Finest Christmas Markets in Europe 2025

Planning your dream Christmas journey to Europe? You’re in the best place. I’ve traveled to over 100 Christmas markets throughout the continent to carry you the last word information to the very best Christmas markets in Europe for 2025. From twinkle-light-covered cities in Germany to fairy-tale villages in France and Austria, this put up is filled with precise 2025 Christmas market dates, insider meals suggestions, and magical locations you gained’t wish to miss.

Image this: You’re strolling the traditional cobblestone streets, on both aspect heat lights of cafes and outlets beckon you inside, you could have a slight chill regardless of your heat winter coat. You see a fort within the mist on the hill forward of you. Might at present get any higher? Sure, sure it might.

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 hearth.

Subsequent you’re hit with the noise. Christmas carols sung in German, laughter of all ages, and folks greeting one another on the high 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 contemporary minimize pine timber. Hand carved picket stalls promoting meals, drinks, and handmade trinkets line the road, every yet one more adorned than the following.

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

I like to consider myself as a Christmas market professional 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 price it. I do know that many don’t take into consideration visiting Europe in the course of the vacation season, however I discover it really sensational. It’s such a way of group 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 the very best of the European Christmas markets so you may 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 positively 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 in the course of the vacation season. With superbly adorned stalls and open every single day from November twenty fourth to December twenty fourth, you may 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 accommodations, 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: 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’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 by means of December twenty fourth, 2025.

See my full information to the very 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 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 greatest.

There are a number of giant markets positioned across the metropolis, every with their very own distinctive really feel. The most well-liked might be at Rathausplatz in entrance of the attractive City Corridor. With over 150 chalets, this is likely one of the largest in Europe. It is good for choosing up items and grabbing a chew to eat. The Glühwein right here is a number of the greatest 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 positioned 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 positioned in a stunning park and has a extremely relaxed and charming environment. 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 by means of December 23th, 2025.

Cologne, Germany

Cologne, Germany is likely one of the hottest Christmas markets in Europe and for good motive! With seven markets, all with totally different themes, all through the town, you may discover no scarcity of issues to see and do right here. Giant, lavishly adorned 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 stay music, an enormous tree, and gluhwein (sizzling, mulled wine!). I additionally adore the Angels’ Market the place you may discover it in Neumarkt Sq. and is likely one of the authentic markets that options ladies wearing angel costumes handing out sweets to kids. There’s additionally a good looking carousel and beautiful mugs which are good to take residence as souvenirs. I like the one within the Previous City as a result of it is full of what appears to be like like gnomes, but it surely’s a lot extra! The Alter Markt calls itself the Dwelling of the Heinzelmännchen (who have been little creatures from a Cologne legend who used to do all of the home tasks till they have been irritated by an inquisitive housewife).

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

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

See the very best Christmas markets in Germany right here.

Bratislava, Slovakia

Bratislava, the charming capital of Slovakia, gives a pleasant mixture of historical past, tradition, and Christmas magic. Its foremost Christmas market is held within the picturesque Major 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 may 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 Fortress for breathtaking views of the 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 likely one of 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 stay carolers on this romantic setting. One other must-visit is the Hellbrunn Creation Magic, positioned at Hellbrunn Palace, which includes a life-sized introduction 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 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 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 adorned stalls, and a fascinating carousel. Past the Striezelmarkt, Dresden has different smaller markets, together with the Medieval Christmas Market at Stallhof, the place you may take pleasure in 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 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 positioned in City Corridor Sq., in entrance of the attractive medieval City Corridor. This is likely one of the largest markets in Tallinn and is ideal for choosing up items and souvenirs. You may discover handmade Estonian crafts, decorations, and loads of locations to seize a chew to eat. The gluwein right here can be glorious! This can be a excellent spot to choose up a hand-crafted wool sweater and stick round for stay music and leisure at night time.

In case you’re on the lookout for one thing a little bit totally different, take a look at the Rotermann Quarter. This market is positioned in an previous 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 positioned on the river Rhine and is understood for its stunning Previous City, medieval structure, museums, and naturally Christmas markets! This metropolis has one of many longest working Christmas markets in Europe because it dates again to 1521.

The principle market is positioned in Munsterplatz and is full of stunning handcrafted items, a big collection of foods and drinks, and twinkling lights. Make sure you attempt 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 number of the greatest I’ve ever had!

There are additionally a number of different markets positioned all through the town together with one within the sq. in entrance of Basel’s stunning pink sandstone cathedral. This can be a excellent spot to do some Christmas purchasing as you may discover all the things from jewellery to picket toys.

PRO TIP: In case you’re on the lookout for one thing a little bit totally different, you should definitely take a look at the Creation Calendar Home. This can be a home with 25 home windows, every with a distinct shock behind it!

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

Prague, Czech Republic

In case you’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 below are a number of the most original in Europe with stunning handmade items on provide.

