15 Christmas Markets in Europe That Feel Straight Out of a Fairytale (Some will Surprise you)
There’s something truly special about Europe during the holiday season — fairy lights twinkling across cobblestone streets, the smell of mulled wine in the air, and the soft hum of Christmas carols echoing from centuries-old squares.
From Germany’s legendary market stalls to cozy Nordic winter wonderlands, Europe turns into a festive dream every December. In this guide, I’ve rounded up the most enchanting Christmas markets across the continent — from iconic classics to underrated gems — so you can plan your perfect holiday escape.
25 European Christmas Markets That Perfectly Capture the Holiday Spirit
Christmas Markets in Milan, Italy
Milan might be known for its high fashion and design, but during the holidays, it takes on a completely different kind of elegance. The city glows with Christmas lights, festive window displays, and cozy markets that bring a warm spirit to the chilly streets.
The most traditional of them all is Oh Bej! Oh Bej!, held every year around Castello Sforzesco. This centuries-old fair dates back to 1510 and runs only for a few days, usually from December 6 to December 9, to celebrate Saint Ambrose, the city’s patron saint. The name “Oh Bej! Oh Bej!” comes from the old Milanese dialect and means “Oh, so nice! Oh, so nice!”, echoing the joyful cries of children when the market first began.
Today, it still keeps that festive energy alive with rows of stalls selling handcrafted gifts, antiques, winter clothing, and traditional snacks like roasted chestnuts, torrone, and vin brulé.
In front of the Duomo, the Milan Christmas Market runs from late November until early January, offering dozens of wooden chalets filled with local food, ornaments, and artisan gifts. Grab a cup of hot chocolate or a slice of panettone and enjoy the view of the cathedral’s sparkling Christmas tree.
For a more modern holiday vibe, don’t miss the Piazza Gae Aulenti Christmas Village, located in Milan’s sleek Porta Nuova district. Surrounded by glass skyscrapers and trendy restaurants, it features an ice-skating rink, gourmet food stalls, and live performances — the perfect contrast to the city’s more historic markets.
Families with kids will love the Villaggio delle Meraviglie in the Giardini Indro Montanelli, a magical park setting with rides, Santa’s house, and plenty of sweet treats.
If you’re planning to spend a few festive days in Milan, there are plenty of great places to stay right in the city center. One of my favorites is Room Mate Giulia, just steps from Piazza del Duomo. It’s stylish without being pretentious, with colorful design touches and a warm, welcoming vibe — perfect if you want to wake up and be right in the middle of the Christmas magic.
Another great option is the Rosa Grand Milano – Starhotels Collezione, an elegant hotel that literally overlooks the Duomo. It’s ideal if you want to shop, stroll through the markets, and still retreat to a calm, comfortable space afterward.
For something a bit more contemporary, NH Collection Milano President offers modern rooms with city views and a great location just a few minutes’ walk from the cathedral. It’s a lovely balance between comfort, convenience, and that festive Milanese energy you feel everywhere in December.
Christmas Markets in Manchester, United Kingdom
From early November, the Manchester Christmas Markets transform the city into a festive wonderland. You’ll find twinkling lights, alpine-style stalls, and the scent of mulled wine drifting through the air. The atmosphere is lively yet cozy, a blend of seasonal cheer, bustling crowds, and moments of wonder tucked between handmade gifts and sizzling bratwurst.
Set against a backdrop of grand red-brick warehouses and Victorian mills, Manchester’s Christmas Markets unfold beneath the architectural legacy of the city’s cotton industry — a reminder of its industrial past woven into every festive corner.
The most popular food stalls are hearty. A local favorite is the giant Yorkshire pudding wrap – a full English roast dinner (gravy and all) bundled into a giant pudding and rolled like a burrito. It’s a little too much for me, even as a local, but true-bred Northerners love it.
To match the festive beauty and cheer, I recommend staying at The Midland Hotel. It’s a Manchester icon. At Christmas, the lobby is transformed with a stunning tree and twinkling lights, making it feel like you’ve stepped into a festive film set. It’s elegant, historic, and perfectly placed for exploring the stalls.
