Finest Christmas Markets in Europe 2023

That is your final information to the very best Christmas markets in Europe! I’ve traveled to a whole bunch of Christmas markets to deliver you the very best 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 retailers beckon you inside, you’ve got a slight chill regardless of your heat winter coat. You see a fort within the mist on the hill forward of you. May right this moment get any higher? Sure, sure it might.

As you flip the nook you’re first hit with the scent. 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 fireplace.

Subsequent you’re hit with the noise. Christmas carols sung in German, laughter of all ages, and other people greeting one another on the prime 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 lower pine bushes. Hand carved wood 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 think about myself as a Christmas market professional having lived in Germany, the place Christmas markets actually began, I spent years going many times 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 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 the very best of the European Christmas markets so you possibly can guarantee to profit from your time.

Finest 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 positively deserves its nickname because the “Capital of Noel”! This metropolis has among the finest 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 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 presents. 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 possibly can see my full information to those Alsace villages at Christmas right here.

Starsbourg Christmas Market Dates for 2023: November twenty fifth by December twenty sixth, 2023.

See my full information to the very best Christmas markets in France. Or, my full information to Strasbourg, France at Christmas.

Cologne, Germany

Cologne, Germany is without doubt one of the hottest Christmas markets in Europe and for good cause! 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. Giant, lavishly embellished Christmas markets sparkle all through the town.

A few of my favorites are the Cologne Cathedral Market, that is the biggest and takes place exterior the spectacular cathedral with stay music, an enormous tree, and gluhwein (scorching, mulled wine!). I additionally adore the Angels’ Market the place you will discover it in Neumarkt Sq. and is without doubt one of the authentic markets that options girls wearing angel costumes handing out sweets to kids. There’s additionally a lovely carousel and beautiful mugs which can be good to take house as souvenirs. I like the one within the Previous City as a result of it is full of what seems like gnomes, however it’s a lot extra! The Alter Markt calls itself the Dwelling 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 be nicely definitely worth the cease! Many half-timbered constructions make this really feel like an actual village. It is at all times wonderful to me that it will come down come January!

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

See the very best 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 inform you, those in Vienna are among the greatest.

There are a number of giant markets positioned 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 without doubt one of the largest in Europe. It is good for selecting up presents and grabbing a chew to eat. The Glühwein right here is among the greatest 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 positioned in a pedestrian zone within the Spittelberg district and is made up of small, particular person chalets. This market has a very cozy really feel and is ideal for a romantic stroll.

And at last, my favourite market in Vienna is the Altwiener Christkindlmarkt at Freyung. This market is positioned in a beautiful park and has a very relaxed and charming environment. It is the right place to seize a cup of scorching chocolate and a slice of Sachertorte (a chocolate cake that may be a Vienna specialty!)

Vienna Christmas Market Dates for 2023: November twelfth by December twenty fourth, 2023.

Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn seems 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 looks like one thing out of a storybook.

The primary market is positioned 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 presents and souvenirs. You may discover handmade Estonian crafts, decorations, and loads of locations to seize a chew to eat. The gluwein right here can be wonderful! It is a excellent place to select up a hand-crafted wool sweater and stick round for stay music and leisure at evening.

Should you’re searching for one thing slightly completely different, take a look at the Rotermann Quarter. This market is positioned 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 presents and souvenirs right here.

I extremely advocate 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 by January seventh, 2024.

Basel, Switzerland

Basel, Switzerland is a captivating metropolis positioned on the river Rhine and is thought for its lovely 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 positioned in Munsterplatz and is full of lovely handcrafted items, a big number of foods and drinks, and twinkling lights. You’ll want to strive the scrumptious Basler Läckerli, a spiced gingerbread-like biscuits which can be a neighborhood specialty. I additionally love the mulled wine right here, it is among the greatest I’ve ever had!

There are additionally a number of different markets positioned all through the town together with one within the sq. in entrance of Basel’s lovely crimson sandstone cathedral. It is a excellent place to do some Christmas buying as you will discover the whole lot from jewellery to wood toys.