The principle market is positioned in Previous City Sq. the place you may discover a beautiful 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. However it’s positively price braving the lots to see the attractive decorations and seize some conventional Czech meals.

For one thing a bit extra low-key, take a look at the markets at Wenceslas Sq. and Havel’s Market. These are each positioned in additional fashionable areas of the town and provide a refreshing change of tempo from the Previous 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 number of the BEST Christmas market meals you will see that at a Christmas market. So good!!! The town’s Winter Wonders Market is one in every of Europe’s most underrated festive experiences. With over 250 picket chalets stretching from Grand Place to Sainte-Catherine, Brussels gives a mixture of conventional appeal and fashionable vacation festivities.

What really units Brussels aside is the meals. Belgium is already identified for its culinary delights, however the Christmas market takes it to a different stage. Bask in Belgian waffles topped with whipped cream and chocolate, completely crisp on the surface and fluffy inside. Strive 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.

The 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 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 novel Christmas market expertise as a result of it isn’t solely in regards to the market stalls, but additionally 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’ll find on the Previous Market Corridor. This is likely one of the few markets the place you’ll find meals indoors, so it is good when you’re visiting in colder climate or when you simply want a break from the chilly. You may additionally discover handcrafted Christmas decorations, glassware, and textiles.

I cherished the saunas positioned 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 provided for a pair quick weekends however SO WORTH IT. It is one of the vital uncommon markets I’ve ever been to in probably the most charming method. Your complete city clothes up and participates. There are folks dressed up, on stilts, sensible males with actual camels, fires in the course 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 totally different, medieval world.

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

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 may see it is a tremendous quick season however so price it! The Ribeauville Christmas market is simply open for 2 weekends however is HIGHLY price it.

Heidelberg, Germany

The Heidelberg Christmas market is likely one of the oldest markets in Germany, relationship again to 1398! The principle market is positioned in Heidelberg’s previous city, all through the Hauptstrasse. This can be a bit totally different than a number of the different markets, and I discover it a pleasure! You’ll be able to stroll almost a mile and luxuriate in totally different Christmas festivities alongside the best way. I am biased since I lived in Heidelberg, however with a good looking sixteenth century buildings, the fort towering over the skating rink, it is simply magical.

It is a really charming place with round 100 superbly adorned stalls. You may discover loads of mulled wine and conventional German meals like bratwurst and pretzels. The views of the fort lit up at night time are merely beautiful.

There’s additionally a market in close by Mannheim which I additionally suggest trying out you probably have time. It is a quick drive or practice experience 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 likely one of the largest markets in France. The setting could not be extra good both, because the market is positioned within the stunning previous 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 powerful mild show. You may 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 provide.

When in Colmar, one in every of my favourite French eating places can’t be beat! Winstub de la Petite Venise. This Michelin star restaurant gives 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 likely one of the most stunning in Europe and takes place in Vörösmarty Sq. in entrance of the magnificent Nineteenth-century Gerbeaud Home. With over 100 superbly adorned stalls, an enormous ferris wheel, an ice rink, and a nativity scene, it is easy to spend a number of hours right here.

There’s additionally a good looking mild present each night at 7 pm on the facade of the Gerbeaud Home that is positively price sticking round for. The market is open from November eleventh to January 1st, so you could have loads of time to go to. And remember to attempt 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.

The easiest way to see the Christmas Markets? A river cruise! We cherished them a lot, we chartered our personal! Click on right here for particulars!

Rüdesheim, Germany

Rüdesheim, positioned 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 totally different international locations, providing an eclectic mixture of festive items and delicacies. The market sprawls by means of the historic previous city, with cobblestone streets and half-timbered homes including to the appeal.

Make sure you attempt 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 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 number of the greatest Christmas markets in Europe? The markets listed below are giant and vigorous with a terrific environment.

The principle market is positioned at Marienplatz within the coronary heart of the town. This can be a actually well-liked spot, so be ready for crowds. However it’s positively price braving the lots to see the attractive Glockenspiel present that takes place every single day at 11 am and midday. There are additionally various different markets positioned all through the town, so that you’re certain to search out one which fits your fancy.

There are a lot of markets in Munich, however you should definitely begin on the iconic Christkindlmarkt positioned in Marienplatz. From there, you may select from the basic Neuhausen Christmas market or go for one thing totally different just like the Wintertollwood Pageant held on Oktoberfest grounds.

And when you’re on the lookout for an genuine Bavarian eating expertise, you should definitely take a look at Hofbräuhaus, one in every of Munich’s most well-known beer halls. It is a terrific place to attempt 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 positioned within the Austrian Alps and its Christmas market is nothing in need of 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 beautiful setting. The market takes place within the previous city sq. in opposition to 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 may discover all the standard Austrian Christmas Market staples like Glühwein (mulled wine), Lebkuchen (gingerbread), and Maroni (roasted chestnuts). However you may additionally discover some extra uncommon gadgets like Krapfen (fried dough balls full of jam) and Kernöl (pumpkin seed oil).