Aside from the markets, you’ll find a city full of amazing free museums, including the recently renovated Manchester Museum. For those interested in history and activism, you’ll find The People’s History Museum and The Pankhurst Museum, the birthplace of the Suffragette movement. Beyond this, Manchester is an exciting, cosmopolitan city with countless bars and restaurants.
Contributed by Charlotte Russell of The Travel Psychologist
Christmas Markets in Zurich
For a festive must-see market in Switzerland, make your winter visit to Zurich. The whole city becomes a seasonal festive hub of fun, transforming into a wonderland of twinkling festive lights and numerous wooden chalets for the Christmas markets.
The markets typically begin in the last week of November, allowing you to plan ahead. The Zurich Christmas festivities are not confined to one place, making them special. They have multiple areas around the city to shop, eat festive food and enjoy live music.
A special feature of the Zurich Christmas Markets is the Singing Christmas Tree, a beautifully designed tree-shaped stage where local carol singers perform daily. It’s the perfect location to sing along and dance!
The warm winter wonderland, Weihnachtsdorf markets near the Zurich Opera House, is another location. The square becomes beautifully decorated with a huge food court, a large Christmas tree and mini bonfires dotted around for staying warm while enjoying the area. The food court offers a wide range of options, featuring not only Swiss cuisine but also international selections.
For party time, head to the courtyard of the Swiss National Museum. Here, they usually have an indoor dancing area, with live DJs as well as food stands. It’s a chill area to enjoy a drink with friends or loved ones. The lighting in the courtyard area is really cool to see in person.
Zurich, in general, is a large city to visit, which can be combined with a visit to the Lindt Chocolate Factory and local museums. Try a Zurich walking tour to discover the fascinating history, too!
Finish your days by checking in at the Ruby Mimi Hotel & Bar. I highly recommend this hotel, which features spacious rooms and heavenly beds. The hotel offers excellent service, and it’s an ideal location for all the Christmas events and markets in Zurich.
Contributed by Zoe from Together In Switzerland
Christmas markets in Lisbon, Portugal
Do you fancy Christmas in the sun? Then Lisbon will be a great destination! The Portuguese capital boasts a surprising number of Christmas markets, with most starting towards the end of November and the beginning of December. You can even make day trips from Lisbon to nearby Christmas markets! Some of the best are in Óbidos and Cascais.
Wonderland Lisboa is the largest and most famous Christmas market in Lisbon. It starts in late November and ends in the first week of the new year. The views from the Ferris wheel are breathtaking, and the ice skating rink is a popular attraction for all ages. You can even visit Santa!
Another popular Christmas market is the one at Rossio Square. There is a fun, free Christmas train, as well as numerous stalls offering local specialties and handicrafts. Speaking of handicrafts, the Christmas market at Campo Pequeno is my favorite, as it’s the perfect spot for Christmas shopping.
Most Christmas markets are located in the downtown area of Lisbon, and numerous hotels are within walking distance. Avenida da Liberdade is one of the most beautiful streets during the festive season, and you can plan a stay at PortoBay Liberdade or Hotel Tivoli Avenida Liberdade Lisboa for the best Christmas atmosphere.
You will also stay within walking distance of major sights like the Santa Justa Elevator, the Rua Augusta Arch and the Carmo Convent. As the location is so central, you can easily explore the Alfama neighborhood, with highlights including Lisbon Cathedral and São Jorge Castle. Perfect for exploring Lisbon in winter!
Contributed by Marga of Discover Portugal
Christmas Markets in Prague, Czech Republic
I’m a local in Prague and absolutely love the city in winter. Even though the pre-Christmas rush keeps us busy with work and gift shopping, I always make time to stroll through the Christmas markets. Experiencing winter in Prague this way never loses its charm.
The Old Town Square Christmas Market is the heart of the season. Wooden stalls fill the square between the Astronomical Clock and the Týn Church, surrounded by colorful historic buildings that look straight out of a storybook.
