15 of the Best: Christmas Markets in Europe

I’ve been to dozens of festive destinations, and I’ll tell you: the Christmas markets in Europe are pure magic. The mouth-watering scent of local food on the grill or in the oven – sausages and chestnuts and so much more – with festive music infusing everything with cheer. A nip in the air, with a warm beverage. And so much to sample, browse and buy.

And my very favourite part? No two markets are created alike. Each town and city has its own atmosphere, specialities, and colourful characters. Visiting one just entices you to experience more. Here are 15 of the very best, all across Europe.

Budapest, Hungary: East meets West

BEST FOR: FOODIES

Budapest is a city filled with the truly unforgettable. For example: once you sail along the Danube after dark, the sight of all the sparkling lights – on the Chain Bridge and illuminating parliament and palaces climbing away from the rivera – will live in your memory forever. And plenty of things are better here in winter, including a soak in the Széchenyi Thermal Baths, enveloped by a cloud of steam in the cold air. And, of course, the city’s Christmas markets.

The main market unfolds on Vörösmarty Square from 15 November until 31 December 2024. Just getting there is a glittering experience, walking under the lights of pedestrianised Fashion Street. At the 100 stalls here (which are also easily reached by metro), families will have plenty to keep them busy, from the playhouse and craft classes to the kid-sized miniature railway.

Foodies, too. This is one of the best markets for cuisine, especially dishes with their delicious roots in Central and Eastern Europe. Think: stuffed cabbage and lepeny (a traditional flatbread), and of course, a hearty bowl of Hungarian goulash. Finished off with strudel or sekler cake – the famous Budapest chimney cake.

TRAVEL TIP?

Fill up, then bed down at Kempsinki Hotel Corvinus, where some of the cushy, recently renovated rooms overlook Fashion Street.

Munich, Germany: Bavarian magic

BEST FOR: CITY AND SYLVAN PLEASURES IN ONE PLACE

Munich is the city where all your Bavarian dreams come true – and that’s doubly the case during Christkindlmarkt season. Frosty steins of beer, bratwurst, lederhosen, you name it, Munich delivers. And Münchners have been gathering in Marienplatz to shop and celebrate Christmas since the 14th century.

In the shadow of the neo-gothic New Town Hall, and lit up by the thousands of candles adorning a seven-story Christmas tree, you’ll find more than 100 stalls, completely filling the square from 25 November until 24 December 2024. But Munich is a city with multiple markets, and you’re best-advised to explore. Those looking for an idyllic experience – and some of the best festive food – should head to the centre of the English Garden, one of the world’s largest urban parks.

It’s an easy trip from the main square – take a tram, then walk the rest of the way along well-maintained paths through the forest. Under the five-level wooden pagoda of the Chinese Tower, you’ll feel a million miles from the city. Ride in a horse-drawn carriage, then enjoy the food stands, which serve everything from rotisserie chicken to spaetzle and salads, plus sausages and something called brizza, a beautiful combination of pretzel and pizza.

Click here for our guide to the best of the festive season in Kempinski hotels around the world. 

And families should definitely spend some time at the Residenz. Bavaria’s Wittelsbach royal family began construction of this palace in 1385, and continued to build over the centuries, resulting in a rambling, 130-room redoubt. Every year a Christmas village pops up in some of the 10 courtyards, with a focus on kid-friendly attractions like puppet shows. Lots of fun.

TRAVEL TIP?

Spend the night at Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Kempinski, a grand hotel literally built for a king – and home to Munich’s finest living room.

Dresden, Germany: A frozen jewel

BEST FOR: TREASURE-HUNTERS

In many ways, Dresden is a hidden treasure. Nicknamed the “jewel box,” its beauty is sometimes overlooked by travellers, perhaps because it was once part of East Germany and thus off the main tourist track. Home to generations of Saxon kings, these aristocrats built a brilliant place on the broad bends of the Elbe River. Walk the elaborate chambers of the royal palace and the fascinating galleries of the rambling, 18th-century Dresden Zwinger.

Then stroll just a few steps over to the Altmarkt square. Here, for the 590th time, the Striezelmarkt – Germany’s oldest Christmas market – will absolutely wow you. This is a place that thinks big. Marvel at the 14.6-metre step pyramid (which holds a record in the Guinness World Records), laden and lined with whimsical festive figures, and walk through the world’s largest candle arch. Ride the Ferris Wheel and then browse the 240 stalls for everything from delicate lacework to handmade wooden toys.

Fortify yourself with some rahmklecks, a Dresden speciality that is a bread roll stuffed with ham and cheese and topped with a beautiful dollop of sour cream. Then walk along Prager Strasse to experience many smaller markets along the Christmas Mile.

TRAVEL TIP?

