Greatest Christmas Markets in Europe 2023

That is your final information to the most effective Christmas markets in Europe! I’ve traveled to a whole bunch of Christmas markets to carry you the most effective locations for Christmas Markets in Europe for 2023.

Image this: You’re strolling the traditional cobblestone streets, on both aspect heat lights of cafes and outlets beckon you inside, you’ve gotten a slight chill regardless of your heat winter coat. You see a fortress within the mist on the hill forward of you. Might as we speak get any higher? Sure, sure it may.

As you flip the nook you’re first hit with the odor. It’s a combination 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 other people 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: 1000’s of twinkle lights strewn alongside contemporary reduce pine bushes. Hand carved picket stalls promoting meals, drinks, and handmade trinkets line the road, every yet one more embellished than the subsequent.

It’s Christmas Markets in Europe and it’s probably the most joyful place on earth!

I like to consider myself as a Christmas market knowledgeable having lived in Germany, the place Christmas markets actually began, I spent years going time and again 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 in the course of the vacation season, however I discover it really sensational. It’s such a way of group and pleasure, everybody on the town will get collectively, regardless of the chilly climate to have a good time Christmas and share their handmade wares and scrumptious household recipes of conventional meals.

I am sharing the most effective of the European Christmas markets so you possibly can guarantee to benefit from your time.

Greatest Christmas Markets in Europe 2023

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 undoubtedly deserves its nickname because the “Capital of Noel”! This metropolis has probably the greatest Christmas markets in all Europe and it is an extremely festive place to go to in the course of the vacation season. With superbly embellished stalls and open day-after-day from November twenty fourth to December twenty fourth, you will 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 lodges, 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: When 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 2023: November twenty fifth via December twenty sixth, 2023.

See my full information to the most effective Christmas markets in France. Or, my full information to Strasbourg, France at Christmas.

Cologne, Germany

Cologne, Germany is likely one of the hottest Christmas markets in Europe and for good motive! With seven markets, all with completely different themes, all through the town, you will 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 reside music, an enormous tree, and gluhwein (sizzling, mulled wine!). I additionally adore the Angels’ Market the place you will discover it in Neumarkt Sq. and is likely one of the authentic markets that options girls wearing angel costumes handing out sweets to youngsters. There’s additionally a stupendous carousel and beautiful mugs which might be good to take dwelling as souvenirs. I am keen on the one within the Outdated City as a result of it is crammed with what appears like gnomes, however it’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 house responsibilities till they have been irritated by an inquisitive housewife).

And Nikolausdorf or “NicholasVillage” in Rudolfplatz can also be effectively definitely worth the cease! Many half-timbered buildings make this really feel like an actual village. It is all the time wonderful to me that this can come down come January!

Cologne Christmas Market Dates for 2023: November twenty first via December twenty third 2023.

See the most effective Christmas markets in Germany right here.

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 unbelievable Christmas markets! I have been to markets all all through Europe and I can let you know, those in Vienna are a few of the greatest.

There are a number of giant markets situated across the metropolis, every with their very own distinctive really feel. The most well-liked might be at Rathausplatz in entrance of the attractive City Corridor. With over 150 chalets, this is likely one of the largest in Europe. It is good for choosing up items and grabbing a chunk to eat. The Glühwein right here is a few of the greatest I’ve ever had!

If you would 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 beautiful park and has a extremely relaxed and charming environment. It is the proper 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 2023: November twelfth via December twenty fourth, 2023.

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 appears 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 likely one of the largest markets in Tallinn and is ideal for choosing up items and souvenirs. You may discover handmade Estonian crafts, decorations, and loads of locations to seize a chunk to eat. The gluwein right here can also be glorious! This can be a excellent place to select up a home made wool sweater and stick round for reside music and leisure at evening.

When you’re searching for one thing a little bit completely different, take a look at the Rotermann Quarter. This market is situated in an previous 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 2023: December 1st via January seventh, 2024.

Basel, Switzerland

Basel, Switzerland is a captivating metropolis situated on the river Rhine and is thought for its stunning Outdated 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 number 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 a few of the greatest 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 crimson sandstone cathedral. This can be a excellent place to do some Christmas purchasing as you will discover all the things from jewellery to picket toys.

PRO TIP: When you’re searching for one thing a little bit completely different, be sure you 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 2023: November twenty fourth via December twenty third, 2023.

Prague, Czech Republic

When you’re searching for a market with a extra medieval really feel, then Prague is the place for you! With its beautiful Gothic structure and cobblestone streets, Prague lends itself completely to a festive environment. The markets listed below are a few of the most unusual in Europe with stunning handmade items on supply.

The primary market is situated in Outdated City Sq. the place you will discover a gorgeous Christmas tree and the spectacular Tyn Church within the background. This can be a actually fashionable spot, so be ready for crowds, which is why I like to recommend weekdays. But it surely’s undoubtedly value braving the plenty to see the attractive 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 fashionable areas of the town and supply a refreshing change of tempo from the Outdated City.

Prague Christmas Market Dates for 2023: November twenty seventh via December twenty fourth, 2023.