You’ll find everything from handmade ornaments and wooden toys to Czech snacks like sausages, roasted chestnuts, and mulled wine. I always climb the small viewing platform to take in the scene from above—the Christmas tree with the twin spires of Týn Church behind it is breathtaking every year. In 2025, the market runs from November 29.
To stay nearby, I recommend Allure Hotel, a lovely mid-range option tucked on a quiet street just steps away.
A short ride or 45-minute walk away, the Náměstí Míru Christmas Market in Vinohrady has a much more local vibe. I used to meet friends there for mulled wine after work, and it’s still my favorite for its cozy atmosphere and sense of community. The market opens on November 20 and closes on December 24. Nearby, Ametyst Hotel is a solid mid-range pick.
While in Vinohrady, enjoy its charming cafés, leafy parks, and beautiful Art Nouveau architecture for a relaxed glimpse of local life, away from the festive crowds.
Contributed by Veronika Primm of Travel Geekery
Christmas Markets in Bolzano, Italy
Tucked in the heart of South Tyrol in northern Italy, the storybook town of Bolzano knows how to deck the halls Italian-style.
The Bolzano Christmas market —one of Italy’s oldest and largest—transforms Piazza Walther into an alpine wonderland from late November through early January. Think twinkling lights, the scent of cinnamon and mulled wine in the air, and wooden stalls overflowing with hand-carved ornaments, woolen scarves, and local treats like apple strudel and speck sandwiches.
It’s a big market for such a small town—around 80 chalets—yet somehow still feels cozy and personal. You’ll find yourself lingering under heat lamps with a steaming Vin brulé or glühwein, chatting with new friends or listening to a brass band playing carols that echo off the snow-capped peaks.
When you’ve had your fill of market magic, wander Bolzano’s Old Town, visit the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology to meet Ötzi the Iceman, or hop a cable car to Renon for sweeping views over the Dolomites.
One practical tip? Bring layers, because you’ll be bundling up and down. I’ve visited this market several times, and the weather has been different each time. Days can be sunny enough for a warm sweater or cold enough for a heavy winter coat, but there’s also the possibility of rain and ice.
TIP: Consider going early in the season, if possible, or on weekday mornings to avoid the crowds. And don’t forget cash—many vendors still prefer the old-school method.
Bolzano at Christmas is enchanting, with just the right amount of Italian flair to make it unforgettable.
Contributed by Lori of Travlinmad Slow Travel Blog
Christmas Markets in Nice
The Côte d’Azur might not be the most obvious region to celebrate Christmas in France, but the mild temperatures and relatively lower crowds make it a wonderful place to spend the winter holidays.
The largest Christmas market of the French Riviera takes place in Nice, from late November to early January. Jardin Albert 1er is the location of the cozy Christmas Village. It’s where you’ll find dozens of wooden chalets with handmade gifts and other crafts, and an abundance of local delicacies and other mouthwatering treats.
Be sure to try the socca, Nice’s famous chickpea flatbread. Pass by Santa’s house, situated at the end of a wintry forest, right behind the beautifully illuminated Ferris wheel. I took multiple spins last winter because I couldn’t get enough of the fantastic views over Place Masséna, the Promenade des Anglais, and the Mediterranean.
Another highlight not to miss at the Nice Christmas market is the sparkling Christmas tree on the mirror pool at Promenade du Paillon, creating the most beautiful reflection.
From there, I followed the twinkling lights to the Sun Fountain and on to the nativity scene on the intimate Place Rossetti in the heart of Vieux Nice. Anantara Plaza Nice and Hôtel Albert Ier are two hotels with rooms that directly overlook the Christmas Village in Nice, but you’ll find many more accommodations in the neighboring streets.
Nice also offers excellent Christmas shopping, from department stores like Galeries Lafayette and Nice Étoile to the shops lining Avenue Jean Médecin and the boutiques on Rue de la Liberté.
Contributed by Sarah Vanheel of Nice & Beyond
Christmas Markets in Strasbourg, France
Located in eastern France along the Rhine River, right on the German border, Strasbourg is a small city with huge holiday spirit, aptly nicknamed the “Capital of Christmas.” The city officially hosts eight Christmas markets, along with several unofficial and pop-up events. The Strasbourg Christmas markets run from November 26 through December 24 this year.
