Top 20 Christmas Markets in Europe 2024

Explore the Best Christmas Markets in Europe 2024: Top 20 Festive Destinations

Europe becomes a winter wonderland during Christmastime, adorned with lights, decorated trees and quaint Christmas markets that is an experience. These are quaint wooden stalls with homemade souvenirs, delicacies and warm beverages to get oneself into the holiday spirit. Whether you want a local market in a village or an international event in a big city, Europe has it for you. There’s no shortage of party spots, whether that’s Germany’s famous Christkindlmarkts or the Prague markets.

Christmas markets in Europe will be more radiant than ever in 2024. They’re teeming with the sound of carolers, mulled wine, and lights from mid-November through December. For those who will be in Europe during this time, it will not only be a time for holiday mania but also a time to enjoy the hundreds of years of traditions of each country and region. The number of options can make your visit difficult to decide upon, but don’t stress, here’s a shortlist of Europe’s 20 best Christmas markets for you to plan your Christmas trip.

Here is a detailed list of all the Christmas Markets, including opening hours, what you should try, what to buy, airports nearby, and travel tips. From budget travel to extravagant vacations, you’ll find all the information you need to make the most of your Christmas holiday. So get your scarves and mittens and come along to Europe’s most magical Christmas markets for 2024!

Table of Contents

1. Vienna, Austria – Rathausplatz Christmas Market

Vienna’s Rathausplatz is turned into a Christmas fantasy. The glorious evocation is complemented by the magnificent backdrop of the neo-Gothic City Hall. You can browse through more than 150 stalls of Austrian handicrafts, Christmas foods, and mulled wine, all set to a fairy-tale backdrop by the strobe lights.

Things to Buy: Handblown glassware, wooden toys, Austrian gingerbread.
Opening Dates: 16 November – 24 December 2024.
Market Venue: Rathausplatz, Vienna.
Trip Budget: $900 – $1,500.
Best Activities: Skate Park, Kids workshops, carousel.
Nearest Airports: Vienna International Airport (VIE).
Transports To Take: Metro U2, tram D.
Food Recommended: Wiener Schnitzel, pretzels, Apfelstrudel.
Best Places to Stay: Hotel Bristol, Motel One Wien-Staatsoper.
Travel Guide: Come early at night to pass the crowds and revel in the lights.

2. Nuremberg, Germany – Christkindlesmarkt

Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt is one of the oldest and most aristocratic Christmas markets in Germany, dating back to the 16th century. The market, which takes place in the medieval center of town, has charming wooden stalls and a special opening ceremony with the Christkind angel as the celebrant.

Things to Buy: Nürnberg plum figurines, Lebkuchen (gingerbread), Christmas candles.
Opening Dates: 29th November – 24th December 2024.
Market Venue: Hauptmarkt, Nuremberg.
Trip Budget: $700 – $1,200.
Best Activities: Take a tour of the castle surrounding it, ride on a horse-drawn carriage, and see live choirs.
Nearest Airports: Nearest Airports.
Transports To Take: Metro lines 4 and 6, 36 bus.
Food Recommended: Nuremberg bratwurst, roast almonds, mulled wine.
Best Places to Stay: Hotel Victoria, NH Collection Nürnberg City.
Travel Guide: Visit on weekdays and get out of the weekend rush.

3. Prague, Czech Republic – Old Town Square Market

This Christmas market is set in the center of Prague, with Gothic architecture mixed with Christmas decor. It is a cozy place where the Christmas tree and the wooden huts set the tone and allow you to spend time on traditional Czech souvenirs and foods.

Things to Buy: Bohemian crystal, puppets made of wood, and jewelry made by hand.
Opening Dates: 1 December 2024 – 6 January 2025.
Market Venue: Old Town Square, Prague.
Trip Budget: $600 – $1,000.
Best Activities: Visit Prague Castle and take a Christmas cruise along the Vltava River.
Nearest Airports: Václav Havel Airport (PRG).
Transports To Take: Metro stations A and B, trams 5 and 8.
Food Recommended: Trdelnk (chimney cake), roast ham, Medovina (honey wine).
Best Places to Stay: Grand Hotel Bohemia, Hotel Paris Prague.
Travel Guide: Come in early December to bypass all the tourist rush.

4. Strasbourg, France – Christkindelsmärik

The capital of Christmas, Strasbourg has one of the oldest and most celebrated Christmas markets in Europe. Medieval half-timbered buildings and an enchanting cathedral make the market an undeniably Alsatian experience.

