Finest Christmas Markets in Europe 2023

That is your final information to one of the best Christmas markets in Europe! I’ve traveled to a whole lot of Christmas markets to convey you one of the 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 a slight chill regardless of your heat winter coat. You see a fort within the mist on the hill forward of you. May at present get any higher? Sure, sure it might.

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 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 high of their lungs.

You spherical one other nook and there it’s, shimmering and glittering because the solar units: hundreds of twinkle lights strewn alongside recent lower pine bushes. Hand carved wood stalls promoting meals, drinks, and handmade trinkets line the road, every another adorned than the following.

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 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 through 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 rejoice Christmas and share their handmade wares and scrumptious household recipes of conventional meals.

I am sharing one of the 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 through the vacation season. With fantastically adorned stalls and open each 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! Numerous 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 large 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 by way of December twenty sixth, 2023.

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

Cologne, Germany

Cologne, Germany is among the hottest Christmas markets in Europe and for good cause! With seven markets, all with totally different themes, all through the town, you will discover no scarcity of issues to see and do right here. Giant, lavishly adorned Christmas markets sparkle all through the town.

A few of my favorites are the Cologne Cathedral Market, that is the biggest and takes place outdoors 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 among the authentic markets that options girls wearing angel costumes handing out sweets to kids. There’s additionally a phenomenal 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 full of what seems like gnomes, nevertheless 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 housekeeping till they have been aggravated 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 all the time wonderful to me that this may come down come January!

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

See one of the best Christmas markets in Germany right here.

Vienna, Austria

Since 1296 Vienna has hosted a tremendous Christmas market- one of many first ever! You will see attractive 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 a number of the finest.

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 among the largest in Europe. It is good for selecting up items and grabbing a chew to eat. The Glühwein right here is a number of the finest 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 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 ambiance. 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 by way of 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 situated in City Corridor Sq., in entrance of the attractive medieval City Corridor. This is among the largest markets in Tallinn and is ideal for selecting up items and souvenirs. You will discover handmade Estonian crafts, decorations, and loads of locations to seize a chew to eat. The gluwein right here can be glorious! It is a excellent spot to choose up a home made wool sweater and stick round for stay music and leisure at night time.

For those who’re in search of one thing a little bit 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 items 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 way of January seventh, 2024.

Basel, Switzerland

Basel, Switzerland is an enthralling 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 full of lovely handcrafted items, a big number of food and drinks, and twinkling lights. You should definitely attempt the scrumptious Basler Läckerli, a spiced gingerbread-like biscuits which are a neighborhood specialty. I additionally love the mulled wine right here, it is a number of the finest 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 crimson sandstone cathedral. It is a excellent spot to do some Christmas procuring as you will discover every thing from jewellery to wood toys.

PRO TIP: For those who’re in search of one thing a little bit totally different, be sure you try the Creation Calendar Home. It is a home with 25 home windows, every with a distinct shock behind it!

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

Prague, Czech Republic

For those who’re in search of 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 a number of the most original in Europe with lovely handmade items on supply.

The primary market is situated 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 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 attractive 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 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 by way of December twenty fourth, 2023.

Helsinki, Finland

Helsinki, Finland is a singular 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 yow will discover on the Previous Market Corridor. This is among the few markets the place yow will discover meals indoors, so it is good for those who’re visiting in colder climate or for those who simply want a break from the chilly. You will 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 by way of December twenty second, 2023.

Ribeauvillé, France

This market is small and solely provided 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 approach. Your complete city clothes up and participates. There are folks 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 very totally different, medieval world.

You will discover all the same old Christmas market fare right here like mulled wine, gingerbread, and roasted chestnuts. However Ribeauvillé can be identified for its glorious native wines, so be sure you decide up a bottle or two to take dwelling with you. You will 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 among the oldest markets in Germany, courting 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 practically a mile and luxuriate in totally different Christmas festivities alongside the best way. I am biased since I lived in Heidelberg, however with a phenomenal sixteenth century buildings, the fort towering over the skating rink, it is simply magical.

It is a really charming place with round 100 fantastically adorned stalls. You will 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 gorgeous.

There’s additionally a market in close by Mannheim which I additionally advocate testing you probably have time. It is a brief drive or practice journey away!

