11 of the best Christmas markets in Europe to visit in 2025

Europe's most celebrated Christmas markets are gearing up to open their doors, promising a return to festive cheer and timeless traditions. From the historic squares of Germany to the medieval streets of Poland and the enchanting gardens of the UK, these destinations are beacons of holiday spirit for travellers. The annual markets, some dating back hundreds of years, are more than just shopping events, they are cultural touchstones that transform cities into vibrant, sensory wonderlands - with some busier than others.

For those planning a festive getaway, the choices are vast and varied. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich heritage of Nuremberg's world-famous Christkindlesmarkt or witness the captivating light show projected onto the Grand Place in Brussels. In Bath, the focus is on supporting local artisans, while Edinburgh's sprawling festival offers something for everyone, including an ice rink and amusement rides.

one of the best Christmas markets in Europe, Gdansk's Christmas Fair is set in a magical fairytale setting. The market is located in the heart of the city and features an artistic hub with theatrical performances, carols, and dance. The stalls offer a cosy and enchanting shopping experience with unique holiday gifts and local treats. Key highlights include the famous Venetian carousel, Santa's corner, and a giant illuminated moose named Lucek. " data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-portal-copyright="Getty" data-licensor-name="Getty" /> Christmas festival turns the city into a magical wonderland. The main markets are located in East Princes Street Gardens and on George Street, with the stunning Edinburgh Castle as a backdrop. You will discover a wide variety of festive stalls, an ice rink, and amusements. The market is renowned for its festive Scottish and international food and drinks, as well as a great selection of unique crafts and gifts. The festival extends beyond Christmas, featuring the famous Hogmanaycelebrations. " data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-portal-copyright="Getty" data-licensor-name="Getty" /> a traditional German market, strictly selling locally made products. You can expect to find classic German holiday items like Nürnberger Lebkuchen (gingerbread), Zwetschgenmännle (prune men figures), and the famous Nuremberg sausages. The market's charm is in its authenticity and long-standing traditions. " data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-portal-copyright="Getty" data-licensor-name="Getty" /> Brussels is a sprawling event covering several locations, including the iconic Grand Place. The market is celebrated for its stunning light and sound show at the Grand Place and its impressive centrepiece, a giant Ferris wheel and ice-skating rink. With over 250 wooden chalets, you can find a variety of gifts, from handcrafted goods to local treats like Belgian waffles, chocolate, and the famous hot chocolate. " data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-portal-copyright="Getty" data-licensor-name="Getty" /> sprawling Rynek Gówny, Europe's largest medieval market square. The stunning architecture and Renaissance Cloth Hall provide a beautiful backdrop. The market is famous for its intricate, hand-painted nativity scenes, which are a UNESCO-recognised tradition. You'll find stalls selling everything from hand-blown glass ornaments to traditional woollen slippers. The Polish delicacies, such as smoked sheep cheese ( oscypek) and hot spiced wine ( grzaniec), are a highlight. " data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-portal-copyright="Getty" data-licensor-name="Getty" /> Set against the stunning backdrop of Bath Abbey and the Roman Baths, the Bath Christmas Market is one of the most picturesque in the UK. The focus is on local and independent businesses, with over 170 festively decorated wooden chalets. You can find everything from artisan jewellery and homemade crafts to local cheeses and festive food. The market has a reputation for high-quality, unique gifts and a cosy, quintessentially English atmosphere. " data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-portal-copyright="Getty" data-licensor-name="Getty" /> several different Christmas markets, but the most iconic is the one set against the backdrop of the magnificent Cologne Cathedral. The market here is a dramatic spectacle, with the Gothic spires towering over the sparkling stalls. You can expect to find high-quality arts and crafts, an enormous Christmas tree, and traditional German treats like gingerbread, Glühwein (mulled wine), and roasted almonds. Each of Cologne's markets has a distinct theme, from the whimsical "Angel's Market" to the nautical-themed Harbour Market. " data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-portal-copyright="Getty" data-licensor-name="Getty" /> Budapest's Christmas markets are renowned for their festive atmosphere and authentic Hungarian traditions. The main market at Vörösmarty Square is a sensory delight, with a wide array of handmade crafts, festive folk programmes, and a strong focus on Hungarian culinary specialities. Expect to find items like unique pottery, leather goods, and traditional Hungarian pastries such as kürtskalács (chimney cake) and lángos. A must-see is the Advent Feast at the Basilica, which features a light show projected onto the facade of St. Stephen's Basilica. " data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-portal-copyright="Getty" data-licensor-name="Getty" /> Prague's Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square are a fairytale come to life. The city's Gothic and Baroque architecture provides a stunning setting for the festively decorated wooden huts. A towering Christmas tree is the main attraction in Old Town Square. Visitors can browse for Czech handicrafts, including hand-blown glass ornaments, wooden toys, and traditional lace. Don't miss out on local treats like Trdelník (a sweet, spit-roasted pastry) and grogs (a local mulled wine). The markets famously remain open past Christmas, making them a great option for a holiday escape. " data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-portal-copyright="Getty" data-licensor-name="Getty" /> home to numerous Christmas markets, each with its own unique charm. The largest and most famous is the "Vienna Magic of Advent" on Rathausplatz, in front of the stunning City Hall. Here, you'll find over 100 stalls, an ice-skating rink, and a romantic backdrop of illuminated trees. Other notable markets include the one at Schönbrunn Palace and the traditional Old Viennese Christmas Market on Freyung, which dates back to 1772. You can find traditional crafts, handmade gifts, roasted chestnuts, and warming spiced punch.

Expect several markets to remain open during the Christmas public holiday period. One or two may even stay open until late December or early January, often as a New Year market, says Visiting Vienna.

" data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-portal-copyright="Getty" data-licensor-name="Getty" /> oldest and most celebrated Christmas markets in Europe, dating back to 1570. The city's medieval streets and half-timbered houses are transformed into a true winter wonderland. You can expect to find over 300 market stalls spread across multiple squares, selling traditional Alsatian crafts, Christmas decorations, and local delicacies like bredele (small Christmas biscuits) and vin chaud (mulled wine). The centrepiece is the magnificent Great Christmas Tree in Place Kléber. " data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-portal-copyright="Getty" data-licensor-name="Getty" />