Built by Augustus the Strong – the most illustrious of the Saxon kings – Hotel Taschenbergpalais Kempinski feels even more like a palace after its recent renovation.

Berlin, Germany: So many markets

BEST FOR: THOSE WHO LOVE VARIETY

Berlin’s capital is one of the world’s best walking cities, a place where you can stroll through history. Start at Checkpoint Charlie and trace the remnants of the Berlin Wall all the way to the Brandenburg Gate. Continue along the winding pathways of Tiergarten, which in winter (from 22 November 2024 to 12 January 2025) transforms into an illuminated winter wonderland, complete with ice skating and Yuletide tunes.

And in addition to the festivities in the park, Berlin offers some 100 other Christmas markets. Ambling from one to the next is a truly pleasurable experience (in a pinch, you can also reach all of them on the S-Bahn and U-Bahn railway system). Generally running from 25 November 2024 until the end of December, you have so many wonderful choices.

There’s romance and fun at Charlottenburg Palace, the market set at the former home of Queen Sophie Charlotte. The palace lights up at night, and marching bands moving through the hundred stalls selling everything from silk items to ceramics. It’s a good option for families, as well, with two carousels and a Ferris wheel. Spandau is the city’s largest Christmas market, spreading out from the main square to the cobblestones of old town. Two of the biggest highlights here: a nativity scene with live animals, and a stage where music rings out throughout the day. And for a local experience, on 7 and 8 December 2024, the neighbourhood around the Art Deco Brohan Museum comes together to celebrate. It’s cosy and warm, with arts and crafts from suppliers based in the immediate area, homemade foods, and performances from local schools and dance clubs.

TRAVEL TIP?

Perhaps the most famous place to stay in Germany, Hotel Adlon Kempinski sits in the heart of it all, right at the Brandenburg Gate.

St. Moritz: Ultimate Winter

BEST FOR: ICE QUEENS AND KINGS

Perhaps no place on earth embraces winter better than St Moritz. Not just an upscale ski town, here palatial hotels, with a sugary-white glaze of snow, look like homes of fairytale princesses and princes. Just a walk through the winding streets in the heart of town will feel like a stroll through a storybook.

And the feelings of winter fantasy continue at their Christmas market, one of the fanciest you’ll find anywhere. Arrive in town by riding the Glacier Express through Alpine switchbacks and tunnels, and across trestles with soaring views down to snow-bound villages below. Then join jet-setters and celebrities and even royalty, browsing a number of pop-up markets in squares and pedestrian streets that feature upscale goods like handmade jewellery, crafted from stones sourced just nearby.

TRAVEL TIP?

Close to the centre of town and right at the foot of the cable car, enjoy a regal sleep at Grand Hotel des Bains Kempsinki.

Riga, Latvia: Old town delights

BEST FOR: HISTORY BUFFS

Riga just might be Europe’s most underrated city. Built by the Baltic Sea, the Latvian capital has been a centre of international trade since its founding in 1201. That wealth and power is still evident across its matchless Old Town, which has been meticulously preserved as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at the history and architecture, from its medieval core to the greatest collection of Art Nouveau buildings in Europe.

And all of that is so much prettier at Christmas. The Old Town Christmas Market runs from 29 December 2024 to 2 January 2025, on Doma Square. The place where Riga’s heart beats, seven streets meet at the square, and it’s surrounded by some of the city’s greatest landmarks, including the grand cathedral, topped by its iconic weathercock, and the Venetian Renaissance-style Art Museum Riga Bourse. Climb up to the second floor and look out the window for a colourful view of the market below.

In addition to all the usual delights, look for traditional Latvian touches. Sip black balsam – the national liquor. Sample piragi, little buns filled with bacon and sautéed onions. And amongst the gingerbread and hand-woven mittens at the stalls, look for jars of Latvian honey, a treat you can take home.

TRAVEL TIP?

Walk right from the market to your warm, stylish room at Grand Hotel Kempinski Riga, which sits at the entrance to Old Town across from the Latvian National Opera and Ballet theatre.

Salzburg, Austria: The sounds of Christmas

BEST FOR: MUSIC LOVERS

This is, of course, the place where the hills come alive with the sound of music, a city immortalised in the popular 1965 film starring Julie Andrews. And a visit here always feels like stepping into an imagined world. A wonderland, especially in winter, set on the banks of a serpentine river, beneath towers and church spires and an imposing hilltop fortress.

Running from 24 November 2024 to 1 January 2025, the city’s main Christmas market sets up right in the middle of town, on Cathedral and Residenz Squares. Salzburgers have been gathering for these festivities since the 15th century. This a market known for its theatre and music. Dozens of choirs perform, and casual visitors are invited to join in for sing-alongs. Musicians perform on turmblasen (wind instruments). Parades march through, and children are entertained with readings of Christmas stories. And every Sunday, the Christ Child visits, flanked by his angels.