Things to Buy: Traditional Alsatian adornments, candles, bredele cookies.
Opening Dates: November 22 – December 30, 2024.
Market Venue: Place Broglie & Cathedral Square.
Trip Budget: $800 – $1,400.
Best Activities: Strasbourg Cathedral, boat cruise on the Ill River, skating.
Nearest Airports: Strasbourg Airport (SXB).
Transports To Take: Tram Lines A, D and F.
Food Recommended: Flammekueche (Alsatian pizza), foie gras, mulled wine.
Best Places to Stay: Hôtel Maison Rouge, Hôtel Régent Petite France.
Travel Guide: Strasbourg is popular on weekends, so you might consider coming here on weekdays if you are more of a free traveler.

5. Cologne, Germany – Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market

Set against the magnificent backdrop of the Cologne Cathedral, this market is a sensory explosion. More than 160 stalls sell high-quality wares and snacks, and it’s one of Germany’s top vacation spots.

Things to Buy: Wooden decorations, Cologne chocolate, nutcrackers.
Opening Dates: November 25 – December 23, 2024.
Market Venue: Cologne Cathedral Square.
Trip Budget: $750 – $1,200.
Best Activities: Take a boat trip along the Rhine, climb the Cathedral’s tower, and go ice skating.
Nearest Airports: Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN).
Transports To Take: Tram 5, 16, 18, bus 132.
Food Recommended: Kartoffelpuffer (potato pancakes), bratwurst, Glühwein (mulled wine).
Best Places to Stay: Hyatt Regency Cologne, Excelsior Hotel Ernst.
Travel Guide: Make sure to taste the Kölsch beer produced in-house during your stay in Cologne.

6. Brussels, Belgium – Winter Wonders Market

Brussels’ Winter Wonders is a magical market that covers the Grand Place with illuminated lanterns, a Ferris wheel and street performers. It’s one of Europe’s busiest markets, a blend of Belgian culture and festive spirit.

Things to Buy: Belgian chocolates, lace crafts, craft beer.
Opening Dates: 29 November 2024 – 5 January 2025.
Market Venue: Grand Place, Brussels.
Trip Budget: $800 – $1,400.
Best Activities: Take the Ferris wheel, ice skating, and light show.
Nearest Airports: Brussels Airport (BRU).
Transports To Take: Metro lines 1 and 5, bus 29 and 66.
Food Recommended: Belgian waffles, mayonnaise fries, chocolate pralines.
Best Places to Stay: Hotel Amigo, The Dominican Brussels.
Travel Guide: Check out the light show at Grand Place, one of the best in the market.

7. Copenhagen, Denmark – Tivoli Gardens Christmas Market

The Tivoli Gardens Christmas market is a must-try for all the family. The theme park is re-imagined as a Christmas village with spectacular lights, Christmas trees, and a cozy Scandinavian ambiance.

Things to Buy: Scandinavian design objects, Christmas gnomes, candles.
Opening Dates: November 15 – December 31, 2024.
Market Venue: Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen.
Trip Budget: $850 – $1,500.
Best Activities: Ride the Christmas-themed rides, visit the Tivoli Aquarium, and have a Christmas concert.
Nearest Airports: Copenhagen Airport (CPH).
Transports To Take: S-trains and buses, Metro line M3.
Food Recommended: Danish bleskiver, glgg (mulled wine), roast almonds.
Best Places to Stay: Nimb Hotel, Radisson Collection Royal Hotel.
Travel Guide: Bring a jacket as it can be really cold in the evenings.

8. Budapest, Hungary – Vörösmarty Square

Budapest’s Vörösmarty Square Christmas market is one of the most attractive in central Europe. The beautiful market is in the city center and gives a unique opportunity to try Hungarian folk crafts and local cuisine against an amazing historical background.

Things to Buy: Clay carvings, beaded linens, handmade soaps.
Opening Dates: November 22 – December 31, 2024.
Market Venue: Vörösmarty Square, Budapest.
Trip Budget: $600 – $1,000.
Best Activities: Live folk music, Buda Castle, river cruise on the Danube.
Nearest Airports: Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD).
Transports To Take: M1, trams 2, 47 and 49.
Food Recommended: Kürtskalács (chimney cake), goulash, Lángos (fried dough).
Best Places to Stay: Kempinski Hotel Corvinus, InterContinental Budapest.
Travel Guide: Sip mulled wine and watch performances on the market stage while catching a glimpse of the people.

