23 Best Christmas Markets in Europe: Your Ultimate Holiday Guide
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Get ready for some Christmas cheer! With giddy gingerbread men, creaking carousels and twinkling lights, a traditional Christmas market is one of the most magical places to visit this time of year.
These seasonal fairs are scattered across Germany, Austria, Switzerland and other countries like a cluster of snow-covered huts filled with handmade crafts, roasted chestnuts and steaming mugs of gluhwein (mulled wine).
Discover the best Christmas markets in Europe. Read on to explore magical Christmas markets and find your perfect holiday destination!
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Germany
Did you know that there are over 1,200 traditional Christmas markets with stands selling local goods and yummy food all over Europe? And the best of them all can be found in Germany.
That’s because the country is home to the densest concentration of old towns called “market towns” which continue to celebrate their own local traditions during Advent and winter holidays season.
The Christmas market or Weihnachtsmarkt (as it’s usually called in German) is a wonderful opportunity for travelers, families, friends and couples to get together under one roof, drink hot gluhwein (mulled wine), eat sausages and sweets, listen to carolers and take selfies in front of elaborate Christmas trees.
Tip
Most of the German Christmas markets close right before Christmas. So make sure to visit these during Advent, the four weeks leading to Christmas!
Aachen
The Aachen Christmas market is one of the oldest and most traditional markets in Germany. This enchanting market features over 120 stalls, offering handmade crafts, delicious food, and a variety of holiday treats.
You can also take in the beautiful sights of Aachen’s historic Old Town, which is lit up with thousands of twinkling lights during the holiday season.
Check out also the best things to do in Aachen with kids with practical tips, kids-friendly cafés and restaurants and where to stay.
- When: 24.11.2023 – 23.12.2023
- 11.00-21.00 every day,
Sunday, 26.11.2023 (Dead sunday), 18.00-21.00
Saturday, 16.12.2023 (long Christmas market): 11.00-22.00
Friday, 23.12.2023: 11.00-21.00 - Where: around the town hall and the Cathedral
- You can find more info on the official site of the Christmas market here
Read more: Aachen Christmas Market
Monschau
The Monschau Christmas market is a must-visit destination during the holiday season. This quaint town in Germany is transformed into a winter wonderland, with beautifully decorated stalls, festive music, and an array of holiday treats to indulge in.
- When: 24-25.11, 01-03.12, 08-10.12, 15-17.12, 22-23.12
(last week of November until before Christmas) - Every Saturday Nikolaus visits the Monschau Christmas market
- Where: Monschau
- You can find more info on the official site of the Christmas market here
Read more: Monschau Christmas Market
Cologne
The Cologne Christmas market is one of the largest and most famous markets in Germany.
Located in the heart of the city, the market features multiple locations with stalls selling everything from handmade crafts to delicious food and drinks.
You can also enjoy the festive atmosphere, with live music and entertainment throughout the market.
It is amazing for kids with the Nikolaus Village and the Christmas Express, the little train taking you from one market to the other. There is also a carousel for kids and fun activities, such as handicrafts, puppet theater shows, face painting
- When: 24.11.2023 – 23.12.2023
11.00-21.00 every day,
Sunday, 26.11.2023 (Dead sunday), 18.00-21.00
Saturday, 16.12.2023 (long Christmas market): 11.00-22.00
Friday, 23.12.2023: 11.00-21.00 - Where: right in front of the Cologne Cathedral, Roncalliplatz, 50667 Köln. There are also several Christmas markets around the city.
- You can see here the tallest natural Christmas tree in North Rhine-Westphalia (25 meters) right next to the Cathedral.
- You can find more info on the official site of the Christmas market here
Read more: Cologne Christmas Market
Dusseldorf
The Dusseldorf Christmas market is a magical destination for those seeking festive holiday cheer.
Set against the backdrop of the city’s historic Altstadt (Old Town), the market features numerous stalls offering handmade crafts, seasonal treats, and delicious mulled wine.
You can also enjoy ice skating on the market’s festive rink or take in a live musical performance.
- When: 23.11-30.12.2023
- Where: There are 7 (!) Christmas markets in Dusseldorf
- For kids: carousel, ice rink, Ferris wheel (at different locations)
- You can find more info on the official site of the Christmas market here
Read more: Dusseldorf Christmas Market
Munich
The Munich Christmas market is one of the most popular markets in Germany. Located in the city’s historic Marienplatz, the market offers a variety of traditional Christmas crafts, seasonal treats, and glühwein.
