Christmas in Europe? The 22 most magical Christmas Markets to visit this year

...Of course Germany is the home of Christmas markets, but each country has their own unique style of celebrating this joyous time of the year. From the Northern countries to the Mediterranean, each nation has their own traditions and delicacies, but still with the smell of glühwein, roasted chestnuts and pastries.

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Have you ever spent December in Croatia? Soak up the ample sunshine of the Adriatic sea with its holly jolly Christmas markets. Or if you prefer to experience December the classic way - snowy, cosy and ample of fairy lights, from small towns in Belgium to big cities in Scandinavia has your pick for Christmas markets.

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1. Strasbourg, France

In the city of Strasbourg, you will find the oldest Christmas market in the country. Located on the UNESCO World Heritage Site Grande Île (Big Island), it is considered the ‘Christmas Capital’. Apart from 300 stalls where you can stroll around, try delicacies and get your Christmas gifts, the city itself does an excellent job decorating. Only the facades windows of shops and the teddy bear-covered facades are already a reason to visit Strasbourg during Christams time. When visiting this market, make sure to try bretzels (soft, bready pretzels), pain d’epices (a subtle version of gingerbread) and bredeles (star-shaped biscuits). ]

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Where to stay in Strasbourg, France

Budget - City Residence Access Strasbourg Located 900 metres away from the Christmas market, this hotel has very friendly staff and a great breakfast.

Mid-range - The POINT City Center

This hotel is located in a historical building, right on the square where the Christmas market takes place.

Luxury - Hôtel LÉONOR the place to live

This stylish, comfortable hotel is situated in the heart of the centre.

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2. Dresden, Germany

The Strietzelmarkt in Dresden is the oldest Christmas market ever. Germans even refer to the city as the ‘unofficial Christmas capital of Germany’. The word Strietzel refers to a seasonal cake called Stollen, a bread with raisins and a sweet almond paste, topped with powdered sugar.

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Something that the market does in Dresden every year, is creating a Schwibbogen, literally meaning ‘hanging arch’. It is an arch-shaped candle holder, representing the entrance to a mine hung with guiding lights, a connection to the area’s mining past.

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Where to stay in Dresden, Germany

Budget - Hostel Lollis Homestay Dresden

This brightly designed hostel is located in an artsy neighbourhood.

Mid-range - Holiday Inn Dresden

In the heart of Dresden this hotel offers a sauna, rooms with a 1950’s design and more.

Luxury - Hotel Villa Sorgenfrei & Restaurant Atelier Sanssouci

This hotel is located in a peaceful area, surrounded by vineyards and beautiful gardens.

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3. Edinburgh, Scotland

In Edinburgh you can expect a Ferris wheel, an ice rink and a kids’ pop-up site with food, drinks, rides, Santa’s Grotto and a Christmas tree maze apart from the market. All set amongst the gothic, Harry Potter like castles and estates. The kids’ pop-up is called Santa Land, and little ones can meet Santa here! The Christmas market itself is a lot smaller than other markets, with 70 stalls. But this makes the market even cosier and great for families.

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Where to stay in Edinburgh, Scotland

Budget - Kick Ass Greyfriars

This funky hostel is located in the heart of Edinburgh.

Mid-range - CoDE Pod - The CoURT

The CoDE Pod - The CoURT is a trendy accommodation that offers sleeping pods in dorm rooms as well as beautiful private rooms.

Luxury - Motel One Edinburgh Royal

This classical hotel is not only located in a very central location but it’s also a sustainable property.

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4. Prague, Czech Republic

In the ever so romantic city of Prague, there are several Christmas markets every year. If you’re more into intimate markets, Prague might be a good destination for you as the markets aren’t as big as in Germany. With many locals visiting the markets here, it will feel less touristy while shopping for Christmas decorations, gifts, foods and drinks. Another plus of the markets in Prague: they’re much cheaper than the ones in the west of Europe, so you won’t have to spend a fortune while trying the delicacies here. Speaking of delicacies, make sure to try trdelník (a sweet, grilled pastry wrapped around a metal stick), bramboraky (salty potato pancakes) or vanocka (braided cake). The Czechs love it just as much as any visitor’s first bite!