TRAVEL TIP?

Built on a ridge some 1,000 metres up, Kempinski Hotel Berchtesgaden welcomes you to stay amidst mountain marvels, just 30 minutes from Salzburg.

Innsbruck, Austria: Olympic-sized wonders

BEST FOR: THOSE WHO LOVE THE OUTDOORS

Straddling the glacier-fed River Inn, nestled in a long, narrow valley surrounded by the snow-kissed Alps, this small city has welcomed the world twice for the Winter Olympics, in 1964 and 1976. Now it draws anyone who loves to glide down the slopes. Or, you know, just enjoy the apres-ski.

It is home to the Imperial Palace – a principal residence of the Habsburgs – and the iconic 500-year-old Golden Roof, so the Christmas markets here have a dramatic, historic backdrop. The main market, which stretches out along the cobblestones of the Old Town from 15 November to 23 December 2024, has its own soundtrack, provided by brass bands – Austrian Turmbläser – playing from the Golden Roof. But essentially the whole city transforms for the holidays. Meander down Kiebachgasse, which transforms into a fairy tale lane, complete with costumed characters. Shop the stalls on Maria Theresien Street, which sit under trees adorned with glittering lights. And families should head to the riverside Marktplatz, where kids can ride a carousel and enjoy stories and puppet shows.

TRAVEL TIP?

Stay nearby at Kempinski Hotel Das Tirol, a ski-in, ski-out resort right on the slopes of the Kitzbühel Alps.

Malaga, Spain: Merry on the Med

BEST FOR: THOSE WHO LOVE SUNNY, SEASIDE CELEBRATIONS

Thoughts of Andalusia inevitably feature sun and sand. After all, this is one of Europe’s most famous and beloved beach destinations. And the Spanish love to celebrate – perhaps more than anyone else. What could be better than Christmas festivities, all caressed by gentle, salty sea breezes?

While you won’t find ice-skating and snowmen like in Germany and Austria, Malaga lights up from late November until early January. That’s literally true along Calle Larios, where sparkling angels hover above this shopping street. You’ll find a handful of really nice markets, too, with all the traditional things – garlands and toys and crafts. The two biggest: at Paseo del Parque, in the historic centre of town. And at Muelle Uno, right next to the Med, where you can watch the sun set into the sea as the sparkling illuminations of evening rise.

TRAVEL TIP?

Stay nearby at Kempinski Hotel Bahia Marbella Estepona, a terracotta oasis set next to an Eden of tropical gardens, the beach, and three pools.

Sofia, Bulgaria: Germany meets Bulgaria

BEST FOR: SO MUCH CULTURE, SO CLOSE TOGETHER

When you think of spending time in a European capital, Sofia may not be the first destination that pops into your mind. But sitting in the shadow of Mount Vitosha, a number of cultures come together here, intersecting with natural wonders nearby. Shimmering onion domes and Ottoman minarets and Soviet monuments, with waterfalls and ski slopes just outside of town.

And Christmas markets, too. Good ones. Although the phenomenon is new to Sofia. The first one, and the largest – Deutscher Weihnachtsmarkt – first opened just over a decade ago. Running from 15 November 2024 until just before Christmas, the stalls in City Garden bring together German and Bulgarian traditions. Start here, then walk to two others nearby, each with their own charms. Christmas Fest, at the National Palace of Culture, offers many live performances – everything from concerts to circus shows. And Christmas Park on Slaveykov Square is probably the best market for locally made handicrafts and fresh products from Bulgarian farms.

TRAVEL TIP?

For a magical snowy experience, stay nearby at Kempinski Hotel Grand Arena Bansko, a picture-perfect resort next to a gondola lift in the Pirin Mountains.

Basel, Switzerland: So many Swiss pleasures

BEST FOR: NEXT-LEVEL SWISS

A city built on the Rhine River next to the borders with France and Germany, Basel is a beautiful place. There’s a lovingly preserved old town, complete with a medieval town hall. Plus art and culture at dozens of museums (by some counts, the most in Switzerland).

And, one of Europe’s absolute best Christmas markets, which this year will run from 28 November to 23 December 2024. Some 155 stalls cover two big squares. At Münsterplatz, a glittering Christmas tree rises in front of Basel’s cathedral. And on Barfüsserplatz, meet your friends near the Barfüsserkirche, at the 13-metre Christmas pyramid. Both the food and the handicrafts here are definitely next level. In addition to the usual (delicious) fare like sausages, you can dine on Swiss specialities such as Läckerli (a local kind of gingerbread) and ooey-gooey raclette. And look for cool, unexpected items like hand-painted baubles and Christmas cookie moulds with intricate 14th-century motifs.

TRAVEL TIP?

