Christmas markets are a wonderful tradition in Europe. From France to Austria to the Netherlands, each market has its own magical charm and invites you to immerse yourself in the Christmas culture of another country. Whether under twinkling fairy lights on the square in front of the Hofburg Palace in Vienna, between medieval half-timbered houses in Strasbourg or along the romantic canals of Amsterdam — the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe offer distinctive experiences and special treats that are perfect for a winter getaway. Join us on a journey through the festive diversity of Europe and discover the magical Christmas markets.
1. Christkindelsmärik, Strasbourg (France)
Special features: The Strasbourg Christmas market is one of the oldest in Europe and is also known as the “Christmas capital”. Around 300 stalls are spread out in the picturesque old town around Strasbourg Cathedral. The half-timbered houses and the huge Christmas tree on Place Kléber make the market particularly atmospheric.
Traditions: Visitors will find handmade arts and crafts and Alsatian specialties such as “Bredele” (traditional Christmas pastries) and “Flammekueche” (tarte flambée).
2. Winter Wonders, Brussels (Belgium)
Special features: The “Plaisirs d’Hiver” (Winter Magic) is a large Christmas market with an impressive backdrop around the historic Grand Place, which is impressively illuminated at Christmas. It offers a huge ice skating rink, a Ferris wheel and Christmas light shows.
Traditions: Belgian specialties such as waffles, chocolates and mulled beer make the visit particularly tasty. There are also many stalls with local handicrafts and international specialties.
3. Vienna Christmas Market on Rathausplatz, Vienna (Austria)
Special features: The Vienna Christmas Market, which attracts millions of visitors every year, is located in front of the imposing Vienna City Hall. Over 150 stalls offer Christmas gifts, culinary delights and handicrafts.
Traditions: Traditional dishes such as “Kaiserschmarrn” and “Maroni” (hot chestnuts) as well as Austrian punch are among the highlights. There is also a fairytale world for children and a romantic ice skating rink.
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4. Luxembourg Christmas Market, Luxembourg City (Luxembourg)
Special features: The Christmas market in Luxembourg City is spread over several squares and offers a charming combination of Luxembourgish, French and German Christmas traditions.
Traditions: In addition to the classic Christmas stalls, the “Lëtzebuerger Adventszelt” with traditional music and cultural programs is very popular. Regional specialties such as the Luxembourgish mulled wine “Veiner Hues” and fried cheese specialties such as “Gromperekichelcher” (potato cookies) are typical delicacies.
5. Christmas Village, Amsterdam (Netherlands)
Special features: The Christmas Village is Amsterdam’s Christmas market on Museumplein in combination of market stalls, a large ice rink and musical performances. The “Amsterdam Light Festival” light trail also makes the Christmas season in Amsterdam particularly worth seeing.
Traditions: Visitors can enjoy typical Dutch specialties such as “oliebollen” (deep-fried dough balls) and “poffertjes” (small, thick pancakes). The picturesque canals are also festively illuminated during winter.
6. Advent in Zagreb (Croatia)
Special features: Advent in Zagreb is a multi-award-winning Christmas market that is spread across several squares in the city and is known for its fairytale atmosphere. In addition to a Christmas village and an ice rink, there are elaborately decorated stalls and streets that bathe Zagreb in a festive light.
Traditions: Croatian specialties such as “kobasice” (sausages), “fritule” (mini doughnuts) and hot, homemade drinks such as mulled wine with local flavors are a must.
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7. Swedish Christmas Market, Stockholm (Sweden)
Special features: Stockholm’s oldest and most beautiful Christmas market is located on Stortorget Square in the old town of Gamla Stan. The special ambience with red huts and authentic handicrafts makes this market particularly atmospheric.
Traditions: Sweden is known for its Christmas treats such as “Glögg” (Swedish mulled wine) and “Pepparkakor” (gingerbread), which are a must at any Christmas market. Handicrafts such as Dala horses and Lucia candles are also popular here.
8. Christmas market in Prague (Czech Republic)
Special features: Prague’s Christmas market on the Old Town Square is one of the most beautiful in Europe. With the festively decorated town hall and the Astronomical Clock in the background, it offers a particularly magical backdrop.
Traditions: Czech specialties such as “Trdelník” (baked cinnamon rolls) and the Czech mulled wine “Svařák” are very popular. There are also handmade glass decorations and dolls that are coveted souvenirs.
9. Christmas market in South Tyrol, Bolzano (Italy)
Special features: South Tyrol’s most popular Christmas market is located in charming Bolzano and offers a combination of Alpine and Mediterranean flair. The Waltherplatz square is home to traditional wooden stalls offering a wide range of handicrafts and specialties from South Tyrol.
Traditions: Typical specialties such as South Tyrolean speck, apple strudel and Striezel are a must. “Vin brulé”, an Italian version of mulled wine, and South Tyrolean arts and crafts are also very popular.