In addition to the festive atmosphere, visitors can also enjoy the unique tradition of Krampus runs, where costumed figures parade through the streets in a nod to ancient folklore.
- When: 27.11-24.12.2023
- Where: Marienplatz, the central square in Munich
- You can find more info on the official site of the Christmas market here
Berlin Gendarmenmarkt
The Berlin Christmas market, also known as Weihnachtszauber, is a magical winter wonderland that lives up to its name.
With over 70 markets throughout the city, visitors can indulge in traditional holiday treats, handmade crafts, and festive activities.
The market’s enchanting atmosphere, with twinkling lights and seasonal decorations, creates a magical experience that’s perfect for the whole family. That’s what Weihnachtszauber means, the magic of Christmas.
- Acrobats, choirs, music and dance shows
- When: 27.11-31.12.2023
Sunday-Thursday: 12.00-22.00
Friday-Saturday: 12.00-23.00
Christmas Eve: 12.00-18.00 - Where: Gendarmenmarkt, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Cost: EUR 2 for 12+ years old. Free for kids younger than 12 years old and free for all on Monday-Friday at 12.00-14.00
- You can find more info on the official site of the Christmas market here
Berlin Weihnachtsmarkt an der Gedächtniskirche
The Berlin Weihnachtsmarkt an der Gedächtniskirche is a small but charming Christmas market located near the Berlin Zoo.
After a day spent exploring the zoo, this small market is the perfect spot to warm up and enjoy a cozy evening with family and friends.
- When: 21.11.2021-01.01.2023
Sunday-Thursday: 11.00-21.00
Friday and Saturday: 11.00-22.00
Christmas Eve: 11.00-14.00
25-26.12.2022: 13.00-21.00
31.12.2022: 11.00-20.00
01.01.2023: 13.00-21.00 - Where: Kurfürstendamm 237, 10789 Berlin, Germany (right outside the zoo)
- You can find more info on the official site of the Christmas market here
Austria
Looking for the perfect Christmas market to visit with your family? You will love the gluhwein (mulled wine) and traditional food at these Christmas markets with kids.
Not only are they great fun but they also have activities that children will love as well as somewhere they can meet Santa and his helpers!
Salzburg
The Salzburg Christmas market, also known as the Christkindlmarkt, is a fairytale-like destination that’s sure to delight visitors of all ages.
With its charming stalls selling traditional holiday treats, handmade crafts, and gifts, the market is a perfect spot to enjoy the holiday season. Additionally, you can enjoy ice skating on the rink right next to the market, adding an extra layer of winter magic to the experience.
- This is one of our most favorite Christmas markets in Europe!
- When: 17.11-01.01.2023
- Where: Christkindlmarkt am Dom, at Domplatz and Residenzplatz in the middle of the Old Town. There is an ice skating rink next to the market
- You can find more info on the Christmas market on the official site of the Christmas market here
Vienna
The Vienna Christmas Dream, also known as the Wiener Christkindlmarkt, is one of the most beautiful and popular Christmas markets in Europe.
With so many stalls offering traditional holiday treats, handcrafted gifts, and festive decorations, the market is a perfect spot to indulge in the holiday spirit.
You can also enjoy ice skating, carol singing, and live performances, creating a magical experience that’s sure to be unforgettable.
- When: 10.11-26.12.2023
- There is a Ferris wheel, a carousel, ice skating, kids corner and a daily program with fun activities for kids (Monday-Friday: 14.00- 18.00, Saturday, Sunday and public holidays: 11:00-18.00, no registration needed)
- Where: Rathausplatz, 1010 Vienna, Austria
- You can find more info on the official site of the Christmas market here
Luxembourg
Luxembourg City
The Luxembourg Christmas market, also known as the Winterlights Festival, is a festive and family-friendly destination that’s perfect for kids.
The market offers a variety of fun fair rides and attractions for kids, adding an extra layer of excitement and creating a Christmas-themed fun fair that kids are sure to love.
Read also: Luxembourg City with kids. You can find tips on what to do with kids in Luxembourg, kid-friendly museums and playgrounds, and family-friendly hotels.
