10 Best Christmas Markets in Europe for a Magical Holiday Season

1 week ago 9

November 21, 2025 | 02:15 pm

Illustration of Christmas Market. (Wikipedia)

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Stepping into the best Christmas market in Europe transforms the holiday season into a scene straight out of a storybook. With cobbled streets illuminated by warm festive lights, the scent of mulled wine drifting through the air, and seasonal treats filling every corner, destinations like Prague, Vienna, and Colmar await to wrap you in their seasonal magic.

Whether you're a European local or a curious global traveler, the 10 best Christmas markets in Europe curated by Vogue and Condé Nast Traveller are truly worth discovering.

List of the Best Christmas Markets in Europe 2025

1. Prague, Czech Republic

With few cities capturing the holiday spirit quite like Prague, it’s only natural for the city to earn its place among the best Christmas markets in Europe. Held in Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square, the holiday market has every step of yours not only framed by the fairytale-like silhouette of the Týn Church, but also filled with the aroma of traditional Czech dishes. Must-try treats include šunka and klobása.

2. Vienna, Austria

Vienna has long perfected the art of Christmas markets. The Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz is the city’s crown jewel, widely celebrated for its grand illuminations, classic Austrian bites like Käsekrainer sausages and warm kaiserschmarrn, and family-friendly attractions such as reindeer rides and an ice rink. And if you're still craving more, Vienna boasts more than 20 Christmas markets scattered across the city, with each offering its own festive charm and wonder.

3. Colmar, France

To be in any of the six Christmas markets scattered across the small town of Colmar is a joyous experience on its own. Picture a fairytale-like landscape where timbered houses and canal-lined streets serve as the backdrop for twinkling lights and charming winter attractions. But visiting each one becomes a journey worth discovering, with every market adorned in its own unique holiday cheer.

4. Strasbourg, France

Strasbourg stays faithful to its nickname, the “Capital of Christmas,” firmly securing its place among the best and most enduring Christmas markets in Europe. Centered around the majestic Cathedral, 13 quaint markets await to be explored on foot, offering more than 300 stalls selling everything from traditional bredele cookies to beautifully carved wooden toys. A visit here goes beyond a simple holiday outing, as it carries cultural significance for being home to the oldest Christmas market in France.

5. Nuremberg, Germany

Germany’s Christmas traditions shine brightest in Nuremberg, where the Christkindlesmarkt stands as one of Europe’s earliest holiday markets. Famous for its gingerbread and roasted almonds, the market brings the festive spirit to life, especially when visitors are greeted by the Christkind, the beloved symbol of the city’s holiday celebrations. And if the little ones are craving even more magic, the dedicated Children’s Christmas Market awaits just around the corner on Hans-Sachs-Platz.

6. Basel, Switzerland

When thinking of a dream winter destination, Switzerland often shines the brightest. And among its many festive cities, Basel evokes one of the most enchanting holiday scenes with its famous Basler Weihnachtsmarkt. Expect more than 150 vendors offering refined Swiss craftsmanship, gourmet chocolates, and warm raclette served straight off the wheel.

7. Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn offers a medieval twist to the Christmas season. Its market, held in the center of Town Hall Square, is particularly famous for its Christmas tree that dates back to 1441. Adding to that wonder is Tallinn’s annual market which delivers all the classic winter delights. From handmade crafts to warm sauerkraut, everything unfolds against a fairytale-like backdrop.

8. Copenhagen, Denmark

Nordic coziness is at its finest when you’re embracing Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens as your Christmas market of choice. Its magical 60 stalls draw both tourists and locals alike, glowing beneath more than 500,000 fairy lights. Even after 175 years, the magic of Tivoli Gardens remains unmistakably alive, securing its status as one of the world’s best theme parks and even inspiring the creation of the happiest place on Earth: Disneyland.

9. Helsinki, Finland

Fulfilling many travelers’ dreams of experiencing the best Christmas markets in Europe, Helsinki is truly unmissable. It effortlessly blends tradition, contemporary charm, and sustainability, creating a festive wonderland that appeals to global visitors. Lose yourself among more than 100 stalls offering handcrafted gifts and Finnish treats, all while the cathedral stands majestically above the market, perfecting the enchanting scene.

10. Budapest, Hungary

Budapest hosts several Christmas markets, but the one at St. Stephen’s Basilica stands out for its ultimate take on the holiday season. With immersive light shows, artisanal crafts, and hearty Hungarian dishes, this festival effortlessly charms visitors as they wander through its 160 vendors. Paired with an ice rink and weekend folk dance performances, Budapest transforms every visit into a moment to remember.

As winter settles across Europe, each of these Christmas markets offers its own touch of magic. No matter where your journey takes you, the spirit of the season is waiting to be found in every square, stall, and sparkling street.

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