The Best Christmas Markets in Europe in 2026

In late November, European cities come alive with Christmas lights, the scent of mulled wine, and a festive atmosphere. From the legendary markets in Strasbourg and Vienna to the underground Christmas venues in the Netherlands—each destination offers something special. We’ve compiled a list of the 12 best Christmas markets in Europe for 2026 and tell you where to find them, what attracts tourists, and when to plan your trip.

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Strasbourg, France—one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe

It’s no wonder Strasbourg is called the Christmas capital of Europe. The local Christkindelsmärik market has been held since 1570, making it the oldest in France and one of the oldest in Europe. Every year, the historic city center is adorned with thousands of lights, garlands, and festive decorations, and hundreds of wooden market stalls are set up in the squares. The main historic market is located on Place Broglie, but the Christmas festivities extend throughout the entire center of Strasbourg.

Top places to visit:

- Place Broglie – the traditional Christkindelsmärik with Christmas decorations, handicrafts, and gifts

- Place de la Cathédrale – festive stalls near the famous Strasbourg Cathedral

- Place Kléber – the central square with a huge Christmas tree about 30 meters tall

- Petite France – a picturesque historic district with half-timbered houses, canals, and festive lights.

At the markets, be sure to try the Alsatian flammekueche, bredele gingerbread cookies, traditional vin chaud mulled wine, and local sausages. In addition to these culinary delights, visitors can purchase ceramics, wooden toys, Christmas tree ornaments, and items crafted by local artisans.

Dates for 2026: The opening is scheduled for November 27. The organizers are still finalizing the exact closing date and detailed schedule. It’s best to plan a 2–3-day visit to explore the various markets, stroll through the old town, and see the festive lights after sunset.

Vienna, Austria – Christmas markets near palaces and historic squares

Every year, Vienna transforms into one of Europe’s main hubs for Christmas celebrations. The city hosts dozens of festive venues, but the most famous remains the Wiener Christkindlmarkt on Rathausplatz in front of the neo-Gothic City Hall. A large Christmas tree is erected here, shopping pavilions selling gifts open, and the Vienna Ice World ice rink is set up. The nearby park features children’s rides, a carousel, and festive installations.

In addition to the main market, there are several other Christmas venues worth visiting in Vienna:

- Schönbrunn Palace – a Christmas market near the former imperial residence featuring handicrafts, Austrian delicacies, and a festive program

- Belvedere Palace – market stalls set against the backdrop of the Baroque palace and picturesque evening illuminations

- Maria-Theresien-Platz – a Christmas village between the Museum of Art History and the Natural History Museum

- Freyung – a traditional Old Viennese market with artisan crafts, decorations, and festive treats

Austrian cuisine deserves special attention. The markets sell apple strudel, roasted chestnuts, gingerbread, sausages, and hot punch. Popular souvenirs include ceramic mugs, Christmas candles, and handmade Christmas tree ornaments.

Dates for Vienna’s Christmas markets in 2026:

- Rathausplatz – November 13 through December 26

- Schönbrunn – November 6 through January 6, 2027

- Belvedere – November 20 through December 31

- Maria-Theresien-Platz – November 20 through December 26

- Freyung – November 14 through December 23

The main market at Rathausplatz will be open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., and on December 24 until 6:30 p.m. You should set aside 2–3 days to visit the main Christmas locations. The most convenient way to get around is by public transportation, combining visits to the markets with walks through the historic center.

Budapest, Hungary – one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe

Budapest has become a true favorite among Christmas travelers. The local Advent Basilica market near St. Stephen’s Basilica has been named the best Christmas market in Europe four times by European Best Destinations. In 2026, it will celebrate its 15th anniversary and once again bring together nearly 100 Hungarian artisans, craftspeople, and food vendors.

The main highlight of the Advent Basilica is the spectacular light show projected onto the basilica’s facade, which begins daily at 5:30 p.m. The square also features a large Christmas tree, an illuminated canopy, a traditional nativity scene, and an Advent wreath.