- When: 18.11.2022-08.01.2023
- Where: several locations, see the detailed post on Christmas market in Luxembourg for details
- You can find more info on the official site of the Christmas market here
Read more: Luxembourg Christmas Market
Netherlands
Valkenburg (Christmas Market in a Cave)
The Valkenburg Christmas market, located in a charming town in the Netherlands, is one of the most unique markets in Europe. Set inside the town’s famous caves, the market offers a truly magical atmosphere with twinkling lights, Christmas decorations, and stalls selling handmade crafts and traditional holiday treats.
- When: 17.11.2023 – 07.01.2024
- Where: three main locations, two of which are in two separate caves. See the detailed post on Christmas market in Valkenburg for details
- Cost: about EUR 10 per cave
- You can find more info on the official site of the Christmas market here
Read more: Christmas Market in Valkenburg
Belgium
Belgium is home to some of the most charming Christmas markets in Europe. From the enchanting market in Bruges to the bustling Christmas market in Brussels, visitors can enjoy traditional holiday treats, unique gifts, and festive decorations.
One of the things that sets the Christmas markets in Belgium apart is that they often remain open for the holidays, offering a special way to celebrate the season with family and friends.
Tip
If you are based in Brussels, then check out the 10 best Christmas markets near Brussels! Most of them are easy to visit as a day trip and a few make for a great weekend.
Brussels Christmas Market
Winter Wonders, the Christmas market in Brussels, was named the best Christmas market in the world for 2022 according to a travel website!
While it is certainly one of the most impressive, we live in Brussels and we also go to Germany, Austria and Alsace to enjoy the Christmas markets there 🙂
The Brussels Christmas market, also known as Plaisirs d’Hiver, is one of the largest and most festive markets in Europe. Located in the heart of the city, at the majestic Grand Place, the market features stalls selling handmade crafts, traditional holiday treats, and a variety of seasonal gifts.
You can also enjoy ice skating, a Ferris wheel, and live performances, creating a magical atmosphere.
- When: 25.11.2022-01.01.2023
Every day: 12.00-22.00
24.12.2022 and 31.12.2022: closing time at 18.00 - Where: the Christmas market in Brussels takes place at several locations all around the center. You can easily walk from one location to the other. There are also Christmas attractions at Bois de la Cambre
- You can find more info on the official site of the Christmas market here
Read more: Brussels Christmas Market
Château de Rixensart
The Château de Rixensart Christmas market is a magical and unique experience located in a stunning castle in Belgium.
With its charming stalls selling handmade gifts, decorations, and traditional holiday treats, the market creates a festive and enchanting atmosphere that’s perfect for the whole family.
Visitors can also enjoy live music, a visit from Santa Claus, and an array of fun activities, all while surrounded by the historic beauty of the castle and its grounds.
- When: 25.11-18.12.2022 (2023 dates are not yet announced)
- Where: at a beautiful castle just 20 minutes from Brussels!
Read more: Château de Rixensart Christmas Market
Antwerp
- When: 09.12.2022-08.01.2023
- Where: Grote Markt, Steenplein, Groenplaats, Suikerrui
- Ice skating rink, carousell, Ferris wheel
- You can find more info on the official site of the Christmas market here
Bruges
In Bruges there is a traditional Christmas market with an ice skating rink and a winter bar. There is also Winter Glow, a light trail that takes you around the city!
Winter Glow is magical! There is a different light trail to follow around Bruges every year and two Christmas markets
- When: 25.11.2022-08.01.2023
- Where: Market Square, Simon Stevin Square, ‘t Zand Square
- You can find more info on the official site of the Christmas market here
Read more: Bruges Winter Glow
Ghent
- When: 07-31.12.2023
- Where: at the historical city center, ie around Sint-Baafsplein, Botermarkt, Korenmarkt
- You can find more info on the official site of the Christmas market here
Read also: Best Things to Do in Ghent
Hasselt
The Hasselt Christmas market is definitely one of the best to visit with kids in Europe! A Ferris wheel, an ice rink, a giant slide and more Christmas-themed fun fair rides – and of course lots of stalls with gluhwein, waffles and tartiflettes!
- *When: 18.11.2022-08.01.2023
- *Where: Dusartplein, 3500 Hasselt
Read more: Hasselt Christmas Market
Durbuy
- When: 24.11.2023-07.01.2024 on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays
- Where: at the central square in Durbuy
- There is also an ice rink
- You can find more info on the official site of the Christmas market here
Read also: Durbuy
Leuven
- When: 07-21.12.2023
- Where: Leuven
- You can find more info on the official site of the Christmas market here
Namur
- When: 01-31.12.2023
- Where: Place de l’Ange, Place d’Armes
- Roller skate track instead of ice rink this year
- You can find more details on what to do in Namur in our guide on Namur
- You can find more info on the official site of the Christmas market here and here
Read also: Namur
Christmas with Kids in Belgium: All You Need to Know
If you are wondering what to do in Belgium with the kids during Christmas holidays, then read on this guide with family friendly Christmas events! St Nicholas events, light shows, meet Santa, Christmas brunches, theater shows and concerts, tons of events and ideas to enjoy the time with your family!