9. Tallinn, Estonia – Town Hall Square Christmas Market

Tallinn’s Christmas market is an unearthed wonder in northern Europe, located on the medieval Town Hall Square. There’s a nice traditional feel to the market, with stalls selling souvenirs and local products underneath Estonia’s tallest Christmas tree.

Things to Buy: Socks in wool, old Estonian craft items, juniper wood products.
Opening Dates: 24 November 2024 – 7 January 2025.
Market Venue: Town Hall Square, Tallinn.
Trip Budget: $500 – $900.
Best Activities: St Nicholas Church, Toompea Castle, medieval city tour.
Nearest Airports: Lennart Meri Tallinn Airport (TLL).
Transports To Take: Trams 1 and 2, buses 40 and 73.
Food Recommended: Blood sausage, sauerkraut, gingerbread cookies.
Best Places to Stay: Hotel Telegraaf, Swissôtel Tallinn.
Travel Guide: Bring warm layers as the market is outside and Tallinn can get extremely cold in winter.

10. Munich, Germany – Marienplatz Christmas Market

Munich’s Marienplatz Christmas market is in the heart of the city, in front of the grand Gothic New Town Hall. This market promises an authentic Bavarian Christmas, with wooden chalets and a festive atmosphere.

Things to Buy: Bavarian trophies, nutcrackers, and nativity sets carved by hand.
Opening Dates: 24 November 2024 – 7 January 2025 (11 am – 5 pm, Monday to Friday).
Market Venue: Marienplatz, Munich.
Trip Budget: $700 – $1,200.
Best Activities: Christmas village at Residenz Palace, live performances in the Town Hall, Viktualienmarkt.
Nearest Airports: Munich International Airport (MUC).
Transports To Take: U-Bahn U3 and U6, tram 16 and 17; UB.
Food Recommended: Weisswurst (white sausage), pretzels, Lebkuchen (gingerbread).
Best Places to Stay: Bayerischer Hof, Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Kempinski.
Travel Guide: Visit nearby Neuschwanstein Castle for a Winter wonderland on a day trip.

11. Bratislava, Slovakia – Main Square Christmas Market

The Bratislava Christmas market is a small, friendly affair held in the beautiful old town on Main Square. It is known for its inexpensive prices and Slovak classics, so it’s a perfect place to explore local culture and food during the holidays.

Things to Buy: Wooden toys, Slovakian pottery, honey wine.
Opening Dates: 24th November – 22nd December 2024.
Market Venue: Hlavné Námestie (Main Square), Bratislava.
Trip Budget: $500 – $800.
Best Activities: Climb Bratislava Castle, watch folklore shows and St Martin’s Cathedral.
Nearest Airports: Bratislava Airport (BTS), Vienna International Airport (VIE) – 50 min.
Transports To Take: Trams 1, 4, and 9, buses 28 and 83.
Food Recommended: Loke (potato pancakes), kapustnica (sauerkraut soup), mulled wine.
Best Places to Stay: Radisson Blu Carlton Hotel, LOFT Hotel Bratislava.
Travel Guide: Head to one of Bratislava’s small cafes when you visit it to get a bit warm in the winter.

12. Krakow, Poland – Main Market Square Christmas Market

The Christmas market of Krakow is held in the city’s old Main Market Square, surrounded by medieval buildings. The market has a typical Polish Christmas spirit with well-lit stalls and lights and it is a great spot for the winter holidays.

Things to Buy: Amber jewelry, Hand-painted Christmas Trees, Polish ware.
Opening Dates: November 24 – December 26, 2024.
Market Venue: Main Market Square, Krakow.
Trip Budget: $500 – $900.
Best Activities: Wawel Castle, Rynek Underground Museum, Horse carriage tour of the city.
Nearest Airports: Krakow John Paul II International Airport (KRK).
Transports To Take: 152 and 208, trams 1, 2 and 8, bus 152 and 208.
Food Recommended: Pierogi (dumplings), Smoked cheese (Oscypek), Mulled wine.
Best Places to Stay: Bonerowski Palace, Hotel Copernicus.
Travel Guide: Go to the market at night to see the decorated Main Square and Christmas tree in full bloom.

13. Zagreb, Croatia – Christmas Market in Zagreb

Advent in Zagreb is once and a half voted one of Europe’s top Christmas markets. The market extends out into a couple of city squares with something different from ice skating to music.

