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It’s the most wonderful time of the year – that’s right, the European Christmas markets in all their festive glory. They’re always the best way to get into the holiday spirit, and try lots of delicious food along the way.
While Christmas markets in Europe have been happening in one way or another for centuries, their popularity is off the charts now. But all those people can’t be wrong.
Millions of people flock to Europe each December for some festive fun decked out in twinkly lights, with a faint aroma of chestnuts and mulled wine. And of course keeping everything crossed for a sprinkling of fluffy white snow.
When do the European Christmas markets begin?
Each city varies as to when their markets start. Some are early in November, some aren’t until mid-December. But for most, the markets start about a month before Christmas at the tail end of November.
Most markets run up until Christmas Eve, December 24th, however there are a few that are open until the new year.
Visiting at the end of November will ensure you get into the holiday spirit early, and with slightly less crowds. But the energy becomes even more electric the closer to December 25th you get.
TOP TRAVEL TIP: Check dates carefully before booking a trip. I’ve been caught out before by arriving one day before the markets start, or not realizing that one market in the city starts earlier but the main markets aren’t until closer to Christmas. Market dates aren’t often fully confirmed until the end of the summer for many locations.
To help with your planning, I’ve included dates for as many of the markets as I can – or at least shown last year’s dates as a general guideline as to when they will probably happen this year.
Where are the European Christmas markets?
They’re everywhere. Small towns, big cities, and everything in between. Everyone loves a good Christmas market. And the European Christmas markets are known as being the best in the world. Although remember, not all markets are created equal.
Vienna, Austria and Nuremberg, Germany are some of the biggest European Christmas markets around. They’re big and busy and incredible – and they draw the bigger crowds.
But, some of the smaller European Christmas markets are just as nice, and feel a little more intimate with less crowding. One of my favorites was Riga, Latvia. Keep reading to see why.
European Christmas Markets – Know Before You Go
It’s easy to get overwhelmed with all the options for visiting the European Christmas markets. And while the experience itself is relatively low effort, there’s some planning involved in visiting a city that hosts a Christmas market around the holidays. If you’re a first time visitor to the European Christmas Markets, here are a few of my top tips to get you started:
DON’T ARRIVE TOO EARLY
Sure, many of the markets start in November, but dates can change from year to year. The last thing you want is to get to a city and find out you missed the market by arriving a day early. It happened to me in Bratislava, Slovakia.
FIND A CITY YOU’RE INTERESTED IN
The European Christmas markets will certainly fill in some of your itinerary, but you’ll need other activities too. So make sure there are plenty of things you want to see or do in the cities you choose to visit, and plan your time accordingly.
BOOK FAR IN ADVANCE
The more popular the market, the higher the prices for accommodation and travel. If you’ve already decided on a destination, book as early as you can to ensure you get your first pick of places.
PLAN TO VISIT A FEW MARKETS
Don’t limit yourself to one city if you’re going all that way for the European Christmas markets. Pick a couple of places that are close together and maximize your festive fun. This is Europe after all, and so many cities are easily connected by cheap trains or buses.
BRING CASH
The world seems to have gone cashless, except for some reason at Christmas markets. I got caught short in Austria and Germany when places declared they only took cash. Always take a bit of cash with you to be safe.
DO SOME RESEARCH
Yes, you can just rock up and enjoy the Christmas markets as they are. Or you can make your visit even better with a little pre-planning. Discover some of the local food specialties, unique crafts, or find out if there are multiple markets in a city other than just one main market.
My recommended European Christmas Markets
European Christmas markets are my favorite holiday activity. Getting bundled up in all my layers and sipping a hot drink with the buzz of cheery holiday music in the background: Perfection!
As I make it my annual mission to visit as many Christmas markets as possible, here are some of my recommendations if you need some help deciding.
PARIS, FRANCE
WHEN: Late November to early January – varies from market to market. 2024 season dates start as early as November 16th at some locations.
WHERE: All around the city, however some of the top markets include:
- Square René Viviani – near Notre Dame Cathedral
- Tuileries Garden near Place de la Concorde – one of the best in the city
- Village de Noël at the foot of the Eiffel Tower
- La Defense Christmas Market – the biggest in Paris
If you’ve read my blog before you’ll know I need absolutely no excuse to visit Paris. But the city’s Christmas markets make an already magical place even more magical in the winter months.
Most markets can be found around the inner city and are easily visited. Head up to the top of the hill in Montmartre for a small but mighty market near the Sacre-Coeur. And just a short Metro ride away is the La Defense market, one of my favorites.
Paris has dozens of Christmas markets over the holiday period so you’ll never be too far away from a heavy dose of festive cheer.
Enjoy some delicious mulled wine, or a bag of roasted sweet nuts as you wander through the stalls. Paris’s Christmas markets are often flanked by one or more of the city’s iconic attractions which makes them even more inviting.