PRO TIP: Should you’re searching for one thing slightly completely different, make sure you take a look at the Creation Calendar Home. It is a home with 25 home windows, every with a unique shock behind it!

Basel Christmas Market Dates for 2023: November twenty fourth by December twenty third, 2023.

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 environment. The markets listed below are among the most original in Europe with lovely handmade items on provide.

The primary market is positioned in Previous City Sq. the place you will discover a gorgeous Christmas tree and the spectacular Tyn Church within the background. It is a actually widespread spot, so be ready for crowds, which is why I like to recommend weekdays. However it’s positively value braving the lots 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 positioned in additional fashionable areas of the town and provide a refreshing change of tempo from the Previous City.

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

Helsinki, Finland

Helsinki, Finland is a novel Christmas market expertise as a result of it isn’t solely concerning the market stalls, but additionally the ice skating rink that units up in Senate Sq.. It is so festive and wonderful 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 Previous Market Corridor. This is without doubt one of the few markets the place you’ll find meals indoors, so it is good in case you’re visiting in colder climate or in case you simply want a break from the chilly. You may additionally discover handcrafted Christmas decorations, glassware, and textiles.

I cherished the saunas positioned 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 by December twenty second, 2023.

Ribeauvillé, France

This market is small and solely provided for a pair quick weekends however SO WORTH IT. It is one of the crucial uncommon markets I’ve ever been to in probably the most charming manner. Your complete city attire up and participates. There are folks 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 same old Christmas market fare right here like mulled wine, gingerbread, and roasted chestnuts. However Ribeauvillé can be recognized for its wonderful native wines, so make sure you choose up a bottle or two to take house with you. You may additionally discover loads of handmade items on provide

Ribeauvillé Christmas Market Dates for 2023: December third, 4th, tenth, and eleventh – as you possibly can see it is a tremendous quick season however so 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 positioned in Heidelberg’s previous city, all through the Hauptstrasse. It is a bit completely different than among the different markets, and I discover it a pleasure! You possibly can stroll almost a mile and luxuriate in completely different Christmas festivities alongside the best way. I am biased since I lived in Heidelberg, however with a lovely 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 evening are merely gorgeous.

There’s additionally a market in close by Mannheim which I additionally advocate trying out when you have time. It is a quick drive or practice experience away!

Heidelberg Christmas Market Dates for 2023: November twenty first by 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 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 good both, because the market is positioned within the lovely 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 mild show. You may discover all the standard 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 presents and decorations on provide.

When in Colmar, one among my favourite French eating places can’t be beat! Winstub de la Petite Venise. This Michelin star restaurant affords a 35 euro plat du jour that makes my mouth water simply fascinated with it!

Take a look at my Christmas market highway journey itinerary right here.

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

Budapest, Hungary

Budapest’s Christmas Market is without doubt one of the most lovely 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 number of hours right here.

There’s additionally a lovely mild 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’ve got loads of time to go to. And do not forget to strive some conventional Hungarian dishes like lángos (a deep-fried flatbread) or kürtőskalács (a chimney cake)!

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

Munich, Germany

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

The primary market is positioned at Marienplatz within the coronary heart of the town. It is a actually widespread spot, so be ready for crowds. However it’s positively value braving the lots to see the attractive Glockenspiel present that takes place day-after-day at 11 am and midday. There are additionally a lot of different markets positioned 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 make sure you begin on the iconic Christkindlmarkt positioned 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 Competition held on Oktoberfest grounds.

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

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

Innsbruck, Austria

Innsbruck is a captivating metropolis positioned 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, however it greater than makes up for it with its gorgeous setting. The market takes place within the previous city sq. towards 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 same old Austrian Christmas Market staples like Glühwein (mulled wine), Lebkuchen (gingerbread), and Maroni (roasted chestnuts). However you will additionally discover some extra uncommon gadgets like Krapfen (fried dough balls full of jam) and Kernöl (pumpkin seed oil).

