 24 – Dec 22 |
| Stuttgart | Nov 26 – Dec 23 |
| Düsseldorf | Nov 20 – Dec 30 |
| Hamburg | Nov 24 – Dec 23 |
| Leipzig | Nov 25 – Dec 23 |
| Erfurt | Nov 24 – Dec 22 |
| Wiesbaden | Nov 25 – Dec 23 |
| Bonn | No confirmed date discovered |
| Rothenburg ob der Tauber | Nov 21 – Dec 23 |
| Augsburg | No confirmed date discovered |
| Regensburg | Nov 25 – Dec 23 (estimate) |
| Freiburg | Nov 20 – Dec 23 (estimate) |
Discover my full information to Heidelberg right here and Christmas Markets right here. Additionally information to Nuremberg’s right here.
❄️ Europe Packing Checklist Should Haves ❄️
🧥 Coat – A must have for any winter journey! This one doesn’t disappoint
👖 Thermal Leggings – Retains you heat all day.
👕 Thermal Undershirt – Added Heat
🥾 Boots– These maintain you comfortable and are sturdy sufficient to put on within the snow
🧦 Wool Socks– maintain your ft heat and dry
🧤 Cellphone Suitable gloves – These work so you’ll be able to nonetheless take footage of the Christmas lights!
🧳 Baggage – That is my go-to carry-on!
🔌 Universal Adapter – Finest for nation hopping
👜 Crossbody Bag – One of the best for holding you palms free and your stuff protected
☃️ Beanie – A should for holding heat (and searching cute!)
🔥 Hand heaters – The key to by no means being chilly!
🧣 Scarf – So key to packing much less is to have equipment like scarves to change it up!
Get my full packing record right here!
Finest Christmas Markets in France
Going to France is like stepping right into a Currier and Ives print. The superbly positioned real-life gingerbread homes surrounded with Christmas stalls, music, and sweet-smelling pastries are a feast for the senses. Essentially the most lovely Christmas markets are in Strasbourg and Colmar within the Alsace area.
Strasbourg’s Christmas markets are sprinkled all through the town and each is prettier than the subsequent. The decor is over-the-top however a lot enjoyable. The background of the overwhelming Notre Dame cathedral makes a grand assertion over the sq.. However the actual spotlight is the 30 meter tall Christmas tree! They name Strasbourg the Capital of Christmas and it at all times proves its level as the most effective place to spend the vacations.
For those who assume the decorations in Strasbourg had been elaborate, wait till you get to Colmar. Each constructing appears to be adorned with lights, ornaments, and even teddy bears! All over the place you flip is a half-timbered panorama of uneven, multicolored homes. It really appears to be like extra like a doll’s playhouse.
Christmas Market Dates in France:
| Metropolis / Village | 2025 Dates | Day by day / Weekends | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Strasbourg | 26 November – 24 December 2025 | Day by day | Referred to as the “Capital of Christmas,” Strasbourg is house to France’s oldest and most well-known Christmas market. |
| Colmar | 25 November – 29 December 2025 | Day by day | Options six markets all through the historic centre, every with its personal allure and theme. |
| Mulhouse | 21 November – 27 December 2025 | Day by day (closed 25 Dec) | Well-known for its vibrant Christmas material, distinctive to the town’s textile heritage. |
| Obernai | 28 November – 31 December 2025 | Day by day (closed 25 Dec) | An enthralling market centered on gastronomy and conventional crafts. |
| Riquewihr | 28 November – 21 December 2025 | Fridays–Sundays solely | A fairy-tale medieval village remodeled right into a festive wonderland on weekends. |
| Kaysersberg | 28–30 November, 5–7 December, 12–14 December, 19–21 December 2025 | Weekends solely (Fri–Solar) | Probably the most atmospheric markets in Alsace, open the 4 Introduction weekends. |
| Eguisheim | 28 November – 30 December 2025 (closed 24–26 Dec) | Day by day | A round village wrapped in lights and decorations, open most of December. |
| Ribeauvillé | 6–7 December & 13–14 December 2025 | Two medieval weekends | A medieval-themed Christmas market full with costumed performers and torchlight processions. |
| Haguenau | 21 November – 30 December 2025 (closed 25 Dec) | Day by day | Northern Alsace’s festive hub, with chalets unfold via the historic city centre. |
| Sélestat | 21 November – 28 December 2025 | Day by day (closed 25 Dec) | Celebrates the origins of the Christmas tree, with reveals and markets throughout three predominant squares. |
Discover the information to Strasbourg’s Christmas markets right here.
Finest Christmas Markets in Switzerland
The proper place for a winter wonderland is unquestionably in Switzerland. You may discover ski chalets nestled subsequent to Christmas markets and, after all, the stunning alps. You may enjoyment of artisan items and a few of my favourite treats. One of the best markets are in Basel, Bern, Lucerne, and Zurich. After touring via France it’s totally straightforward to get to Switzerland. The space from Colmar to Basel is about an hour and a half by automobile.
