The main Christmas markets will be opening all over Europe very soon. Find out when Europe's most popular winter locations are opening in 2025 - from Berlin and Vienna to Krakow and Strasbourg: Tips, dates, interesting traditions and what to bring with you on your holiday travels

Winter fairs are not just shopping locations, but a real holiday that fills cities with a festive mood, the aromas of mulled wine, delicacies and bright lights. If you are planning a winter trip to Europe in 2025, it is worth finding out in advance when the most popular fairs start and which cities are worth visiting.

Below is a detailed guide to the opening dates and main features of the holiday markets.

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When will Christmas markets start in European capitals?

Berlin, Germany

- Fair dates: November 24 to December 31, 2025

Berlin hosts dozens of fairs every year, from classic to themed. The main locations are Alexanderplatz, Rose Square, and Handeshaus. It is worth noting that the city is famous for its abundance of entertainment for children and adults.

Vienna, Austria

- Fair dates: November 14 to December 26, 2025

The Vienna fairs near the Town Hall, Belvedere, and Maria Theresa Square are classics of Austrian Christmas. Here you can try traditional delicacies, mulled wine, and buy handmade souvenirs.

Prague, Czech Republic

- Fair dates: start – mid-late November 2025, duration until January 6, 2026

The main fairs on Old Town and Wenceslas Squares attract tourists with festive garlands and concerts by local groups.

Paris, France

- Fair dates: November 28 – December 14, 2025

The Christmas market at Gare de l’Est is one of the most popular in the French capital. Paris will also open a number of smaller fairs in different areas of the city.

Copenhagen, Denmark

- Fair dates: late November 2025 – January 5, 2026

The fair at Tivoli Gardens is known for its fairy-tale design, attractions and themed shows for children.

Warsaw, Poland

- Fair start date: November 23, 2025

The fair in the center of Warsaw offers bright holiday houses, local dishes and illuminations that decorate the Old Town.

Krakow, Poland

- Fair date: November 28, 2025 to January 1, 2026

The main Christmas market on the Main Market Square combines traditional crafts, music and festive cuisine.

Start dates of Christmas markets in other popular cities in Europe

Strasbourg, France

- Fair date: November 26 to December 24, 2025

Known as the "capital of Christmas", the Christkindelsmärik fair attracts tourists with festive garlands and Alsatian dishes.

Dresden, Germany

- Fair date: November 26 to December 24, 2025

The Striezelmarkt fair has a history of over 500 years. It offers a wide selection of traditional sweets and crafts.

Budapest, Hungary

- Fair date: mid-November to late December 2025

The fairs on Vörösmarty Square offer Hungarian cuisine, an ice rink and handmade souvenirs.

Gdansk, Poland

- Fair date: from November 21, 2025

Tourists are attracted by cozy wooden houses, festive garlands and a maritime atmosphere.

Salzburg, Austria

- Fair date: until December 24, 2025

A small but very beautiful Christmas market on Residenzplatz. Themed fairs are dedicated to classical music and composers.

Tips for tourists for a comfortable visit to winter fairs

- Dress warmly and comfortably

Wear warm, layered clothing, waterproof shoes, a scarf and gloves. Hand and foot warmers will be useful for a long stay at the fair.

- Take cash and cards

Most sellers only accept cash, and ATMs may charge a commission. For large purchases in cafes or souvenir shops, you can use a card.

- Choose a convenient time to visit

There are fewer people on weekdays, and it is easier to take photos. Plan your route in advance to find interesting locations faster.

- Buy souvenirs and gifts

Choose traditional Christmas tree decorations, local delicacies and handmade products. Check the quality and packaging for safe transportation home.

- Use additional life hacks

Take a thermos mug and plan stops for a snack. Mark a meeting point for the kids and follow the weather and updates on the fairs.

European winter fairs are the magic of holidays in real life. They offer not only entertainment and shopping, but also the opportunity to immerse yourself in the cultural atmosphere of the city. When planning a trip, consider the opening dates, we recommend checking the official websites, and also take warm clothes and some cash.

Planning a trip and want to prepare without stress? The travel guide from Visit World will help you easily apply for a tourist visa and prepare all the documents. It will provide you with step-by-step instructions, rules for filling out the application form, information about the visa fee and life hacks for a comfortable stay.

Find out everything you need and travel without unnecessary worries!

Let's remind you! Christmas is a magical winter holiday that attracts with twinkling lights, decorated trees, festive food and traditions. There is no more festive place to spend this family holiday than Christmas markets. We have already talked about the 10 best Christmas markets in Europe that are worth visiting in the winter of 2025/2026.

Photo – Freepik

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