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Where to stay in Prague, Czech Republic

Budget - William Apartments

These clean apartments are situated in a calm area.

Mid-range - Don Giovanni Hotel

This beautiful hotel serves amazing food and is known for its friendly staff.

Luxury - Kosher Hotel King David Prague

This luxe hotel has a spa and is perfect to relax after a cold day in the city.
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5. Salzburg, Austria

In the beautiful city centre of Salzburg, with a view on the Alps, you will find the Christkindlmarkt. The Sound of Music may have been a summer setting - but during the winter time, Salzburg has another vivcious spirit that would make anyone feel the Christmas joy. The centre is UNESCO World Heritage-listed and has several markets where you can try hot chestnuts, chocolate gingerbread or shop for Christmas decor. That means Salzburg is a great place to Christmas market hop around. This is definitely one of the most magical locations to go to during Christmas. Can you imagine the old buildings with the Alps in the back and sipping your glühwein while it is snowing?

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Where to stay in Salzburg, Austria

Budget - MEININGER Hotel

This clean hostel has beautiful panoramic views of the historical city.

Mid-range - Loft Collection

These apartments have spacious rooms and are located close to the centre.

Luxury - IMLAUER HOTEL PITTER

This luxurious, comfy hotel has a roof terrace with a beautiful view of the city and the mountains.

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6. Tallinn, Estonia

At the Town Hall Square in Tallinn, stalls surround a big Christmas tree that lights up the market. A fun fact about this place is that it was the first place to ever put a Christmas tree on display in Europe! It is one of the earliest evidence of decorated trees, as the tree was erected in 1441. This was done by the Brotherhood of the Blackheads, who would first put up the tree in their house, but on the last night of the celebrations put it on the square, where they would dance around it and set it on fire after. So why not go to where this worldwide tradition had started out, right in Estonia’s capital. While visiting Tallinn, make sure to try the tradtional snacks of verivorst (blood sausage) and hapukapsas (sauerkraut) while strolling through the market with glittering lights.

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Where to stay in Tallinn, Estonia

Budget - Rija Old Town Hotel

Situated in a central location, the building this hotel is located in is 800 years old.

Mid-range - Bob W Ambassador

This beautifully designed hotel has great city views.

Luxury - Citybox Tallin City Center

This brand new hotel is beautifully designed and located very centrally located.

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7. Helsinki, Finland

Again not as big as the markets in Germany, but the Finnish capital knows how to be super cosy and magical. In Helsinki, you will without a doubt get into the Christmas feelings - and dare I say, feel like you’re in your own Christmas Hallmark movie? With Scandinavian wooden houses and huts decorated with Christmas ornaments, it truly feels as if you are in a winter wonderland. It’s as if Santa’s workshop arrived in Helsinki’s cobblestone streets. On the weekends you will hear choirs sing Christmas carols and every day of the week you can relax in the wood-heated sauna that is in the middle of the square. An amazing way to experience winter!

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Where to stay in Helsinki, Finland

Budget - Eurohostel

Located in a quiet area, this friendly hostel is clean and even has a sauna.

Mid-range - VALO Hotel & Work

This beautifully, minimalistic designed hotel has a great breakfast and wellness centre.

Luxury - Hotel AX

Hotel AX is a very artsy hotel with a unique design for anyone looking to combine a creative space with high-end accomodation.

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8. Budapest, Hungary

Also known as the Budapest Fair, the Christmas market in Budapest is located at the St. Stephen’s Basilica. With an ice skating rink, 160 stalls and folk dance shows it is a very traditional Christmas experience. The Hungarians don’t hold back this time of the year - lavishing the country’s capital with as much festive decor as they can. Even though winter in this part of Europe can get harsh - of you are cold and hungry, make sure to try the Hungarian speciality beef goulash, a beef stew, or if you don’t eat meat, try langos, a deep-fried flat dough, with different toppings such as garlic, sour cream and cheese. These bites will warm you right up and make you feel all snuggly in Budapest!

