10 Best Christmas Markets in Europe You Need to Visit This Winter

Ahhhhh, the magic of Christmas markets- twinkling lights, mulled wine, and that irresistible scent of roasted chestnuts in the air. If you’re like me and dream of wrapping up in a scarf and wandering through festive stalls, Europe is the place to be. From the quaint to the extravagant, European Christmas markets are a tradition you just can’t miss. So, grab your woolly hat, we’re off on a wintery adventure through Europe’s 10 best Christmas markets. 🎄

1. Vienna, Austria

Currency: Euro (€) Temperature in December: -1°C to 5°C (Crisp and chilly, just the way it should be!)

Vienna is like stepping into a Christmas card during the festive season. The Vienna Christkindlmarkt in Rathausplatz is iconic, with over 150 stalls selling everything from handcrafted ornaments to freshly baked gingerbread. The atmosphere is just magical with the Rathaus (city hall) lit up behind it.

• What to explore nearby: Don’t miss a trip to the Belvedere Palace or the Schonbrunn Palace—both look stunning in winter.

• Local delicacies: Don’t leave without trying Sachertorte (the famous Viennese chocolate cake) or a steaming bowl of Gulaschsuppe (goulash soup).

• Best restaurants and cafes: Café Central for the best coffee and cake or Plachutta for the ultimate Wiener Schnitzel.

• Where to stay:Budget: Flarent Vienna Apartments-HG – family-friendly and located near the city centre, offering affordable yet stylish accommodation. Mid-range:Hotel Beethoven– elegant, comfortable, and close to the markets. Luxe: Hotel Sacher – classic, luxurious, and steps away from the market.

2. Prague, Czech Republic

Currency: Czech Koruna (CZK) Temperature in December: -2°C to 4°C (Bundle up!)

Prague’s Christmas markets are something out of a fairy tale, with the stunning Old Town Square Market stealing the show. The towering Christmas tree, medieval buildings, and wooden stalls make for a perfect festive backdrop.

• What to explore nearby: The Charles Bridge and Prague Castle are must-sees, and don’t forget to catch the astronomical clock in action.

• Local delicacies: Try Trdelník (a sweet, spiral pastry) or a hearty Svíčková (beef with cream sauce).

• Best restaurants and cafes: Café Louvre for a historical experience or Mlejnice for traditional Czech fare.

• Where to stay:Budget: ARTHARMONY Pension & Hostel – a charming and affordable option in the heart of the city. Mid-range: Hotel Leonardo – comfortable and just a short walk from the Christmas market. Luxe: Four Seasons Prague – for a luxury stay with views of Prague Castle.

3. Munich, Germany

Currency: Euro (€) Temperature in December: -3°C to 6°C (Brisk, but with enough mulled wine, you’ll be fine!)

Munich is home to one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe—the Marienplatz Christkindlmarkt. With its medieval setting and over 140 stalls, it’s perfect for stocking up on gingerbread and handcrafted gifts.

• What to explore nearby: Take a stroll through the Englischer Garten or visit the iconic Nymphenburg Palace.

• Local delicacies: Don’t leave without sampling a Bratwurst or Lebkuchen (German gingerbread).

• Best restaurants and cafes: Hofbräuhaus for a Bavarian beer hall experience or Schmalznudel for traditional pastries.

• Where to stay:Budget: ARABEST Aparthotel & Boardinghouse – affordable and family-friendly. Mid-range: Hotel Torbräu – centrally located with a cosy vibe. Luxe: Le Méridien Munich– one of Munich’s most luxurious hotels, just minutes from the market.

4. Strasbourg, France

Currency: Euro (€) Temperature in December: 0°C to 7°C (Chilly, but not unbearable)

Known as the "Capital of Christmas," Strasbourg’s Christkindelsmärik is nothing short of magical. The entire city is decked out in festive lights, and the market, set around the stunning cathedral, is one of the oldest in Europe.

• What to explore nearby: Wander the charming Petite France district or take a boat trip along the River Ill.

• Local delicacies: Try a Flammkuchen (like a French version of pizza) or Bredele (traditional Christmas biscuits).

• Best restaurants and cafes: La Corde à Linge for Alsatian specialities or Au Crocodile for fine dining.

• Where to stay:Budget: Le Gutenberg - Joli T2 dans le Carré d'Or – family-friendly with great amenities. Mid-range: Hôtel Suisse – a charming stay near the cathedral. Luxe: Maison Rouge Strasbourg Hotel & Spa, Autograph Collection –Get the celebrity treatment with world-class service. Families particularly like the location — they rated it 9.5 for a stay with kids.

5. Copenhagen, Denmark

Currency: Danish Krone (DKK) Temperature in December: 0°C to 4°C (Crisp but cosy)

The Tivoli Gardens Christmas Market is an absolute must-see. Think twinkling lights, a festive wonderland, and a dash of old-school amusement park fun. It’s magical for the whole family.

• What to explore nearby: Wander the colourful houses of Nyhavn or take a trip to the Little Mermaid statue.

• Local delicacies: Don’t miss out on Æbleskiver (little Danish pancake balls) and Gløgg (Danish mulled wine).

• Best restaurants and cafes: Café Norden for a cosy Danish brunch or Noma if you’re splurging on world-class dining.

