Best Christmas Markets in Europe To Explore in 2025

It is that time of the year when the Jingle Bells can be heard tingling, and we are pretty sure you have already started planning for the holidays, but if you are planning to have a Europe Trip , then you are at the right place for we have some really cool suggestions for some of the best Christmas Markets in Europe for families and friends, serving a healthy dose of festive spirit.

You can explore the dazzling markets, offering some of the best gifts to buy at Christmas Markets, home decor, and some really unique stuff to take back home. But first things first, take the best Christmas and New Year Tour Packages and get ready for a shopping spree that you will not forget.

European Christmas Markets Tour

Let’s take you on a European Christmas Markets Tour, for you to decide which country to choose from, during your Christmas and New Year Vacation, and go for the best European Christmas markets to visit this holiday season.

Whether you're asking where to go for Christmas markets in Europe or seeking the best Xmas markets in Europe, this curated list will inspire your perfect festive getaway.

List of Best Christmas Markets In Europe

1. Cologne, Germany

Cologne in Germany has been long considered as the best festive destination for being one of the Magical Christmas markets of Europe. It consistently ranks among the top 10 best Christmas markets in Europe, attracting millions who love the traditional German Christmas market atmosphere.

The Christmas market in Cologne is the largest Christmas market in the city center, right beneath the cathedral. Visitors often say this is one of the best Christmas markets in Europe, especially for those wanting to experience a classic German Christmas market setting.

The market is adorned with hundreds of twinkling lights, suspended overhead, and looks like stars twinkling from above while being a part of the merriment of the festive season. Many people exploring Xmas markets Europe make Cologne their first stop due to its iconic holiday charm.

The best part about these Christmas Markets in Europe is that they come up with some really unique ideas, in the Saint Nicolas Village, one instance being the story of the real Saint Nick of the 13th century is narrated targeting the youngsters. In fact there are a few markets dedicated to mythical gnomes and maritime history, making it one of the best European Christmas markets to visit this holiday.

Travelers often list Cologne among must-visit Christmas markets in Europe, especially for families seeking storytelling and traditions.

• Dates: November-December 2025
• Famous For: Variety of markets and food options

2. Salzburg, Austria

Salzburg is among the top Christmas markets in Europe, welcoming visitors with ancient traditions and Christmas Carols. As the Silent Night plays during the not-so-silent night, you will witness markets that are ancient styled and look exactly what they used to look like in the 15th century, making it one of the most magical Christmas markets of Europe.

Those searching for the best Christmas markets in Europe often include Salzburg for its enchanting melodies and historic ambiance.

You can expect hand-knitted socks, instead of the novelty candles that are generally used for stocking fillers, and plenty of other gifts to buy at Christmas Markets.

Salzburg also appeals to those looking for Christmas shopping in Europe, offering artisanal treasures you won’t find elsewhere.

If you wish to be a part of this celebration, you can even join the concerts that takes place at the cathedral at 5 p.m. or the Tuesday singalongs from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., making Salzburg one of the best European Christmas markets to visit this holiday season, and is also one of the best Best Christmas markets in Europe for families.

With its old-world charm, it’s frequently mentioned among the top 10 best Christmas markets in Europe.

• Dates: November 2025-January 2026
• Famous For: Christmas Carols and Ancient Traditions

3. Berlin, Germany

If you are on the lookout for the best Christmas markets in Europe, then you can’t miss out on Berlin, as the city centre features a total of 80 Christmas markets, with Spandau being the largest among all. In fact there is one market specifically for dogs, how amazing is that?

Berlin is also a highlight for anyone exploring top European Christmas markets, thanks to its diversity and festive energy.

If you are more into arts and crafts, then this is undoubtedly one of the best Christmas markets in Europe for Weihnachtzauber, located in the Gendarmenmarkt Square offers plenty of arts and crafts.

Many visitors choose Berlin when searching for where to go for Christmas markets in Europe, as the options are nearly endless.

You can also go for winter sports at the Winter World at Potsdamer Platz, which is less about shopping, and more about getting your heart rate up, as you indulge in winter sports, including ice skating and more such activities.

The variety here also attracts people who enjoy both Christmas in Europe and active winter adventures.The best time to visit is 10 a.m. when the place is quiet, and you can make the most of it.

Berlin frequently appears on lists of best Xmas markets in Europe thanks to its blend of tradition and modernity.

• Dates: Vary for different markets
• Famous For: Trendy Gifts

4. Budapest, Hungary

Get ready for an illuminated Christmas, right from mid-November in Budapest. Budapest offers two of the best Christmas Markets in Europe, Vorosmarty Square and Basilica.

Budapest's festive locations are often counted among the top 10 best Christmas markets in Europe for their enchanting lights and local culture.

