Finest Christmas Markets in Europe 2023

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

Image this: You’re strolling the traditional cobblestone streets, on both facet heat lights of cafes and retailers beckon you inside, you’ve gotten a slight chill regardless of your heat winter coat. You see a fort within the mist on the hill forward of you. May as we speak 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 folks 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 following.

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 repeatedly to Christmas markets throughout Europe and writing about my discovering.

One issues for positive: it’s price it. I do know that many don’t take into consideration visiting Europe through the vacation season, however I discover it actually sensational. It’s such a way of group 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 most effective of the European Christmas markets so you’ll be able to 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 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 through the vacation season. With fantastically 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 accommodations, 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: In case 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 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 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. 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 without doubt one of the authentic markets that options ladies wearing angel costumes handing out sweets to kids. There’s additionally an attractive carousel and lovely mugs which are good to take dwelling as souvenirs. I am keen on the one within the Previous City as a result of it is crammed with what appears like gnomes, nevertheless it’s a lot extra! The Alter Markt calls itself the Residence of the Heinzelmännchen (who had been little creatures from a Cologne legend who used to do all of the home tasks till they had 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 superb to me that this may 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 an incredible Christmas market- one of many first ever! You may see beautiful buildings decked out in bows and ribbons. However you additionally get unimaginable Christmas markets! I have been to markets all all through Europe and I can let you know, those in Vienna are among the greatest.

There are a number of giant markets situated across the metropolis, every with their very own distinctive really feel. The preferred 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 choosing up items 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 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 at last, 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 ambiance. It is the right 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 without doubt 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 chew to eat. The gluwein right here can also be wonderful! This can be a excellent spot to select up a hand-crafted wool sweater, and stick round for reside music and leisure at night time.

For those who’re on the lookout for one thing slightly completely different, take a look at the Rotermann Quarter. This market is situated in an outdated 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 understood 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 situated in Munsterplatz and is crammed with lovely handcrafted items, a big collection of foods and drinks, and twinkling lights. Make sure you attempt the scrumptious Basler Läckerli, a spiced gingerbread-like biscuits which are an area 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 situated all through the town together with one within the sq. in entrance of Basel’s lovely purple sandstone cathedral. This can be a excellent spot to do some Christmas buying as you will discover all the pieces from jewellery to picket toys.

PRO TIP: For those who’re on the lookout for one thing slightly completely different, make sure to take a look at the Creation Calendar Home. This can be a home with 25 home windows, every with a distinct shock behind it!

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

Prague, Czech Republic

For those who’re on the lookout 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 ambiance. The markets listed here are among the most unusual in Europe with lovely handmade items on supply.

The primary market is situated in Previous City Sq. the place you will discover a beautiful Christmas tree and the spectacular Tyn Church within the background. This can be a actually common spot, so be ready for crowds, which is why I like to recommend weekdays. However it’s undoubtedly price 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 situated in additional trendy areas of the town and supply a refreshing change of tempo from the Previous 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 isn’t solely in regards to the market stalls, but additionally 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 Previous Market Corridor. This is without doubt 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 liked the saunas situated proper by the Christmas market glog stalls (glog is their model of mulled wine.) So that you would possibly 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 some of the uncommon markets I’ve ever been to in probably the most charming means. The whole city attire up and participates. There are individuals dressed up, on stilts, sensible 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 also be recognized for its wonderful native wines, so make sure to 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’ll be able to see it is a tremendous brief season however so price it!

Heidelberg, Germany

The Heidelberg Christmas market is without doubt one of the oldest markets in Germany, courting again to 1398! The primary market is situated in Heidelberg’s outdated city, all through the Hauptstrasse. This can be a bit completely different than among the different markets, and I discover it a pleasure! You possibly can stroll practically a mile and revel in completely different Christmas festivities alongside the way in which. I am biased since I lived in Heidelberg, however with an attractive sixteenth century buildings, the fort towering over the skating rink, it is simply magical.

It is a actually charming place with round 100 fantastically 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 night time are merely beautiful.

There’s additionally a market in close by Mannheim which I additionally suggest testing you probably 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 without doubt one of the largest markets in France. The setting could not be extra good both, because the market is situated within the lovely outdated city, which is stuffed 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 items and decorations on supply.

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

Take a look at my Christmas market street 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 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 fantastically embellished stalls, an enormous ferris wheel, an ice rink, and a nativity scene, it is simple to spend a number of hours right here.