Things to Buy: Croatian olive oil, leather products, lavender perfume.
Opening Dates: November 30, 2024 – January 7, 2025.
Market Venue: Ban Jelai Square, Zrinjevac Park, King Tomislav Square.
Trip Budget: $600 – $1,000.
Best Activities: Ice skating in King Tomislav Square, live concerts in Zrinjevac Park, Upper Town.
Nearest Airports: Zagreb Airport (ZAG).
Transports To Take: Trams 6, 11, and 12, buses 108 and 118.
Food Recommended: Croatian sausages, fritule (fried balls of dough), mulled wine.
Best Places to Stay: Hotel Esplanade Zagreb, Hotel Dubrovnik.
Travel Guide: The Advent market of Zagreb is spread over multiple locations, so wear a sturdy pair of shoes for walking from one place to the next.

14. Bruges, Belgium – Bruges Christmas Market

At Christmas, Bruges becomes a winter wonderland with fairy lights lighting up its medieval streets. The Christmas market, in the Market Square, is a small but very nice, intimate place to shop for the holidays.

Things to Buy: Belgian lace, Christmas chocolates, handmade jewelry.
Opening Dates: 24th November 2024 – 7th January 2025.
Market Venue: Market Square and Simon Stevinplein, Bruges.
Trip Budget: $800 – $1,200.
Best Activities: Romantic boat trip along the canals, Bruges Belfry, Basilica of the Holy Blood.
Nearest Airports: Brussels Airport (BRU).
Transports To Take: State-owned buses and carriages with horses.
Food Recommended: Belgian waffles, chocolate strawberries, mulled wine.
Best Places to Stay: Hotel Dukes’ Palace, Grand Hotel Casselbergh.
Travel Guide: Bruges is popular on weekends so avoid visiting during the week to fully experience the market.

15. Stockholm, Sweden – Skansen Christmas Market

There’s something very Swedish about Stockholm’s Skansen Christmas market, a freestanding museum in the city’s outdoor museum. They can sample traditional Swedish crafts and foods in a rural environment with wooden cottages, entertainment, and a holiday-like atmosphere.

Things to Buy: Swedish wooden toys, Christmas ornaments, handmade cheeses.
Opening Dates: November 30–December 22, 2024 (weekends only).
Market Venue: Skansen, Stockholm.
Trip Budget: $900 – $1,400.
Best Activities: Skansen Museum, live folk dances, Nordic animals park.
Nearest Airports: Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN).
Transports To Take: Trams, buses, ferry.
Food Recommended: Swedish meatballs, saffron buns (lussekatter), glögg (mulled wine).
Best Places to Stay: Grand Hôtel Stockholm, Hotel Rival.
Travel Guide: Dress warmly; Stockholm can be very cold in December, especially if the market is outside.

16. Colmar, France – Colmar Christmas Market

Colmar has one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe. The market itself, nestled among timber shacks and canals, contains multiple themed zones that provide a different vacation. The fairytale lights and decorations make it look so pretty.

Things to Buy: Alsace pottery, Christmas decorations, local wine.
Opening Dates: 22 November – 29 December 2024.
Market Venue: Altstadt, Colmar (Place des Dominicains, Place de l’Ancienne Douane).
Trip Budget: $800 – $1,300.
Best Activities: Little Venice area, Unterlinden Museum, canal cruises.
Nearest Airports: EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg (BSL).
Transports To Take: Strasbourg trains and local buses.
Food Recommended: Foie gras, Flammekueche (tarté flambée), Alsace wine.
Best Places to Stay: Hôtel Le Maréchal, Hôtel Colombier Suites.
Travel Guide: Be sure to see the Petite Venise district at night for the spectacular lights of the canals.

17. Dresden, Germany – Striezelmarkt

The oldest Christmas market in Germany, Dresden’s Striezelmarkt, was established in 1434 on the city’s Altmarkt square. The market is well-known for its Christmas decor (which includes a large Christmas pyramid), and it is a wonderful combination of traditional and contemporary things to do.

Things to Buy: Pyramids made of wood, Räuchermänner (smoked) and Dresden Stollen (fruitcake).
Opening Dates: 27th of November – 24th of December 2024.
Market Venue: Altmarkt Square, Dresden.
Trip Budget: $700 – $1,100.
Best Activities: Climb the Frauenkirche dome, Zwinger Palace, and Christmas Boat Ride along the Elbe River.
Nearest Airports: Dresden Airport (DRS).
Transports To Take: Trams 1, 2, 4, 7, 12.
Food Recommended: Bratwurst, Christstollen, Mulled wine.
Best Places to Stay: Hotel Taschenbergpalais Kempinski, Hyperion Hotel Dresden.
Travel Guide: See the Christmas pyramid lighting ceremony — this is one of the market’s highlights.

