Greatest Christmas Markets in Europe 2025

Planning your dream Christmas journey to Europe? You’re in the appropriate place. I’ve traveled to over 100 Christmas markets throughout the continent to deliver you the last 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 filled with precise 2025 Christmas market dates, insider meals ideas, and magical locations you gained’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 may have a slight chill regardless of your heat winter coat. You see a fort within the mist on the hill forward of you. May right now get any higher? Sure, sure it may.

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 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 lower pine bushes. Hand carved picket stalls promoting meals, drinks, and handmade trinkets line the road, every another 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 professional 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 value it. I do know that many don’t take into consideration visiting Europe through 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 fun 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.

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 positively 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 through the vacation season. With superbly embellished stalls and open on daily basis 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 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 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 may 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 a tremendous Christmas market- one of many first ever! You may 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 let you know, those in Vienna are among the finest.

There are a number of giant 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 without doubt one of the largest in Europe. It is excellent for selecting up items and grabbing a chew to eat. The Glühwein right here is among the finest I’ve ever had!

If you’d like 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 right 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 without doubt one of the hottest Christmas markets in Europe and for good cause! 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. Massive, lavishly embellished Christmas markets sparkle all through the town.

A few of my favorites are the Cologne Cathedral Market, that is the most important 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 may discover it in Neumarkt Sq. and is without doubt one of the unique markets that options girls wearing angel costumes handing out sweets to youngsters. There’s additionally a stupendous carousel and lovely mugs which might be excellent to take dwelling as souvenirs. I am keen on the one within the Previous City as a result of it is crammed with what appears like gnomes, but it surely’s a lot extra! The Alter Markt calls itself the House of the Heinzelmännchen (who have been little creatures from a Cologne legend who used to do all of the housekeeping till they have been irritated by an inquisitive housewife).

And Nikolausdorf or “NicholasVillage” in Rudolfplatz can also be properly well worth the cease! Many half-timbered buildings make this really feel like an actual village. It is all the time 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, provides a pleasant mixture of historical past, tradition, and Christmas magic. Its principal Christmas market is held within the picturesque Primary Sq. (Hlavné námestie) and Hviezdoslav Sq., surrounded by colourful Baroque buildings. The comfy ambiance of this market is ideal for these searching 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 fantastic 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 without doubt 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 dwell carolers on this romantic setting. One other must-visit is the Hellbrunn Creation Magic, situated at Hellbrunn Palace, which incorporates a life-sized creation calendar and a petting zoo for kids.

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

Dresden, Germany

Dresden is dwelling 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 Competition!

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 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 beautiful medieval City Corridor. This is without doubt one of 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 chew to eat. The gluwein right here can also be wonderful! This can be a excellent place to select up a hand-crafted wool sweater and stick round for dwell music and leisure at night time.

Should you’re searching for one thing slightly totally different, take a look at 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 via December twenty eighth, 2025.

Basel, Switzerland

Basel, Switzerland is a captivating metropolis situated 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 operating Christmas markets in Europe because it dates again to 1521.

The primary market is situated in Munsterplatz and is crammed with stunning handcrafted items, a big collection of food and drinks, and twinkling lights. Make sure you attempt 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 among 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 stunning pink sandstone cathedral. This can be a excellent place to do some Christmas purchasing as you may discover every thing from jewellery to picket toys.

PRO TIP: Should you’re searching for one thing slightly totally different, remember to take a look at the Creation Calendar Home. This can be a home with 25 home windows, every with a unique shock behind it!

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

Prague, Czech Republic

Should you’re searching 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 ambiance. The markets listed below are among the most original in Europe with stunning handmade items on provide.

The primary market is situated in Previous City Sq. the place you may discover a gorgeous Christmas tree and the spectacular Tyn Church within the background. This can be a actually standard spot, so be ready for crowds, which is why I like to recommend weekdays. Nevertheless it’s positively value braving the lots to see the gorgeous 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 situated in additional trendy areas of the town and provide a refreshing change of tempo from the Previous City.

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

Brussels, Belgium

Let me begin out by saying that is among the BEST Christmas market meals you will discover at a Christmas market. So good!!! The town’s Winter Wonders Market is one in all Europe’s most underrated festive experiences. With over 250 picket chalets stretching from Grand Place to Sainte-Catherine, Brussels provides a mixture of conventional appeal 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 can be full with out sampling Belgian fries served with a wide range 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 commonly neglected 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, via 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 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 yow will discover on the Previous Market Corridor. This is without doubt one of the few markets the place yow will discover meals indoors, so it is excellent should you’re visiting in colder climate or should you simply want a break from the chilly. You may additionally discover handcrafted Christmas decorations, glassware, and textiles.

I liked 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 brief weekends however SO WORTH IT. It is one of the vital uncommon markets I’ve ever been to in probably the most charming approach. The whole city clothes up and participates. There are individuals dressed up, on stilts, smart 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 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 also be recognized for its wonderful native wines, so remember to choose up a bottle or two to take dwelling 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’ll be able to see it is a tremendous brief 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 without doubt one of the oldest markets in Germany, relationship again to 1398! The primary market is situated in Heidelberg’s outdated city, all through the Hauptstrasse. This can be a bit totally different than among the different markets, and I discover it a pleasure! You may stroll almost a mile and revel in totally different Christmas festivities alongside the best way. I am biased since I lived in Heidelberg, however with a stupendous sixteenth century buildings, the fort towering over the skating rink, it is simply magical.