Basel is a fairly metropolis overlooking the water and a number of Christmas markets all through the massive squares. The decor right here is vibrant and wonderful and the markets are all inside strolling distance from each other.
My favourite market in Switzerland shouldn’t be too removed from Basel in Lucerne, Switzerland. Located on the lake, you will discover extravagant shows and among the finest cheeses on the planet. All of the outlets and shops are decked out for the vacations with blankets and sheepskin stools.
Christmas Market Dates in Switzerland:
| Metropolis / City | 2025 Dates | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Basel | 27 November – 23 December 2025 | One among Europe’s most lovely markets, unfold throughout Barfüsserplatz and Münsterplatz with over 150 stalls. |
| Zürich | 20 November – 23 December 2025 | Options a number of markets throughout the town, together with the indoor market on the predominant practice station with its big Swarovski Christmas tree. |
| Lausanne | 20 November – 31 December 2025 | Referred to as “Bô Noël,” this market combines artwork, mild installations, and a festive ambiance alongside Lake Geneva. |
| Geneva | 20 November – 24 December 2025 | “Noël au Jardin” brings vacation allure to the Jardin Anglais with cozy chalets and connoisseur meals. |
| Bern | 20 November – 28 December 2025 | Dwelling to the Sternenmarkt and Waisenhausplatz market, mixing handmade crafts and regional treats. |
| Montreux | 20 November – 24 December 2025 | One among Switzerland’s most well-known markets, set on the shores of Lake Geneva with a go to from Santa at close by Rochers-de-Naye. |
| Lucerne | 22 November – 21 December 2025 | Conventional market in Franziskanerplatz with picket chalets, mulled wine, and mountain views. |
| Interlaken | Late November – December 2025 (precise dates TBA) | Set between two lakes and framed by mountains, this market provides ice skating, crafts, and Alpine allure. |
| Lugano | 27 November 2025 – 6 January 2026 | An extended-running market within the Italian-speaking area, identified for its festive lights, concert events, and heat Mediterranean aptitude. |
Finest Christmas Markets in Austria
Austria has many beautiful Christmas markets and small cities. You may discover them in Salzburg, Ellmau, Graz, and Kitzbuhel, however the most effective is in Vienna. The Vienna Christmas markets are probably the most well-known and in style in all of Europe. It is no shock why: the elegant chandeliers mild up the streets and paint an image of wealthy opulence. I discover the markets in Austria to be beautiful, romantic, and an incredible mixture of conventional and trendy refinement.
Finest Christmas Markets in Vienna
There are a number of markets all through the town however my favorites are Rathaus, St. Stephen’s Sq., Maria-Therea Sq., Schönbrunn Palace, Belvedere, and Altes AKH. Take a experience on the Ringstrasse on Tram 1 to map out each the place you’d wish to cease. You may discover that the buildings function unimaginable backdrops for the Christmas decor. At Rathaus (Metropolis Corridor) there’s an enormous, lit tree, an ice skating rink, and even a stage for reside music and performances. Do not forget to go contained in the Rathaus for a wonderful view.
Do not miss St. Stephen’s and the magnificent church. You actually cannot miss it, the steeple is that prime. Take a stroll alongside Kärtnerstrasse to see the unimaginable chandeliers. Take a look at the Altes AKH to see the College campus remodeled right into a Christmas wonderland. The museum quarter already boasts beautiful structure however it packs an added punch with the market in Maria-Theresa-Platz. That is additionally an excellent place to cease and have a standard strudel.
For an over-the-top market have one exterior a palace! Two alternatives for this at Schloss Belvedere and Schönbrunn. Each are lovely and the palaces solely add to the ambiance.
Christmas Market Dates in Austria:
| Metropolis / City | 2025 Dates | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Vienna | 14 November – 24 December 2025 | Austria’s capital transforms right into a winter wonderland with greater than a dozen markets, together with the enduring Vienna Christmas Dream at Rathausplatz. |
| Salzburg | 20 November – 26 December 2025 | The historic Christkindlmarkt at Cathedral Sq. and Residenzplatz is among the oldest on the planet. |
| Innsbruck | 15 November 2025 – 6 January 2026 | A number of markets scattered throughout the Previous City, Maria-Theresien-Strasse, and Hungerburg with gorgeous Alpine backdrops. |
| Graz | 22 November – 24 December 2025 | An enthralling UNESCO metropolis market that includes ice sculptures, native delicacies, and conventional crafts. |
| Hallstatt | 30 November 2025 (One-Day Introduction Market) | A fairytale one-day occasion with stalls alongside the lake, choir music, and candlelight. |
| Linz | 22 November – 23 December 2025 | Hauptplatz and Volksgarten host cozy markets stuffed with handmade items and candy aromas of gingerbread. |
| Klagenfurt | 22 November – 24 December 2025 | The market in Neuer Platz surrounds the Lindwurm Fountain, that includes native Carinthian crafts and delicacies. |
| St. Wolfgang (Salzkammergut) | 21 November – 22 December 2025 | A part of the “Wolfgangsee Introduction,” together with markets in St. Gilgen and Strobl with a floating lantern on the lake. |
| Seefeld in Tirol | 29 November – 6 January 2026 | A snow-covered Alpine market best for households and skiers, open all through the festive season. |
| Kitzbühel | 29 November – 26 December 2025 | Conventional Tyrolean Christmas market with reside music, mulled wine, and twinkling lights within the Previous City. |
Your European Christmas Market Route
Fly into Germany – I recommend Frankfurt. This can be a main airport hub and makes it straightforward to go to your subsequent vacation spot. From right here, you’ll be able to take a practice or a automobile (I discover automobiles are best and make it so you’ll be able to cease off at any time). From right here, take a practice or automobile to Heidelberg, Germany. This can be a typical Christmas market and can put you proper within the spirit. Subsequent, we’re heading to France! Strasbourg is just about an hour and a half away from Heidelberg. After you get your fill of Glühwein our subsequent cease remains to be in Alsace: Colmar, France. An precise gingerbread city, it is one of many cutest locations I’ve ever stepped foot in!