There’s additionally an attractive mild present each night at 7 pm on the facade of the Gerbeaud Home that is undoubtedly price 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 superb Oktoberfest celebration, however do you know that it additionally has among the greatest Christmas markets in Europe? The markets listed here are giant and full of life with an ideal ambiance.

The primary market is situated at Marienplatz within the coronary heart of the town. This can be a actually common spot, so be ready for crowds. However it’s undoubtedly price braving the lots to see the attractive Glockenspiel present that takes place day-after-day at 11 am and midday. There are additionally numerous different markets situated 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 to begin on the iconic Christkindlmarkt situated in Marienplatz. From there, you’ll be able to 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 on the lookout for an genuine Bavarian eating expertise, make sure to take a look at Hofbräuhaus, one in all Munich’s most well-known beer halls. It is an ideal place to attempt some conventional German dishes like Weißwurst (veal sausage) and Leberkäse (a kind 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 in need of magical. With over 80 stalls, it is one of many smaller markets on this checklist, nevertheless it greater than makes up for it with its beautiful setting. The market takes place within the outdated city sq. towards the backdrop of the snow-capped peaks of the Alps.

What I really 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 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 really like London for Christmas as all of the shops are decked out and there is a feeling of pleasure all over the place! Whereas London may not be the everyday spot, Christmas market is certainly price a go to. Situated in Hyde Park, Winter Wonderland is without doubt one of the largest markets in Europe and it is fully free to enter!

When you’re inside, you will discover an array of sights like an ice rink, an enormous ferris wheel, and a German-style market with over 200 stalls. And when you’re feeling actually festive, you’ll be able to 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 while you’re prepared for a break from the chilly, head to one in all Hyde Park’s many cafes for a cup of tea or some conventional English fare.

In case you have further time, head to Tub,a quintessential city in the UK that is additionally received a beautiful Christmas market!

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

Nuremberg, Germany

Nuremberg is an attractive medieval metropolis situated 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 loads 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 objects like Nürnberger Christstollen (a kind of fruitcake) and Nürnberger Rostbratwurst (a grilled sausage).

For those who go to Nuremberg Christmas Market on the primary Friday earlier than Creation there’s an incredible 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 an attractive metropolis situated 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 loads to see and do. You may discover all the same old French Christmas Market staples like vin chaud, ache d’épices (gingerbread), and candies. However you will additionally discover some extra gormet meals like foie gras, tarte flambée (a kind 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 lovely stained glass home windows that had been constructed by well-known artists like Marc Chagall and Jean Cocteau. Metz has loads of different locations price visiting as effectively – Notre Dame d’Auschwitz, the fashionable artwork middle Centre Pompidou-Metz, and Le Temple Neuf is an attractive church that appears extra like a fort.

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

Trier, Germany

Trier is an attractive metropolis situated within the southwest of Germany, near the border with Luxembourg. Trier is understood 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 every day, providing quite a lot 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 foods and drinks on supply, plus arts and crafts from around the globe, 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 via December twenty second, 2023.

See the most effective Christmas markets in Germany right here.

Bruges, Belgium

Bruges is an attractive 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 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 objects like gingerbread homes, candles, and handmade picket toys. Yearly Grote Sq. is remodeled to Bruges’ largest Christmas market and within the middle you will discover a skating rink. You may also 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 yr for my first time and completely liked it! Not solely is Aachen filled with vital historical past, it is received an unimaginable Christmas market that is been named one of many high Christmas Markets in Europe over time.

Aachen Christmas Market is situated 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 liked most in regards to the market had been all the Aachener Printen on supply. Printen are a kind of gingerbread that originates from Aachen. They arrive in all kinds of styles and sizes 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 stuffed 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 standard Danish Christmas Market staples like æbleskiver (a kind 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’ll be able to even trip 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 go 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 stuffed with tradition and historical past with an attractive outdated city that is good for exploring. The Christmas market is situated 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 also discover handicrafts, jewellery, and pottery. Make sure you attempt the strukli which is a kind of pastry that is common in Zagreb.

And if you wish to get a birds eye view of the market, ensure to go 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

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 everywhere in the continent!

Christmas Market High Ideas

As your resident knowledgeable on Christmas in Europe, listed here are a few of my high suggestions for taking advantage of 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 among 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 damage 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 believe December is your greatest wager 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

Finest Christmas Markets in Germany

Finest Christmas Market in France

Finest 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- you probably have any questions, be at liberty to succeed in out to me on Instagram @heleneinbetween – I reply all my DMs!