It is a actually charming place with round 100 superbly embellished 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 gorgeous.

There’s additionally a market in close by Mannheim which I additionally suggest testing in case you have time. It is a brief drive or practice trip 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 actually a fairytale city and its Christmas market doesn’t disappoint. With over 300 stalls, this is without doubt one of the largest markets in France. The setting could not be extra excellent both, because the market is situated within the stunning 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 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 all 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 excited about it!

Try my Christmas market highway 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 without doubt 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 embellished 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 stupendous gentle present each night at 7 pm on the facade of the Gerbeaud Home that is positively value sticking round for. The market is open from November eleventh to January 1st, so you may 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 via December thirty first 2025.

The easiest way to see the Christmas Markets? A river cruise! We liked 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 totally different international locations, 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 appeal.

Make sure you attempt Rüdesheim espresso, a specialty made with regionally distilled Asbach Uralt brandy. The city additionally hosts festive concert events 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 among the finest Christmas markets in Europe? The markets listed below are giant and full of life with an incredible ambiance.

The primary market is situated at Marienplatz within the coronary heart of the town. This can be a actually standard spot, so be ready for crowds. Nevertheless it’s positively value braving the lots to see the gorgeous Glockenspiel present that takes place on daily basis at 11 am and midday. There are additionally various different markets situated all through the town, so that you’re positive to seek out one which fits your fancy.

There are a lot of markets in Munich, however remember to 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 totally different just like the Wintertollwood Competition held on Oktoberfest grounds.

And should you’re searching for an genuine Bavarian eating expertise, remember to take a look at Hofbräuhaus, one in all Munich’s most well-known beer halls. It is an incredible place to attempt 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 in need of magical. With over 80 stalls, it is one of many smaller markets on this listing, 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 may 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 really 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 value a go to. Positioned in Hyde Park, Winter Wonderland is without doubt one of the largest markets in Europe and it is utterly free to enter!

When you’re inside, you may discover an array of points of interest like an ice rink, an enormous ferris wheel, and a German-style market with over 200 stalls. And should 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 may have loads of time to get pleasure from all of the enjoyable. And if you’re prepared for a break from the chilly, head to one in all 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 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 stupendous medieval metropolis situated within the German state of Bavaria – since 1313. It is best recognized for its conventional Christkindlesmarkt, which is without doubt one of the oldest and largest markets in Germany.

The market is unfold out throughout the town heart with over 180 stalls, so there’s loads 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 kind of fruitcake) and Nürnberger Rostbratwurst (a grilled sausage).

Should you go to Nuremberg Christmas Market on the primary Friday earlier than Creation there’s a tremendous 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 stupendous metropolis situated within the northeast of France, near the border with Germany. It is best recognized for its giant Christmas market, which is without doubt one of the largest in Europe.

The market is unfold out throughout the town heart with over 200 stalls, so there’s loads 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 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 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 value visiting as properly – Notre Dame d’Auschwitz, the trendy artwork heart Centre Pompidou-Metz, and Le Temple Neuf is a stupendous church that appears extra like a fort.

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 through 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 also be well-known for its Linzer Torte, a spiced nut tart that’s stated 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! Hundreds 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 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 beautiful cathedral, it is a pretty spot.

This system on the Trier Christmas Market modifications each day, providing a wide range 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 provide, plus arts and crafts from world wide, the Trier Christmas Market attracts guests from far and large.

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 stupendous 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 heart and is without doubt 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 reworked to Bruges’ largest Christmas market and within the heart you may 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 via January 4th 2026.

Aachen, Germany

I simply went to Aachen final yr for my first time and completely liked it! Not solely is Aachen stuffed with essential historical past, it is acquired an unimaginable Christmas market that is been named one of many high Christmas Markets in Europe through the years.

Aachen Christmas Market is situated within the historic metropolis heart and is without doubt 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 liked most in regards to the market have been all the Aachener Printen on provide. 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 jap coast of the nation. The town is filled with appeal 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 may 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 trip the Polar Specific! Additionally, Kongens Nytorv is without doubt one of the most stunning squares in Copenhagen and it actually comes alive throughout Christmas time. And remember to go to iconic Nyhavn the place you may 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. The 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 the town.

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

And if you wish to get a birds eye view of the market, be sure that to go 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 all around the continent!

Christmas Market Prime Suggestions

As your resident professional on Christmas in Europe, listed below are a few of my high ideas for taking advantage of 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 among 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 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 believe December is your finest guess to make sure you see the Christmas markets however many begin in late November. Some markets do go till January as properly.

Listed here 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 may have it, my listing of one of the best Christmas markets in Europe for 2025! Which one are you most excited about- in case you have any questions, be at liberty to achieve out to me on Instagram @heleneinbetween – I reply all my DMs!