OTHER THINGS TO DO IN PARIS THIS WINTER: Visit one of the city’s famous museums The Louvre or the Musée d’Orsay or go to Versailles without the crowds. Take a romantic boat trip down the Seine or fill up on French pastries at one of the city’s many patisseries.
TALLINN, ESTONIA
WHEN: Late November to late December. 2024 season dates: November 22 – December 27, 2024.
WHERE: Tallinn’s Town Hall Square
Known as one of the best European Christmas markets, Tallinn is such an inviting city to visit even on a cold December weekend.
The small town feel of the old town area of Tallinn where the Christmas market is held makes this one extra special. Cobbled streets, often dusted with fresh snow, come alive even more in the evenings during market season.
There’s a stage with live entertainment, a Christmas train taking people on a ride around the town, and lots of yummy food and beautiful decorations to buy.
Piping hot soup served with freshly made rye bread is a sure way to warm up, but don’t forget to sample some local sausages and cured meats, or my favorite, the seasoned potatoes.
OTHER THINGS TO DO IN TALLINN THIS WINTER: Visit one of the local churches for a Christmas carol concert or go skating on the public outdoor rink. Explore the city’s unique wine museum, or just visit one of Tallinn’s underground bars.
VIENNA, AUSTRIA
WHEN: Early/Mid November to early January – varies from market to market. 2024 season dates are as early as November 8th, but the majority will be open by November 15th.
WHERE: Many locations around the city, but some of the best include:
- Stephansplatz – around St. Stephan’s Cathedral
- Karlsplatz – near Karlskirche church, this was one of my favorites
- Schönbrunn Palace – bring cash, many vendors didn’t take cards
- Christkindlmarkt on the Rathausplatz
I know everyone talks about the German Christmas markets, but I’m going to say that my favorite city for Christmas markets so far has been Vienna. Austria goes all out for Christmas and you’ll find a lot of crossover with the food offered in both Austria and Germany.
The market at the Rathausplatz was one of the best I’ve seen. The atmosphere was like Christmas had been bottled and released in the square just ready for my visit.
The variety of food was fantastic – the Viennese donuts and risotto balls in a variety of sweet and savory flavors were two of my favorite snacks here.
Stephansplatz, with the architectural masterpiece of a cathedral looming over the market, is another top choice. Get a giant Viennese cookie to devour while shopping for some traditional decorations at one of the many huts around the square.
Other notable markets include Freyung, Michaelerplatz by the museums and Hofburg Palace, and the Am Hof market (one of my favorites). It was here I got my all time favorite Christmas market snack: Käsespätzle topped with crispy onions.
OTHER THINGS TO DO IN VIENNA THIS WINTER: Tour Schönbrunn Palace or one of the city’s many museums. Take in a classical Mozart concert, or simply while away an afternoon in one of Vienna’s beautiful cafés.
PRAGUE, CZECHIA
WHEN: End of November to first week in January. 2024 season dates: November 30th to January 6th, 2025.
WHERE: Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square – plus you may a couple other small markets around the city
One of the coldest Christmas market experiences I’ve ever had, but Prague is a gorgeous city worth visiting in December. As European Christmas markets go, Prague is a sight to behold. Can you get more Christmassy than a market in Wenceslas Square – so festive a Christmas carol was written about its namesake?
But the real treat is the Old Town Square. The main Christmas market here is under the watchful eye of the city’s famed Astronomical Clock. Here you’ll find vendors selling all kinds of festive gifts and trinkets, including their specialty: amber jewelry.
Sample some local Czech ham or sausages, fill up on roasted chestnuts, and sip on some Czech beer if mulled wine isn’t your thing.
OTHER THINGS TO DO IN PRAGUE THIS WINTER: Visit Prague Castle and cathedral, stopping at the Charles Bridge for a good view. Pay your respects at the Lennon Wall or just admire some of the city’s incredible architecture.
LONDON, ENGLAND
WHEN: Mid/Late November to early January
WHERE: Many locations around the city, but some of the best include:
- Trafalgar Square
- Borough Market – a wonderful market any time of the year
- Covent Garden
- Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park
An amazing city to visit at any time of the year, but Christmas is even more special in the UK’s capital. The bright lights and festive music even make you forget about the fact its probably raining out.
The biggest of the markets is the Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park where you’ll also find one of the best outdoor skating rinks. But there are markets dotted all around the city, so you’ll never be too far from Christmas cheer.
Stroll the South Bank market stalls all the way to Borough Market. Or visit the Kings Cross Station market while checking Platform 9¾ off your Harry Potter locations list.
Savor all the usual European Christmas market treats at London’s markets. But make sure to also indulge in some British-inspired snacks such as local cheeses, Yorkshire pudding wraps, and all the sugared sweets that your tummy can take.
