If you can count on me for one thing, let it be Christmas markets in Europe! They just ooze holiday magic and make you feel like you have been transported to a holiday Hallmark movie set. I have visited 18 Christmas markets over 10 different countries in the last 5 years and I’ve scoped out some of the best Christmas markets in Europe you definitely do not want to miss in 2024!
Europe Christmas markets deserve a spot on everyone’s bucket list, because they truly are worth the hype! So if you’re looking to escape to this holiday wonderland, I’ve got you. And if your travel plans include Europe Christmas Markets in 2024, dates can be found below!
Europe’s Christmas markets truly magical! Our adventures across the continent were nothing short of unforgettable. The breathtaking Christmas markets and picturesque streets will make you fall head over heels in love with Europe. It’s like walking into a fairytale, full of enchantment and joy! Take a look at the video and see for yourself.
@herjoliejourney I still dream about the magical Colmar Christmas markets! Visiting Colmar during the holidays feels like something out of a fairytale. It’s no wonder the Colmar Christmas markets always rank as one of the best Christmas markets in Europe! #europetravel #europechristmasmarkets #christmasmarkets #europechristmas #colmarfrance #colmarchristmasmarket ♬ It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas - Perry Como & The Fontane Sisters
Rome is one of the most popular destinations in Europe with its iconic landmarks, rich history and drool-worthy food but did you know Christmas markets are plentiful here too? Although not part of Italian tradition, Italy has come to embrace the popular Christmas markets.
If you’re looking to escape to Rome for the holidays, here is everything you need to know:
PIAZZA NAVONA: This is Rome’s most popular Christmas market with stands filling the center of the plaza and fair rides sprinkled throughout here.
PIAZZA DI SPAGNA/SPANISH STEPS: You can find a small Christmas market here and a cute little nativity at the bottom of the Spanish Steps
PIAZZA MAZZINI: Another great spot to explore Christmas markets and if you’re lucky you may even find a Christmas fair here! The Piazza Mazzini is a flea market all year round, so you can find some great antique pieces here too. Don’t forget to pick up some Italian candy as it’s a popular spot to purchase some here.
ROME AUDITORIUM: The sweetest little Christmas village can be found here followed by food trucks, local goods and even an ice rink!
L’ARTIGIANATO FEMMINILE: A big Christmas fair located in the heart of the San Paolo District. It’s part of the ‘Santa Claus District,’ so you know it’s going to be good! More details can be found here.
If you have been to Ireland you know just how easy it is to fall in love with this country! Dublin is the largest city here, so you may think it’s filled with Christmas markets during the holidays but you may be surprised to learn there are few and far between. You will however, find that the streets are decorated in lights and holiday decorations.
Although Christmas markets in Dublin may be limited, it’s beautiful to see this capital city light up during the Christmas season.
DUBLIN CASTLE CHRISTMAS MARKET: Exploring Christmas markets in the heart of an ACTUAL CASTLE doesn’t get more magical than that!!! Although the Christmas markets are small in size, the castle really shows off with the dreamiest holiday trimming.
HOWTH CASTLE CHRISTMAS MARKET: This puts more of a fun spin on traditional Christmas markets by adding a fair filled with rides! You’ll get Christmas markets, a circus and fairgrounds with rides. The Christmas markets are free to explore, but you will have to pay to go on any ride or attend the circus. More info can be found here.
SWORDS CASTLE CHRISTMAS MARKET: This spot is filled with over 50 vendors, so rest assured there is no shortage of shopping here. You will even find a darling little Santa grotto from 12 pm – 5 pm. Downside is this market is only open for a limited time.
RATHFARNHAM CASTLE CHRISTMAS MARKET: This Christmas market takes place on one day and one day only, but you’ll find local goods, food and festive warm drinks.
BREMORE CASTLE CHRISTMAS MARKET: Another festive Christmas market held on the grounds of a castle that is also filled with Christmas stalls and local food. This Christmas market is open for a limited time.
This charming Scandinavian destination will pleasantly surprise you with its iconic Danish architecture and its effortlessly cool atmosphere. Christmas markets found here also bring a certain level of chic.
Most Christmas markets found in Copenhagen start in November and end just before Christmas.