Heidelberg Christmas Market Dates for 2023: November twenty first by way of 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 among 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 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 will 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 among my favourite French eating places can’t be beat! Winstub de la Petite Venise. This Michelin star restaurant presents a 35 euro plat du jour that makes my mouth water simply excited about it!

Try my Christmas market highway journey itinerary right here.

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

Budapest, Hungary

Budapest’s Christmas Market is among the most lovely in Europe and takes place in Vörösmarty Sq. in entrance of the magnificent Nineteenth-century Gerbeaud Home. With over 100 fantastically adorned stalls, an enormous ferris wheel, an ice rink, and a nativity scene, it is easy to spend just a few hours right here.

There’s additionally a phenomenal mild 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 loads of time to go to. And remember 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 by way of December thirty first 2023.

Munich, Germany

Munich is famend for its wonderful Oktoberfest celebration, however do you know that it additionally has a number of the finest Christmas markets in Europe? The markets listed here are giant and full of life with an important ambiance.

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 attractive Glockenspiel present that takes place each day at 11 am and midday. There are additionally plenty of 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 be sure you begin on the iconic Christkindlmarkt situated in Marienplatz. From there, you possibly can select from the basic Neuhausen Christmas market or go for one thing totally different just like the Wintertollwood Competition held on Oktoberfest grounds.

And for those who’re in search of an genuine Bavarian eating expertise, be sure you try Hofbräuhaus, one among 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 by way of December twenty fourth, 2023.

Innsbruck, Austria

Innsbruck is an enthralling 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 record, nevertheless it 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 like most about this market is that it has an actual conventional really feel to it. You will 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 way of 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 among the largest markets in Europe and it is fully free to enter!

When you’re inside, you will discover an array of points of interest like an ice rink, an enormous ferris wheel, and a German-style market with over 200 stalls. And for those who’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 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.

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

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

Nuremberg, Germany

Nuremberg is a phenomenal medieval metropolis situated within the German state of Bavaria – since 1313. It is best identified for its conventional Christkindlesmarkt, which is among 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 will 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).

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 by way of December twenty fourth, 2023.

Metz, France

Metz is a phenomenal metropolis situated within the northeast of France, near the border with Germany. It is best identified for its giant Christmas market, which is among 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 will discover all the same old French Christmas Market staples like vin chaud, ache d’épices (gingerbread), and sweets. 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 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 trendy artwork middle Centre Pompidou-Metz, and Le Temple Neuf is a phenomenal church that appears extra like a fort.

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

Trier, Germany

Trier is a phenomenal 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 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 take pleasure in. With scrumptious food and drinks on supply, plus arts and crafts from around the globe, the Trier Christmas Market attracts guests from far and huge.

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 way of December twenty second, 2023.

See one of the best Christmas markets in Germany right here.

Bruges, Belgium

Bruges is a phenomenal metropolis situated within the northwest of Belgium. It is best identified for its canals, cobbled streets, and medieval structure. The Christmas market is situated within the historic metropolis middle and is among the most atmospheric markets in Europe.

You will 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 way of January eighth 2024.

Aachen, Germany

I simply went to Aachen final yr for my first time and completely beloved it! Not solely is Aachen stuffed with essential historical past, it is acquired 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 middle and is among the oldest markets in Germany. It dates again to 1434 making it even older than Nuremberg! You will discover all the standard German Christmas Market staples like Glühwein, Lebkuchen (gingerbread), and Bratwurst.

However what I beloved most concerning the market have been all the Aachener Printen on supply. Printen are a sort 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 by way of 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 will 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 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 journey the Polar Categorical! Additionally, Kongens Nytorv is among the most lovely squares in Copenhagen and it actually comes alive throughout Christmas time. And remember to go to iconic Nyhavn the place you will additionally discover a market.

Copenhagen Christmas Market Dates for 2023: November 4th by way of 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 phenomenal 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 as well discover handicrafts, jewellery, and pottery. You should definitely attempt the strukli which is a sort of pastry that is well-liked in Zagreb.

And if you wish to get a birds eye view of the market, make certain 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 by way of 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 Prime Suggestions

As your resident skilled on Christmas in Europe, listed here are a few of my high ideas for benefiting from your Christmas market journey!

Which nation has one of the 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 finest markets round. The custom runs deep and even small cities and villages take part. See one of the best Christmas markets in Germany right here.

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

What’s one of the best time to go for Christmas markets in Europe? I feel December is your finest wager 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 it, my record of one of the best 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!