10 Best Christmas Markets in Europe for 2023
From Bruges to Zagreb, experience the charm of Christmas markets!
Christmas markets in Europe are nothing short of enchanting, offering a unique blend of festive cheer, centuries-old tradition, and a wide selection of delightful treats. Christmas markets are a wonderful reason to plan a winter city break. Immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere - the sound of carolers signing, enchanting stalls filled with beautiful gifts, chestnuts roasted on an open fire, copious amounts of mulled wine and some of the best hot chocolate you've ever had!
Whether you’re dreaming of strolling through the historic streets of Strasbourg, sipping glogg (cinnamon-infused mulled wine) in Copenhagen or savouring Gebrannte Mandeln (candied almonds) in Salzburg this festive season, here’s the information you need on the 10 best Christmas markets in Europe for 2023, each with their own Christmas culture, from unmissable classics to off-the-beaten-track faves. This list captures the essence of the season’s joy and magic.
1. Strasbourg, France
Best for storybook scenery and sweets
France’s oldest Christkindelsmärik, dating back to 1570 and known as the “Capital of Christmas”, looks like a real-life nativity scene at this time of year. Every year, close to two million visitors flock to the Alsatian capital to experience its enchanting market. Not many people know this but there are 13 Christmas markets spread across the old town (Grande Île). Most of the focus is on the markets around Cathedral Square and Place Broglie. This interactive map is useful for navigating the markets. Seek out the Market of the Invincible Small Producers of Alsace for sausages, almondy, fruity, brioche-like kugelhopf and the Alsatian delicacy, flammekueche (or tarte flambée).
When: Nov 24, 2023 to Dec 24, 2023
Where to stay: Maison Rouge Strasbourg Hotel & Spa offers a cosy, refined atmosphere where Alsatian codes and traditions mingle with touches of Art Deco from the 1920s.
Don’t miss: The town of Colmar, an hour south by car, which has its very own Christmas market and specializes in local crafts.
Website: https://noel.strasbourg.eu
2. Bruges, Belgium
Best for romance
The buttery vanilla scent of waffles, the warmth of velvety hot chocolate, Christmas trees lit up against the night sky, the romantic outdoor skating rink draped in glittering lights - this Christmas market has a cosy and intimate atmosphere. The romantic Flemish city of Bruges has one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe. The two Christmas markets are located in the city centre - one in the main Markt square and the other on Simon Stevinplein. Watch the ice action from the warmth of the Vorst winter bar before following the mesmerizing Light Experience Trail that fills the city’s squares and monuments with vivid colour.
When: Nov 24, 2023 to Jan 7, 2024
Where to stay: Relais Bourgondisch Cruyce is a legendary boutique hotel with 16 luxurious rooms in the historic centre of Bruges, where two canals cross. A romantic setting with a guaranteed, unforgettable stay.
Don’t miss: A carriage ride through Bruges.
Website: https://www.visitbruges.be/en/winter-glow/christmas-markets
3. Salzburg, Austria
Best for Christmas carols & ancient traditions
Set against the backdrop of the Hohensalzburg Fortress, the Salzburg Christkindlmarkt is a celebration of Austrian elegance and holiday traditions. The hometown of Mozart and The Sound of Music comes alive at Christmas, with snow-sprinkled renditions of Silent Night and stalls that take you back to the 15th century, when they were first set up. The focus is on quality over quantity, so expect hand-knitted socks rather than novelty candles and the aroma of Maroni (roasted chestnuts) and gingerbread cookies. For Christmas cheer, join the free daily concerts at 5pm in front of the cathedral where local choirs perform the Adventssingen (traditional Advent songs), or belt out carols at the Tuesday singalongs (6pm-8pm).
When: Nov 23, 2023 to Jan 1, 2024
Where to stay: Hotel Sacher Salzburg - experience excellence, comfort, hospitality and culture in the heart of Salzburg.
Don’t miss: The Austrian Jagertee, a local warm brew made with rum, black tea and spices.
Website: https://www.salzburg.info/en/salzburg/advent/salzburg-christmas-market
4. Dresden, Germany
Best for traditional arts & crafts
The Saxon capital’s Christmas market is a sprawling celebration, with 9 separate markets spread across the Old Town, welcoming nearly three million visitors each year. Expect to find 200+ stalls selling traditional gifts such as Herrnhut poinsettia stars, Pflaumentoffel figurines and the city’s beloved stollen (traditional German Christmas bread). In search of the Saxon Wine Route? Visit Schloss Proschwitz winery in nearby Meissen for striezelmarkt-inspired festivities and tastings.
When: Nov 29, 2023 to Dec 24, 2023
Where to stay: Gewandhaus Dresden is a modern Baroque style hotel easily accessible to the city centre within 10 minutes by foot or tram.
Don’t miss: The Dresden Stollenfest celebrated on the Saturday before the second Advent, which includes a historical pageant and giant stollen, weighing several tonnes.