The markets are spread throughout the historic city center, which is monitored by security points and bag checks, but all are within easy walking distance of one another. Many streets in the old town close to traffic during the season, though trams remain available and are easy to navigate.
As you walk into the historic district, you’ll be greeted by a warm, traditional Christmas market atmosphere with the sweet aromas of cinnamon and nutmeg and the savory scent of melted cheese and sizzling sausages.
Start your visit at Christkindelsmärik (Place Broglie), one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe, dating back to 1570. Don’t miss Place Kléber’s towering Christmas tree, which comes alive at dusk each hour with music and a playful light show. Christkindelsmärik is lined with rows of wooden chalets glittering with lights. You’ll find hand-blown glass ornaments, candles, artisanal gifts, nativity sets, bredele cookies, and spiced pain d’épices, perfect souvenirs and treats to take home.
Food lovers will be in heaven at Strasbourg’s Christmas markets. Expect a delicious mix of French, Swiss, and German specialties, including pretzels, crêpes, baguette flambée, tarte flambée, munstiflette, and of course, steaming cups of vin chaud (mulled wine).
Beyond the markets, don’t miss the charming cheese shops and the storybook wooden footbridges of La Petite France. Last year, we stopped at La Ferme de la Cathédrale to pick up cheese to snack on while strolling through the footbridges toward the Barrage Vauban rooftop terrace, where we enjoyed stunning views of the city.
When we visited Strasbourg for the Christmas markets last season, we stayed just outside the city center at Hotel des Vosges BW Premier Collection, right across from Place de la Gare. It was wonderfully convenient since we arrived by train and still only a short, easy walk to the markets. Another great option is Pavillon Régent Petite France, a romantic stay in the heart of Old Town surrounded by canals and perfectly central to the markets’ magical atmosphere.
Contributed by Casey Keller of Wandering Everywhere
Christmas Markets in Hamburg, Germany
Hamburg turns into a winter fairytale at Christmas, with twinkling lights strung across its streets and squares filled with wooden chalets and festive aromas.
The main market at Rathausmarkt, set against the backdrop of the grand City Hall, is straight out of a storybook with wooden stalls selling handmade ornaments, candles, ceramics, and toys, alongside sizzling bratwurst, roasted potatoes, and chocolate apples.
Each hour, “Flying Santa” glides across the sky, delighting the crowds below. A short walk away, the Jungfernstieg market by Binnenalster Lake feels more elegant, with white tents and golden stars reflecting in the water beside the city’s floating Christmas tree.
Not all markets are traditional, though. Santa Pauli, on the Reeperbahn, mixes festive fun with cheeky adult humour, live music, and glühwein under neon lights. Smaller markets like Winterwald, designed like a forest, and Fleetinsel, along the canals, add to the city’s charm.
The Christmas markets in Hamburg usually start in late November and run until Christmas Eve, opening around 11 am and closing between 9 pm and 10 pm. I visited in early December, when snow fell over Rathausmarkt, and the whole city felt magical.
The best area to stay is near the main train station or City Hall, so you can walk between markets. I stayed at Villa Viva, a new hotel with a rooftop bar and a social mission donating part of its profits fund clean water projects.
Beyond the markets, stroll by Binnenalster Lake, visit St. Petri Church, or explore the canals at dusk. Dress warmly and bring cash, as many stalls don’t take cards. When you order glühwein, you’ll pay a mug deposit; I couldn’t resist keeping mine as a souvenir.
Contributed by Joanna of The World In My Pocket
Christmas Markets in Vienna, Austria
Few places do Christmas quite like Vienna does. Just like the city itself, the Vienna Christmas markets are polished and classy, with an emphasis on authentic Austrian food and quality, often sustainably made gifts. And man, are these markets pretty. I’m going to be a cliché and say they’re a genuine Christmas wonderland.
Of all the markets we visited, the Rathausplatz and Schönbrunn markets were the most beautiful (and easily the most popular), all golden lights, festive music, ice skating rinks, and the smell of roasting chestnuts. For food, Am Hof Market was our favourite.
