Greatest Christmas Markets in Europe 2025

Planning your dream Christmas journey to Europe? You’re in the suitable place. I’ve traveled to over 100 Christmas markets throughout the continent to deliver you the final word information to one of the best Christmas markets in Europe for 2025. From twinkle-light-covered cities in Germany to fairy-tale villages in France and Austria, this submit is filled with actual 2025 Christmas market dates, insider meals suggestions, and magical locations you received’t need to miss.

Image this: You’re strolling the traditional cobblestone streets, on both aspect heat lights of cafes and retailers beckon you inside, you’ve got a slight chill regardless of your heat winter coat. You see a citadel within the mist on the hill forward of you. May at this time get any higher? Sure, sure it may.

As you flip the nook you’re first hit with the odor. It’s a combination of true merriment: candied nuts roasting in sugar, mulled wine being poured right into a tall espresso mug, and roasted meats over the open fireplace.

Subsequent you’re hit with the noise. Christmas carols sung in German, laughter of all ages, and other people greeting one another on the prime of their lungs.

You spherical one other nook and there it’s, shimmering and glittering because the solar units: hundreds of twinkle lights strewn alongside recent reduce pine bushes. Hand carved wood stalls promoting meals, drinks, and handmade trinkets line the road, every yet one more embellished than the subsequent.

It’s Christmas Markets in Europe and it’s probably the most joyful place on earth!

I like to think about myself as a Christmas market knowledgeable having lived in Germany, the place Christmas markets actually began, I spent years going many times to Christmas markets throughout Europe and writing about my discovering.

One issues for certain: it’s value it. I do know that many don’t take into consideration visiting Europe throughout the vacation season, however I discover it actually sensational. It’s such a way of group and pleasure, everybody on the town will get collectively, regardless of the chilly climate to rejoice Christmas and share their handmade wares and scrumptious household recipes of conventional meals.

I am sharing one of the best of the European Christmas markets so you’ll be able to guarantee to benefit from your time.

Greatest Christmas Markets in Europe 2025

I’ve tons of guides to Christmas markets in Europe! From itineraries, maps, and particular person guides to every place! I hope to make planning your Christmas market journeys a breeze. For all my posts on Christmas markets in Europe click on right here.

Strasbourg, France

Strasbourg, France undoubtedly deserves its nickname because the “Capital of Noel”! This metropolis has the most effective Christmas markets in all Europe and it is an extremely festive place to go to throughout the vacation season. With fantastically embellished stalls and open each day from November twenty fourth to December twenty fourth, you will end up surrounded by twinkling lights and decorations galore. The Strasbourg cathedral towers over the market and there is even an actual 30 meter tall tree within the sq.!

The streets are BURSTING with decor, from the teddy bear half-timbered motels, the lit up Notre Dame Cathedral with angels that line the streets, and naturally vin chaud- mulled wine! Plenty of nice meals, drinks, and hand crafted items. Take your time right here, there are markets all through town. There are over 300 stalls so that you’re in for a deal with!

PRO TIP: If in case you have time, head into the Vosges mountains, the place the massive tree of Strasbourg is grown, and go to some Christmas markets there! The cities of Ribeauvillé, Kaysersberg, Eguisheim and Riquewihr are completely magical for Christmas! You possibly can see my full information to those Alsace villages at Christmas right here.

Starsbourg Christmas Market Dates for 2025: November twenty sixth by means of December twenty fourth, 2025.

See my full information to one of the best Christmas markets in France. Or, my full information to Strasbourg, France at Christmas.

Vienna, Austria

Since 1296 Vienna has hosted an incredible Christmas market- one of many first ever! You may see attractive buildings decked out in bows and ribbons. However you additionally get unbelievable Christmas markets! I have been to markets all all through Europe and I can let you know, those in Vienna are a few of the greatest.

There are a number of giant markets situated across the metropolis, every with their very own distinctive really feel. The most well-liked might be at Rathausplatz in entrance of the gorgeous City Corridor. With over 150 chalets, this is among the largest in Europe. It is excellent for selecting up items and grabbing a chunk to eat. The Glühwein right here is a few of the greatest I’ve ever had!

In order for you a extra conventional really feel, then head to the Spittelberg Weihnachtsmarkt market (Weihnachtsmarkt means Christmas in German). That is situated in a pedestrian zone within the Spittelberg district and is made up of small, particular person chalets. This market has a very cozy really feel and is ideal for a romantic stroll.

And eventually, my favourite market in Vienna is the Altwiener Christkindlmarkt at Freyung. This market is situated in a beautiful park and has a very relaxed and charming environment. It is the right place to seize a cup of scorching chocolate and a slice of Sachertorte (a chocolate cake that may be a Vienna specialty!)

Vienna Christmas Market Dates for 2025: November 14th by means of December 23th, 2025.

Cologne, Germany

Cologne, Germany is among the hottest Christmas markets in Europe and for good purpose! With seven markets, all with completely different themes, all through town, you will discover no scarcity of issues to see and do right here. Massive, lavishly embellished Christmas markets sparkle all through town.

A few of my favorites are the Cologne Cathedral Market, that is the biggest and takes place exterior the spectacular cathedral with reside music, an enormous tree, and gluhwein (scorching, mulled wine!). I additionally adore the Angels’ Market the place you will discover it in Neumarkt Sq. and is among the unique markets that options ladies wearing angel costumes handing out sweets to youngsters. There’s additionally a stupendous carousel and beautiful mugs which are excellent to take house as souvenirs. I like the one within the Outdated City as a result of it is stuffed with what appears like gnomes, but it surely’s a lot extra! The Alter Markt calls itself the Residence of the Heinzelmännchen (who have been little creatures from a Cologne legend who used to do all of the house responsibilities till they have been aggravated by an inquisitive housewife).

And Nikolausdorf or “NicholasVillage” in Rudolfplatz can also be properly well worth the cease! Many half-timbered constructions make this really feel like an actual village. It is at all times superb to me that this may come down come January!

Cologne Christmas Market Dates for 2025: November 18th by means of December twenty third 2025.

See one of the best Christmas markets in Germany right here.

Bratislava, Slovakia

Bratislava, the charming capital of Slovakia, provides a pleasant mixture of historical past, tradition, and Christmas magic. Its foremost Christmas market is held within the picturesque Most important Sq. (Hlavné námestie) and Hviezdoslav Sq., surrounded by colourful Baroque buildings. The comfy environment of this market is ideal for these on the lookout for a extra intimate Christmas expertise.

Climb up the city corridor for only a few euros to get an EPIC view!

Right here, you will discover conventional Slovak treats like lokše (potato pancakes with candy or savory fillings), smoked sausages, and honey wine. The hand-painted ornaments and handmade crafts make for great souvenirs. Don’t miss a stroll as much as Bratislava Fort for breathtaking views of town illuminated by festive lights.

Bratislava Christmas Market Dates for 2025: November twenty seventh by means of January sixth, 2026.

Salzburg, Austria

Salzburg is a metropolis straight out of a fairytale, and its Christmas markets add to its magic. The Salzburg Christkindlmarkt at Domplatz is among the oldest and most conventional in Europe, courting again to the fifteenth century. Nestled in entrance of Salzburg Cathedral, the market is illuminated by strings of golden lights and options over 100 stalls providing handmade items and native delicacies.

Deal with your self to Mozartkugel (chocolate and marzipan balls) or raclette bread whereas listening to reside carolers on this romantic setting. One other must-visit is the Hellbrunn Introduction Magic, situated at Hellbrunn Palace, which contains a life-sized creation calendar and a petting zoo for kids.

Salzburg Christmas Market Dates for 2025: November twentieth by means of December twenty sixth, 2025.

Dresden, Germany

Dresden is house to the oldest Christmas market in Germany, the Striezelmarkt, which dates again to 1434. Held in Altmarkt Sq., this market is legendary for its Stollen, a standard German fruitcake. You may even discover the world’s largest Stollen on the annual Dresden Stollen Pageant!

The market is adorned with a towering Christmas pyramid, over 200 festively embellished stalls, and a fascinating carousel. Past the Striezelmarkt, Dresden has different smaller markets, together with the Medieval Christmas Market at Stallhof, the place you’ll be able to get pleasure from glühwein in a knightly environment.

Dresden Christmas Market Dates for 2025: November twenty sixth by means of December twenty fourth, 2025.

Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn appears like a snow globe come to life! Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, is a medieval metropolis with a fairytale really feel. And through Christmastime, it is much more magical! With twinkling lights, snow-dusted rooftops, and Christmas carols within the air, Tallinn seems like one thing out of a storybook.

The primary market is situated in City Corridor Sq., in entrance of the attractive medieval City Corridor. This is among the largest markets in Tallinn and is ideal for selecting up items and souvenirs. You may discover handmade Estonian crafts, decorations, and loads of locations to seize a chunk to eat. The gluwein right here can also be glorious! This can be a excellent spot to choose up a hand-crafted wool sweater and stick round for reside music and leisure at evening.

If you happen to’re on the lookout for one thing a bit of completely different, try the Rotermann Quarter. This market is situated in an outdated salt storage constructing that has been transformed into a shopping mall. It is a actually distinctive setting for a market, and you will find loads of nice items and souvenirs right here.

I extremely suggest taking a strolling tour* to get a really feel of the historical past in Tallinn! We went on a themed strolling tour and it was a spotlight of my time in Tallinn. See my full information to Tallinn at Christmas right here.

Tallinn Christmas Market Dates for 2025: November twenty first by means of December twenty eighth, 2025.

Basel, Switzerland

Basel, Switzerland is a captivating metropolis situated on the river Rhine and is understood for its lovely Outdated City, medieval structure, museums, and naturally Christmas markets! This metropolis has one of many longest operating Christmas markets in Europe because it dates again to 1521.

The primary market is situated in Munsterplatz and is stuffed with lovely handcrafted items, a big collection of food and drinks, and twinkling lights. Make sure to strive the scrumptious Basler Läckerli, a spiced gingerbread-like biscuits which are an area specialty. I additionally love the mulled wine right here, it is a few of the greatest I’ve ever had!

There are additionally a number of different markets situated all through town together with one within the sq. in entrance of Basel’s lovely crimson sandstone cathedral. This can be a excellent spot to do some Christmas procuring as you will discover the whole lot from jewellery to wood toys.

PRO TIP: If you happen to’re on the lookout for one thing a bit of completely different, be sure you try the Introduction Calendar Home. This can be a home with 25 home windows, every with a special shock behind it!

Basel Christmas Market Dates for 2025: November twenty seventh by means of December twenty third, 2025.

Prague, Czech Republic

If you happen to’re on the lookout for a market with a extra medieval really feel, then Prague is the place for you! With its pretty Gothic structure and cobblestone streets, Prague lends itself completely to a festive environment. The markets listed here are a few of the most original in Europe with lovely handmade items on supply.

The primary market is situated in Outdated City Sq. the place you will discover a gorgeous Christmas tree and the spectacular Tyn Church within the background. This can be a actually well-liked spot, so be ready for crowds, which is why I like to recommend weekdays. But it surely’s undoubtedly value braving the plenty to see the gorgeous decorations and seize some conventional Czech meals.

For one thing a bit extra low-key, try the markets at Wenceslas Sq. and Havel’s Market. These are each situated in additional fashionable areas of town and supply a refreshing change of tempo from the Outdated City.

Prague Christmas Market Dates for 2025: November twenty third by means of January sixth, 2026.

Brussels, Belgium

Let me begin out by saying that is a few of the BEST Christmas market meals you’ll find at a Christmas market. So good!!! Town’s Winter Wonders Market is one among Europe’s most underrated festive experiences. With over 250 wood chalets stretching from Grand Place to Sainte-Catherine, Brussels provides a mixture of conventional allure and fashionable vacation festivities.

What actually units Brussels aside is the meals. Belgium is already identified for its culinary delights, however the Christmas market takes it to a different degree. Bask in Belgian waffles topped with whipped cream and chocolate, completely crisp on the surface and fluffy inside. Attempt speculoos cookies, a spiced deal with that pairs completely with a cup of mulled wine or scorching chocolate. For one thing savory, seize croquettes or carbonnade flamande, a slow-cooked beef stew made with beer. And naturally, no go to can be full with out sampling Belgian fries served with quite a lot of sauces.

For dessert, discover the stalls providing pralines from Belgium’s iconic chocolatiers like Neuhaus or Godiva. The standard and number of the meals right here make Brussels’ market a paradise for meals lovers.

Town additionally boasts a Sound and Gentle Present in Grand Place, which transforms the sq. right into a magical wonderland. Regardless of its unbelievable choices, Brussels is usually missed in favor of bigger or extra well-known markets, making it a hidden gem for these seeking to expertise one thing distinctive with out overwhelming crowds.

Brussels Christmas Market Dates for 2025: November twenty eighth, 2025, by means of January 4th, 2026.

Helsinki, Finland

Helsinki, Finland is a singular Christmas market expertise as a result of it isn’t solely concerning the market stalls, but in addition the ice skating rink that units up in Senate Sq.. It is so festive and beautiful to skate round with the Helsinki Cathedral within the background.

The market itself has Finnish crafts and design, together with conventional meals like reindeer meatballs, which you will discover on the Outdated Market Corridor. This is among the few markets the place you will discover meals indoors, so it is excellent in the event you’re visiting in colder climate or in the event you simply want a break from the chilly. You may additionally discover handcrafted Christmas decorations, glassware, and textiles.

I beloved the saunas situated proper by the Christmas market glog stalls (glog is their model of mulled wine.) So that you would possibly see somebody hop out of a sauna in only a towel, grabbing a mulled mug of steaming wine!

Helsinki Christmas Market Dates for 2025: November twenty eighth by means of December twenty second, 2025.

Ribeauvillé, France

This market is small and solely supplied for a pair quick weekends however SO WORTH IT. It is one of the crucial uncommon markets I’ve ever been to in probably the most charming approach. All the city clothes up and participates. There are folks dressed up, on stilts, sensible males with actual camels, fires in the midst of the streets to heat up and medieval traditions.

This space is well-known for its charming half-timbered homes however the Christmas market makes it really feel such as you’ve entered a very completely different, medieval world.

You may discover all the standard Christmas market fare right here like mulled wine, gingerbread, and roasted chestnuts. However Ribeauvillé can also be identified for its glorious native wines, so be sure you choose up a bottle or two to take house with you. You may additionally discover loads of handmade items on supply.

Ribeauvillé Christmas Market Dates for 2025: That is ONLY 2 weekends a yr: December sixth, seventh, eighth, and thirteenth, 14th and fifteenth 2025 – as you’ll be able to see it is a tremendous quick season however so value it! The Ribeauville Christmas market is just open for 2 weekends however is HIGHLY value it.

Heidelberg, Germany

The Heidelberg Christmas market is among the oldest markets in Germany, courting again to 1398! The primary market is situated in Heidelberg’s outdated city, all through the Hauptstrasse. This can be a bit completely different than a few of the different markets, and I discover it a pleasure! You possibly can stroll practically a mile and luxuriate in completely different Christmas festivities alongside the best way. I am biased since I lived in Heidelberg, however with a stupendous sixteenth century buildings, the citadel towering over the skating rink, it is simply magical.

It is a actually charming place with round 100 fantastically embellished stalls. You may discover loads of mulled wine and conventional German meals like bratwurst and pretzels. The views of the citadel lit up at evening are merely gorgeous.

There’s additionally a market in close by Mannheim which I additionally suggest testing when you have time. It is a quick drive or prepare trip away!

Heidelberg Christmas Market Dates for 2025: November twenty fourth by means of December twenty second, 2025.

See my full information to Heidelberg’s Christmas markets right here.

Colmar, France

Nestled within the Alsace area of France, Colmar is really a fairytale city and its Christmas market doesn’t disappoint. With over 300 stalls, this is among the largest markets in France. The setting could not be extra excellent both, because the market is situated within the lovely outdated city, which is filled with half-timbered homes, canals, and cobbled streets.

The market itself is extremely festive, with an enormous Christmas tree, a life-sized nativity scene, and a formidable gentle show. You may discover all the standard French Christmas Market favorites right here, from vin chaud (mulled wine) to ache d’epices (gingerbread), to baeckeoffe (a scrumptious Alsatian stew). There’s additionally all kinds of handmade items and decorations on supply.

When in Colmar, one among my favourite French eating places can’t be beat! Winstub de la Petite Venise. This Michelin star restaurant provides a 35 euro plat du jour that makes my mouth water simply serious about it!

Try my Christmas market highway journey itinerary right here.

Colmar Christmas Market Dates for 2025: November twenty fifth by means of December twenty ninth 2025.

Budapest, Hungary

Budapest’s Christmas Market is among the most lovely in Europe and takes place in Vörösmarty Sq. in entrance of the magnificent Nineteenth-century Gerbeaud Home. With over 100 fantastically embellished stalls, a large ferris wheel, an ice rink, and a nativity scene, it is easy to spend a couple of hours right here.

There’s additionally a stupendous gentle present each night at 7 pm on the facade of the Gerbeaud Home that is undoubtedly value sticking round for. The market is open from November eleventh to January 1st, so you’ve got loads of time to go to. And remember to strive some conventional Hungarian dishes like lángos (a deep-fried flatbread) or kürtőskalács (a chimney cake)!

Budapest Christmas Market Dates for 2025: November fifteenth by means of December thirty first 2025.

One of the simplest ways to see the Christmas Markets? A river cruise! We beloved them a lot, we chartered our personal! Click on right here for particulars!

Rüdesheim, Germany

Rüdesheim, situated within the coronary heart of the Rhine Valley, is a picturesque city identified for its wine and its distinctive Christmas Market of Nations. This market brings collectively over 120 stalls from 12 completely different nations, providing an eclectic mixture of festive items and delicacies. The market sprawls by means of the historic outdated city, with cobblestone streets and half-timbered homes including to the allure.

Make sure to strive Rüdesheim espresso, a specialty made with domestically distilled Asbach Uralt brandy. The city additionally hosts festive concert events and Christmas occasions within the close by Drosselgasse, its most well-known road.

Rüdesheim Christmas Market Dates for 2025: November twentieth by means of December twenty third, 2025.

Munich, Germany

Munich is famend for its superb Oktoberfest celebration, however do you know that it additionally has a few of the greatest Christmas markets in Europe? The markets listed here are giant and energetic with a fantastic environment.

The primary market is situated at Marienplatz within the coronary heart of town. This can be a actually well-liked spot, so be ready for crowds. But it surely’s undoubtedly value braving the plenty to see the gorgeous Glockenspiel present that takes place each day at 11 am and midday. There are additionally a lot of different markets situated all through town, so that you’re certain to seek out one which fits your fancy.

There are lots of markets in Munich, however be sure you begin on the iconic Christkindlmarkt situated in Marienplatz. From there, you’ll be able to select from the basic Neuhausen Christmas market or go for one thing completely different just like the Wintertollwood Pageant held on Oktoberfest grounds.

And in the event you’re on the lookout for an genuine Bavarian eating expertise, be sure you try Hofbräuhaus, one among Munich’s most well-known beer halls. It is a fantastic place to strive some conventional German dishes like Weißwurst (veal sausage) and Leberkäse (a sort of meatloaf).

Munich Christmas Market Dates for 2025: November twentieth by means of December twenty third, 2025.

Innsbruck, Austria

Innsbruck is a captivating metropolis situated within the Austrian Alps and its Christmas market is nothing wanting magical. With over 80 stalls, it is one of many smaller markets on this record, but it surely greater than makes up for it with its gorgeous setting. The market takes place within the outdated city sq. in opposition to the backdrop of the snow-capped peaks of the Alps.

What I really like most about this market is that it has an actual conventional really feel to it. You may discover all the standard Austrian Christmas Market staples like Glühwein (mulled wine), Lebkuchen (gingerbread), and Maroni (roasted chestnuts). However you will additionally discover some extra uncommon gadgets like Krapfen (fried dough balls stuffed with jam) and Kernöl (pumpkin seed oil).

Innsbruck Christmas Market Dates for 2025: November fifteenth by means of December twenty third, 2025.

London, England

I really like London for Christmas as all of the shops are decked out and there is a feeling of pleasure in all places! Whereas London may not be the everyday spot, Christmas market is certainly value a go to. Positioned in Hyde Park, Winter Wonderland is among the largest markets in Europe and it is utterly free to enter!

When you’re inside, you will discover an array of points of interest like an ice rink, a large ferris wheel, and a German-style market with over 200 stalls. And in the event you’re feeling actually festive, you’ll be able to even go to Santa’s Grotto!

Winter Wonderland is open from late November till early January, so you’ve got loads of time to get pleasure from all of the enjoyable. And whenever you’re prepared for a break from the chilly, head to one among Hyde Park’s many cafes for a cup of tea or some conventional English fare.

If in case you have additional time, head to Bathtub,a quintessential city in the UK that is additionally obtained a beautiful Christmas market!

London Christmas Market Dates for 2025: November twenty first by means of January fifth 2026.

See one of the best locations in London for Christmas right here.

Nuremberg, Germany

Nuremberg is a stupendous medieval metropolis situated within the German state of Bavaria – since 1313. It is best identified for its conventional Christkindlesmarkt, which is among the oldest and largest markets in Germany.

The market is unfold out throughout town heart with over 180 stalls, so there’s lots to see and do. You may discover all the standard German Christmas Market staples like Glühwein, Lebkuchen, and Maroni. However you will additionally discover some extra uncommon gadgets like Nürnberger Christstollen (a sort of fruitcake) and Nürnberger Rostbratwurst (a grilled sausage).

If you happen to go to Nuremberg Christmas Market on the primary Friday earlier than Introduction there’s an incredible opening ceremony with performances and reside music.

Nuremberg Christmas Market Dates for 2025: November twenty eighth by means of December twenty fourth, 2025.

Metz, France

Metz is a stupendous metropolis situated within the northeast of France, near the border with Germany. It is best identified for its giant Christmas market, which is among the largest in Europe.

The market is unfold out throughout town heart with over 200 stalls, so there’s lots to see and do. You may discover all the standard French Christmas Market staples like vin chaud, ache d’épices (gingerbread), and candies. However you will additionally discover some extra gormet meals like foie gras, tarte flambée (a sort of pizza), and quiche Lorraine.

Cathedral Saint-Étienne de Metz dates again to the eleventh century has a beautiful Christmas market simply exterior the doorways full with a ferris wheel. Inside are lovely stained glass home windows that have been constructed by well-known artists like Marc Chagall and Jean Cocteau. Metz has loads of different locations value visiting as properly – Notre Dame d’Auschwitz, the fashionable artwork heart Centre Pompidou-Metz, and Le Temple Neuf is a stupendous church that appears extra like a citadel.

Metz Christmas Market Dates for 2025: November twenty first by means of December thirtieth, 2025.

Linz, Austria

Linz, the capital of Higher Austria, transforms right into a winter wonderland throughout the vacation season. The Hauptplatz Christmas Market options over 50 stalls promoting artisan crafts, baked items, and festive drinks, all below the glow of a fantastically lit Christmas tree. There are many smaller, uncrowded markets all through town and it is completely pretty!

Linz can also be well-known for its Linzer Torte, a spiced nut tart that’s mentioned to be the oldest cake on the planet. Take a break from the markets to get pleasure from a slice at one of many metropolis’s many cafes.

The Steigel Klosterhof is an precise dream land and a real hidden gem! It is €5 to get in BUT that comes with a free scorching drink! Hundreds of crimson baubles float overhead and there are superb shows!

Linz Christmas Market Dates for 2025: November twenty second by means of December twenty fourth, 2025.

Trier, Germany

Trier is a stupendous metropolis situated within the southwest of Germany, near the border with Luxembourg. Trier is understood for it is romantic setting and with the Christmas market’s backdrop of the attractive cathedral, it is a pretty spot.

This system on the Trier Christmas Market adjustments each day, providing quite a lot of leisure for the entire household. From historic puppet theater to star tenor and songsmiths, there’s something for everybody to get pleasure from. With scrumptious food and drinks on supply, plus arts and crafts from world wide, the Trier Christmas Market attracts guests from far and vast.

To get a view from above like I did right here, head to the DE retailer proper earlier than you enter the market.

Trier Christmas Market Dates for 2025: November twenty first by means of December twenty second, 2025.

See one of the best Christmas markets in Germany right here.

Bruges, Belgium

Bruges is a stupendous metropolis situated within the northwest of Belgium. It is best identified for its canals, cobbled streets, and medieval structure. The Christmas market is situated within the historic metropolis heart and is among the most atmospheric markets in Europe.

You may discover all the standard Belgian Christmas Market staples like Belgian chocolate, waffles, and beer. However you will additionally discover gadgets like gingerbread homes, candles, and handmade wood toys. Yearly Grote Sq. is remodeled to Bruges’ largest Christmas market and within the heart you will discover a skating rink. You may as well head to Stevin Sq. for much more Christmas festivities.

Bruges Christmas Market Dates for 2025: November twenty first by means of January 4th 2026.

Aachen, Germany

I simply went to Aachen final yr for my first time and completely beloved it! Not solely is Aachen stuffed with essential historical past, it is obtained an unbelievable Christmas market that is been named one of many prime Christmas Markets in Europe over time.

Aachen Christmas Market is situated within the historic metropolis heart and is among the oldest markets in Germany. It dates again to 1434 making it even older than Nuremberg! You may discover all the standard German Christmas Market staples like Glühwein, Lebkuchen (gingerbread), and Bratwurst.

However what I beloved most concerning the market have been all the Aachener Printen on supply. Printen are a sort of gingerbread that originates from Aachen. They arrive in all types of styles and sizes and are completely scrumptious!

Aachen Christmas Market Dates for 2025: November twenty first by means of December twenty third 2025.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen is the capital of Denmark and is situated on the japanese coast of the nation. Town is filled with allure with its canals, cobbled streets, and historic buildings. The Christmas market is situated within the coronary heart of town at Metropolis Corridor Sq..

You may discover all the standard Danish Christmas Market staples like æbleskiver (a sort of pancake), Gløgg (mulled wine), and Danish Christmas beer. There are additionally loads of stalls promoting handmade Christmas decorations, toys, and items.

Tivoli Gardens is a well-known park and it is a should for Christmas because it’s arrange like Santa’s village- you’ll be able to even trip the Polar Categorical! Additionally, Kongens Nytorv is among the most lovely squares in Copenhagen and it actually comes alive throughout Christmas time. And remember to go to iconic Nyhavn the place you will additionally discover a market.

Copenhagen Christmas Market Dates for 2025: November 14th by means of December 23, 2025.

Zagreb, Croatia

Zagreb is the capital of Croatia and is situated within the northwest of the nation. Town is filled with tradition and historical past with a stupendous outdated city that is excellent for exploring. The Christmas market is situated in Tomislav Sq. within the heart of town.

On the Zagreb Christmas Market, you will discover all the standard Croatian Christmas Market staples like mulled wine, sausages, and pancakes. You may as well discover handicrafts, jewellery, and pottery. Make sure to strive the strukli which is a sort of pastry that is well-liked in Zagreb.

And if you wish to get a birds eye view of the market, ensure to go to the Zagreb Eye which is a big Ferris wheel situated within the coronary heart of town.

Zagreb Christmas Market Dates for 2025: November twenty ninth by means of January seventh, 2026.

Christmas Markets in Europe Map

Here is a map of all my favourite Christmas Markets in Europe. I’ve mapped out not solely the highest 10 Christmas Markets in Europe from this information, however a few of my favorites all around the continent!

Christmas Market Prime Ideas

As your resident knowledgeable on Christmas in Europe, listed here are a few of my prime suggestions for benefiting from your Christmas market journey!

Which nation has one of the best Christmas Markets? That is clearly up for debate, however the award has to go to Germany! Germany has a few of the oldest and greatest markets round. The custom runs deep and even small cities and villages take part. See one of the best Christmas markets in Germany right here.

Which nation has one of the best decorations for Christmas? France! France goes all out for decorations. It does not damage that the Alsace area already appears like an ideal gingerbread village!

What’s one of the best time to go for Christmas markets in Europe? I feel December is your greatest wager to make sure you see the Christmas markets however many begin in late November. Some markets do go till January as properly.

Listed below are some extra useful guides:

What to Eat and Drink at a Christmas Market

Europe Christmas Market Itinerary and Information

Greatest Christmas Markets in Germany

Greatest Christmas Market in France

Greatest Christmas Markets in Switzerland

So there you’ve got it, my record of one of the best Christmas markets in Europe for 2025! Which one are you most excited about- when you have any questions, be happy to succeed in out to me on Instagram @heleneinbetween – I reply all my DMs!