12 of the Most Insanely Beautiful Christmas Markets in Europe

This post is all about the array of beautiful Christmas Markets in Europe you must visit in your lifetime.

What exactly is a Christmas market? A Christmas Market is like a magical fair that pops up during the holiday season. These markets are filled with fun things to do and yummy treats to eat. Basically, they make you feel warm and fuzzy inside, like when you drink hot cocoa on a snowy day. These markets typically run from the end of November to the beginning of January, giving plenty of time to join in on the holiday fun.

While Christmas Markets have a long history, they mainly originated in Germany. Like most markets, there was an exchange of the basic supplies, meat, etc. Over time, these markets turned into festive celebrations with bright lights, beautiful decorations, and delicious food.

Visiting a Christmas Market is like stepping into a magical wonderland.

Here is a list of some of the best Christmas Markets in Europe to put you in a festive mood.

Strasbourg, France | Christkindelsmärik

Strasbourg claims to be the ‘Capital of Christmas’ and is one of the oldest in France. With over 300 vendors spread between the cathedral and several city squares, Strasbourg has a lot to discover. Stroll the Christkindelsmärik, enjoy an off-beat experience at the Off Christmas Market, peruse the vibrant handicrafts, and hit the streets at night to gaze upon the most illuminated city in France.

Colmar, France

This city has 6 magical markets situated right in the middle of the historic center of Colmar. It’s like you walked right into a fairytale. Stroll through the Capital of Alsatian Wine, get lost in the streets of Rue des Marchands, indulge in the local specialties, and find the perfect gift at the Koifhus. There are a few markets in this city as well as a shuttle service that takes you to different nearby Christmas villages.

Copenhagen, Denmark | Tivoli Gardens

The main event takes place in the historic Tivoli Gardens which is its own masterpiece. Prepare for over 70,000 ornaments and upwards of 1,000 Christmas trees in the gardens alone. The Christmas Market has about 60 stalls bursting with Christmas decorations, snacks, sweets, and as many hot drinks as your heart could desire. You’ll also be able to easily find knitted products, leather products, crafts, and deli items.

Munich, Germany | Münchner Christkindlmarkt

Munich is a perfect place to experience the ambiance of Christmas Markets with many to choose from within the city. One of the original markets is Marienplatz (main square), which consists of a village of market stalls set against a beautiful Bavarian backdrop. Munich’s markets are also said to be the largest Nativity scene market in the world.

Vienna, Austria | Krippenmarkt

Vienna has more than 20 official Advent markets selling a vast array of seasonal gifts and delicious treats. Markets in this city are truly an age-old tradition, dating back to the Middle Ages and evolving with the years. There’s plenty to explore and more ways than one to get sucked into a punch or chestnut stand.

Cologne, Germany | Weihnachtsmarkt

Who wouldn’t want to spend Christmas in Cologne? Every corner of Cologne is festively decorated for the season with many visitors coming to see the circus, the garden, and concerts. Of course, you can find themed Christmas Markets scattered around the city but be sure to check out the popular market around the Cathedral and the Market of Hearts.

Prague, Czech Republic

The Christmas Markets of Prague are held all throughout the city. Visitors can sample traditional Czech foods such as roast pork, gingerbread, and Trdelník (a popular Czech pastry). However, one of the most popular locations is the Old Town Square market where you can find unique gifts and handmade crafts while checking out the stunning stalls.

Edinburgh, Scotland

Head to the historic center of the city to get in on the Christmas Market magic! Edinburgh transforms and hosts traditional Christmas Markets, funfair rides, spectacular live outdoor events, and delicious food and drinks. If your timing is right, you might be able to snag tickets for Hogmanay (a 3-day Scottish event celebrating the New Year.).

Tallinn, Estonia

The Christmas Markets in this city have been named the best in Europe on two different occasions. Head to Town Hall Square to be in the middle of the Christmas action. Enjoy a huge range of gingerbread and the original dough for spiced cookies like Bailey’s or Vana Tallinn liqueur. Grab a mulled wine aka glögg and take in the sights and smells of this highly anticipated season.

Budapest, Hungary

If your destination takes you to Budapest, start at the most famous of the Christmas markets located at Vörösmarty Tér in the heart of the city. Relish in traditional Hungarian crafts and try the traditional Chimney cake with cinnamon. Additionally, the Christmas Markets in front of St. Stephen’s Basilica is also a great place to stroll stalls and take a spin on the ice (rink).

Valkenburg, Netherlands | Gemeentegrot

Visiting Valkenburg during the Christmas season is a magical affair. One of the most unique and memorable activities to include in your itinerary is to experience the underground enchantment in the caves of Valkenburg. This endless maze has been decorated with cozy stalls and hundreds of lights to brighten anyone’s mood.

Bruges, Belgium | Winter Glow

Winter Glow is the collective name for all Christmas activities in Bruges. There are 2 Christmas markets: the heart of the action in Market Square (Grote Markt), and in the market in Simon Stevinplein Square. With the chalet-lined squares, the buttery vanilla scent of waffles, and plenty of local specialties, Bruge is a no-brainer.

This post was all about the most beautiful Christmas Markets in Europe.

Christmas Markets are all about having a great time and getting into the holiday spirit. Keep an eye out for those sparkling lights, warm scarves, and the smell of yummy gingerbread. That’s how you know you’re in the right place! Enjoy the Christmas markets, and don’t forget to spread some joy and love!