Stephanie Whiting
Head of IT & Marketing
Whether you’re looking for festive gifts, or you simply want to enjoy a glass of gluhwein in a winter wonderland, dozens of towns and cities across Europe host sparkling Christmas markets each year.
A weekend break in November and December can be a great way to kick off your seasonal celebrations. So, here are 10 of the continent’s top Christmas markets to inspire you this winter.
1. Cologne, Germany
Germany is synonymous with the Christmas market, and the city of Cologne hosts some of the most popular.
From 23 November to 23 December Cologne hosts several markets, the most famous of which is the Weihnachtsmarkt am Dom, in the shadow of the magnificent Gothic cathedral.
Markt der Engel sits under hundreds of twinkling lights suspended overhead like stars, while Nikolausdorf is aimed at a younger audience and tells the story of the real Saint Nick. You’ll even find markets dedicated to mythical gnomes, and maritime history, complete with sea shanties and pirates.
2. Zurich, Switzerland
A 32-foot tall Christmas tree decked out in twinkling lights is the centrepiece of Zurich’s Christkindlimarkt. The city’s main station hosts one of Europe’s largest indoor markets between 23 November and 24 December.
Over 100 inviting market stalls showcase artisan creations and original gift ideas, and you can even reserve one of two viewing platforms for a special aperitif with friends or family.
Then, take a stroll to the Opera House where you’ll find the Wienachtsdorf, or Zurich Christmas Village. Here, you’ll find unusual local art, traditional Swiss specialties, and plenty of fun activities for children.
3. Budapest, Hungary
Long recognised as one of the most impressive Christmas locations in Europe, Budapest boasts a range of different-sized markets to explore.
The oldest and most internationally acclaimed Budapest Christmas fair is the Christmas Market on Vorosmarty Square in the heart of the city. Here, you’ll find plenty of food stalls, craft shops, and free concerts.
It’s also worth seeking out the Budapest Basilica Christmas Fair where you can skate around a grand Christmas tree and watch lasers project Christmas imagery on the Basilica itself.
4. Strasbourg and Colmar, France
Strasbourg – often called “the Capital of Christmas” – hosts many markets offering mouthwatering delicacies and a traditional atmosphere.
Head on a walking tour to see some of the city’s smaller markets, from the majestic market at Place de la Cathédrale to the offbeat and artisanal markets selling handcrafted Alsatian wine glasses and local delicacies.
Then, jump on a train and make the 30-minute journey to the local town of Colmar. While smaller than Strasbourg, the town hosts six markets surrounded by quaint timber houses, decorations along the canal, and white Christmas trees.
5. Florence, Italy
Between 18 November and 17 December, you can find Florence’s largest Christmas market at the piazza of the Basilica di Santa Croce.
While you can expect all the traditional Christmas fayre – open-air German stalls selling bratwurst and mulled wine – there is also an Italian flavour with chocolates, cheeses, and jams on sale.
You can also combine your visit with trips to some of the city’s iconic landmarks including Palazzo Vecchio, the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, and Giotto’s Bell Tower.
6. Vienna, Austria
Each year, a dozen markets open around the elegant Austrian capital.
If you’re looking for a traditional Christmas experience, a walk around the market in front of the Schönnbrunn Palace or a visit to the Christmas Village in Maria-Theresien-Platz are recommended.
Then, sample the best of Viennese food at the Advent pleasure market by the Opera House, and join the ice skaters on the rink at Vienna Christmas World in Rathausplatz.
Markets open between 10 and 24 November and stay open until at least 23 December.
7. Bohemia, Czech Republic
If you want to head off the beaten track, the southern Bohemian cities of Ceske Budejovice and Cesky Krumlov host two of the most atmospheric markets in Europe. Between 24 November and 1 January, the city centres are transformed into traditional Christmas wonderlands.
The city-centre square of Ceske Budejovice, with its mixture of Gothic and classical architecture, plays host to market stalls selling wooden toys, Christmas decorations, and spicy mulled wine.
Cesky Krumlov looks like a scene from a fairytale, with the market sitting beneath the city’s romantic-looking castle. Stalls fill the town hall square, as does the tempting aroma of freshly baked cookies and grilled sausages.
8. Seville, Spain
Sunny Spain may not seem like an ideal destination for a traditional Christmas, but the immersive programme of events in Seville makes it a great alternative choice.
Between 1 December and 5 January, the Andalusian city provides an artistic, cultural, and entertaining experience to get you into the festive spirit.
You can expect decorated wooden stalls, street exhibitions, and pop-up musical and theatre performances. You’ll also find nativity scenes, choirs, and plenty of local treats, including warm churros.
9. Zagreb, Croatia
With several dozen markets across the city, there is something for everyone in Croatia’s capital.
The emphasis at Zagreb Advent is firmly on food and drink, with sarma (stuffed cabbage rolls), fritule (chocolate-covered festive fritters), and plum brandy just some of the delicious local delicacies.
Wander through the markets that fill the trio of parks in the lower town before heading to Zagreb’s main Ban Jelacic Square. You’ll pass more stalls as you head towards the medieval upper town, where you’ll also find an outdoor ice rink and lots of interesting craft stalls.
10. Birmingham, UK
If you’d prefer your Christmas market closer to home, TikTok has named Birmingham as the UK’s best Christmas market.
The Birmingham Christmas Market is the largest authentic Christmas market outside of Germany or Austria, and welcomes visitors between 2 November and 24 December.
It’s easy to reach on foot from New Street or Snow Hill Station or there are plenty of nearby car parks if you choose to drive into the city instead.
You can expect to find a large range of traditional gifts, lots of tempting food and drink, and an unmissable live music programme.
