Chestnuts roasting on an open fire, the sweet scent of mulled wine, and twinkling lights casting a warm glow—there’s something unmistakably magical about Christmas markets. Across Europe, these festive bazaars transform medieval squares and snow-dusted parks into winter wonderlands filled with the sounds of carolers, the taste of roasted chestnuts, and the joy of finding handmade treasures. Perfect for a date night or simply soaking up the holiday spirit, here are 12 of the best Christmas markets in Europe that deserve a place on your nice list this season. It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas—let the festivities begin!
1. Winter Wonders – Brussels, Belgium
Brussels Christmas Market, Belgium
Known as Plaisirs d’Hiver (Winter Wonders), the Brussels Christmas market stretches for 2.5 km through the heart of the city, winding through some of Brussels’ most iconic historical landmarks.
The market starts at the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Grand Place and continues towards the Marché aux Poissons, passing through other vibrant locations like Place de la Monnaie and Place Sainte-Catherine.
Visitors can enjoy a festive atmosphere with over 200 wooden chalets, ice skating, and stunning light displays that add to the magic of the season. For the ultimate romantic experience, a ride on the light-covered ferris wheel will give you a view of Brussels that you’ll never forget.
Where: Grand Place, Brussels.
Why you’ll love it: The unique blend of rich history, culinary indulgence, and festive cheer, all set in one of Europe’s most beautiful city centres.
2. Strasbourg Christmas Market – Strasbourg, France
Stroll hand-in-hand through Strasbourg’s Christmas Market, one of the oldest and largest in Europe, and immerse yourself in the festive spirit of this charming Alsatian city.
The market, set in Strasbourg’s UNESCO-listed Old Town, is a winter wonderland adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations. A must-see is Le Grand Sapin, the towering 30-meter-tall Christmas tree that stands proudly at Place Kléber, symbolising the magic of the season in Strasbourg. As you wander through the many stalls, you’ll find a delightful mix of handcrafted gifts, delicious treats like spiced mulled wine, and traditional Alsatian specialties.
Where: Place Kléber and various other historic squares in Strasbourg’s city centre.
Why you’ll love it: A magical blend of historical charm, rich Alsatian traditions, and a festive atmosphere that makes Strasbourg’s Christmas Market a must-visit destination for couples.
3. Budapest Christmas Fair at Vörösmarty Square – Budapest, Hungary
Vörösmarty Square in the heart of Budapest transforms into a festive wonderland during the Christmas season. Cottage-style wooden stalls fill the square with the scents of mulled wine, cinnamon, fir, and honey cookies, while showcasing traditional Hungarian crafts and festive ornaments.
Food lovers can savour hearty favourites such as goulash in bread bowls, Mangalica pork, and roasted duck with red cabbage.
The central statue of Mihály Vörösmarty stands amidst the bustle, surrounded by two stages hosting live performances of carols and folk music. Visitors can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere with seating areas that allow for a relaxed culinary experience.
Where: Vörösmarty Square, Budapest, Hungary
Why you’ll love it: Experience authentic Hungarian holiday traditions, indulge in delicious local cuisine, and enjoy live performances in a vibrant, festive setting.
Related article: Discover the Romance of Budapest – dubbed the Paris of the East – with this travel guide for couples.
4. Vienna Christmas Markets, Austria
Vienna’s Christmas markets are iconic, with the most famous being the Christkindlmarkt in front of the Rathaus (City Hall). Each year, a magical atmosphere unfolds, and with more than 150 market stalls selling gifts, Christmas tree decorations, handicrafts, confectionery, delicious treats and (much-needed) warming drinks, there are plenty of gift ideas for that special someone.
Visitors can also ice skate through the park over two large ice rinks and numerous paths. Could there be anything more romantic than ice skating hand-in-hand with the love of your life at Christmas in Vienna?
Where: Rathausplatz, Vienna.
Why you’ll love it: The elegant atmosphere, festive stalls, and classical music filling the air – all against the backdrop of one of Europe’s most beautiful town halls.
5. Christmas at Kronborg Castle – Copenhagen, Denmark
Step into the past at Kronborg Castle, the legendary home of Shakespeare’s Hamlet, where you can experience a magical Danish Christmas. Explore the 17th-century ballroom and courtyards that once hosted King Christian IV’s Christmas celebrations. As you wander, enjoy Danish mulled wine and the iconic Christmas doughnuts called Æbleskiver.
Where: Kronborg Castle, Helsingør, Copenhagen.
Why you’ll love it: The castle’s historic charm and over 100 festive stalls offering traditional Christmas decorations and gifts create a magical experience you’ll never forget.
