Top 10 Christmas Markets in Europe and One in the United States

As winter’s chill sets in, Europe transforms into a magical wonderland adorned with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and the sweet scent of mulled wine and gingerbread cookies. The holiday season in Europe is a time when charming cities and towns come alive with the spirit of Christmas, and there’s no better way to experience it than by visiting its famous Christmas markets. From the snow-covered streets of Scandinavia to the historic squares of Central Europe, here are the top 10 Christmas markets across Europe and one in the US that will leave you spellbound.

1. Strasbourg, France : November 24 to December 24  

Known as the “Capital of Christmas,” Strasbourg’s Christkindelsmärik is one of Europe’s oldest and most enchanting Christmas markets. With its picturesque half-timbered houses and the majestic Strasbourg Cathedral as a backdrop, this market boasts a magical atmosphere. Savor local delicacies like flammekueche and explore the beautifully decorated stalls for unique gifts and ornaments.

2. Vienna, Austria :  November 11 to December 26  

Vienna’s Rathausplatz transforms into a fairy tale scene during the holiday season. The towering Christmas tree, the city hall bathed in lights, and the scent of roasted chestnuts create an unforgettable ambiance. Don’t miss the delightful crafts and the Austrian culinary delights like schnitzel and sacher torte.

3. Cologne, Germany : November 23 to December 23 

Set against the backdrop of the stunning Cologne Cathedral, this market is a must-visit in Germany. With over 160 wooden pavilions, it offers a wide variety of handcrafted goods, ornaments, and delectable treats like bratwurst and mulled wine.

4. Prague, Czech Republic : December 2 to January 4 

Prague’s Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square host some of the most picturesque Christmas markets in Europe. The beautifully decorated wooden stalls sell traditional Czech gifts, such as glassware and wooden toys. Enjoy the ambiance with a cup of hot honey wine.

5. Stockholm, Sweden : November 24 to December 17 

Skansen Christmas Market: For a truly Scandinavian Christmas experience, head to Skansen, an open-air museum in Stockholm. Here, you can enjoy traditional Swedish festivities, including folk music, handcrafted goods, and authentic Swedish cuisine.

6. Brussels, Belgium : November 24 to December 31 

Brussels comes alive during the holiday season with its Winter Wonders market. The Grand-Place transforms into a winter wonderland with an ice skating rink, Ferris wheel, and over 200 chalets selling Belgian chocolates, waffles, and crafts.

7. Budapest, Hungary : November 17 to December 31 

The Hungarian capital’s Vorosmarty Square turns into a magical Christmas market featuring unique artisanal gifts, live performances, and a variety of delicious Hungarian dishes. Be sure to try kürtőskalács (chimney cake) and forralt bor (mulled wine).

8. Riga, Latvia : December 3 to January 8 

Riga’s Christmas Market is a gem of the Baltic region, set in the heart of the Old Town. Admire the beautiful decorations and discover traditional Latvian crafts and delicacies. The city’s stunning architecture adds to the market’s allure.

9. Stuttgart, Germany : November 29 to December 23  

Known as the “Stuttgarter Weihnachtsmarkt,” the markettransforms the city’s picturesque Schlossplatz into a winter wonderland with twinkling lights and charming stalls selling handmade crafts and delicious treats. Visitors can savor the festive atmosphere while sipping on mulled wine and enjoying traditional German holiday specialties.

10. Florence, Italy : November 28^th to December 20 

Located in Piazza di Santa Croce, this market enchants visitors with its timeless beauty and festive spirit. It is a true international Christmas market, with food, and retail items from much of Europe and the United Kingdom.

11. BONUS Chicago, Illinois : November 17 to December 24

Dozens of vendors pack Daley Plaza, as locals and tourists enjoy food, drink, and special holiday crafts. It is the perfect location to visit while in the Windy City. 

Would you like to roam through one of these Christmas Markets? At Traplanz, we plan and book travel with the intention of turning moments into memories. Please contact us to take your dream winter wonderland vacation.