Europe is known for its great Christmas markets. These holiday markets will put you in the festive spirit! From the classic German Weihnachtsmarkt to more unique offerings like those in Copenhagen and Prague, there's a market for everyone. Here are ten of the best Christmas markets in Europe.
1. Viennese Dream Christmas Market - Vienna
The Vienna Christmas market is considered one of the most beautiful markets in Europe. Set against the stunning backdrop of Vienna's City Hall, the Viennese Dream Christmas market features over 150 stalls selling traditional Austrian handicrafts, decorations, and delicious food and drink. Don't miss trying some of Vienna's famous hot chocolate!
2. Copenhagen Tivoli Gardens - Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen's Tivoli Gardens transforms into a Winter Wonderland during December and January, making it the perfect place to enjoy a festive day out with family or friends. Tivoli Gardens also boasts an array of charming Christmas stalls selling everything from handmade gifts to roasted chestnuts.
3. Dresden Striezelmarkt – Dresden, Germany
Held annually since 1434, the Dresden Striezelmarkt is one of the oldest Christmas markets in the world. Located in the historic city center, the market features over 250 stalls selling traditional handmade crafts, delicious food, and festive decorations.
4. Old Town Square Christmas Market – Prague, Czech Republic
If you're looking for a festive and charming Christmas market, Old Town Square in Prague is the perfect place to find it. With its beautifully decorated stalls and traditional Czech goods and is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. You can buy anything from handcrafted wooden toys to scrumptious holiday sweets.
5. Hyde Park Winter Wonderland – London, England
Winter Wonderland is a yearly festive event held in London's Hyde Park. The Christmas market features an array of attractions, including an ice rink and a Ferris wheel. Winter Wonderland is a popular destination during the holiday season.
6. Krakow Christmas Market – Krakow, Poland
Poland's most popular and best Christmas market is located in the 13th-century square of RynekGlowny, right in the heart of Krakow's old town. Pay a visit to the market or shops in Kazimierz for unique, handmade gifts.
7. Winter Villa Massena Christmas Market – Nice, France
The Winter Villa Massena Christmas Market is one of the highlights of the city's festive offerings. Held in the iconic Massena square, the market features a wide variety of traditional French Christmas decorations, delicious food, and unique gifts.
8. Christmas Market - Tallinn, Estonia
Located in the picturesque Town Hall Square, the market features a wide variety of traditional Estonian Christmas foods and drinks, handmade gifts, and festive entertainment. Visitors can enjoy roasted almonds, grilled sausages, mulled wine, and even ride on the carousel.
9. Christkindelsmärik - Strasbourg, France
The market dates back to 1570, making it one of the oldest in the world, and it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The market is spread across 12 different squares, each with its unique character. You'll find traditional Christmas items like gingerbread, mulled wine, handmade toys and exotic spices.
10. Christkindlesmarkt – Nürnberger, Germany
Christkindlesmarkt is one of the oldest Christmas markets in the world. Christkindlesmarkt is held in the square opposite Nuremberg's main church, St. Lorenz. The market is famous for its traditional gingerbread, known as Lebkuchen.
