Finest Christmas Markets in Europe 2023

That is your final information to one of the best Christmas markets in Europe! I’ve traveled to lots of of Christmas markets to deliver you one of the 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’ve got a slight chill regardless of your heat winter coat. You see a fortress within the mist on the hill forward of you. May at the moment get any higher? Sure, sure it may.

As you flip the nook you’re first hit with the scent. 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 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 lower pine bushes. Hand carved wood stalls promoting meals, drinks, and handmade trinkets line the road, every another adorned 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 knowledgeable having lived in Germany, the place Christmas markets actually began, I spent years going time and again to Christmas markets throughout Europe and writing about my discovering.

One issues for positive: it’s price it. I do know that many don’t take into consideration visiting Europe in the course of the vacation season, however I discover it really sensational. It’s such a way of neighborhood and pleasure, everybody on the town will get collectively, regardless of the chilly climate to have a good time Christmas and share their handmade wares and scrumptious household recipes of conventional meals.

I am sharing one of the best of the European Christmas markets so you possibly can guarantee to benefit 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 top-of-the-line Christmas markets in all Europe and it is an extremely festive place to go to in the course of the vacation season. With fantastically adorned stalls and open every single 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 resorts, 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 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’ve got 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 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 one of the 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 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 most important and takes place outdoors the spectacular cathedral with stay 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 unique markets that options girls wearing angel costumes handing out sweets to kids. There’s additionally an attractive 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 crammed with what appears to be like like gnomes, but it surely’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 also be nicely well worth the cease! Many half-timbered buildings make this really feel like an actual village. It is all the time wonderful to me that this may come down come January!

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

There are a number of massive markets positioned 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 excellent for selecting up presents and grabbing a chew to eat. The Glühwein right here is a number of the finest 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 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 stunning park and has a very 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 by December twenty fourth, 2023.

Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn appears to be like 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 principle market is positioned in City Corridor Sq., in entrance of the attractive 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 also be wonderful! This can be a good spot to choose up a hand-crafted wool sweater and stick round for stay music and leisure at night time.

When you’re searching for one thing somewhat totally 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 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 by January seventh, 2024.

Basel, Switzerland

Basel, Switzerland is an enthralling metropolis positioned 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 principle market is positioned in Munsterplatz and is crammed with stunning handcrafted items, a big choice of food 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 finest 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 stunning purple sandstone cathedral. This can be a good spot to do some Christmas buying as you will discover the whole lot from jewellery to wood toys.

PRO TIP: When you’re searching for one thing somewhat totally different, make sure you take a look at the Introduction Calendar Home. This can be a home with 25 home windows, every with a unique shock behind it!

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

Prague, Czech Republic

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

The principle market is positioned in Outdated City Sq. the place you will discover a beautiful Christmas tree and the spectacular Tyn Church within the background. This can be a actually standard spot, so be ready for crowds, which is why I like to recommend weekdays. Nevertheless it’s positively 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 positioned in additional trendy areas of the town and provide a refreshing change of tempo from the Outdated 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 is not 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 yow will discover on the Outdated Market Corridor. This is without doubt one of the few markets the place yow will discover meals indoors, so it is excellent if you happen to’re visiting in colder climate or if you happen to 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 approach. The complete city clothes 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 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 also be recognized for its wonderful native wines, so make sure you choose up a bottle or two to take residence 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 price it!

Heidelberg, Germany

The Heidelberg Christmas market is without doubt one of the oldest markets in Germany, relationship again to 1398! The principle market is positioned in Heidelberg’s previous city, all through the Hauptstrasse. This can be a bit totally different than a number of the different markets, and I discover it a pleasure! You possibly can stroll almost a mile and luxuriate in totally different Christmas festivities alongside the way in which. I am biased since I lived in Heidelberg, however with an attractive sixteenth century buildings, the fortress towering over the skating rink, it is simply magical.

It is a really charming place with round 100 fantastically adorned stalls. You may discover loads of mulled wine and conventional German meals like bratwurst and pretzels. The views of the fortress lit up at night time are merely beautiful.

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 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 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 excellent both, because the market is positioned within the stunning previous city, which is filled with half-timbered homes, canals, and cobbled streets.

