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 lot of Christmas markets to convey you the very best 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 outlets beckon you inside, you will have a slight chill regardless of your heat winter coat. You see a citadel within the mist on the hill forward of you. Might right now get any higher? Sure, sure it may.

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 hearth.

Subsequent you’re hit with the noise. Christmas carols sung in German, laughter of all ages, and folks 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 minimize pine timber. Hand carved picket stalls promoting meals, drinks, and handmade trinkets line the road, every yet another 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 skilled 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 certain: it’s value it. I do know that many don’t take into consideration visiting Europe throughout 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 very best of the European Christmas markets so you possibly can guarantee to take advantage of 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 among the best Christmas markets in all Europe and it is an extremely festive place to go to throughout the vacation season. With superbly embellished stalls and open each day from November twenty fourth to December twenty fourth, you may 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! A lot 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: If 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’ll be able to 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 very best 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 purpose! With seven markets, all with totally different themes, all through the town, you may 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 exterior the spectacular cathedral with stay music, an enormous tree, and gluhwein (scorching, mulled wine!). I additionally adore the Angels’ Market the place you may discover it in Neumarkt Sq. and is likely one of the authentic markets that options ladies wearing angel costumes handing out sweets to youngsters. There’s additionally a lovely carousel and beautiful mugs which can be excellent to take residence as souvenirs. I like the one within the Outdated City as a result of it is stuffed with what appears like gnomes, but it surely’s a lot extra! The Alter Markt calls itself the Dwelling of the Heinzelmännchen (who had been little creatures from a Cologne legend who used to do all of the housekeeping till they had been irritated by an inquisitive housewife).

And Nikolausdorf or “NicholasVillage” in Rudolfplatz can be nicely well worth the cease! Many half-timbered constructions make this really feel like an actual village. It is at all times 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 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 attractive 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 a number of the greatest.

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

If you need 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 very 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 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 could 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 seems like one thing out of a storybook.

The primary market is situated in City Corridor Sq., in entrance of the attractive medieval City Corridor. This is likely one of the largest markets in Tallinn and is ideal for choosing up presents and souvenirs. You may discover handmade Estonian crafts, decorations, and loads of locations to seize a chunk to eat. The gluwein right here can be glorious! It is a good spot to choose up a hand-crafted wool sweater, and stick round for stay music and leisure at night time.

For those who’re on the lookout for one thing slightly totally different, try 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 presents 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 an enthralling metropolis situated on the river Rhine and is understood 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 stuffed with stunning handcrafted items, a big choice of foods and drinks, and twinkling lights. Make sure you strive the scrumptious Basler Läckerli, a spiced gingerbread-like biscuits which can be an area specialty. I additionally love the mulled wine right here, it is a number 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 purple sandstone cathedral. It is a good spot to do some Christmas buying as you may discover all the things from jewellery to picket toys.

PRO TIP: For those who’re on the lookout for one thing slightly totally different, you’ll want to try the Creation Calendar Home. It is a home with 25 home windows, every with a special 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 environment. The markets listed here are a number of the most unusual in Europe with stunning handmade items on supply.

The primary market is situated in Outdated City Sq. the place you may discover a gorgeous Christmas tree and the spectacular Tyn Church within the background. It is a actually well-liked spot, so be ready for crowds, which is why I like to recommend weekdays. But it surely’s undoubtedly value braving the lots to see the gorgeous decorations and seize some conventional Czech meals.

For one thing a bit extra low-key, try 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 isn’t 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 excellent 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 liked 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 quick weekends however SO WORTH IT. It is one of the crucial uncommon markets I’ve ever been to in probably the most charming method. Your complete city clothes up and participates. There are folks dressed up, on stilts, clever males with actual camels, fires in the midst 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 totally 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 glorious native wines, so you’ll want to decide up a bottle or two to take residence 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 quick 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 outdated city, all through the Hauptstrasse. It is a bit totally different than a number of the different markets, and I discover it a pleasure! You’ll be able to stroll almost a mile and revel in totally different Christmas festivities alongside the best way. I am biased since I lived in Heidelberg, however with a lovely sixteenth century buildings, the citadel 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 citadel lit up at night time are merely gorgeous.

