We have compiled the ultimate list of the best Christmas markets in Europe (over 140 markets in total across 30+ articles). For a long time, festive markets have been a big part of Christmas celebrations– and with our guide, you never have to worry about your journey anymore.
But don’t be too caught up with exploration! Don’t forget the Christmas gifts or gift experiences for your loved ones as well.
For your convenience, here is the list of Christmas markets:
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Are you ready to explore the best Christmas Markets in Europe? Scroll to read more!
Christmas Markets in the UK
As the festive season unfolds, the United Kingdom transforms into a winter wonderland with enchanting Christmas markets scattered across its cities.
Join us as we embark on a yuletide journey through the Christmas markets in London, Glasgow, Leeds, Birmingham, Edinburgh, Manchester, Newcastle, Cardiff, and beyond.
Southbank Centre Winter Festival Christmas Market
The Southbank Centre Winter Festival, a cornerstone of London’s Christmas Markets, offers a unique experience with its festive charm and distinctive attractions.
- Located at Queen’s Walk, London SE1 8XX, UK
- Open from November 2 to December 26, 2023, 11 am – 10 pm
- The Southbank Centre Winter Festival Christmas Market is known for its unique blend of music, markets, and performances.
Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market
Step into the holiday enchantment at the Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market. Wander through the bustling stalls adorned with twinkling lights, where the air is filled with the aroma of sizzling bratwurst and the joyous sounds of carolers.
- Located at Victoria Square, Birmingham B1 1BB
- Open until December 23rd, from 10 am to 9 pm (Sundays 11 am to 7 pm).
- Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market is known for being the largest authentic German Christmas market outside Germany and Austria.
East Princes Street Gardens Christmas Market
Nestled right in the heart of Edinburgh, this market is like stepping into a Christmas wonderland.
- Located at East Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh EH1 2EE
- Open from 17th November 2023 – 6th of January, 2024. Closed on December 25th.
- The East Princes Street Gardens Christmas Market is known for its stunning view of the castle.
Here is our full article on the Complete List of Christmas Markets in the UK.
Christmas Markets in Germany
Prepare to be transported to a winter wonderland as we delve into the heart of Christmas markets in Germany.
Renowned for their enchanting atmosphere and rich traditions, the markets in Munich, Cologne, Nuremberg, Hamburg, Stuttgart, and Dresden offer a captivating glimpse into German holiday cheer.
Nuremberg Christmas Market (Christkindlesmarkt)
Welcome to the iconic Christkindlesmarkt in Nuremberg, a timeless celebration of the holiday season. Immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere as you stroll through the historic market square adorned with festive decorations.
- Located at Hauptmarkt, 90403 Nürnberg, Germany.
- Operating from the 1st until the 24th of December 2023, from 10 am until 9 pm.
- The Nuremberg Christmas Market, known as Nürnberger Christkindlesmarkt, is known for being Germany’s most popular and one of the biggest Christmas markets.
Dresden’s Striezelmarkt
Steeped in history dating back to 1434, the Striezelmarkt is the oldest Christmas market in Germany and one of the most famous worldwide. It boasts over 250 stalls overflowing with traditional handicrafts, delectable treats like the namesake “Striezel” (fruit bread), and festive ornaments.
- Located at Altmarkt Square, 01067 Dresden, Germany.
- Open from November 23 to December 24, 2023.
- Monday-Thursday: 10:00 am – 8:00 pm, Friday-Saturday: 10:00 am – 9:00 pm, Sunday: 11:00 am – 8:00 pm.
- Dresden’s Striezelmarkt is renowned for being the oldest Christmas market in Germany and one of the most popular in the world.
Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market
Welcome to the magical Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market, where festive joy radiates in the shadow of the iconic cathedral. Wander through the enchanting stalls, adorned with twinkling lights, and experience the heartwarming atmosphere.
- Located at Roncalliplatz, Roncallipl., 50667 Köln, Germany.
- Operating from 23rd of November to 23rd of December 2023
- Open Sunday-Wednesday from 11 am to 9 pm, Thursday-Friday from 11 am to 10 pm, Saturday from 10 am to 10 pm
- The Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market is known for being set against the backdrop of the Cologne Cathedral.
Here is our full article on the Complete List of Christmas Markets in Germany.
Christmas Markets in France
Let the romance of the holiday season come alive as we traverse the charming Christmas markets of France.
From the iconic streets of Paris to the fairytale setting in Strasbourg, and the festive gatherings in Arras, Lille, Lyon, and Bordeaux, each market encapsulates the spirit of French joie de vivre during Christmas.