The market itself is extremely festive, with an enormous Christmas tree, a life-sized nativity scene, and a formidable 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 in all 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 by 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 stunning 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 a couple 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 positively price sticking round for. The market is open from November eleventh to January 1st, so you’ve got loads of time to go to. And remember 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 a number of the finest Christmas markets in Europe? The markets listed below are massive and full of life with an ideal ambiance.

The principle market is positioned at Marienplatz within the coronary heart of the town. This can be a actually standard spot, so be ready for crowds. Nevertheless it’s positively price braving the lots to see the attractive Glockenspiel present that takes place every single 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 numerous 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 totally different just like the Wintertollwood Competition held on Oktoberfest grounds.

And if you happen to’re searching for an genuine Bavarian eating expertise, make sure you take a look at Hofbräuhaus, one in all Munich’s most well-known beer halls. It is an ideal 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 an enthralling 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 record, but it surely greater than makes up for it with its beautiful setting. The market takes place within the previous city sq. in opposition to the backdrop of the snow-capped peaks of the Alps.

What I 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 gadgets like Krapfen (fried dough balls crammed with jam) and Kernöl (pumpkin seed oil).

Innsbruck Christmas Market Dates for 2023: November fifteenth by 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 in every single place! Whereas London may not be the everyday spot, Christmas market is unquestionably price a go to. Positioned 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 if you happen to’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 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.

When you’ve got further time, head to Tub,a quintessential city in the UK that is additionally acquired an exquisite Christmas market!

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

Nuremberg, Germany

Nuremberg is an attractive 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 heart 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 gadgets like Nürnberger Christstollen (a sort of fruitcake) and Nürnberger Rostbratwurst (a grilled sausage).

When you go to Nuremberg Christmas Market on the primary Friday earlier than Introduction 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 an attractive metropolis positioned within the northeast of France, near the border with Germany. It is best recognized for its massive Christmas market, which is without doubt one of the largest in Europe.

The market is unfold out throughout the town heart 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 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 stunning Christmas market simply outdoors the doorways full with a ferris wheel. Inside are stunning stained glass home windows that have been constructed by well-known artists like Marc Chagall and Jean Cocteau. Metz has loads of different locations price visiting as nicely – Notre Dame d’Auschwitz, the fashionable artwork heart Centre Pompidou-Metz, and Le Temple Neuf is an attractive church that appears extra like a fortress.

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

Trier, Germany

Trier is an attractive metropolis positioned 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 adjustments every day, providing a wide range of leisure for the entire household. From historic puppet theater to star tenor and songsmiths, there’s something for everybody to get pleasure from. With scrumptious food and drinks on provide, plus arts and crafts from all over the world, 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 by December twenty second, 2023.

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

Bruges, Belgium

Bruges is an attractive 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 heart 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 reworked to Bruges’ largest Christmas market and within the heart you will discover a skating rink. You can too 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 necessary historical past, it is acquired an unimaginable Christmas market that is been named one of many prime Christmas Markets in Europe through the years.

Aachen Christmas Market is positioned within the historic metropolis heart 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 in regards to the market have been the entire Aachener Printen on provide. Printen are a sort of gingerbread that originates from Aachen. They arrive in all kinds of sizes and styles 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. The town is filled with allure 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 stunning squares in Copenhagen and it actually comes alive throughout Christmas time. And remember 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. The town is filled with tradition and historical past with an attractive previous city that is excellent for exploring. The Christmas market is positioned in Tomislav Sq. within the heart 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 can too discover handicrafts, jewellery, and pottery. Make sure you strive the strukli which is a sort of pastry that is standard in Zagreb.

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

This is a map of all my favourite Christmas Markets in Europe. I’ve mapped out not solely the highest 10 Christmas Markets in Europe from this information, however a few of my favorites everywhere in the continent!

Christmas Market High Suggestions

As your resident knowledgeable on Christmas in Europe, listed below are a few of my prime ideas for profiting 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 appears to be like 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 here 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 record of one of the best Christmas markets in Europe for 2023! Which one are you most excited about- when you’ve got any questions, be happy to succeed in out to me on Instagram @heleneinbetween – I reply all my DMs!