There’s additionally a market in close by Mannheim which I additionally suggest trying out when you’ve got time. It is a quick drive or prepare 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 excellent both, because the market is situated within the stunning 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 formidable gentle 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 supply.

When in Colmar, one in every 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 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 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 number of hours right here.

There’s additionally a lovely 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 will have 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 via December thirty first 2023.

Munich, Germany

Munich is famend for its superb Oktoberfest celebration, however do you know that it additionally has a number of the greatest Christmas markets in Europe? The markets listed here are massive and vigorous with a fantastic environment.

The primary market is situated at Marienplatz within the coronary heart of the town. It is a actually well-liked spot, so be ready for crowds. But it surely’s undoubtedly value braving the lots to see the gorgeous Glockenspiel present that takes place each day at 11 am and midday. There are additionally quite a few different markets situated all through the town, so that you’re certain to search out one which fits your fancy.

There are lots of markets in Munich, however you’ll want to 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 totally different just like the Wintertollwood Pageant held on Oktoberfest grounds.

And in case you’re on the lookout for an genuine Bavarian eating expertise, you’ll want to try Hofbräuhaus, one in every of Munich’s most well-known beer halls. It is a fantastic place to strive 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 an enthralling 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, but it surely greater than makes up for it with its gorgeous 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 may additionally discover some extra uncommon objects like Krapfen (fried dough balls stuffed 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 value a go to. Positioned in Hyde Park, Winter Wonderland is likely one of the largest markets in Europe and it is fully free to enter!

When you’re inside, you may 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 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 will have loads of time to get pleasure from all of the enjoyable. And if you’re prepared for a break from the chilly, head to one in every of Hyde Park’s many cafes for a cup of tea or some conventional English fare.

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

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

Nuremberg, Germany

Nuremberg is a lovely 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 a lot to see and do. You may discover all the same old German Christmas Market staples like Glühwein, Lebkuchen, and Maroni. However you may 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 a tremendous opening ceremony with performances and stay music.

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

Metz, France

Metz is a lovely metropolis situated within the northeast of France, near the border with Germany. It is best recognized for its massive 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 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 sweets. However you may 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 exterior the doorways full with a ferris wheel. Inside are stunning stained glass home windows that had 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 heart Centre Pompidou-Metz, and Le Temple Neuf is a lovely church that appears extra like a citadel.

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

Trier, Germany

Trier is a lovely 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 attractive cathedral, it is a pretty spot.

This system on the Trier Christmas Market modifications day by 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 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 very best Christmas markets in Germany right here.

Bruges, Belgium

Bruges is a lovely 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 same old Belgian Christmas Market staples like Belgian chocolate, waffles, and beer. However you may additionally discover objects like gingerbread homes, candles, and handmade picket toys. Yearly Grote Sq. is reworked to Bruges’ largest Christmas market and within the heart you may 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 prime 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 standard German Christmas Market staples like Glühwein, Lebkuchen (gingerbread), and Bratwurst.

However what I liked most concerning the market had been the entire Aachener Printen on supply. Printen are a kind of gingerbread that originates from Aachen. They arrive in all kinds 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. The town is stuffed with allure 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 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 trip the Polar Specific! 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 may 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. The town is stuffed with tradition and historical past with a lovely outdated city that is excellent for exploring. The Christmas market is situated in Tomislav Sq. within the heart of the town.

On the Zagreb Christmas Market, you may 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 strive the strukli which is a kind of pastry that is well-liked in Zagreb.

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

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 Suggestions

As your resident skilled on Christmas in Europe, listed here are a few of my prime suggestions for taking advantage of 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 a number of 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 appears like an ideal gingerbread village!

What’s the very best time to go for Christmas markets in Europe? I believe 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 will have it, my checklist of the very best Christmas markets in Europe for 2023! Which one are you most excited about- when you’ve got any questions, be happy to achieve out to me on Instagram @heleneinbetween – I reply all my DMs!