CHRISTMAS IN TIVOLI: Tivoli Gardens is already a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, but it turns into a Christmas wonderland filled with fun games and rides during the holidays! This is the only Christmas market that does charge admission, but it’s worth it. The general admission cost is 145 DKK or roughly $20 USD. If you want to include unlimited rides you can purchase a ticket for 429 DKK or $61 USD. For more details check out their website here.
KING’S NEW SQUARE CHRISTMAS MARKET: If you’re looking for more of a traditional Christmas market you can explore for free you’ll want to make your way here. And the setting can’t be beat, as it’s set in the iconic King Square.
HIGH BRIDGE SQUARE CHRISTMAS MARKET: Another great Christmas market that fits more of the traditional Christmas markets you find in Germany with darling little wooden stalls and gifts.You can check out details here.
CHRISTIANIA JULEMARKED: An eclectic spin on Christmas markets brimming with handmade jewelry, candles and more.
HC ANDERSEN CHRISTMAS MARKET: This Christmas market is named after Danish Storyteller, HC Andersen, the man behind Little Mermaid. And the markets live up to the name, as they are filled with kid-friendly games and beautiful holiday stalls. Want to know what else you can find here? Learn more here.
Amsterdam said you can never really have too many canals, and honestly I don’t blame them because they have created one of the most charming cities in the world! And although Amsterdam may not rank high on my Christmas market list, you can never go wrong visiting Amsterdam anytime of year.
Now let’s get to part where I spill all the details on how to enjoy the Christmas markets in Amsterdam.
AMSTERDAM WINTER PARADISE: Amsterdam’s star of the show this time of year and a spot you don’t want to miss! The possibilities are endless here with indoor and outdoor ice skating rinks, a Ferris wheel and seasonal stalls.
FUNKY XMAS MARKET: A monthly market that showcases local artists, but in December you’ll see more festive gifts available. The locations do change. See below.
ICE VILLAGE AMSTERDAM: Pictured above you’ll see the iconic ice rink located in front of Amsterdam’s Museumplein. The ice rink is surrounded by holiday market stalls making this one of the most popular Christmas markets in Amsterdam.
PURE MARKT WINTERMARKT: If you’re a fan of farmers markets than you will love this one! People from all over the country come to this market to sell their goods, so you know you are going to find some really good stuff here. Keep in mind the location does change and it only takes place on one day. In 2022 it is being held in Park Frankendael.
You’re going to pinch yourself when you see how charming this Italian town is. Italy is known for luring visitors from all over the world, and most usually beeline it for more popular destinations like Rome, Venice or even Florence but did you know Siena is located just 35 miles south of Florence??
Siena is the perfect little holiday visit to wander the medieval streets and historic town center. You can easily see all the magical holiday festivities in one day!
MERCATO NEL CAMPO: Over 140 stalls set up in the iconic Piazza del Campo. Most of what you will find here are Italian and European products being sold out of these stalls. You will also find a stunning Christmas light show projection here.
CHRISTMAS VILLAGE: A lovely little spot in the Giardini della Lizza where you will find an ice skating rink and Santa Claus Kingdom with a Christmas factory, a reindeer stable, world of toys and more!
I have to admit Germany really knows how to throw a good holiday party. Considered the Christmas capital of the world, Germany is filled with some of the most incredible Christmas markets and Munich is no exception!
Did you know over 20 Christmas markets can be found in Munich alone?? I have saved you some time and rounded up the 5 best Christmas markets in Munich below.
MUNICH CHRISTMAS MARKET AT MARIENPLATZ: this is considered the most popular Christmas market in Munich. Located in the iconic Marienplatz you will find over 140 stalls filled with some of the most beautiful handmade Christmas decorations and trinkets. Be prepared for crowds, lots of them! Get there early and avoid weekends if you can.
CHRISTMAS VILLAGE IN THE RESIDENZ: Found just around the corner from Marienplatz you will find this charming little Christmas market in the courtyard of a former palace. Local artisans actually showcase their talent here by putting their skills on display and creating these beautiful crafts right before your eyes! And if you’re lucky you may even hear some Alpine horn players here.