Helsinki, Finland

Helsinki, Finland is a novel Christmas market expertise as a result of it is not solely concerning 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 you’ll find on the Outdated Market Corridor. This is likely one of the few markets the place you’ll find meals indoors, so it is good when you’re visiting in colder climate or when you simply want a break from the chilly. You may additionally discover handcrafted Christmas decorations, glassware, and textiles.

I beloved the saunas situated proper by the Christmas market glog stalls (glog is their model of mulled wine.) So that you may see somebody hop out of a sauna in only a towel, grabbing a mulled mug of steaming wine!

Helsinki Christmas Market Dates for 2023: November twenty seventh via December twenty second, 2023.

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 manner. Your complete city attire up and participates. There are individuals dressed up, on stilts, clever males with actual camels, fires in the course 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 totally completely 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 glorious native wines, so be sure you choose up a bottle or two to take dwelling with you. You may additionally discover loads of handmade items on supply

Ribeauvillé Christmas Market Dates for 2023: December third, 4th, tenth, and eleventh – as you possibly can see it is a tremendous brief season however so value it!

Heidelberg, Germany

The Heidelberg Christmas market is likely one of the oldest markets in Germany, relationship again to 1398! The primary market is situated in Heidelberg’s previous city, all through the Hauptstrasse. This can be a bit completely different than a few of the different markets, and I discover it a pleasure! You may stroll almost a mile and revel in completely different Christmas festivities alongside the way in which. I am biased since I lived in Heidelberg, however with a stupendous sixteenth century buildings, the fortress towering over the skating rink, it is simply magical.

It is a really 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 fortress lit up at evening are merely gorgeous.

There’s additionally a market in close by Mannheim which I additionally suggest trying out in case you have time. It is a brief drive or practice trip away!

Heidelberg Christmas Market Dates for 2023: November twenty first via December twenty second, 2023.

See my full information to Heidelberg’s Christmas markets right here.

Colmar, France

Nestled within the Alsace area of France, Colmar is really a fairytale city and its Christmas market doesn’t disappoint. With over 300 stalls, this is likely one of the largest markets in France. The setting could not be extra good both, because the market is situated within the stunning previous 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 powerful 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 supply.

When in Colmar, considered one of 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 fascinated with it!

Try my Christmas market highway journey itinerary right here.

Colmar Christmas Market Dates for 2023: November twenty fourth via December twenty ninth 2023.

Budapest, Hungary

Budapest’s Christmas Market is likely 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, a large ferris wheel, an ice rink, and a nativity scene, it is easy to spend a couple 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 undoubtedly value sticking round for. The market is open from November eleventh to January 1st, so you’ve gotten loads of time to go to. And do not forget to attempt some conventional Hungarian dishes like lángos (a deep-fried flatbread) or kürtőskalács (a chimney cake)!

Budapest Christmas Market Dates for 2023: November 4th via December thirty first 2023.

Munich, Germany

Munich is famend for its wonderful Oktoberfest celebration, however do you know that it additionally has a few of the greatest Christmas markets in Europe? The markets listed below are giant and vigorous with an important environment.

The primary market is situated at Marienplatz within the coronary heart of the town. This can be a actually fashionable spot, so be ready for crowds. But it surely’s undoubtedly value braving the plenty to see the attractive Glockenspiel present that takes place day-after-day at 11 am and midday. There are additionally plenty of different markets situated all through the town, so that you’re positive to seek out one which fits your fancy.

There are various markets in Munich, however be sure you begin on the iconic Christkindlmarkt situated in Marienplatz. From there, you possibly can select from the traditional Neuhausen Christmas market or go for one thing completely different just like the Wintertollwood Pageant held on Oktoberfest grounds.

And when you’re searching for an genuine Bavarian eating expertise, be sure you take a look at Hofbräuhaus, considered one of Munich’s most well-known beer halls. It is an important place to attempt some conventional German dishes like Weißwurst (veal sausage) and Leberkäse (a sort of meatloaf).

Munich Christmas Market Dates for 2023: November twenty first via December twenty fourth, 2023.

Innsbruck, Austria

Innsbruck is a captivating metropolis situated within the Austrian Alps and its Christmas market is nothing wanting magical. With over 80 stalls, it is one of many smaller markets on this checklist, however it greater than makes up for it with its gorgeous setting. The market takes place within the previous city sq. in opposition to the backdrop of the snow-capped peaks of the Alps.

What I 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 will additionally discover some extra uncommon objects like Krapfen (fried dough balls crammed with jam) and Kernöl (pumpkin seed oil).

Innsbruck Christmas Market Dates for 2023: November fifteenth via December twenty third, 2023.

London, England

I 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 everyday spot, Christmas market is unquestionably value a go to. Situated in Hyde Park, Winter Wonderland is likely one of the largest markets in Europe and it is utterly free to enter!

When you’re inside, you will discover an array of points of interest like an ice rink, a large ferris wheel, and a German-style market with over 200 stalls. And when you’re feeling actually festive, you possibly can even go to Santa’s Grotto!

