In the run up to Christmas, the cities of Europe come alive with glittering market stalls offering a delightful array of gifts, crafts, festive foods and hot drinks. With each city offering something uniquely magical to get visitors feeling the festive spirit, we have chosen the best Christmas market holidays in Europe to help you decide which markets are perfect for you.
1. Vienna Christmas Markets
Vienna is a beautiful city with fantastic architecture and it has a wonderful Christmas atmosphere in late November and December. The Christmas Markets 2024 in Vienna are not just concentrated in one place but there are a few different locations throughout the city, our favourite would be the markets at the Schönbrunn Palace. Here you can sample some wonderful sweet Austrian culinary delights and, of course, warm yourself up with their delicious hot Gluhwein. The city has a great transport system so it’s an effortless task getting from A to B and back again, but the city is great to explore by foot. Book a place on our 2024 Vienna Christmas Market Holiday.
2. Prague Christmas Markets
The enchanting city of Prague is the perfect place to get in the mood for Christmas. The Christmas markets in Prague are in the very heart of the capital and is a traditional marketplace offering all sorts of Christmas goods. In the ‘city of a hundred spires’, you can also see the iconic astrological clock in the Old Town Square, admire the historic statues as you cross Charles Bridge, climb the Old Castle Steps for panoramic views of the city, or just relax and take in the festive atmosphere of Prague.
3. Transylvania Christmas Markets
Although this region of Romania is often associated with vampires, its beautiful landscapes, medieval towns and historic castles create a wonderful festive atmosphere. One of the best Christmas markets in Transylvania is located in charming town of Brasov, where you can also visit the famous Bran Castle, aka Dracula's Castle!
4. Bruges Christmas Markets
Bruges is well-known for its variety of chocolate and beer but, during the festive season, the city will also charm you with its quaint Christmas Market offering. The warm glow of Christmas lights engulfs the city’s medieval buildings and meandering canals, creating a dream-like atmosphere. The Christmas Market takes over the city’s historic Market Square and visitors can expect to find an array of charming Christmas decorations, quaint jewellery, a selection of handmade clothing items and crafts. Not to mention the traditional edible delights such as chocolate and biscuits, and to wash it all down… a Belgian beer. To finish off your visit to Bruges, enjoy a boat trip along the canal to take in the atmosphere of this unique, historic city and immerse yourself in the medieval magic of a Bruges Christmas market holiday.
5. Verona Christmas Markets
The Verona Christmas Markets blend Italian elegance with festive cheer, set against the stunning backdrop of the city’s historic piazzas. Stalls brimming with artisan crafts, traditional Italian Christmas treats like panettone, and heart-warming mulled wine create an enchanting atmosphere. Explore the beautiful Piazza dei Signori, which is transformed into a winter wonderland with sparkling lights, festive decorations, and an array of unique gifts. Choose our Christmas holidays to Italy here, and if you're looking to visit Verona's Christmas Markets, you can do so on our Lake Garda, Venice & Verona tour.
6. Berlin Christmas Markets
The Berlin Christmas Markets are ironically less about shopping and more about socialising. Enjoy a stein of local German beer, keep yourself warm with some deliciously spiced Gluhwein or indulge in some comforting street food, all to the backdrop of twinkling lights and festive music. Berlin has many markets spread across the city, so there is plenty to keep you entertained over the course of a weekend break. The Gendarmenmarkt Christmas Market is a highlight due to the setting. At night, the nearby concert hall and buildings are lit up creating the perfect Christmas atmosphere. Want to learn more about Germany's capital? Check out our 10 interesting facts about Berlin.
7. Krakow Christmas Markets
Krakow, Poland’s former capital, is a stunning medieval city known for its well-preserved Old Town and Jewish quarter. The city has an array of fine old architecture and is a delight to visit at any time of the year, but the glittering lights and magical Christmas markets in Krakow are a truly unforgettable experience. In the Old Town’s Market Square, which was once the largest in Europe, you will find The Cloth Hall, an iconic landmark of Krakow. This was once a major hub for international trade and today it houses plenty of shopping stalls and cafes. On the first floor, there is the Gallery of Polish nineteenth-century art that shows a rich collection of paintings and sculptures. If you have time and are looking for day trips from Krakow, you can visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Wielicka Salt Mine or the infamous Auschwitz concentration camp.
8. Budapest Christmas Markets
Known as the ‘Pearl of the Danube’, it is easy to see why Budapest is considered one of Europe’s most magnificent cities. The Budapest Christmas fair takes place on “Vörösmarty Square”, in the heart of the city. Visitors can browse over 122 stalls displaying handmade gifts and fantastic dishes. An enormous Advent calendar on the facade of the glamorous “Gerbeaud” building, exhibitions, live entertainment and food and wine are also a feature of the festivities. There are plenty of other sights to see in Budapest, such as the magnificent architecture of Hungary’s parliament building, the stunning Crown Bridge and you can relax in one of their famous thermal baths. Book a place on our 2024 Budapest Christmas Market Holiday.
9. Munich Christmas Markets
The Munich Christmas Markets are renowned for their centuries-old traditions and Bavarian charm. The iconic market at Marienplatz is the heart of the festivities, featuring a towering Christmas tree and wooden stalls filled with handcrafted gifts. Indulge in delicious sausages, roasted almonds, and the famous Glühwein while enjoying the festive performances and traditional Bavarian music that fill the air.
10. Bratislava Christmas Markets
The Bratislava Christmas Markets offers a more intimate experience in the heart of the city’s picturesque old town. Set against the backdrop of Bratislava Castle and the historic main square, this market is a cosy yet lively celebration of the festive season. You can savour local delicacies such as lokše (potato pancakes) and medovina (honey wine), while browsing stalls filled with traditional Slovakian crafts.
If you're looking for something a little bit different for your family and friends this Christmas, why not try one of our European Christmas market holidays? Start the festive season in style and treat yourself with a Christmas break, available to book online now.