Most markets open from mid-November until 23 December, though a few start as early as the first weekend in November and stay open through New Year’s Day.
Between warming up with glühwein and gorging on currywurst, take time to explore Vienna itself. There are world-class museums, elegant architecture, and classical music performances (it is the City of Music after all) to keep you busy for weeks.
December is ultra-popular, so book accommodation early. The Neubau neighbourhood is a great base. It’s central, stylish, and a little cheaper than the inner districts. I’d recommend 25hours Hotel beim MuseumsQuartier for its location and price, or the Urban Hotspot Apartment would be perfect for a small family.
Contributed by Jin & De Wet from Museum of Wander
Stuttgart Christmas Market, Germany
The Stuttgart Christmas Market is one of the oldest and largest in Germany.
The market fills the city centre with hundreds of gorgeous wooden stalls that stretch from Schlossplatz to Schillerplatz, Marktplatz, and Karlsplatz.
I especially love how each stall’s rooftop is decorated with lights and even animated characters. It’s one of the things that always makes this market stand out in my mind.
And considering there is an annual contest for the best roof display, you just know that the owners of the stalls go all out when it comes to decorating them!
If shopping is your thing, you will find ornaments, candles, wooden toys, and plenty of handmade gifts and treats.
And if you have kids with you, be sure to visit the rollerskating rink, the absolutely HUGE Riesenrad, the miniature train ride, and the stand where you can decorate your own Lebkuchen heart.
And if you are hungry (trust me, you won’t be able to resist), be sure to try the Bratwurst, the deliciously sweet Germknödel (my fave), and of course, the Glühwein!
The market usually runs from late November until just before Christmas. And as with most markets, evenings are the best time to go when the lights come on.
If you’re looking for a place to stay nearby, I’d recommend EmiLu Design Hotel for its central location or Le Méridien Stuttgart, which is only a short walk from the market.
Beyond the market, Stuttgart has plenty of other attractions to keep you busy.
The Mercedes-Benz Museum, Porsche Museum, Fernsehturm, and Wilhelma Zoo are awesome places that we have enjoyed taking our family to.
And if you want to see something really unique and quirky, the Schweine Museum (Pig Museum) was a family favourite!
Expert Tip: Bring cash for small purchases and dress warmly. The market is entirely outdoors, and it can get cold after dark.
Contributed by Marianne of Galavanting the Globe
Christmas Markets in Colmar, France
Some of the most beautiful Christmas markets to see in Europe are without a doubt located in Colmar, France. Between the festive holiday decorations, interesting items and food for sale and the quaint and picturesque town it is on its own, Colmar should be on everyone’s European Christmas market itinerary!
With it being such a popular Christmas market destination to visit, you can only imagine how crowded it can be. It’s always best to visit during the week if possible to avoid the biggest crowds. It also helps to visit at the beginning of the season, as crowds become larger the closer it gets to the holiday.
The markets are typically open from the last week in November until just before (or after) Christmas day.
As for places to stay on your visit to the Colmar Christmas markets, know in advance that the closer you stay to (or in) in the city, the pricier it will be. One accomodation to consider booking at is Appart Hotel Odalys City Colmar La Rose d’Argent. This is a hotel you can count on to be clean, decently priced for the area, and walking distance to the markets you’ll want to visit. Another option would be Résidence Les Rives de la Fecht – Colmar Ouest. This accommodation is located outside of Colmar, but costs significantly less and can be easily reached by bus. Don’t worry, the distance wouldn’t take away from the magic of your visit!
Enjoy your time in Colmar at the most beautiful Christmas markets to see in Europe!
Contributed by Chelsea from Adventures of Chels.
Montreux Christmas Market, Switzerland
Stepping off the train into the heart of Montreux’s Christmas Market – Montreux Noël – is like walking onto the set of a festive movie.
Set on the shores of Lake Geneva with the snow-dusted Alps as its backdrop, it’s easily one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe.