RINDERMARKT: Another darling little market located just a few minutes away from Marienplatz. Skip the huge crowds and enjoy some tasty treats at this market! You’ll even spot a huge Christmas pyramid, and I guarantee you will want to snap some photos of that.
SENDLINGER TOR CHRISTMAS MARKET: Munich’s medieval city walls are surrounded by a special Christmas market that contains holiday gifts from around the world. So if you’re looking for a truly unique gift this is the place!
MÄRCHENBAZAR/ FAIRYTALE MARKET: Step inside a cozy little circus tent filled with fairytale lights and a sprinkle of Christmas. Live music and vintage gifts can be found here. And who can forget some delicious food from around the world. And thankfully this spot is open on Christmas Day!
Known as the Christmas market capital of Ireland, Galway really shines this time of year! Over 600,000 people visit during the holidays and take in all the magical Christmas vibes.
I have to confess the Galway Christmas markets are not exclusively worth the trip, but if you find yourself in Ireland during the holidays skip Dublin and make your way to Galway.
The Galway Christmas markets can easily be seen in a day, but here is everything you need to know about exploring these Ireland Christmas markets.
When we added Switzerland to our Christmas market route in 2019, my imagination ran wild! I knew we couldn’t pass up a trip to visit Switzerland’s largest city. Zurich is such a cool place to visit with its perfect blend of history and charm.
There is just something about the holiday season that makes everything feel more magical and Zurich is no exception. Although most people overlook Zurich as a Christmas market destination, the city is filled with some amazing Christmas markets including a Christmas tree made out of Swarvoski crystals!
Stick around, so I can share some of the best things to see in Zurich during the holiday season.
There are seven distinct Christmas markets in Zurich and each one has their own unique theme. This ensures that everyone can enjoy them. We knew Switzerland was going to be beautiful, but they really show off during the holidays.
I have rounded up the best Christmas markets to visit in Zurich:
The Brussels Christmas markets are actually considered one of the best Christmas markets in Europe as the entire city transforms into a winter wonderland! Over 2.5 million visitors pour into Brussels every year to catch a glimpse of their impressive festivities.
So you may be wondering why it ranks #10 on my list? I absolutely LOVED Brussels and would easily go back and visit these Christmas markets again but everywhere we went it felt so PACKED and just like any big city you have to keep an eye out for pick-pockets. We did visit on a weekend, so chances are you’ll have more luck beating the huge crowds during the week.
With over 250 cute Christmas stalls, the Christmas markets in Brussels cover A LOT OF GROUND. I have provided some information to help you navigate the best Christmas markets in Brussels.
Florence is considered one of the most beautiful cities in Italy, but it really comes alive during the holidays. This historical Tuscan city is covered in lights and beautiful holiday decorations. Want to know what makes this place extra unique though? It’s home to Europe’s longest ice-skating rink!
If you’re curious to learn more about what Christmas markets in this part of Italy looks like, let me give you just a taste below.
Florence has to be one of the most beautiful cities in Italy. I visited this ancient city for the first time in December 2019 and was blown away. Wandering through the streets of Florence and admiring all the history that was wrapped in twinkling lights just felt magical.
While there is so much to see here, let me share some of the best spots to catch Christmas markets in Florence.
You will find a certain level of charm in Lucerne that makes this city feel like it’s a place out of a storybook. We had a limited amount of time in Switzerland, but when I saw photos of Lucerne during the holidays I just knew we had to go! No matter what time of the year you visit though, Lucerne is easily considered one of the most beautiful cities in Europe.
We loved the incredible view of the Switzerland alps and stunning lake that border this beautiful city. It felt like I was looking at something out of a postcard! The magic of the city is only amplified by the holidays and I am going to share all you need to know about the Christmas markets found here.
I have to confess that the Christmas markets here are on the smaller side in comparison to Zurich, but we absolutely loved how cozy it felt.
You can find 4 main Christmas markets in Lucerne:
If you’ve been to Scotland, you know just how magical it is! It’s the type of place that makes you want to put roots down and never leave. So it’s no surprise that Edinburgh is somehow even MORE magical during the holidays.
There is no shortage of things to do here during the holidays. Stick around while I share some of the best Christmas markets in Edinburgh.