Tuileries Christmas Market (La Magie de Noël)
Where can we discover the magic of Christmas in Paris if not at the Tuileries Christmas Market, also known as La Magie de Noël?
- Located at the Tuileries Garden 75001 Paris.
- Opening from the 18th of November to the 7th of January 2024, from 11 am to 12 am.
- The Tuileries Christmas Market, La Magie de Noëlnation is known for being set against a stunning backdrop of the Tuileries Gardens.
Place de la Cathédrale Christmas Market
Place de la Cathédrale is a beautiful and festive market located in front of the iconic Strasbourg Cathedral.
- Located at Place de la Cathédrale, Strasbourg, France
- Open from November 24 to December 24, 2023, from 11:30 am to 9 pm daily.
- The Place de la Cathédrale Christmas Market is known for its stunning views of the Strasbourg Cathedral.
Lyon Christmas Market
The Lyon Christmas Market is a magical place to experience the festive spirit. It is a great place to do your Christmas shopping, enjoy delicious food and drinks, and simply soak up the festive atmosphere.
- Located at Place Carnot, 69002 Lyon, France
- Dates: November 26 – December 24, 2023
- Times: 10:00 am – 8:00 pm
- The Lyon Christmas Market is known for being one of the largest and most popular Christmas markets in France.
Here is our full article on the Complete List of Christmas Markets in France.
Other Christmas Markets in Europe
Embark on a festive journey through the diverse Christmas markets that expands on the European landscape.
Immerse yourself in the multicultural festivities, savoring the distinctive traditions that make each Christmas market a special and memorable experience.
The Deutscher Weihnachtsmarkt Sofia
In the heart of Sofia, Bulgaria, the Deutscher Weihnachtsmarkt stands as a beacon of German holiday tradition.
- Located in the City garden, 1000 Old City Center, Sofia.
- Operating from the 17th of November until the 22nd of December 2023, 11 am until 9 pm.
- The Deutscher Weihnachtsmarkt Sofia is known and is famous for mixing Bulgarian and German holiday traditions.
Here is our full article on the Complete List of Christmas Markets in Sofia.
Castle Square Christmas Market
Step into a fairytale at the heart of Old Town! Over 100 stalls overflow with handcrafted decorations, regional treats, and warming drinks like mulled wine.
- Located at Castle Square, Warsaw, Poland
- November 24th, 2023 to January 7th, 2024, open daily from 11 am to 9:30 pm (Friday & Saturday), 11 am to 8 pm (Sunday-Thursday)
- The Castle Square Christmas Market is renowned for its towering Christmas tree, having live performances, a carousel, and charming wooden stalls.
Here is our full article on the Complete List of Christmas Markets in Warsaw.
Museumplein Christmas Market
Museumplein Market is a festive haven nestled in the heart of Amsterdam, offering a delightful blend of holiday cheer and vibrant market ambiance.
- Located at Museumplein, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
- Open from November 22nd to December 26th, 2023, 11 am to 10 pm daily.
- The Museumplein Christmas Market is known for being near major museums, this market provides a cultural experience alongside festive shopping.
Here is our full article on the Complete List of Christmas Markets in Amsterdam.
Skansen Christmas Market
Skansen is an open-air museum located in Stockholm. The museum features a variety of historical buildings and exhibits, including a traditional Swedish Christmas village and Christmas market.
- Located at Djurgårdsslätten 49-51, 115 21 Stockholm, Sweden.
- Open from November 25 to December 24, 2023, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm daily.
- The Skansen Christmas Market is known for being located at the world’s oldest open-air museum. The market features stalls selling traditional Swedish food and drink, as well as Christmas decorations and gifts.
Here is our full article on the Complete List of Christmas Markets in Stockholm.
Vörösmarty Square Chistmas Market
Let’s turn our attention to the Christmas Market at Vörösmarty Square. We’ll look at how to get there, its opening hours, and why it’s a must-visit during the holiday season.
- Located at Vörösmarty tér, 1051 Budapest, Hungary.
- Operating from the 17th of November 2023 until the 1st of January 2024
- Open on weekdays: 10 am-8 pm and weekends: 10 am-9 pm.
- The Vörösmarty Square Christmas Market is famous because it’s at Vörösmarty Square near the Danube River.
Here is our full article on the Complete List of Christmas Markets in Budapest.
Helsinki Christmas Market
The Helsinki Christmas Market stands as a major seasonal attraction in the city. Essential details such as its location, accessibility, and operational hours are crucial for planning a visit.
- Located at Senate Square in 00170 Helsinki, Finland.
- Operating from 1st December to 22nd December 2023, 11 am to 8 pm.