Vorosmarty Square, located right in the heart of Budapest, is the oldest Christmas market here, with plenty of food stalls, free concerts, and handicraft shops. Basilica on the other hand, has everything that is present at the Vorosmarty Square, but it takes the celebration up a notch with a laser projection on the Basilica, and there is an ice rink that surrounds the Christmas tree, making it one of the best European Christmas markets to visit this holiday.

Many travelers visiting Xmas in Europe make Budapest a must-see stop because of its incredible light shows.

• Dates: November 2025-January 2026
• Famous For: Ice Rinks and Christmas Decor

Affordable Christmas Markets In Europe

5. Prague, Czech Republic

Prague is one of the best Christmas markets in Europe for open air concerts during the festive season, with a magnificent setting with the 14th-century church on one side and the 15th-century Astronomical clock on the other.

It also attracts visitors searching for the best Christmas markets in Europe that combine beauty with affordability.

The food here is a must-try, and it will leave you glued to this place, with its fresh pancakes, garlic and cheese flatbread, fatty sausages, and more. Besides that, it is surprisingly one of the most affordable Christmas markets in Europe.

Prague’s affordability makes it a favorite for those doing Christmas shopping in Europe on a budget.

• Dates: November 2025- January 2026
• Famous For: Open Air Concerts

6. Strasbourg, France

Christmas celebrations in Strasbourg, France looks like a fairy tale coming to life straight from the books, with its 300 traditional markets that take over the city’s central square, hand-made Christmas decorations, and plenty of other things that make it one of the affordable Christmas markets in Europe.

Strasbourg is widely known as the capital of Christmas and is listed among the best Christmas markets in France, drawing travelers globally.

• Dates: November 2025- December 2026
• Famous For: Story book set up

7. Gothenburg, Sweden

Head to Liseberg for the chich vibes, for it is the largest and most popular amusement park here. It is not like some regular amusement parks with Creaky wheels, and Christmas trees made of plastic.

Gothenburg is also popular among travelers searching for top European Christmas markets with a modern twist.

Snack on smoked reindeer and drink Glogg, which is a Scandinavian mulled wine, and also make the most of free Children’s entertainment at one of the best Christmas markets in Europe. This destination appeals to visitors planning Xmas in Europe with families.

• Dates: November 2025-December 2026
• Famous For: Chic Vibes and Glogg mugs

8. Bratislava, Slovakia

Fairy lights draped around trees, market stalls with traditional wooden toys, and food treats including sausages, cakes, and pancakes. It’s also mentioned in lists of must-visit Christmas markets in Europe for its cozy atmosphere.

Christmas in Slovakia will bring back nostalgic memories, and the best part is that it is one of the most affordable Christmas markets in Europe. Bratislava is a great choice for those seeking affordable yet beautiful Xmas markets Europe.

• Dates: November 2025- December 2026
• Famous For: Wooden toys and Foodie Treats

9. Bohemia, Czech Republic

If you are looking for Christmas lights and decor, you can head to the Bohemian cities of Cesky Krumlov or Ceske Budejovice, as they are one of the best Christmas markets in Europe. Many travelers exploring the best Christmas markets in Europe love the small-town charm Bohemia offers.

The city centre square of Ceske Budejovice features classical as well as Gothic architecture and is home to bustling Christmas markets, offering wooden toys, and spicy mulled wine, with fairy with lights decorations twinkling throughout the night, making it one of the best places to visit during Christmas.

Bohemia also appeals to holidaymakers looking for Christmas in Europe in a picturesque setting.

• Dates: November 2025- January 2026
• Famous For: Stunning Architecture

10. Vienna, Austria

Vienna sparkles with fairy lights as the festive season begins, with snowy streets, lights spilling out from palaces, icicles hanging off the houses and city that is full of merriment and joy, making your Christmas celebrations worth every penny spent at one of the magical Christmas markets of Europe.

Vienna is frequently ranked among the top 10 best Christmas markets in Europe because of its imperial elegance.

• Dates: November 2025-December 2026
• Famous For: Traditional Toys and Skating Rinks

European Christmas Markets For A Festive Vibe

11. Copenhagen, Denmark

Let the festive joy take over the market of Copenhagen as the season begins to turn the city into pretty hues of merriment. Head to the Christmas market of Tivoli Gardens which is the heart of Copenhagen, with fairy lights draped on lifeless trees, and a Ferris wheel spins during the night.

Copenhagen is ideal for travelers searching for the best Xmas markets in Europe with Scandinavian flair.

• Dates: November 2025-January 2026
• Famous For: Hygge, and Ferris Wheel Rides

12. Krakow Poland

Head to the picture-perfect capital of Poland, Krakow, and get your skates ready on the snowy squares of Krakow, and experience the serene surroundings while making the most of your Christmas celebrations in Poland. You can get plenty of gifts to buy at Christmas Markets here.

