16 Best Christmas Markets In Europe

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 the adventure of a lifetime. 

European Christmas Markets Tour

List of Best Christmas Markets In Europe:

1. Cologne, Germany

The Christmas market in Cologne is the largest Christmas market in the city center, right beneath the cathedral. 

The market is adorned with hundreds of twinkling lights, suspended overhead, and looks like stars twinkling from above and participating in the merriment of the festive season. The best part about these Christmas Markets in Europe is that they come up with some really unique ideas, in the Saint Nicolas Village, 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. 

2. Salzburg, Austria

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.

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.

3. Berlin, Germany

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. 

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 best time to visit is 10 a.m. when the place is quiet, and you can make the most of it. 

4. Budapest, Hungary

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.

Suggested Read: 11 Unique Christmas Traditions Around The World

Affordable Christmas Markets In Europe

5. Prague, Czech Republic

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.

6. Strasbourg, France

7. Gothenburg, Sweden

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. 

8. Bratislava, Slovakia

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. 

9. Bohemia, Czech Republic

10. Vienna, Austria

European Christmas Markets For A Festive Vibe

11. Copenhagen, Denmark

12. Krakow Poland

13. Seville, Spain

14. Lille, France 

15. Merano Italy

16. Bruges, Belgium

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.

Tips For Exploring European Christmas Markets

• Try the various types of coffee because the taste will linger on your tongue for a long time. 
• Don’t forget to treat yourself to the European cuisine. 
• Try to be a part of the singalongs that take place in various Christmas markets.
• Visit the malls, witness the decor and feel the festive vibe all around you. 
• As we have mentioned the hot mulled wine an infinite number of times, there is no reason why you shouldn’t try it atleast once. 
• Visit the main squares of all the places that you will explore to make the most of your Christmas trip to Europe
• Take as many pictures as possible
• Make sure you don’t create chaos or make anyone uncomfortable.