The promenade twinkles with fairy lights and wooden chalets selling everything from handmade soaps and woollen hats to delicious Swiss treats. I loved wandering the market with my souvenir mug of mulled wine in one hand and warm pretzel in the other, then watching the famous Flying Santa soar above the crowds.
Take a ride on the Ferris wheel in Market Square for the best views of the lake and mountains. And visit Santa himself by taking the mini cogwheel train up to an altitude of 2,042 metres to the heart of Rochers-de-Naye – but make sure you wrap up warm! For food lovers, enjoy bubbling pots of raclette and fondue at the market’s sit-down restaurants.
For an overnight visit, Hotel Eden Palace au Lac offers cosy lakeside views, or book Fairmont Le Montreux Palace for a luxury festive escape.
Beyond the market, I highly recommend walking along the scenic Montreux Riviera lakeside trail to Chillon Castle (it was the inspiration behind Prince Eric’s castle in Disney’s Little Mermaid). There’s also the Freddie Mercury statue and Queen Studio Experience, both situated just along the lakefront.
Visit Montreux Noël from 20th November to 24th December to kick off your winter festivities. It’s one Christmas market I’ll certainly never forget.
Contributed by Natalie, of Travel More With Nat
Valkenburg Christmas Market (the Netherlands)
What could be more unusual than a Christmas market in a cave? Theat’s right – a town with 3 Christmas markets in the caves! The Southern Dutch town of Valkenburg turns into a real Christmas village in the period before Christmas.
Picture this, wandering through a maze of narrow corridors lit up by twinkling Christmas lights, Christmas stalls selling handcrafted ornaments, and the smell of warm stroopwafels and mulled wine!
Valkenburg has the history of a mining town where chalk stone and coal were mined up until the 1970s. The mines are long closed now for exploitation, but they remain open for tourists. And they make an amazing background for the famous Valkenburg Christmas market in the Caves.
Above the ground there is the Santa Village and the Winter Wonderland and twice a week the Landal Christmas Parade takes place through the streets of this charming little town.
The Christmas market is held from mid-November until the first week of January. I used to live in this area for seven years, and visiting Valkenburg during the holiday season was always one of my favourite traditions – the whole town feels warm, charming, and festive.
South Limburg with its rolling hills and half-timbered villages is a great place to spend a few relaxing days full of Christmas shopping. There’s also a Christmas market in the nearby larger city of Maastricht, as well as of lots of walking trails that feature nativity scenes.
Valkenburg is a short, 15-minutes train ride from Maastricht. I strongly suggest that you come by train as the parking facilities in the town are limited.
If you plan to stay overnight, you’ve got some beautiful and very different options nearby. Château St. Gerlach, located in Houthem just outside Valkenburg, is a stunning country estate surrounded by landscaped gardens and vineyards.
It’s a luxurious retreat where you can unwind after exploring the markets — think elegant rooms, a spa, and an excellent restaurant serving local dishes.
For something more intimate, Aan de Cauberg B&B in Valkenburg offers cozy, family-run hospitality just a short walk from the cave markets. It’s a comfortable and affordable stay with a personal touch, ideal if you want to wake up right in the heart of the festivities.
If you’d prefer a stylish city base, Kruisherenhotel in nearby Maastricht is a real showstopper — a 15-minute train ride away. This former Gothic monastery has been transformed into a chic design hotel where modern interiors meet centuries-old stone architecture.
It’s perfect if you want to combine Valkenburg’s Christmas charm with Maastricht’s lively holiday scene and shopping streets.
Contributed by Daniela from Exploring the Netherlands
Christmas Markets in Europe: final thoughts
Europe truly knows how to celebrate Christmas — from glowing market squares and steaming cups of mulled wine to the joyful sounds of choirs echoing through centuries-old streets. Each market has its own magic, whether it’s tucked inside a cave in the Netherlands or spread across a grand palace square in Vienna.
If you’ve experienced a European Christmas market yourself, I’d love to hear from you! Which one stole your heart? Was it the food, the atmosphere, or a special memory you made there? Share your story in the comments — your favorite market might just inspire someone else’s next festive adventure.