- The Helsinki Christmas Market is known for being centrally located in Senate Square. It offers a unique blend of traditions, making it an intriguing destination for holiday enthusiasts.
Here is our full article on the Complete List of Christmas Markets in Helsinki.
The Mercado de Navidad de la Plaza Mayor is the most famous Christmas market in Madrid. It is located in the heart of the city, in the historic Plaza Mayor Square.
- Located at Plaza Mayor, s/n, 28012 Madrid, Spain
- Open from November 24 to December 31, 2023, 10:00 am to 11:00 pm daily.
- The Mercado de Navidad de la Plaza Mayor is known for its wide variety of Christmas products, including nativity scenes, decorations, toys, and food. It is also known for its festive atmosphere, with live music and entertainment.
Here is our full article on the Complete List of Christmas Markets in Madrid.
Place De La Constitution: Wantermaart
Let’s explore the magic of Wantermaart at Place De La Constitution, a highlight of Luxembourg’s Christmas markets.
- Located at Constitution Square, 2 Bd Franklin Delano Roosevelt, 1116 Ville-Haute Luxembourg.
- Operating from the 24th of November 2023 to the 7th of January 2024
- Open: Sunday – Thursday, from 12 pm to 9 pm, Fridays – Saturdays, from 11 am to 10 pm
- The Place De La Constitution: Wantermaart is known for having chalets gathered every year under the statue of Gelle Frä.
Here is our full article on the Complete List of Christmas Markets in Luxembourg.
Let’s explore the Piazza Navona Christmas Market one of the highlights of Rome’s Christmas scene.
- Located at Piazza Navona, 00186 Roma RM, Italy.
- Operating from the 8th of December 2023 until the 6th of January 2024
- Open from 10 am until 1 am during the week, on the weekends, from 10 am until 2 am
- The Piazza Navona Christmas Market is known for being set against the backdrop of Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers and Saint Agnes Church.
Here is our full article on the Complete List of Christmas Markets in Rome.
Mercatino di Natale Christmas Market
The largest and most popular Christmas market in Milan, this festive event features over 60 stalls selling a variety of Christmas products, including decorations, ornaments, nativity scenes, and Befana stockings. Visitors can also indulge in delicious seasonal treats and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
- Located at Piazza Duomo, Milan, Italy
- December 7, 2023 – January 6, 2024, 11 am – 8 pm (closed on Christmas Day).
- The Mercatino di Natale Christmas Market is known for its iconic view of the Duomo. It offers a festive atmosphere and a stunning location to celebrate the holidays.
Here is our full article on the Complete List of Christmas Markets in Milan.
The Dublin Castle Christmas Market
Immerse yourself in the festive charm of Dublin Castle Christmas Market. Nestled in the heart of the city, this market offers a magical experience with its array of stalls, twinkling lights, and seasonal delights.
- Located at Dublin Castle, Dame Street, Dublin, Ireland.
- 6th December to 19th December 2023, 12:00 pm – 9:00 pm daily
- The Dublin Castle Christmas Market is known for offering artisan products produced by local Irish artists. The market also boasts festive food stalls and live entertainment.
Here is our full article on the Complete List of Christmas Markets in Dublin.
Christkindlmarkt Christmas Market
In the heart of Vienna, the Christkindlmarkt awaits, a must-visit destination during the festive season. Known for its unique charm, we will also uncover what makes this market especially interesting.
- Located at Rathausplatz in the heart of Vienna.
- Operating from mid-November to December 26, 2023, from 10 am to 10 pm.
- Christkindlmarkt is the biggest and most popular Christmas market in Vienna. It has a reputation for its exquisite handcrafted items, festive decorations, and unique gastronomical delights, making it a captivating destination for visitors worldwide.
Here is our full article on the Complete List of Christmas Markets in Vienna.
Final Thoughts
We’ve journeyed through the best Christmas markets in Europe. Each one, a unique blend of culture, tradition, and holiday cheer.
So, if you’re in Europe during the festive season, make sure to visit at least one of these markets. It’s an experience you won’t want to miss. But what else can complete your Christmas story? Right, the gifts!
For those seeking classic gift ideas, our recommendation is to start with Amazon first for more gift ideas and price comparisons. You can also give them gift experiences they will never forget.
Have a happy holidays!
Tom’s travel writings are a testament to his insatiable curiosity and love for the road less traveled. Eschewing the typical tourist spots, Tom has built a reputation for uncovering hidden gems known only to locals.
From secluded mountain villages in the Himalayas to untouched beaches in the South Pacific, his adventures have taken him to the world’s most undiscovered corners.