OTHER THINGS TO DO IN LONDON THIS WINTER: Visit a museum – many of them in London are FREE all the time. See a West End show like Phantom of the Opera or Lion King – you can often get cheap tickets on the day. Or visit the Warner Bros. Harry Potter Studio tour, or take a Harry Potter walking tour of London for a much cheaper activity.
BUDAPEST, HUNGARY
WHEN: Mid November to early January. 2024 season dates: November 17th until January 1st, 2025.
WHERE: WHERE: Multiple locations around the city, but the best two are at Vörösmarty Square and St Stephen’s Square (by the Basilica).
I feel like Vörösmarty Square was a larger market, however the market by St. Stephen’s Basilica was way more festive being in the shadow of the church. Either way the two main markets will have you finding way too much to buy (and eat).
There are a number of smaller markets between the two big markets – so much so, that they seem to create one continuous winter extravaganza. And you’ll also find a smaller market in City Hall/Városháza Park.
While I did enjoy shopping for unique gifts at the Budapest markets, including a lot of lovely artwork and wooden crafts, it’s the food that’s the star of the show. Giant langos fried pastries with sour cream and other toppings, cabbage rolls and many meat dishes.
For sweets, how about a Chimney cake with a variety of fillings, delectable strudels or local Hungarian specialty Flodni. This pastry consists of four distinct layers: poppy seeds, apples, walnuts and plum jam. And it’s as delicious as it sounds (and looks).
OTHER THINGS TO DO IN BUDAPEST THIS WINTER: Take a creepy evening walk around the castle hearing all about vampires and ghosts. Or visit the thermal baths if you need to warm up from all the cold winter air. Learn to make local pastries in a Chimney Cake Cooking Class. Top it off with a trip to the top of St. Stephen’s Basilica on a clear day for a picture perfect view.
RIGA, LATVIA
WHEN: Early December to the first week in January. 2024 season dates: November 29 to January 2, 2025.
WHERE: Doma Square is where you’ll find the main market, although there is another smaller one in the park next to Riga Nativity of Christ Orthodox Cathedral.
Full disclaimer, Riga market is quite small compared to many other European Christmas markets. It’s not a place I would suggest you visit just for the Christmas markets, but it is a great city with a lot of history and wonderfully, friendly people.
The main market is situated next to Riga Cathedral. It’s quaint, charming and incredibly festive. From carol singers performing traditional carols in English and Latvian, and the sweet smell of hot blackcurrant drinks.
A lot of the crafts in Riga feel less mass produced than many other Christmas markets – from beautiful wood burned chopping boards to hand crafted decorations. Roasted nuts, sizzling meat stews and potato dishes will satisfy your taste buds – and don’t forget to try some Black Balsam, a traditional Latvian herbal liqueur.
OTHER THINGS TO DO IN RIGA THIS WINTER: Keep an eye out for festive concerts at the cathedral, and visit the site of the first Christmas tree. The Museum of Occupation is an interesting look into Riga’s Soviet past at a former KGB headquarters. And you can’t miss Riga Central Market – Europe’s largest market and bazaar.
SALZBURG, AUSTRIA
WHEN: Third week in November to early January. 2024 season dates: November 21, 2024 – January 1, 2025.
WHERE: At the Cathedral and Residenzplatz in Salzburg center
Salzburg may have been the most festive and had the most traditional feel of any European Christmas markets I’ve visited. Maybe in part due to the snowy conditions, but also because it’s not just a market – it’s an experience.
The 100 stalls are nicely spread out around the square, there are carols and Christmas music, a nativity and even visits from Krampus, a folklore character known for punishing naughty children around Christmas. Psst…look out for Krampus gingerbread cookies for sale.
The location is perfect, and the market has operated in Salzburg for hundreds of years. Salzburg can be done as a day trip from Vienna, although it is a long day. So you’re best to stay overnight and really take in the city.
There are smaller markets at the Hohensalzburg fortress and Mirabell Palace (the latter is a great stop for last minute snacks if walking to the train station).
OTHER THINGS TO DO IN SALZBURG THIS WINTER: Mirabell Palace and Hohensalzburg fortress are must dos. If you head to the fortress make sure to take the funicular ride. Both the ride and the fortress offer great views of Salzburg. As a music fan, Mozart’s birthplace was high on my list – it’s a great little museum.
HELSINKI, FINLAND
WHEN: Late November to just before Christmas. 2024 season dates: 29 November to 22 December 2024
WHERE: Senate Square in front of Helsinki Cathedral
The main Christmas market in Helsinki opens later than many others at 11am. The days are short in Helsinki in the winter though, so even by mid afternoon it will feel like evening. Which makes the market even more festive and welcoming.