Winter Wonderland is open from late November till early January, so you’ve gotten loads of time to get pleasure from all of the enjoyable. And whenever you’re prepared for a break from the chilly, head to considered one of Hyde Park’s many cafes for a cup of tea or some conventional English fare.

When you have further time, head to Bathtub,a quintessential city in the UK that is additionally obtained an exquisite Christmas market!

London Christmas Market Dates for 2023: November 18th via January 2nd, 2024.

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 likely 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 lots to see and do. You may discover all the standard German Christmas Market staples like Glühwein, Lebkuchen, and Maroni. However you will additionally discover some extra uncommon objects like Nürnberger Christstollen (a sort of fruitcake) and Nürnberger Rostbratwurst (a grilled sausage).

When you go to Nuremberg Christmas Market on the primary Friday earlier than Creation there’s a tremendous opening ceremony with performances and reside music.

Nuremberg Christmas Market Dates for 2023: November twenty fifth via December twenty fourth, 2023.

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 likely one of the largest in Europe.

The market is unfold out throughout the town heart with over 200 stalls, so there’s lots to see and do. You may discover all the standard French Christmas Market staples like vin chaud, ache d’épices (gingerbread), and goodies. However you will additionally discover some extra gormet meals like foie gras, tarte flambée (a sort of pizza), and quiche Lorraine.

Cathedral Saint-Étienne de Metz dates again to the eleventh century has a beautiful 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 effectively – Notre Dame d’Auschwitz, the trendy artwork heart Centre Pompidou-Metz, and Le Temple Neuf is a stupendous church that appears extra like a fortress.

Metz Christmas Market Dates for 2023: November Nineteenth via December thirtieth, 2023.

Trier, Germany

Trier is a stupendous metropolis situated within the southwest of Germany, near the border with Luxembourg. Trier is thought for it is romantic setting and with the Christmas market’s backdrop of the beautiful cathedral, it is a beautiful spot.

This system on the Trier Christmas Market adjustments day by 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 supply, plus arts and crafts from world wide, the Trier Christmas Market attracts guests from far and extensive.

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 2023: November 18th via December twenty second, 2023.

See the most effective 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 likely 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 will additionally discover objects like gingerbread homes, candles, and handmade picket toys. Yearly Grote Sq. is remodeled to Bruges’ largest Christmas market and within the heart you will discover a skating rink. You can even head to Stevin Sq. for much more Christmas festivities.

Bruges Christmas Market Dates for 2023: November twenty fifth via January eighth 2024.

Aachen, Germany

I simply went to Aachen final 12 months for my first time and completely beloved it! Not solely is Aachen filled with necessary historical past, it is obtained an unbelievable 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 likely 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 beloved most concerning the market have been the entire Aachener Printen on supply. Printen are a sort of gingerbread that originates from Aachen. They arrive in all types of sizes and shapes and are completely scrumptious!

Aachen Christmas Market Dates for 2023: November 18th via December twenty third 2023.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen is the capital of Denmark and is situated on the japanese coast of the nation. 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 sort 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 possibly can even trip the Polar Categorical! Additionally, Kongens Nytorv is likely one of the most stunning squares in Copenhagen and it actually comes alive throughout Christmas time. And do not forget to move to iconic Nyhavn the place you will additionally discover a market.

Copenhagen Christmas Market Dates for 2023: November 4th via December twenty first, 2023.

Zagreb, Croatia

Zagreb is the capital of Croatia and is situated within the northwest of the nation. Town is filled with tradition and historical past with a stupendous previous city that is good for exploring. The Christmas market is situated in Tomislav Sq. within the heart of the town.

On the Zagreb Christmas Market, you will discover all the normal Croatian Christmas Market staples like mulled wine, sausages, and pancakes. You can even discover handicrafts, jewellery, and pottery. Make sure you attempt the strukli which is a sort of pastry that is fashionable in Zagreb.

And if you wish to get a birds eye view of the market, be certain that to move to the Zagreb Eye which is a huge Ferris wheel situated within the coronary heart of the town.

Zagreb Christmas Market Dates for 2023: November twenty sixth via January seventh, 2024.

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 everywhere in the continent!

Christmas Market High Ideas

As your resident knowledgeable on Christmas in Europe, listed below are a few of my high suggestions for profiting from your Christmas market journey!

Which nation has the most effective Christmas Markets? That is clearly up for debate, however the award has to go to Germany! Germany has a few of the oldest and greatest markets round. The custom runs deep and even small cities and villages take part. See the most effective Christmas markets in Germany right here.

Which nation has the most effective decorations for Christmas? France! France goes all out for decorations. It would not harm that the Alsace area already appears like an ideal gingerbread village!

What’s the most effective time to go for Christmas markets in Europe? I feel December is your greatest guess to make sure you see the Christmas markets however many begin in late November. Some markets do go till January as effectively.

Listed below 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’ve gotten it, my checklist of the most effective Christmas markets in Europe for 2023! Which one are you most excited about- in case you have any questions, be happy to succeed in out to me on Instagram @heleneinbetween – I reply all my DMs!