Christmas markets aren’t the only thing to explore during the holiday season in Edinburgh. Here are some festive things to check out while you’re here:
When you think of fairytales just picture Prague, because this place screams fairytale destination! This beautiful city dates back to the 9th century and is filled with cobblestone streets and stunning architecture.
I visited Prague for the first time in May 2016 and fell in love with the city! So when we planned on visiting Europe for the Christmas markets in 2017 I just knew we had to add Prague to our list. I am so glad we did! I am going to share what you need to know when visiting Prague in December.
Looking to get a taste of Christmas in Prague? Let’s talk about the Christmas markets in Prague and everything you need to know.
I am definitely no stranger to the magical allure of Paris and all of the iconic spots found in this beautiful city. I have been to Paris once in the spring and twice in December, and I have to admit I absolutely LOVE Paris during the holidays!
As the fashion capital of the world, Paris really knows how to make Christmas look extra chic. So let’s talk about why this is one of the best Christmas Markets in Europe. Keep reading to learn more!
Paris is a BIG city, so you can expect to find anywhere from 15-20 Christmas markets across Paris. That is a lot of ground to cover, so let me share the best Christmas markets in Paris worth visiting:
NOTRE DAME DE PARIS CHRISTMAS MARKET: One of the most iconic spots in Paris dressed in holiday flair and overlooking the Notre Dame (currently in renovation). It can be found across the Seine river in Square Viviani and you will find local artists selling handcrafted gifts.
The first time I laid eyes on Rothernburg, my heart nearly burst at the sheer sight of this darling town! If you’re a sucker for a good fairytale, you will absolutely fall in love with this town.
Rothenburg is considered the most beautifully preserved medieval town in Germany, and if you’re wondering what makes this place such a popular destination during the holidays check out my Rothenburg Christmas travel guide below.
Did you know that Rothenburg ob der Tauber is considered Germany’s Christmas capital? Although small in size, you will find that Rothenburg provides plenty to see and do, especially during the holidays!
Here are some things you need to add to your Rothenburg travel itinerary this time of year:
If you’ve done a quick Google search for the best Christmas markets in Europe, chances are Strasbourg was at the top of the list and for good reason! Imagine if the North Pole was in France and you walked on to the set of a Christmas village on steroids.
Strasbourg is France’s oldest Christmas market and attracts over 2 million visitors every year! But it’s not just the Christmas markets that attract so many visitors every year. Streets are lined with the most beautiful window displays and twinkling Christmas lights.
Let me give you a peek on what you can expect to find in one of Europe’s most popular Christmas market destinations.
We spent just 24 hours here, and were so sad to leave so soon! I can confirm Strasbourg definitely lives up to the hype and it’s a city you definitely do not want to miss during the holidays. You can find 13 Christmas markets in Strasbourg and SO many fun, festive things to do here! I will be sharing some of our favorite Christmas spots below.
Bruges is perhaps one of the most charming cities in Europe! A place so magical you never want to leave. We scheduled a brief 24 hours here to see the Christmas markets, but fell head over heels for Bruges and it was SO hard to leave. We are just dying to go back!
Bruges oozes charm all year round, but the holiday season makes this place feel EXTRA magical. Do yourself a favor and pay Bruges a visit, you will not regret it. Don’t believe me? Let me show you!
Christmas Markets in Bruges may be on the smaller end, but this town has SO much to offer! The city does look like something straight out of a fairytale after all. And nothing beats the sweet scent of waffles that fill the air.
I’m going to give you the low down on Bruges Christmas markets, hidden gems, best food to try and more:
I didn’t think fairytales were real until I laid eyes on Colmar! We have traveled all over Europe, and Colmar is easily the most magical town we have ever visited. I am truly powerless against this place.
If you want to know what it feels like to wake up in a fairytale visit Colmar! Believe me when I say you won’t find any Christmas markets in Europe better than these.
This town was actually the inspiration behind the charming town found in Beauty and the Beast, so you know every inch of this place is going to be filled with magic
Colorful gingerbread style houses and magical fairytale lights fill this town during the holiday season. And although Colmar attracts high crowds this time of year, it’s absolutely worth a visit! I am sharing a mini guide on the Colmar Christmas markets and the best things to do here during the holiday season.
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