6. Munich Christmas Markets, Germany
Munich Christmas Market, Germany
Germany is known for its Christmas markets, but Munich’s Christkindlmarkt is arguably the most famous of them all. With its history stretching back to the 14th century, the market in Marienplatz boasts a towering Christmas tree adorned with 2,500 twinkling lights, which stands proudly in front of the majestic Neo-Gothic Town Hall, providing a picture-perfect backdrop for festive shoppers.
Beyond shopping, don’t miss the famed Krampus Run, where hundreds of costumed revellers dressed as Krampus and Perchten chase through the streets. For a unique experience, take a ride on the Christkindl tram, which serves mulled wine while you soak up the festive atmosphere.
Where: Marienplatz, Munich.
Why you’ll love it: The vibrant yet traditional festive atmosphere, classic Bavarian treats and charm of Munich’s historic centre.
Read our full article on visiting the famous München Christkindlmarkts, the Munich Christmas Markets here.
7. Rovaniemi Christmas Market, Finland
Rovaniemi is the capital of Lapland and is known as the “official” hometown of Santa Claus. The market here is located in the Santa Claus Village, which turns into one giant Christmas market with everything from handmade gifts to reindeer-themed products. You can you’llanta Claus year-round, but the village truly comes to life during Christmas with festive events and acEurope’s. What could be more special than meeting the big man in Finland’s original Christmas city during the Festive season?
Where: Santa C”aus Village, Rovaniemi, Lapland.
Why you’ll love it: The magical atmosphere, meeting Santa himself, and the snowy winter wonderland setting.
8. Cologne Christmas Markets, Germany
Cologne’s Christmas markets are a festive spectacle, spread across several locations, with the main one held in front of the iconic Cologne Cathedral. Here, visitors can browse over 150 stalls offering everything from wooden toys to fine arts, while the scents of mulled wine and gingerbread fill the air. The cathedral’s gothic spires provide an awe-inspiring backdrop as carolers and street musicians serenade market-goers.
Where: Domplatz, Cologne.
Why you’ll love it: For its festive energy, stunning cathedral views, and the festive magic that fills the air.
9. Christmas Market Velvet Cave – Valkenburg, Netherlands
A visit to the Christmas Market Velvet Cave in Valkenburg is an experience unlike any other. Set within an underground labyrinth of marlstone passages, the cave dates back to at least the 11th century, when it was originally used as a quarry. The market, however, is a modern event, featuring over 50 beautifully decorated stalls that offer handcrafted gifts, traditional Dutch treats, and unique Christmas decorations.
As you wander through the market, take time to admire the centuries-old murals adorning the walls, and don’t miss the 18th-century chapel within the cave, which adds a historical charm to the festive atmosphere.
Where: Velvet Cave, Valkenburg, Netherlands.
Why you’ll love it: Combining rich history with festive cheer, this underground market offers a magical escape into the heart of Valkenburg’s holiday traditions.
10. London Christmas Markets, UK
London’s Christmas markets bring festive cheer to the heart of the UK capital, with the Southbank Centre Winter Market standing out for its riverside views and eclectic mix of food, drinks, and unique gifts. Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland, a sprawling amusement park, also offers an enchanting Christmas market where visitors can explore quirky stalls and sample international cuisine. Many markets in the city are nestled near iconic landmarks, creating an unforgettable seasonal experience.
Where: Southbank Centre, Hyde Park, and more across London.
11. Prague Christmas Markets, Czech Republic
The Prague Christmas markets offer a magical mix of old-world charm and festive cheer in the heart of the city’s medieval Old Town Square. This market is renowned for its beautifully decorated wooden huts that sell Bohemian crystal, handmade candles, and the delicious Czech pastry known as trdelník. In the background, the grand Gothic spires of the Church of Our Lady before Týn create a picturesque scene.
Where: Old Town Square, Prague.
Why you’ll love it: Its fairy-tale setting, traditional Czech treats, and picturesque views that seem to come straight from a holiday postcard.
12. Warsaw Christmas Market, Poland
The Warsaw Christmas market is a joyful celebration of Polish tradition, with stalls offering everything from hand-crafted wooden toys to Polish pierogi and mulled wine. Set in the Old Town Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the market features a giant Christmas tree and a rich blend of cultural performances, including carol singing and folk dance. The market’s festive atmosphere is matched by the beauty of Warsaw’s historic architecture.
Where: Old Town Square, Warsaw.
Why you’ll love it: For its traditional Polish gifts, local delicacies and the beautiful Old Town ambience.