Combine your trip to Basel with a stay nearby at Kempinski Palace Engelberg, where you can rest after a busy day at their huge rooftop spa with views of epic peaks all around.

Rome, Italy: La dulce Christmas

BEST FOR: ITALIAN FLAIR

As the saying goes: all roads lead to Rome. And there’s so much to see and experience in the Eternal City, from hopping between the bars and restaurants in hip Trastevere to climbing the stairs in the iconic Colosseum.

Add to your list of sites: the Christmas markets. In addition to small ones in famous locations like the base of the Spanish Steps, the main market has long been held around the bubbling fountain at Piazza Navona. The big, long, open space (easily accessed by city bus) was once a stadium, back in the First Century AD. Kids will love the carousel and puppet shows. And a nice culinary feature: the food served up here is sourced from the surrounding Lazio region of Italy. Another one to check out: Giftland, which will be held in a former bus depot on Piazza Ragusa. A little hipper than most, this market sells vintage items, vinyl records, organic cosmetics and cool, indie-style Christmas music.

TRAVEL TIP?

Pop over to Vatican City to see their amazing decorations, including a huge Christmas tree and nativity scene in St Peter’s Square.

London, UK: Smart splendour

BEST FOR: BIG CELEBRATIONS IN GRAND PLACES

From Buckingham Palace to Tower Bridge, London looks good at any time of year – but especially spruced up for Christmas. Between joining the crush of shoppers at Harrods and strolling through the Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, make a little time for the markets.

Rather than one central site, London’s Christmas markets are scattered across numerous, beautiful locations. At graceful, Victorian Leadenhall Market, the Lord Mayor of London himself will switch on the twinkling lights on 14 November 2024, and until 25 December 2024 you can browse for crafts and vintage goods. Stalls and carol singers pop up around the Christmas tree in Trafalgar Square. Starting on 12 November, Santa will park his (1884, hand-painted) sleigh in the West Piazza of Covent Garden under massive Christmas bells (with some 100 places to eat nearby). And for a twist: head to the revitalized King’s Cross for a Mexican Christmas market, complete with a cumbia band and piñatas.

TRAVEL TIP?

Right on the banks of the Thames, after 8 November 2024 Battersea Power Station becomes the best place in town to go for a skate, with three interconnected ice rinks surrounding a Christmas tree.

Brussels, Belgium: Winter wonders

BEST FOR: SWEET TREATS

Famously the headquarters for the European Union and NATO, Belgium’s compact capital is surprisingly cosy in the winter. Grab a Trappistes Rochefort 10 in a warm little pub. Tuck into a stack of Liege waffles or the local savoury fave, mussels and chips. Take your pick of some of the world’s best chocolates (paired with a cup of hot chocolate). Then make your way to the Grand-Place.

Because this spot, with its stepped roofs and guild houses and gothic Town Hall, is the heart of the city’s Christmas market, which runs from 29 November 2024 to 5 January 2025. The festivities, and some 250 chalets, sprawl more than two kilometres over the cobblestones through a number of interconnected squares – Bourse, Place Sainte-Catherine and Marché aux Poissons. There’s a Ferris wheel and a carousel and at night, a sound and light show. And in this very international city, take the opportunity to sample some very Belgian fare at the many pop-up restaurants. Perhaps some smouteballen – sweet dumplings that are deep-fried, finished off with a little bit of jenever (gin).

TRAVEL TIP?

Satisfy your sweet tooth at Choco-Story Brussels, which walks you through the history of chocolate, includes a live praline-making demonstration and, happily, finishes with tasty samples.

Colmar, France: Joyeux Noël!

BEST FOR: ALSACTIAN DELICACIES

Just south of Strasbourg, Colmar is a fairytale town of half-timbered houses lining canals. And they go all out to celebrate the holidays. What’s better than one Christmas market? Try six.

Stroll the cobblestones under sparkling lights, perhaps with a cup of steaming mulled wine in hand. At the Gourmet Market (26 November to 30 December 2024), nine chalets serve up the creations of nine different local chefs, preparing Alsatian dishes with ingredients from nearby farms. You’ll find more of Alsace to taste at Place Jeanne D’Arc (25 November to 22 December 2024), which recreates a charming regional village with Christmas cottages. Stalls sell everything wine from local vineyards to locally sourced charcuterie. And inside the medieval Koifhus (25 November to 22 December 2024) some 20 regional craftsmen and artists – hatters, potters, woodcarvers, jewellers, cabinet makers, ceramists – offer products they’ve created with their own hands.

TRAVEL TIP?

Families should check out La Petite Venise, which has the most kid-friendly market – a carousel, hot apple juice, and a letter box for children to send their gift requests to Santa.

If you enjoyed this, why not inspire another discovery with this feature about local festivals?