Read more: Christmas with Kids in Belgium
10 Best Christmas Markets near Brussels
Christmas markets are the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit. From twinkling lights to delicious treats, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Discover the best Christmas markets near Brussels and practical tips to plan your visit.
Read more: 10 Best Christmas Markets near Brussels
France
Lille
The Lille Christmas market, also known as the Marché de Noël de Lille, is a magical and festive destination in France.
With over 80 stalls offering handmade crafts, festive decorations, and traditional holiday treats, the market creates a charming atmosphere that’s perfect for visitors of all ages.
You can also enjoy a Ferris wheel, a carousel, and a Christmas village, adding an extra layer of excitement.
Read also: Lille with Kids
- When: 22.11-31.12.2023
- Where: Place Rihour 59000 Lille
- You can find more info on the official site of the Christmas market here
Read more: Lille Christmas Market
Strasbourg
The Strasbourg Christmas market, also known as the Christkindelsmärik, is the oldest and one of the most iconic Christmas markets in Europe.
Dating back to 1570, the market features stalls offering handcrafted gifts, traditional holiday treats, and festive decorations. The market is set in the beautiful setting of the historic Old Town of Strasbourg, creating a magical atmosphere.
- When: 24.11-24.12.2023
- Where: 29 Rue de la Nuée-Bleue, 67000 Strasbourg, France
- You can find more info on the official site of the Christmas market here
Colmar
The Colmar Christmas market, also known as Marché de Noël de Colmar, is one of the most picturesque and charming markets in France.
With its stunning setting in the historic Old Town, you can enjoy stalls offering handmade crafts, festive decorations, and traditional holiday treats. The market’s unique atmosphere and beautiful scenery make it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the magic of the holiday season in France.
- When: 23.11-29.12.2023
- Where: Old Town
- You can find more info on the official site of the Christmas market here
Paris
The Christmas markets in Paris offer a unique and festive way to experience the city during the holiday season. With multiple markets located throughout the city, visitors can enjoy traditional holiday treats, handmade crafts, and festive decorations.
- When: 08-25.12.2022 for the Christmas market at Notre Dame
- Where: Notre Dame Paris (there are several other Christmas markets in Paris!)
- You can find more info on the official site on all Christmas markets in Paris here and specific info on the Notre Dame Christmas market here
Czech Republic
Prague
The Prague Christmas market, located in the Old Town Square, is one of the most enchanting and festive markets in Europe.
With its charming stalls offering traditional Czech crafts, holiday treats, and delicious mulled wine, the market creates a magical atmosphere that’s perfect for the holiday season. You can also enjoy a nativity scene and stunning views of Prague’s historic architecture.
- When: 02.12.2023-06.01.2024
- Where: Old Town Square (Staroměstské náměstí)
- You can find more info on the official site of the Christmas market here
Recommended
- Best Christmas Markets near Brussels
- A Family’s Guide to Christmas Markets: Tips on Planning Your Visit with Kids
- Best Winter Clothes for Kids – How to Keep Your Kids Warm
Best Christmas Markets near Brussels
Here are the best Christmas markets near Brussels. They’re all great for a day trip or a weekend nearby.
Read more: Best Christmas Markets near Brussels
A Family’s Guide to Christmas Markets – How to Visit with Kids
A Family’s Guide To Christmas Markets: Tips on planning your visit with kids
These tips will help you know what to expect and to plan ahead your Christmas market experience with kids!
Read more: Tips for Visiting Christmas Markets with Kids
Best Winter Clothes for Kids – How to Keep Your Kids Warm
Here are the best winter clothes for kids and how to keep children warm in winter.
Read more: How to Keep Kids Warm in Winter
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Jo Koni (Georgia Konidari) is a writer and the creator of World Wild Schooling, a digital platform dedicated to travel. She is on a mission to explore the globe and share her experiences with fellow travelers. You can follow Jo on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, Pinterest and YouTube.