Innsbruck Christmas Market Dates for 2025: November fifteenth by means of 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 every single place! Whereas London won’t be the standard spot, Christmas market is certainly price a go to. Positioned in Hyde Park, Winter Wonderland is likely one of the largest markets in Europe and it is utterly free to enter!

When you’re inside, you may discover an array of sights like an ice rink, an enormous ferris wheel, and a German-style market with over 200 stalls. And when you’re feeling actually festive, you may even go to Santa’s Grotto!

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

If in case you have additional time, head to Tub,a quintessential city in the UK that is additionally received an exquisite Christmas market!

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

See the very best locations in London for Christmas right here.

Nuremberg, Germany

Nuremberg is a good looking medieval metropolis positioned within the German state of Bavaria – since 1313. It is best identified for its conventional Christkindlesmarkt, which is likely one of the oldest and largest markets in Germany.

The market is unfold out throughout the town middle 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 may additionally discover some extra uncommon gadgets like Nürnberger Christstollen (a sort of fruitcake) and Nürnberger Rostbratwurst (a grilled sausage).

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

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

Metz, France

Metz is a good looking metropolis positioned within the northeast of France, near the border with Germany. It is best identified for its giant Christmas market, which is likely one of the largest in Europe.

The market is unfold out throughout the town middle 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 sweets. However you may 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 stunning Christmas market simply outdoors the doorways full with a ferris wheel. Inside are stunning stained glass home windows that have been constructed by well-known artists like Marc Chagall and Jean Cocteau. Metz has loads of different locations price visiting as properly – Notre Dame d’Auschwitz, the trendy artwork middle Centre Pompidou-Metz, and Le Temple Neuf is a good looking church that appears extra like a fort.

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 in the course of the vacation season. The Hauptplatz Christmas Market options over 50 stalls promoting artisan crafts, baked items, and festive drinks, all beneath the glow of a superbly 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 this planet. Take a break from the markets to take pleasure in 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! Hundreds of pink 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 good looking metropolis positioned 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 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 take pleasure in. With scrumptious foods and drinks on provide, plus arts and crafts from all over the world, 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 the very best Christmas markets in Germany right here.

Bruges, Belgium

Bruges is a good looking metropolis positioned within the northwest of Belgium. It is best identified for its canals, cobbled streets, and medieval structure. The Christmas market is positioned within the historic metropolis middle and is likely one of the most atmospheric markets in Europe.

You may discover all the standard Belgian Christmas Market staples like Belgian chocolate, waffles, and beer. However you may additionally discover gadgets like gingerbread homes, candles, and handmade picket toys. Yearly Grote Sq. is remodeled to Bruges’ largest Christmas market and within the middle you may discover a skating rink. It’s also possible to 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 cherished it! Not solely is Aachen filled with essential historical past, it is received an unimaginable Christmas market that is been named one of many high Christmas Markets in Europe over time.

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

However what I cherished most in regards to the market have been the entire Aachener Printen on provide. Printen are a sort of gingerbread that originates from Aachen. They arrive in all types of sizes and styles 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 positioned on the japanese coast of the nation. The town is stuffed with appeal with its canals, cobbled streets, and historic buildings. The Christmas market is positioned within the coronary heart of the town at Metropolis Corridor Sq..

You may discover all the normal 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 may even experience the Polar Categorical! Additionally, Kongens Nytorv is likely one of the most stunning squares in Copenhagen and it actually comes alive throughout Christmas time. And remember to move to iconic Nyhavn the place you may 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 positioned within the northwest of the nation. The town is stuffed with tradition and historical past with a good looking previous city that is good for exploring. The Christmas market is positioned in Tomislav Sq. within the middle of the town.

On the Zagreb Christmas Market, you may discover all the normal Croatian Christmas Market staples like mulled wine, sausages, and pancakes. It’s also possible to discover handicrafts, jewellery, and pottery. Make sure you attempt 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, be certain to move to the Zagreb Eye which is a big Ferris wheel positioned within the coronary heart of the town.

Zagreb Christmas Market Dates for 2025: November twenty ninth by means of 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 all around the continent!

Christmas Market High Suggestions

As your resident professional on Christmas in Europe, listed below are a few of my high suggestions for profiting from your Christmas market journey!

Which nation has the very 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 greatest markets round. The custom runs deep and even small cities and villages take part. See the very best Christmas markets in Germany right here.

Which nation has the very 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 the very best time to go for Christmas markets in Europe? I believe December is your greatest guess 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

Finest Christmas Markets in Germany

Finest Christmas Market in France

Finest Christmas Markets in Switzerland

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