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Where to stay in Budapest, Hungary

Budget - Fortuna Boat Hotel

Stay in a cosy cabin in this boat hotel right on the Danube!

Mid-range - Bohem Art Hotel

This apartment is beautifully designed and located centrally in Budapest.

Luxury - BALTAZÁR Boutique Hotel by Zsidai Hotels

A combination of art, luxury in a great location.

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9. Zagreb, Croatia

The Christmas market in Zagreb was voted ‘Best Christmas Market in Europe’ for three years in a row! Yep that’s right - even by the Mediterranian, Christmas can get into full swing. The now legendary market here is spread across the city, so anywhere you go you will be feeling the Christmas spirit. Apart from your usual Christmas decoration and delicacies, vendors sell traditional handcrafted and painted wooden toys, such as horses, birds, flutes and spinning dancers.

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Where to stay in Zagreb, Croatia

Budget - Tesla Design Apartments

A charming hotel in the heart of the city.

Mid-range - Casablanca Boutique & Breakfast

With a peaceful garden in the middle of the city, this hotel is a great stay for a trip to Zagreb.

Luxury - DoubleTree by Hilton

This hotel has a beautiful pool with a view of the city.

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10. Bruges, Belgium

A town of many canals and historical waterways, tucked in a corner of Belgium sounds like an ideal setting for Christmas. In Bruges there is not just a beautiful Christmas market, but also a program called Bruges Winter Glow, where ten light installations are set up around the city, creating a warm atmosphere. You can walk easily around the pedestrian-friendly Bruges to see the installations in the evening.The compact, historical city centre of Bruges has different locations for the markets which are spread around town and are simple to visit on foot. If you want to explore more of Christmas in Belgium, check out our ultimate guide for the season here.

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Where to stay in Bruges, Belgium

Budget - Snuffel Hostel

This simple, clean hostel has a great ambiance.

Mid-range - Hotel Duc de Bourgogne

This classy hotel is run by a family and has comfortable rooms and bedrooms.

Luxury - Duke’s Palace Residence

The Duke’s Palace Residence is a luxe hotel in the middle of the centre.

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11. Tivoli Gardens Christmas Market, Copenhagen, Denmark

In the capital of Denmark, Copenhagen, you will find a small Christmas market with 60 stalls. The market is located in Tivoli, an amusement park that dates back to 1843 (the third-oldest operating amusement park in the world), and was the inspiration for Disney. Yep, the amusement park is located right in the heart of Copenhagen too! If you’re coming from the train station, you’ll be able to literally see the rollercoaster tops from across the street. During this time of the year, the already magical park turns into a Christmas paradise with more than 500.000 fairy lights and hosts who are dressed up as elves and Christmas theme costumes. Make sure to try ableskiver, which are fluffy pancake balls special to the Danes.

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Where to stay in Copenhagen, Denmark

Budget - Next House

This fancy hostel has a beautiful design, a gym and even a cinema.

Mid-range - Zoku

These innovative, stylish apartments are great for your stay in Copenhagen.

Luxury - Hotel Kong Arthur

This eco-friendly hotel has a sauna, hot tub and relaxation area.

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12. Basel, Switzerland

If you like the bigger Christmas markets, Basel in Switzerland will be a good option for you. While Basel is known for a city of art, come Christmas time the city gets a jovial makeover. With more than 190 stalls selling different types of souvenirs, gifts, handmade toys and food, you won’t get bored easily! Basel is a beautiful city located along the Rhine river and turns into a winter wonderland at the end of the year, especially when it snows.

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Where to stay in Basel, Switzerland

Budget - Basel Backpack

This hostel is close to the train station of Basel, and the free public transportation is included in the rates!

Mid-range - B&B HOTEL

B&B Hotel has a great location, is clean and serves delicious breakfast.

Luxury - Hyperion Hotel Basel

Hyperion Hotel Basel is located in the talles habitable building and therefore has rooms with big windows and amazing views.

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13. Dublin, Ireland

An Irish Christmas? Have jolly getaway in Ireland’s capital, Dublin. One of the Christmas markets in Dublin is located in a very magical spot: at Dublin Castle! Feel as if you’re in a Christmas fairytale while admiring the lights, the carousel and stalls. The entrance is free, but you do have to book a ticket in advance. If you’re lucky, then the snowfall will be just in time for your stroll amongst the cute cabin-like decorated stalls.