Krakow stands among the best Christmas markets in Poland, offering a festive experience rooted in tradition.

• Dates: November-December 2025
• Famous For: Quirky toys

13. Seville, Spain

If you are looking for an immersive festival retreat, then Seville is the best choice for you. Seville Christmas Market offers an artistic, and cultural experience to all the visitors with its street exhibitions and some performances to keep the visitors entertained and to maintain the festive vibe. It is one of the best places for gifts to buy at Christmas Markets.

Many travelers looking for unique holiday traditions include Seville among must-visit Christmas markets in Europe.

• Dates: Varies for different markets
• Famous For: Festive retreats

14. Lille, France 

Get the taste of a French Christmas at Lille, which is the biggest city of Northern France. The market takes over its two main squares including Grand Place with the Giant wheel stealing the show. Offering a Christmassy vibe the place lures tourists with its scents of melting cheese, and sugary waffles.

Lille is loved by visitors exploring the best Christmas markets in France, thanks to its charming local flavors.

• Dates: November-December 2025
• Famous For: Channel Hop

15. Merano Italy

What’s better than celebrating Christmas at the Christmas market that overlooks the Alps? Nothing, right? Head to the beautiful town of Merano that offers twinkling chalets, running along the Passirio River, forming the backdrop of a mountain, making the most of your European Christmas Markets Tour.

Merano is a stunning choice for those experiencing Christmas in Europe for the first time.

• Dates: November 2025-January 2026
• Famous For: Magic of the mountains

16. Bruges, Belgium

Bruges remains beautiful all year round but during the winter season, the place takes a few gears up and looks absolutely stunning. There are two major Christmas markets, one is the Main Market Square, and the other is Simon Stevinplein. Both these markets sparkle with Christmas lights draped all over the place.

Bruges often appears on lists of the best Christmas markets in Europe because of its storybook scenery.

The food, mulled wine on the drinks stall, plenty of Christmas gifts, glittering lights, and festive vibes make it all very romantic, especially with the outdoor skating rink if that is something you are interested in.

For many couples searching where to go for Christmas markets in Europe, Bruges is a top recommendation.

• Dates: November 2025-January 2026
• Famous For: Outdoor Skating Rink, and glittering lights

17. London, United Kingdom

London transforms into a sparkling winter wonderland during the festive season, offering some of the most magical Christmas experiences in Europe. Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland is the city’s biggest festive attraction, featuring Christmas stalls, rides, ice skating, and seasonal treats that draw millions every year. It is often considered among the best Christmas markets in London for its festive scale and family-friendly activities.

Southbank Centre Christmas Market adds a riverside charm with wooden chalets offering mulled wine, handmade crafts, and international foods. Leicester Square Christmas Market brings traditional decorations and cozy vibes at the heart of the city, making London a delightful addition to your European Christmas plans.

• Dates: November 2025-January 2026
• Famous For: Winter Wonderland, Riverside Markets, and Festive Entertainment

Tips For Exploring European Christmas Markets

There are plenty of Christmas markets to make the most of your European Christmas markets tour, so let us give you a few tips so that you can have the best time during the festive season. Let’s check out some of the best tips for exploring European Christmas markets:

• Try the various types of coffee because the taste will linger on your tongue for a long time. While sampling local treats, many visitors also love comparing the best Christmas markets in Europe they visit.
• Don’t forget to treat yourself to European cuisine.Foodies who enjoy Christmas shopping in Europe often combine dining with browsing local crafts.
• Try to be a part of the singalongs that take place in various Christmas markets.These activities truly embody the joy of Xmas in Europe celebrations.
• Visit the malls, witness the decor and feel the festive vibe all around you. Many cities featured in the top European Christmas markets list have spectacular mall decorations too.
• As we have mentioned the hot mulled wine an infinite number of times, there is no reason why you shouldn’t try it at least once.This festive drink is iconic across all the best Xmas markets in Europe.
• Visit the main squares of all the places that you will explore to make the most of your Christmas trip to Europe. Doing so helps you truly understand why these cities are counted among the best Christmas markets in Europe.
• Take as many pictures as possible. Make sure you don’t create chaos or make anyone uncomfortable.

Why You Should Consider Booking Christmas Trips with WanderOn?

Planning a festive holiday can feel overwhelming, especially when choosing from the best Christmas markets in Europe. That’s where WanderOn becomes the perfect travel companion, ensuring your Christmas getaway is seamless, memorable, and truly magical. With expertly curated itineraries, you can explore iconic markets, enjoy authentic festive traditions, and experience the charm of Europe during its most enchanting season.

From guided experiences to smooth logistics, each detail is handled with care so you can focus entirely on the joy of the journey. Whether you're seeking fairy-lit streets, festive delicacies, or cultural celebrations, booking your Christmas trip with a trusted expert ensures a stress-free and unforgettable holiday adventure.