After France, we’ll cross one other border and head into Switzerland. Right here we’ll go to Basel then Bern and if time permits we’ll go to Lucerne and again north to Zurich. This itinerary is ideal when you’ve got 5-7 days. Have extra time, or simply wish to see extra? Carry on going! From right here you’ll be able to return into Germany for Munich’s markets or go straight over to Austria. For those who’re driving, cease off in Salzburg. However since it is a lengthy journey, I recommend flying to Vienna. Subsequent, you’ll be able to both head to Prague (my private favourite) or east to Budapest.
Pictured: Prague’s Christmas Market in Previous City Sq.
Different nice spots for Christmas are London, Nuremberg, Dresden, Paris, Copenhagen, Brussels, Budapest, and Zagreb.
What to eat at Christmas Markets
Schokokuss – one of the best ways to explain this dessert is to take marshmallow fluff, then cowl it with chocolate, and eat a dozen. Actually, these are cheap and are so mild and fluffy. I get one nearly each time I’m going to a Christmas market.
Bratwurst – Genuine German meals is bratwurst and Rostbratwurst roasting regularly. Every Christmas market does it a bit otherwise so strive one wherever you go. You may get it with bread and I at all times load up on mustard and onions.
Kartoffellpuffer – Take potatoes, fry them. It sounds easy however they’re completely divine. Often served with applesauce (bizarre however good) or garlic sauce. Give these a strive!
Gingerbread – Also called Lebkucken, you will discover each mushy and exhausting gingerbread bought. Additionally they wish to promote it in coronary heart shapes, wrapped in plastic, with phrases written on the cookie. I am unable to say these are very tasty, however they’re fairly!
Crepes – For those who’re within the temper for one thing candy that is the right Christmas market meals. Rolled up with Nutella, cinnamon, sugar, or honey, anybody can get their fill from this straightforward traditional.
Frikadella – One among my favourite meals on the Christmas markets are these hamburgers made with pork. Often served with onions and mustard they make for the right hearty meal. Do not forget to seize some fries or pommes frites!
Candied nuts – the right heat Christmas market deal with to pop in your mouth as you amble from stall to stall. These aromatic nuts will make you whip your head round as you stroll previous! You can too strive roasted chestnuts aka “maroni” if you would like as nicely.
Germknödel – This in style spherical dumpling is a German traditional and normally stuffed with jam and topped with vanilla cream sauce. It is not overly candy however a pleasant addition to your mulled wine.
Glühwein – You can’t go to the Christmas market with out glühwein! I am completely hooked on this sizzling, mulled wine made with spices. It should maintain you heat inside as you drink this candy liquid. Some markets additionally serve Feuerzangenbowle which is a combination of punch and glühwein and topped with a rum-soaked sugar dice then set on hearth. Go forward, order two. For those who’re alcohol free you can even order kinderpunsch!
See the 25 issues it is best to strive at a Christmas Market right here!
What to purchase on the Christmas Markets
All the things sheepskin is on the market – gloves, hats, rugs and extra.
Maintain your glühwein cup as a enjoyable memento. If you wish to maintain with the alcohol development, many stalls supply liqueurs in fairly bottles which might be a superb present.
Most markets have their very own traditions and issues on the market. For instance, in Nuremberg they promote dolls made from dates! Most gadgets on the market at Christmas markets are handmade and prime quality. You will not essentially discover the most affordable gadgets however one can find one thing particular that may final.
Everybody deserves a winter wonderland break and Europe’s Christmas markets make for the right magical escape. Christmas markets in Europe are among the finest recollections of my life, and I am already counting down the dates till subsequent yr!
Want extra Christmas markets? Take a look at much more posts!
15 Finest Christmas Markets in Germany
25 Issues to Eat at A German Christmas Market
25 Pictures That Will Encourage You To Spend Christmas in Europe
Information to Heidelberg’s Christmas Markets
Finest Facet Journeys for Christmas in Germany
Issues to Do in Strasbourg, France at Christmas
This is a helpful infographic and temporary have a look at the most effective of Christmas markets in Europe:
