Finest Christmas Markets in Europe 2025

Planning your dream Christmas journey to Europe? You’re in the correct place. I’ve traveled to over 100 Christmas markets throughout the continent to carry 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 publish is full of precise 2025 Christmas market dates, insider meals ideas, and magical locations you gained’t wish to miss.

Image this: You’re strolling the traditional cobblestone streets, on both facet heat lights of cafes and outlets beckon you inside, you’ve gotten a slight chill regardless of your heat winter coat. You see a citadel within the mist on the hill forward of you. May right this moment get any higher? Sure, sure it might.

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

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: 1000’s of twinkle lights strewn alongside recent reduce pine timber. Hand carved wood stalls promoting meals, drinks, and handmade trinkets line the road, every yet another embellished than the subsequent.

It’s Christmas Markets in Europe and it’s essentially 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 repeatedly to Christmas markets throughout Europe and writing about my discovering.

One issues for positive: it’s price 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 neighborhood and pleasure, everybody on the town will get collectively, regardless of the chilly climate to have a good time 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 take advantage of your time.

Finest 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 probably the greatest 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 inns, 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 the town. There are over 300 stalls so that you’re in for a deal with!

PRO TIP: You probably 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’ll be able to see my full information to those Alsace villages at Christmas right here.

Starsbourg Christmas Market Dates for 2025: November twenty sixth via 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 will see beautiful buildings decked out in bows and ribbons. However you additionally get unimaginable Christmas markets! I have been to markets all all through Europe and I can inform you, those in Vienna are a number of the finest.

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

If you need 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 extremely 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 stunning park and has a extremely relaxed and charming ambiance. It is the proper place to seize a cup of sizzling chocolate and a slice of Sachertorte (a chocolate cake that may be a Vienna specialty!)

Vienna Christmas Market Dates for 2025: November 14th via 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 the town, you will discover no scarcity of issues to see and do right here. Giant, lavishly embellished Christmas markets sparkle all through the town.

A few of my favorites are the Cologne Cathedral Market, that is the biggest and takes place outdoors the spectacular cathedral with dwell music, an enormous tree, and gluhwein (sizzling, 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 girls wearing angel costumes handing out sweets to youngsters. There’s additionally a wonderful carousel and beautiful mugs which might be good to take residence as souvenirs. I am keen on the one within the Outdated City as a result of it is crammed with what appears to be like like gnomes, however it’s a lot extra! The Alter Markt calls itself the Dwelling of the Heinzelmännchen (who had been little creatures from a Cologne legend who used to do all of the housekeeping till they had been aggravated by an inquisitive housewife).

And Nikolausdorf or “NicholasVillage” in Rudolfplatz can be nicely 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 via December twenty third 2025.

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

Bratislava, Slovakia

Bratislava, the charming capital of Slovakia, presents a pleasant mixture of historical past, tradition, and Christmas magic. Its predominant Christmas market is held within the picturesque Essential Sq. (Hlavné námestie) and Hviezdoslav Sq., surrounded by colourful Baroque buildings. The comfy ambiance of this market is ideal for these in search of a extra intimate Christmas expertise.

Climb up the city corridor for just some 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 the town illuminated by festive lights.

Bratislava Christmas Market Dates for 2025: November twenty seventh via 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, relationship 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 dwell carolers on this romantic setting. One other must-visit is the Hellbrunn Introduction Magic, situated at Hellbrunn Palace, which incorporates a life-sized creation calendar and a petting zoo for youngsters.

Salzburg Christmas Market Dates for 2025: November twentieth via December twenty sixth, 2025.

Dresden, Germany

Dresden is residence 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 conventional German fruitcake. You will 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 ambiance.

Dresden Christmas Market Dates for 2025: November twenty sixth via December twenty fourth, 2025.

Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn appears to be like 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 principle market is situated in City Corridor Sq., in entrance of the beautiful medieval City Corridor. This is among the largest markets in Tallinn and is ideal for choosing up items and souvenirs. You will discover handmade Estonian crafts, decorations, and loads of locations to seize a chunk to eat. The gluwein right here can be glorious! It is a excellent spot to choose up a home made wool sweater and stick round for dwell music and leisure at night time.

In case you’re in search of one thing somewhat 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 advocate 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 via 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 principle market is situated in Munsterplatz and is crammed with lovely handcrafted items, a big number of foods and drinks, and twinkling lights. You’ll want to strive the scrumptious Basler Läckerli, a spiced gingerbread-like biscuits which might be a neighborhood specialty. I additionally love the mulled wine right here, it is a number of the finest I’ve ever had!

There are additionally a number of different markets situated all through the town together with one within the sq. in entrance of Basel’s lovely pink sandstone cathedral. It is a excellent spot to do some Christmas purchasing as you will discover every thing from jewellery to wood toys.

PRO TIP: In case you’re in search of one thing somewhat completely different, you’ll want to try the Introduction Calendar Home. It is a home with 25 home windows, every with a special shock behind it!

Basel Christmas Market Dates for 2025: November twenty seventh via December twenty third, 2025.

Prague, Czech Republic

In case you’re in search of 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 ambiance. The markets listed here are a number of the most unusual in Europe with lovely handmade items on supply.

The principle market is situated in Outdated City Sq. the place you will discover a beautiful Christmas tree and the spectacular Tyn Church within the background. It is a actually well-liked spot, so be ready for crowds, which is why I like to recommend weekdays. But it surely’s undoubtedly price braving the lots 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 trendy areas of the town and supply a refreshing change of tempo from the Outdated City.

Prague Christmas Market Dates for 2025: November twenty third via January sixth, 2026.

Brussels, Belgium

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

What actually units Brussels aside is the meals. Belgium is already recognized for its culinary delights, however the Christmas market takes it to a different stage. Take pleasure in Belgian waffles topped with whipped cream and chocolate, completely crisp on the skin and fluffy inside. Attempt speculoos cookies, a spiced deal with that pairs completely with a cup of mulled wine or sizzling chocolate. For one thing savory, seize croquettes or carbonnade flamande, a slow-cooked beef stew made with beer. And naturally, no go to could 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 unimaginable choices, Brussels is usually neglected in favor of bigger or extra well-known markets, making it a hidden gem for these trying to expertise one thing distinctive with out overwhelming crowds.

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

Helsinki, Finland

Helsinki, Finland is a singular Christmas market expertise as a result of it is not solely concerning the market stalls, but in addition the ice skating rink that units up in Senate Sq.. It is so festive and wonderful 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 could find on the Outdated Market Corridor. This is among the few markets the place you could find meals indoors, so it is good if you happen to’re visiting in colder climate or if you happen to simply want a break from the chilly. You will 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 via 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 essentially the most charming manner. Your entire city attire up and participates. There are individuals 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 totally completely different, medieval world.

You will discover all the same old Christmas market fare right here like mulled wine, gingerbread, and roasted chestnuts. However Ribeauvillé can be recognized for its glorious native wines, so you’ll want to decide up a bottle or two to take residence with you. You will additionally discover loads of handmade items on supply.

Ribeauvillé Christmas Market Dates for 2025: That is ONLY 2 weekends a 12 months: 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 price it! The Ribeauville Christmas market is just open for 2 weekends however is HIGHLY price it.

Heidelberg, Germany

The Heidelberg Christmas market is among the oldest markets in Germany, relationship again to 1398! The principle market is situated in Heidelberg’s outdated city, all through the Hauptstrasse. It is a bit completely different than a number of the different markets, and I discover it a pleasure! You’ll be able to 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 wonderful 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 will discover loads of mulled wine and conventional German meals like bratwurst and pretzels. The views of the citadel lit up at night time are merely beautiful.

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

Heidelberg Christmas Market Dates for 2025: November twenty fourth via 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 good both, because the market is situated within the lovely outdated city, which is stuffed 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 will discover all the normal 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, certainly one of my favourite French eating places can’t be beat! Winstub de la Petite Venise. This Michelin star restaurant presents a 35 euro plat du jour that makes my mouth water simply enthusiastic about it!

Try my Christmas market street journey itinerary right here.

Colmar Christmas Market Dates for 2025: November twenty fifth via 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, an enormous ferris wheel, an ice rink, and a nativity scene, it is simple to spend just a few hours right here.

There’s additionally a wonderful gentle present each night at 7 pm on the facade of the Gerbeaud Home that is undoubtedly price sticking round for. The market is open from November eleventh to January 1st, so you’ve gotten 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 via December thirty first 2025.

The easiest way 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 recognized 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 via the historic outdated city, with cobblestone streets and half-timbered homes including to the attraction.

You’ll want to strive Rüdesheim espresso, a specialty made with domestically distilled Asbach Uralt brandy. The city additionally hosts festive live shows and Christmas occasions within the close by Drosselgasse, its most well-known avenue.

Rüdesheim Christmas Market Dates for 2025: November twentieth via December twenty third, 2025.

Munich, Germany

Munich is famend for its superb Oktoberfest celebration, however do you know that it additionally has a number of the finest Christmas markets in Europe? The markets listed here are massive and vigorous with an important ambiance.

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

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

And if you happen to’re in search of an genuine Bavarian eating expertise, you’ll want to try Hofbräuhaus, certainly one of Munich’s most well-known beer halls. It is an important place to strive some conventional German dishes like Weißwurst (veal sausage) and Leberkäse (a kind of meatloaf).

Munich Christmas Market Dates for 2025: November twentieth via 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 checklist, however it greater than makes up for it with its beautiful setting. The market takes place within the outdated city sq. towards the backdrop of the snow-capped peaks of the Alps.

What I like most about this market is that it has an actual conventional really feel to it. You will discover all the same old 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 crammed with jam) and Kernöl (pumpkin seed oil).

Innsbruck Christmas Market Dates for 2025: November fifteenth via December twenty third, 2025.

London, England

I like London for Christmas as all of the shops are decked out and there is a feeling of pleasure in all places! Whereas London won’t be the everyday spot, Christmas market is unquestionably price a go to. Situated in Hyde Park, Winter Wonderland is among the largest markets in Europe and it is fully free to enter!

When you’re inside, you will discover an array of sights like an ice rink, an enormous ferris wheel, and a German-style market with over 200 stalls. And if you happen to’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 gotten loads of time to get pleasure from all of the enjoyable. And once you’re prepared for a break from the chilly, head to certainly one of Hyde Park’s many cafes for a cup of tea or some conventional English fare.

You probably have additional time, head to Tub,a quintessential city in the UK that is additionally acquired an exquisite Christmas market!

London Christmas Market Dates for 2025: November twenty first via January fifth 2026.

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

Nuremberg, Germany

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

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

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

Nuremberg Christmas Market Dates for 2025: November twenty eighth via December twenty fourth, 2025.

Metz, France

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

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

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

Metz Christmas Market Dates for 2025: November twenty first via 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 the town and it is completely pretty!

Linz can be well-known for its Linzer Torte, a spiced nut tart that’s mentioned to be the oldest cake on the earth. 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 sizzling drink! 1000’s of pink baubles float overhead and there are superb shows!

Linz Christmas Market Dates for 2025: November twenty second via December twenty fourth, 2025.

Trier, Germany

Trier is a wonderful 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 beautiful cathedral, it is a pretty spot.

This system on the Trier Christmas Market modifications every 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 foods and drinks on supply, plus arts and crafts from all over the world, the Trier Christmas Market attracts guests from far and broad.

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 via December twenty second, 2025.

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

Bruges, Belgium

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

You will discover all the same old 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 reworked to Bruges’ largest Christmas market and within the middle you will discover a skating rink. You can too head to Stevin Sq. for much more Christmas festivities.

Bruges Christmas Market Dates for 2025: November twenty first via January 4th 2026.

Aachen, Germany

I simply went to Aachen final 12 months for my first time and completely beloved it! Not solely is Aachen stuffed with necessary historical past, it is acquired an unimaginable 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 middle and is among the oldest markets in Germany. It dates again to 1434 making it even older than Nuremberg! You will discover all the normal German Christmas Market staples like Glühwein, Lebkuchen (gingerbread), and Bratwurst.

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

Aachen Christmas Market Dates for 2025: November twenty first via December twenty third 2025.

Copenhagen, Denmark

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

You will discover all the normal Danish Christmas Market staples like æbleskiver (a kind 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 journey 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 move to iconic Nyhavn the place you will additionally discover a market.

Copenhagen Christmas Market Dates for 2025: November 14th via December 23, 2025.

Zagreb, Croatia

Zagreb is the capital of Croatia and is situated within the northwest of the nation. Town is stuffed with tradition and historical past with a wonderful outdated city that is good for exploring. The Christmas market is situated in Tomislav Sq. within the middle of the town.

On the Zagreb Christmas Market, you will discover all the normal Croatian Christmas Market staples like mulled wine, sausages, and pancakes. You can too discover handicrafts, jewellery, and pottery. You’ll want to strive the strukli which is a kind of pastry that is well-liked in Zagreb.

And if you wish to get a birds eye view of the market, make certain to move to the Zagreb Eye which is a huge Ferris wheel situated within the coronary heart of the town.

Zagreb Christmas Market Dates for 2025: November twenty ninth via January seventh, 2026.

Christmas Markets in Europe Map

This 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 everywhere in the continent!

Christmas Market Prime Ideas

As your resident knowledgeable on Christmas in Europe, listed here are a few of my prime ideas 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 number of the oldest and finest 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 would not harm that the Alsace area already appears to be like like an ideal gingerbread village!

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

Listed here are some extra useful guides:

What to Eat and Drink at a Christmas Market

Europe Christmas Market Itinerary and Information

Finest Christmas Markets in Germany

Finest Christmas Market in France

Finest Christmas Markets in Switzerland

So there you’ve gotten it, my checklist 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 achieve out to me on Instagram @heleneinbetween – I reply all my DMs!