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Where to stay in Dublin, Ireland

Budget - Abbey Court Hostel

This hostel is known for the friendly staff and comfortable beds.

Mid-range - Wren Urban Nest

This comfortable hotel is beautifully designed and located in a central spot like a true nest.

Luxury - The Mayson

This beautiful classic hotel has comfortably chic rooms perfect for any traveller looking for a blissful getaway.

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14. Krakow, Poland

Visiting Krakow during Christmas is like walking through a classical Christmas movie. On the main square you will find wooden stalls all filled with candies, souvenirs, toys and much more. Make sure to try oscypek (grilled cheese), pajda (an open grilled sandwich) or some homemade flavoured vodkas to keep yourself warm in the cobblestone streets of Krakow.

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Where to stay in Krakow, Poland

Budget - Aparthotel Grodzka 21

This clean and comfortable hotel is located close to all the highlights.

Mid-range - J&J Sport Center

This relaxing hotel with a sauna, gym, hot tubs and more, is a great stay for families.

Luxury - PURO Kraków Kazimiers

This comfortable, luxe hotel also offers bikes for going to the city.

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15. Nottingham, England

On the Old Market Square in Nottingham you will be able to ice skate metres above the ground on the Christmas market. The market here has everything: from a Ferris wheel to an Ice Bar (make sure to make a reservation here) to stalls selling gifts, fudge, sausages and other food.

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Where to stay in Nottingham, England

Budget - Igloo Hybrid

This cosy hotel is located in the centre of Nottingham.

Mid-range - St. James Hotel; BW Premier Collection

This hotel has large rooms, helpful staff and good food.

Luxury - Hilton Nottingham Hotel

This luxury hotel has comfortable rooms and is located in the centre of Nottingham.

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16. Hamburg, Germany

Just like in other big cities in Germany, Hamburg has several markets during the festive season: from traditional ones to a sensual adult-only market (think of striptease tents, dragqueens and spicy Christmas gifts), called the Santa Pauli Christmas Market.

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The biggest market in Hamburg is located on Rathausmarkt Square. Another beautifully decorated one with endless stalls that sell handmade toys, jewellery, delicacies, glassware and more. Make sure to try Currywurst here, fried sausage with curry sauce.

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Where to stay in Hamburg, Germany

Budget - CAB20

This hostel is designed beautifully and everything is smart and contactless.

Mid-range - Motel One Hamburg

Motel One Hamburg is clean, comfortable and has a beautiful design.

Luxury - Boston Hotel HH

This elegant hotel is situated in a central location.

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17. Valkenburg, the Netherlands

A very unique market is the Gemeentegrot in Valkenburg, which is located in a cave! Not only is it a super unique experience, it is also the biggest underground Christmas market in Europe. Make your way through all the tunnels that are beautifully decorated and explore different stalls. If you have more time in the Netherlands during Christmas, definitely check out the nearby towns and cities and how unique the Dutch celebrate Christmas. You can read more about it here in our ultimate Netherlands wintertime guide.

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Where to stay in Valkenburg, the Netherlands

Budget - Hotel La Casa

This beautiful hotel is located in a beautiful area and has amazing staff.

Mid-range - Castle View 2

This hotel has spacious rooms and is located in the heart of Valkenburg.

Luxury - Parkhotel Valkenburg

This spacious hotel is located in a beautiful and great for relaxing in the sauna or the pool.

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18. Barcelona, Spain

Christmas… In Spain? If you’re not one for the drop in temperatures, and still like your European sunshine too - Barcelona’s Christmas markets makes for the perfect adventure. Barcelona has several markets, among which the Santa Lucia and the Feria de Navidad de la Sagrada Familia. The Santa Lucia Market is located in front of a beautiful gothic cathedral, and the Feria de Navidad nearby the famous Sagrada Familia. They are very traditional and full of beautiful trees, decorations, food, stalls and more!