The large market has amazing craft stalls, and lots of food for sale to enjoy. Find liqueurs, decorations and everything Moomin at the retail vendors. And for food why not try some Finnish reindeer, cured fish or my favorite, Karjalanpiirakat. This is a open face pie made of rye bread with rice, barley or potato filling. So good.
Keep an eye out for traditional craftsmanship at work – glassblowers, blacksmiths and their wares are often on display in the market. Grab a hot cup of Glögi (Finnish spiced mulled wine) and wander the winter wonderland on a cold day.
There’s a smaller market near the waterfront at Market Square which I found had a lot more hand made gifts. Knitted items, leather goods and wooden crafts. Hop over to the indoor Old Market Hall if you need to warm up and try some more local Finnish food.
OTHER THINGS TO DO IN HELSINKI THIS WINTER: Don’t let the winter put you off being outside. Take a boat ride over to Suomenlinna Fortress complete with museum, fort and coastal trails. One of my favorite days out in Helsinki. Helsinki and Uspenski cathedrals are worth seeing, and you have to try a traditional Finnish sauna experience on your visit too.
The Magic Of European Christmas Markets
There’s no doubt any of these places are worth visiting, whatever the time of year. But the European Christmas markets season is just that extra reason to visit in winter. Wrap up warm, grab a hot beverage and wander the city markets dazzling beneath the festive lights.
See Santa, be on your best behavior around Krampus, and savor the culinary delights of all the best European Christmas markets. Each one with its own special treat, and a reason to visit more than one market.
If, like me, you don’t have a lot of vacation time, make this a unique holiday tradition. Visit one or two markets a year – and find some other incredible things to do in these wonderful cities.
Whether you’re into the popular festive getaways, or the smaller, quieter destinations, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Wherever you decide to visit this year, you can trust that the European Christmas markets are always going to be a magical experience.
If you’ve enjoyed this post leave a comment or share using the social media buttons below. Where are your favorite European Christmas Markets? Which of these destinations is top of your list for future travel?
I would LOVE to go to a Christmas market in Europe. Awesome post! Thank you for sharing!
I love Christmas time and I really love visiting Christmas markets to get all my presents for family and friends. Thanks for sharing, a couple I didn’t know about.
You’ve covered a lot of Christmas markets and have tempted me into planning a European trip in December. I think I would gravitate more to the smaller markets but I never need an excuse to go to Paris… hmmm, decisions!
I like how you highlighted some food choices and warned about bringing cash. We have gotten so used to paying everything electronically or by card, I could see myself getting caught and having to run around to find an ATM!
Lyn | http://www.ramblynjazz.com
I can’t get enough of European Christmas markets! From your list, I still haven’t experienced Budapest and London in December. My current favorites are the French town of Colmar and Rothenburg ob der Tauber in Germany.
I love the European Christmas markets!
Ah I’ve been to Europe once to the Christmas markets and it’s truly magical (even if you’re not religious). I would LOVE to do a trip just devoted to this and see more than just one big city’s markets. I’ve heard Latvia is stunning.
A lovely variety of European Christmas markets to explore. We have visited the one in Prague and can confirm that it’s delightful but *really* cold at that time of year. Although the cold is a great excuse to partake in a mulled wine or two! And you’re right, it’s a very beautiful city, especially at that time of year. The food at the Tallin and Vienna markets really appeal. Great advice about doing some research on which market or multiple markets to visit and bringing cash.
Interesting mix of different Christmas markets all around Europe. I agree visiting right after Thanksgiving is not a bad idea, you’ll get less crowds and the prices should be less expensive for accommodations as a result. Plus it won’t be as cold! Riga’s market looks the most interesting to me mostly due to the concerts but also the crafts available, but also the Museum of Occupation (interesting, and very honest name! haha). However, that overhead picture of Prague looks beautiful. In America, these tend to be a little more widespread, though I see a lot more of this in the colder areas of America (especially New England), definitely showing the European influence there.
You have already convinced me to visit Europe on Christmas at least once in a lifetime. Whenever that happens, It would be Vienna first for me.
Great ideas for new Christmas markets to visit. We haven’t made it to the Finnish and Latvian markets yet, and would love to visit.
Visiting Europe AND Christmas Markets. What could be better? Thinking about a trip over Thanksgiving, so this gave me some ideas.
Love it. I want to visit some of these. I was in europe last December and visited Christmas markets in Rome, Florence, Barcelona and Aix en Provence. These were great, but the ones you showed are better. Thinks for the info.
Christmas time seems like the best time to travel Europe—the city centers all look so magical! I especially loved visiting London right before Christmas 🙂
I just returned from a 12-day walking holiday in the Baltics. I loved Riga’s historic districts and the Art Nouveau houses. I bet their Christmas Market is wonderful.