From Cologne to Copenhagen, from Amsterdam to Vienna, there are tens of different Christmas markets in Europe for you to discover. Christmas-themed products with red, white, and green accessories, gingerbread, Santa Claus, huge Christmas trees full of snowflakes, and more… All these Christmas-related concepts decorate the streets, houses, and shops at that time of year in Europe. If you are one of those who want to feel the spirit of Christmas, you should inhale the atmosphere of the best Christmas markets in Europe.
Brussels Christmas Markets
In our best Christmas markets of Europe list, Brussels takes the first. The city is full of lights, energy, and holiness at this time of the year. However, the epic event of this festive period is the light show. The Grand Place, one of the largest squares in Europe, is full of people, their hearts filled with excitement and Christmas hats on. And the whole area becomes an amusement park with merry-go-rounds, ice-skating rinks, VR installations, etc. Also, Brussels’ famous pastry products and beer selection are on display in every corner of the city during Christmas time. You can walk around the market streets and see hundreds of little wooden stalls selling gifts, ornaments, and handmade products. The smell of hot chocolate and waffles fills the air, making the experience even more magical. Don’t forget to try traditional Belgian foods like fries, waffles, and mulled wine while listening to Christmas songs. The atmosphere is warm and joyful, even when the weather is cold. If you visit Brussels in December, make sure to spend some time in the Grand Place at night. The lights, music, and people together create a scene that feels straight out of a Christmas movie.
Cologne Christmas Markets
One of the best European Christmas markets in the world is undoubtedly in Cologne. The city’s main historical assets shine brightly with glittering lights, while the historical center turns into an elf-themed market. The city’s main historical landmarks shine bright with glittering lights, while the historical center turns into an elf-themed market. The decorations in this German Christmas market are so elaborate and chic that they might leave you speechless. You can walk around the wooden stalls and find handmade toys, candles, ornaments, and delicious German snacks. The smell of roasted nuts and mulled wine fills the cold winter air. There are several Christmas markets spread around Cologne, but the one near Cologne Cathedral is the most famous. With the huge Christmas tree and the cathedral view, it feels truly magical. Visitors can also go ice skating, listen to live music, and watch street performances. Every corner of the city glows with Christmas lights, making Cologne one of the most beautiful winter destinations in Europe.
Copenhagen Christmas Markets
The answer to the question “Where are the best Christmas markets in Europe?” includes Copenhagen, as well. Though Tivoli Gardens Christmas market is the most famous one, there are many other markets in the city at that time of the year. The park is full of lights, reindeer-themed decorations, Santa Claus accessories, and rides. The popular Danish sweet pancakes and mulled wine also take their place in the wooden stalls. The atmosphere is cozy and very family-friendly. Do not forget to buy handmade gifts, ornaments, and Christmas crafts from the stalls in Copenhagen Christmas markets!
Amsterdam Christmas Markets
Being one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe, Amsterdam is worth visiting in festive period. Amsterdam Light Festival, Ice Amsterdam, and other concepts add a magical glow to the city’s famous canal views. You are likely to feel like Santa Claus will pop up anywhere with his reindeer. Ice-skating near Museumplein, strolling around the market street, buying Christmas-themed products, handmade gifts, jewelry from stalls, trying local Dutch treats like stroopwafels and poffertjes, and listening to Christmas songs are fun and unforgettable. Amsterdam Christmas markets are waiting for you to discover.
By the way, you might also like our article “Things to Do in Amsterdam“.
Vienna Christmas Markets
In addition to Amsterdam, Vienna has also one the most traditional and most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe. There are many Christmas markets in the city, but the Christkindlmarkt in front of City Hall is the most famous. You can taste Austrian specialties like roasted chestnuts, sausages, and hot punch. Large Christmas trees, fairy lights, elf-themed decorations, and Santa Claus are everywhere along the streets of the market. Moreover, you are free to enjoy the concerts, listen to Christmas songs, ice skate, and participate in family activities.
London Christmas Markets
If you ask one of the best cities in Europe for Christmas markets, the answer is London, for sure. The city’s most famous market, Winter Wonderland, is in Hyde Park. This Christmas market in London is the largest. You can see countless stalls in the area, decorated with glittering lights, and shop for handmade products, Christmas-themed gifts, and other items. Additionally, the Southbank Christmas market is ideal for great British food. If you want to experience the atmosphere and fill your stomach, visit the Southbank Christmas market in London. Try not to lose yourself among the magical decorations and lights of London Christmas markets during your visit.
FAQ
When do European Christmas markets start?
Christmas markets in Europe generally start at the end of November and continue until just before Christmas, usually around December 24th. Some markets in larger cities may stay open until early January. The exact dates may vary by city and country.
Is it easy to find information about opening dates for each Christmas market?
Yes, most websites clearly list the opening and closing dates for each market. Popular markets usually have separate pages with detailed schedules.
Can users quickly see the location and map of the market?
Yes, most Christmas market websites provide maps or links online, making it easy to plan your visit and navigate the city.
Are details about food, gifts, and activities clear and accessible?
Yes, clear information about what food, drinks, and entertainment are available at each market. You can easily find what you want to do.
Is it simple to check ticket prices or entry requirements if needed?
Yes, most markets require tickets or special entry list prices and requirements to be clearly stated.