• Where to stay:Budget: Good Morning City Copenhagen Star– affordable and centrally located. Mid-range: Venders Copenhagen – modern and family-friendly, near Tivoli. Luxe: Nobis Hotel Copenhagen, a Member of Design Hotels™ – Copenhagen’s most luxurious hotel, right by the market.

6. Brussels, Belgium

Currency: Euro (€) Temperature in December: 2°C to 6°C (Cold, but festive!)

Brussels transforms into a winter wonderland with its Winter Wonders market. Stretching from the Grand Place to the Place Sainte-Catherine, the market offers a mix of Belgian treats, ice skating, and a dazzling light show.

• What to explore nearby: Visit the Atomium or the Royal Palace of Brussels.

• Local delicacies: Belgian waffles, frites, and of course, chocolate. Lots of chocolate.

• Best restaurants and cafes: Maison Dandoy for waffles or Le Chalet de la Forêt for fine dining.

• Where to stay:Budget: Cosy Place Brussels Expo 300– a great family-friendly option. Mid-range: Novotel Brussels City Centre – elegant and comfortable. Luxe: Le Châtelain – a luxury stay in the heart of Brussels.

7. Budapest, Hungary

Currency: Hungarian Forint (HUF)

Temperature in December: -1°C to 4°C (Pack your layers!)

The Budapest Christmas Fair at Vörösmarty Square is a feast for the senses. Think spicy mulled wine, beautifully crafted gifts, and live performances. Plus, Budapest’s thermal baths are perfect for warming up after a chilly day of shopping.

• What to explore nearby: Buda Castle and Széchenyi Thermal Baths are must-dos.

• Local delicacies: Tuck into a Chimney Cake or a hearty Goulash.

• Best restaurants and cafes: New York Café for stunning surroundings or Café Gerbeaud for traditional Hungarian pastries.

• Where to stay:Budget: Matyas House in the City Center budget-friendly with private rooms for families. Mid-range: Aquaworld Resort Budapest – centrally located and family-friendly. Luxe: Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace – luxury at its finest with views of the Danube.

8. Tallinn, Estonia

Currency: Euro (€) Temperature in December: -2°C to 2°C (Cold, but nothing a hot drink won’t fix!)

The Tallinn Christmas Market is small but utterly charming, set in the medieval town square with a Christmas tree that dates back to the 15th century. The snow-covered old town feels straight out of a storybook.

• What to explore nearby: Take a stroll through the Kalamaja District or visit the historic Toompea Castle.

• Local delicacies: Warm up with Mulled Wine and traditional Estonian Sausage.

• Best restaurants and cafes: Rataskaevu 16 for Estonian cuisine or Chocolaterie Pierre for a hot chocolate.

• Where to stay:Budget: Stylish apartment in the heart of Tallinn, free parking –Stylish, affordable, and family-friendly. Mid-range: Tallinn City Apartments Old Town Suites – comfortable and charming, located near the market. Luxe: Hotel Telegraaf – a five-star luxury hotel in the heart of Tallinn’s old town.

9. Colmar, France

Currency: Euro (€) Temperature in December: 0°C to 7°C (Perfect for a winter stroll)

Colmar’s Christmas market is pure Alsatian charm, with half-timbered houses, festive decorations, and a fairy-tale atmosphere. It’s small but perfectly formed, and the whole town feels like it’s come alive for Christmas.

• What to explore nearby: Take a boat trip along the Lauch River or visit the nearby Eguisheim village.

• Local delicacies: Feast on Choucroute (Alsatian sauerkraut and sausage) and Foie Gras.

• Best restaurants and cafes: La Table du Brocanteur for Alsatian dishes or Le Petit Schlossberg for fine dining.

• Where to stay:Budget: KAYSERSBERG city center - COTE VIGNOBLE - TripAlsace – affordable, and family-friendly. Mid-range:Le Rapp Hotel – cosy and comfortable, a short walk from the market. Luxe: La Maison des Têtes – a luxury hotel in a historical building.

10. Zurich, Switzerland

Currency: Swiss Franc (CHF) Temperature in December: -1°C to 4°C (Snowy perfection!)

Zurich’s Christkindlimarkt is one of the largest indoor Christmas markets in Europe, held inside the city’s main train station. The centrepiece? A 50-foot Christmas tree decorated with thousands of Swarovski crystals.

• What to explore nearby: Take a trip up to Uetliberg Mountain for panoramic views of the city, or explore the Bahnhofstrasse for luxury shopping.

• Local delicacies: Warm up with Raclette or Fondue, and don’t forget Swiss chocolate!

• Best restaurants and cafes: Confiserie Sprüngli for chocolate and pastries or Zeughauskeller for Swiss classics.

• Where to stay:Budget: Zurich Furnished Homes – affordable and central. Mid-range: Hotel St. Gotthard – stylish and just a short walk from the markets. Luxe:Storchen Zürich - Lifestyle boutique Hotel – a five-star luxury hotel with stunning views of Lake Zurich.

There you have it—10 of the best Christmas markets in Europe, with everything from where to stay to what to eat. Whether you’re travelling on a budget or looking for a luxe family getaway, these markets are the perfect festive escape. Ready to experience the magic? Grab your passport and get booking! Or if you prefer a professional to handle all your booking needs contact us through our contact form here.