The first recorded Christmas celebration was held in Rome in 336 AD and Europe has been the destination for Christmas markets ever since. Europe offers festive feels in the form of snow-capped cathedrals and dazzling architecture nestled in breathtaking scenery, choirs of angels filling the air with Christmas carols, sweet treats and unique gifts.
Whether they prefer the temperate climate of southern Europe or want to cuddle up with someone special during the long nights of a Scandinavian winter, travelers are sure to find it at one of these 10 great Christmas markets.
Most amazing Christmas markets in Europe in 2023
10. Edinburgh, Scotland
Every year, Edinburgh’s East Princes Street Gardens magically transforms into a vast ‘Santa Land’, where visitors can wander through a Christmas tree maze, fill up on traditional German sausages and enjoy Scottish craft brews.
9. Metz, France
This market has an outdoor ice skating rink and a merry-go-round, but its best feature is ‘Sentiers des Lanternes’, or ‘Lantern Trails’, where lighted paths wind through the market.
8. Basel, Switzerland
Creating 160 stalls Basel Christmas market the largest in Switzerland. The market consists of two main sections: Barfuserplatz and Munsterplatz. On Barfuserplatz you will find handmade wooden toys, jewelry and nativity scenes, while Munsterplatz is a fairytale forest that the children will love.
7. Winter fun in Brussels, Belgium
Brussels, Belgium, is the place for a luxury gastronomic Christmas experience. Winter fun, also known locally as Plaisirs d’Hiver, takes over the area around the Beurs, the Marché aux Poissons, Place Sainte-Catherine and Place de la Monnaie to create a gigantic winter wonderland.
The market stalls offer a wide variety of local delicacies such as Belgian chocolate and waffles, along with locally crafted and artisanal goods.
6. Budapest, Hungary
Two markets in Budapest really stand out: Vorosmarty Square and the Basilica. Located in the heart of the city, Vorosmarty Square features several food stalls, concerts and handicraft shops. The Basilica has those too, but also attracts visitors with some fantastic Christmas laser projections on the Basilica itself and an ice skating rink surrounding a majestic Christmas tree.
5. Spandau, Berlin, Germany
Berlin Germany has about 80 Christmas markets, but Spandau Market is the largest and trendiest. Visitors make their way along cobblestone roads
4. Malaga, Spain
If you are tired of the cold in winter, the south of Spain may be your favorite place to spend the holidays. You can stroll from Santa’s Grotto to Paseo de Parque to stock up on local crafts, before strolling over to watch the elaborate light shows at Calle Marques de Larios.
3. Senate Square in Helsinki, Finland
This market combines contemporary with traditional offerings during the holidays. Tourists can enjoy watching local pups compete for the best holiday outfit one minute, and singing old-fashioned Christmas carols the next.
Strolling past the illuminated market stalls on Senate Square is a popular holiday activity. Shoppers can sip warm mulled wine, indulge in artisanal cheeses, or treat themselves to jam-filled pastries.
2. Salzburg, Austria
Salzburg, Austria is the holiday destination for fans of age-old traditions, Christmas carols or The sound of music.
The market stalls have not changed much since merchants first set them up in the fifteenth centurye century. Just like when it first opened, quality and authenticity are of the utmost importance. For example, visitors should expect to see hand-knitted scarves for sale instead of plastic trinkets.
1. Cologne, Germany
Cologne, Germany, has more Christmas markets than Santa Claus has reindeer. The largest Christmas markets are located in the center of Cologne, while smaller markets are spread throughout the neighborhoods.
The market just outside Cologne Cathedral is one of the most popular and best known, attracting more than 4 million visitors annually. More than 100 theater performances take place at this market every year, as well as puppet shows and other performances for children; families can also take a trip to Sinterklaas’ village, where they can learn the true story of Sinterklaas