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Where to stay in Barcelona, Spain

Budget - Hostal Central Barcelona

This classically decorated hotel is set in the late 19th-century modernist district of Eixample.

Mid-range - Ofelias Hotel 4* Sup

Ofelias Hotel 4* Sup is beautifully designed and has very friendly, helpful staff.

Luxury - ME Barcelona

This artsy hotel, located in the centre of Barcelona, is perfect for couples.

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19. London, England

Ah, classic London for the holidays. The streets are shimmering, lights are hung up everywhere, and the locals are all feeling festive. Just as in the other big cities, London has several markets. One of them is located at Battersea Power Station, an old coalfired power station that turned into a beautiful, trendy mall, which opened in October this year. It makes for a change-up to the regular Christmas markets in other cities. Outside of the mall you will find an ice skating rink, different stalls, a carousel and more. Looking out over the Thames river you will see the skyscrapers of London in the background, which almost makes it look like you’re in New York City!

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Where to stay in London, England

Budget - Ravna Gora

Close to the metro station, this hotel has amazing staff on top of being an awesome place.

Mid-range - The Z Hotel Trafalgar

This hotel is located very central, close to the tube station yet within walking distance in the heart of London.

Luxury - NYX Hotel London Holborn

NYX Hotel has a unique design and great service that will make for a great stay in London.

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20. Brussels, Belgium

In Belgium’s capital you will find a beautiful Ferris wheel from where you can see the 240 stalls from above. Go with a date to make it extra romantic, or just friends and family for fun in the evening. Then, you can pair your Christmas ferris wheel ride with a skate at the ice skate rink, hop on the carousel or admire the beautiful Christmas tree. Whatever you do, you can’t leave here without trying some Belgium chocolate, waffles, fries and beer! Curious about more Christmas time fun in Belgium? Check out our ultimate guide for Belgium’s Christmas season here!

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Where to stay in Brussels, Belgium

Budget - Sleep Well Youth Hostel

This quiet hostel is located close to the railway station and to the centre.

Mid-range - Dansaert Hotel

Dansaert Hotel is located close to all the highlights of Brussels and has very helpful staff.

Luxury - 9Hotel Sablon

Imagine a place where everything is taken care of - to the utmost detail and care. Welcome to your next level of accommodation.

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21. Strietzelmarkt market in Dresden, Germany

Many Christmas markets claim to be the oldest one, but the Strietzelmarkt in Dresden really seems to be the one that was first. Germans even refer to the city as the ‘unofficial Christmas capital of Germany’. The word Strietzel refers to a seasonal cake called Stollen, a bread with raisins and a sweet almond paste, topped with powdered sugar.

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Something that the market does in Dresden every year, is creating a Schwibbogen, literally meaning ‘hanging arch’. It is an arch-shaped candle holder, representing the entrance to a mine hung with guiding lights, a connection to the area’s mining past.

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Where to stay in Dresden, Germany

Budget - DORMERO Hotel Dresden City

This hotel has big, spacious rooms and is located in the city centre.

Mid-range - INNSiDE by Meliá Dresden

INNSiDE has a great breakfast, comfortable rooms and friendly staff.

Luxury - Hotel Indigo Dresden

This boutique hotel is stylish and a 10-minute walk from the city centre.

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22. Paris, France

What is more romantic than admiring the Christmas lights in Paris? With several markets throughout the city, you are guaranteed to feel the Christmas vibes. For instance at La Magie de Noël, next to the Louvre. This is the biggest market in Paris, attracting over 13 million visitors every year. Try some warm onion soup, pay a visit to the Champagne Bar or ride in one of the many amusement rides. Plus, Christmas time in Paris is just extra special. There’s a different type of beauty to the city that you won’t be able to experience any other time of the year.

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Where to stay in Paris, France

Budget - Generator Paris

This designer hostel has a stylish lounge with a game room and a bar where on some days there is a DJ.

Mid-range - Hôtel Piapia

Hôtel Piapia is located very central in this magnificent city of love and has a beautiful interior.

Luxury - Maison Bréguet

This grand hotel has friendly staff, great service and a perfect location to enjoy the Christmas markets.

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