Innsbruck Christmas Market Dates for 2023: November fifteenth by 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 standard spot, Christmas market is certainly value a go to. Situated 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 will discover an array of sights like an ice rink, a large ferris wheel, and a German-style market with over 200 stalls. And in case 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 got loads of time to take pleasure in all of the enjoyable. And once you’re prepared for a break from the chilly, head to one among Hyde Park’s many cafes for a cup of tea or some conventional English fare.

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

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

Nuremberg, Germany

Nuremberg is a lovely medieval metropolis positioned 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 middle with over 180 stalls, so there’s a lot to see and do. You may discover all the same old German Christmas Market staples like Glühwein, Lebkuchen, and Maroni. However you will additionally discover some extra uncommon gadgets like Nürnberger Christstollen (a sort 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 stay music.

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

Metz, France

Metz is a lovely metropolis positioned 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 middle with over 200 stalls, so there’s a lot to see and do. You may discover all the same old 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 exterior the doorways full with a ferris wheel. Inside are lovely 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 nicely – Notre Dame d’Auschwitz, the fashionable artwork middle Centre Pompidou-Metz, and Le Temple Neuf is a lovely church that appears extra like a fort.

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

Trier, Germany

Trier is a lovely metropolis positioned 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 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 take pleasure in. With scrumptious foods and drinks on provide, plus arts and crafts from all over the world, the Trier Christmas Market attracts guests from far and broad.

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 by December twenty second, 2023.

See the very best Christmas markets in Germany right here.

Bruges, Belgium

Bruges is a lovely metropolis positioned within the northwest of Belgium. It is best recognized for its canals, cobbled streets, and medieval structure. The Christmas market is positioned within the historic metropolis middle and is without doubt one of the most atmospheric markets in Europe.

You may discover all the same old Belgian Christmas Market staples like Belgian chocolate, waffles, and beer. However you will additionally discover gadgets like gingerbread homes, candles, and handmade wood toys. Yearly Grote Sq. is remodeled to Bruges’ largest Christmas market and within the middle you will discover a skating rink. You may as well head to Stevin Sq. for much more Christmas festivities.

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

Aachen, Germany

I simply went to Aachen final yr for my first time and completely cherished it! Not solely is Aachen stuffed with essential historical past, it is obtained an unbelievable Christmas market that is been named one of many prime Christmas Markets in Europe over time.

Aachen Christmas Market is positioned within the historic metropolis middle 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 standard German Christmas Market staples like Glühwein, Lebkuchen (gingerbread), and Bratwurst.

However what I cherished most concerning the market have been all the Aachener Printen on provide. Printen are a sort of gingerbread that originates from Aachen. They arrive in all types of styles and sizes and are completely scrumptious!

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

Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen is the capital of Denmark and is positioned on the jap coast of the nation. Town is filled with appeal with its canals, cobbled streets, and historic buildings. The Christmas market is positioned within the coronary heart of the town at Metropolis Corridor Sq..

You may discover all the standard 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 presents.

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 experience the Polar Specific! Additionally, Kongens Nytorv is without doubt one of the most lovely 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 by December twenty first, 2023.

Zagreb, Croatia

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

On the Zagreb Christmas Market, you will discover all the standard Croatian Christmas Market staples like mulled wine, sausages, and pancakes. You may as well discover handicrafts, jewellery, and pottery. You’ll want to strive the strukli which is a sort of pastry that is widespread in Zagreb.

And if you wish to get a birds eye view of the market, be sure to move to the Zagreb Eye which is a big Ferris wheel positioned within the coronary heart of the town.

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

Christmas Markets in Europe Map

Here 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 High Ideas

As your resident professional on Christmas in Europe, listed below are a few of my prime suggestions for benefiting from your Christmas market journey!

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

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

What’s the very best 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 nicely.

Listed below are some extra useful guides:

What to Eat and Drink at a Christmas Market

Europe Christmas Market Itinerary and Information

Finest Christmas Markets in Germany

Finest Christmas Market in France

Finest Christmas Markets in Switzerland

So there you’ve got it, my listing of the very best Christmas markets in Europe for 2023! Which one are you most excited about- when you have any questions, be happy to succeed in out to me on Instagram @heleneinbetween – I reply all my DMs!