Website: https://www.dresden.de/en/tourism/attractions/events/christmas-season/dresden-christmas-markets.php
5. Budapest, Hungary
Best for ice rinks & Christmas illuminations
The Hungarian capital sets the stage for a festive atmosphere with 2 remarkable Christmas markets: Vorosmarty Square and Basilica. Located in the heart of the city, Vorosmarty Square is transformed into a sea of gold lights and red-baubled trees. You’ll find plenty of food stalls with local delicacies like langos (a fried flatbread), Kürtőskalács (chimney cake) and goulash (a warm soup), handicraft shops and free concerts. Jingle all the way to the intimate Advent Bazilika, which takes place in front of St. Stephen’s Basilica. Enjoy the Christmas laser projections on the facade of the Basilica itself and an ice-skating rink that circles around a grand Christmas tree.
When: Nov 24, 2023 to Dec 31, 2023
Where to stay: Matild Palace combines luxurious surroundings with authentic experiences, making it a magical setting to celebrate and create cherished holiday memories.
Don’t miss: Kürtőskalács (chimney cake) rolled around a skewer, baked on an open fire and dipped in toppings such as crushed almonds.
Website: https://adventbazilika.hu/hu
6. Copenhagen, Denmark
Best for ferris wheel rides & Christmas hygge
Copenhagen is home to several markets; however, the market at Tivoli Gardens is the star. Go on a magical winter wonderland: a ferris wheel spinning in the evening darkness, fairy lights draped on leafless trees and stalls selling chunky knitwear and Danish designed ceramics. Take in the toasty aroma of caramelised almonds and the fragrant scent of glogg (cinnamon-infused mulled wine) while indulging in Danish æbleskiver fritters and Flæskesteg pork sandwiches.
When: Nov 19 to Dec 31, 2023
Where to stay: Hotel d’Angleterre is an iconic and landmark hotel in Copenhagen celebrated for its elegance, luxury and style.
Don’t miss: Stalls preparing traditional æbleskiver – spherical pancakes dusted with powdered sugar and served with a dollop of raspberry jam.
Website: https://www.visitcopenhagen.com/copenhagenchristmas
7. Zagreb, Croatia
Best for fabulous food
The emphasis at Zagreb Advent is firmly on food and drink — you’ll find hearty regional cuisine and plenty of mulled wine. Expect to also find craft stalls, as well as a giant outdoor skating rink. Start in the markets in the lower town before joining the main Ban Jelacic Square and heading towards the medieval upper town, all the while snacking on spicy sausages, sarma (stuffed cabbage rolls), chocolate-covered festive fritters called fritule and drinking plum brandy and local wines.
When: Dec 2, 2023, to Jan 7, 2024
Where to stay: Sheraton Zagreb, a premium hotel in the heart of Zagreb.
Don’t miss: The smaller Fuliranje (“Fooling Around”) market at Strossmayer Square for restaurant pop ups, carols, concerts, crafts and DJs.
Website: https://visitcroatia.com/christmas-markets/christmas-in-zagreb/
8. Tallinn, Estonia
Best for quintessential Christmas lights
A touch of fairy tale set in the heart of this beautiful, UNESCO-listed medieval town, where rooftops and cobblestones are dusted with snow. Indulge in Estonian Christmas cuisine, from black pudding and sour cabbage to gingerbread and hot Christmas drinks, while taking in brass bands and dance troupes. You just might spot Santa arriving at his winter grotto on an authentic reindeer sleigh!
When: Dec 1, 2023, to Jan 7, 2024
Where to stay: Nunne Boutique Hotel is a unique blend of old world charm and contemporary comfort. Located in the heart of Tallinn's Old Town, in the Nunne quarter, it is surrounded by the historic Walls of Tallinn.
Don’t miss: The huge pans of fried potatoes, beef cheek, blood sausage, pork knuckle and sauerkraut to keep you warm whilst you explore.
Website: https://www.visittallinn.ee/eng/visitor/see-do/events/events/8929/tallinn-christmas-market
9. Prague, Czech Republic
Best for open-air concerts & nativity scenes
Picture this: on one side, the 14th-century twin spires of Our Lady Before Tyn, on the other, the city’s famous 15th-century astronomical clock. Prague’s medieval architecture takes on a fairytale-like quality when dusted with snow. Between them a glittering display of seasonal cheer. Swap your mug of mulled wine for a glass of grog (rum, water, lemon and sugar) and taste the warm, fatty sausages just off the grill and fresh pancakes.
When: Dec 2, 2023 to Jan 6, 2024
Where to stay: Nestled in a former baroque palace, The Grand Mark Prague creates an aura of luxury, artfully blending classical design with modern art and technology.
Don’t miss: The fairytale architecture - Charles Bridge, Prague Castle, and the Astronomical Clock are particularly enchanting with a dusting of snow.
Website: https://www.prague.eu/en/event/23404/old-town-square-christmas-market
10. Merano, Italy
Best for alpine magic
This hidden gem, in northern Italy’s Alps, looks more Austrian than Italian. The warmth of advent is felt in the twinkling chalets running along the Passirio river. With snow-capped mountains as a backdrop, join the daily passeggiata as you stroll along the river, warming up with mulled wine and Sudtirol cakes and apple strudel.
When: Nov 24, 2023 to Jan 6, 2024
Where to stay: Villa Eden, an oasis with only 25 suites nestled in the marvelous landscape of Merano.
Don’t miss: The daily passeggiata along the Passirio river.
Website: https://www.merano-suedtirol.it/en/merano/info-service/events/merano-christmas-market.html
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