18. Salzburg, Austria – Salzburg Christmas Market

Salzburg Christmas market in the Cathedral Square – tradition, music, Christmas spirit. The baroque façade and snow-covered pavements make the market resemble a Christmas postcard.

Things to Buy: Printed Christmas ornaments, Austrian gingerbread, and candles.
Opening Dates: 21 November – 26 December 2024.
Market Venue: Cathedral Square, Salzburg.
Trip Budget: $800 – $1,300.
Best Activities: Go to a classical concert, visit the Hohensalzburg Fortress, and visit a Sound of Music museum.
Nearest Airports: Salzburg Airport (SZG).
Transports To Take: Taxi, local buses, taxis.
Food Recommended: Wiener Schnitzel, Kaiserschmarrn (sweetened pancakes), and roasted chestnuts.
Best Places to Stay: Hotel Goldener Hirsch, Hotel Sacher Salzburg.
Travel Guide: You can also visit nearby Hellbrunn Palace for another lovely Christmas market.

19. Helsinki, Finland – Helsinki Christmas Market

Located in Senate Square, Helsinki’s Christmas market is an authentic Nordic Christmas celebration. Stands hawking Finnish crafts and delicious snacks make this market feel a little like a Scandinavian winter.

Things to Buy: Finnish Wool, Moomin gifts, reindeer skins.
Opening Dates: December 1 to December 22, 2024.
Market Venue: Senate Square, Helsinki.
Trip Budget: $900 – $1,500.
Best Activities: Helsinki Cathedral, Christmas carousel, Suomenlinna island.
Nearest Airports: Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL).
Transports To Take: Trams 2, 4, 7 and 10.
Food Recommended: Reindeer stew, joulutorttu (star cakes at Christmas), glögi (Finnish hot wine).
Best Places to Stay: Hotel Kämp, Hotel Haven.
Travel Guide: Make sure to see the northern lights if you go to Lapland after Helsinki.

20. Riga, Latvia – Dome Square Christmas Market

Riga’s Dome Square Christmas market feels like a Christmas in the Baltics, with its wood stalls and atmosphere. The UNESCO-listed old town is an impressive setting for this traditional market, which features Latvian goods and cuisine.

Things to Buy: Wool scarves, Latvian honey, wooden toys.
Opening Dates: Nov 30th, 2024 – Jan 6th, 2025.
Market Venue: Dome Square, Riga.
Trip Budget: $500 – $900.
Best Activities: Visit Riga Cathedral, Central Market, and Old Town Walking Tour.
Nearest Airports: Riga International Airport (RIX).
Transports To Take: Local trams, buses, and trolleybuses.
Food Recommended: Grey peas with bacon, piragi (pizza-like pastries), gingerbread.
Best Places to Stay: Grand Hotel Kempinski Riga, Wellton Riverside Spa Hotel.
Travel Guide: Wear warm clothes in Riga if you want to go for a cold winter.

Conclusion: Festive Lights and Timeless Traditions

To conclude, European Christmas markets provide visitors with a mystical journey of what it means to be a festive traveler. In Vienna, Nuremberg, and its great markets, as in the sleepy towns of Tallinn and Ljubljana, every town is different — it is full of culture, history, and Christmas spirit. These markets offer not only a great way to browse for handmade souvenirs but also the chance to be immersed in the customs, foods, and hospitality that each city is known for at this time of year.

Going to a Christmas market in Europe is more than shopping — it’s a magical experience of lights, music, and the taste of holiday aromas that makes you forget the whole day. So whether you’re drinking mulled wine in a medieval square, ice skating in the city under Christmas lights, or looking at a huge Christmas tree, these markets are an authentic Christmas experience. They’re an ideal place to discover each city’s past monuments in the holiday mood.

So, if you’re planning your 2024 Christmas holiday, then you must visit one of these 20 European Christmas markets. You can go alone, with your partner, or with the whole family, there’s something for everyone. From the winter streets of Munich to the canals of Copenhagen, these markets are sure to bring you joy, amazement, and holiday magic this Christmas. So repack your bags, bundle up, and come for the Christmas of a lifetime.