Among Budapest’s most interesting holiday attractions:

- Advent Basilica – a light show, Christmas concerts, handicrafts, ceramics, decorations, and festive treats

- Vörösmarty Classic Xmas – a traditional market on Vörösmarty Square with market stalls, a music program, and a children’s train

- Christmas walks along the Danube – a chance to see the illuminated Hungarian Parliament Building, Buda Castle, and the city’s famous bridges.

Hungarian cuisine deserves special attention. At the holiday markets, be sure to try kürtőskalács—a sweet, cylinder-shaped pastry sprinkled with sugar or cinnamon—as well as traditional langos with cheese and sour cream, goulash, and mulled wine.

Dates for 2026:

- Advent Basilica – November 13, 2026, through January 1, 2027

- Vörösmarty Classic Xmas – opens November 13, 2026. The craft pavilions will be open until December 28, after which the square will be prepared for New Year’s celebrations

Advent Basilica will be open from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and until 11:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Admission to the market is free.

A 2–3-day trip to Budapest is sufficient for a Christmas visit. Both main markets are located in the city center, about a 15-minute walk from each other. You can round out your festive itinerary with a visit to the Széchenyi Thermal Baths or an evening cruise on the Danube.

Prague, Czech Republic – Christmas markets amid medieval architecture

Prague attracts tourists with its Christmas markets in historic squares, Gothic cathedrals, and festive lights. Prague’s main Christmas market is located on Old Town Square (Staroměstské náměstí), where a huge Christmas tree decorated with thousands of lights is erected. Wooden market stalls line the square, and the stage hosts Christmas concerts and performances by children’s choirs.

In 2026, tourists will be able to visit several Christmas markets in different parts of the Czech capital:

- Old Town Square – the largest and most famous market, featuring traditional souvenirs, festive performances, and a view of Týn Church

- Wenceslas Square—market stalls featuring works by Czech artisans, culinary treats, and a daily cultural program

- Peace Square (Náměstí Míru)—a cozy market near the Neo-Gothic Church of St. Ludmila, popular among locals

- Republic Square (Náměstí Republiky) – Christmas market stalls near the Powder Tower and the Palladium shopping center.

Among the traditional treats, be sure to try trdelník—a sweet pastry with sugar and cinnamon—grilled sausages, bramboráky (potato pancakes), honey gingerbread, and svařák—a hot drink that is the Czech version of mulled wine. The markets also sell Bohemian glass, wooden toys, ceramics, and handmade Christmas decorations.

Dates for Prague’s Christmas markets in 2026:

- Old Town Square – from November 28, 2026, to January 6, 2027

- Wenceslas Square – from November 28, 2026, to January 6, 2027

- Peace Square – from November 20 to December 24

- Republic Square – from November 25 to December 24

- Tyl Square (Tylovo náměstí) – from November 26 to December 24

The main markets on Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square will be open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.; admission is free. Two to three days are enough to visit the main locations. The view of the Christmas market is especially beautiful from the tower of the Old Town Hall, where you can see the festive square and its main Christmas tree.

Craiova, Romania — one of Europe’s largest Christmas markets

In recent years, Craiova, Romania, has become one of Europe’s most popular Christmas destinations. In 2025, the local market was named the “Best Christmas Market in Europe” based on the results of a vote by European Best Destinations. The festivities span several squares and streets in the historic center, which are adorned with large-scale light installations, themed decorations, and millions of multicolored lights.

The main theme of the 2026 Craiova Christmas Market is “The Land of Elves” (Tărâmul Elfilor). Organizers are planning themed market stalls, festive attractions, and entertainment areas for children and adults.

Among the main locations:

- Piața Mihai Viteazul – the city’s central square, where large festive decorations and entertainment are traditionally concentrated

- Strada Unirii – one of the main streets along the festive route, featuring market stalls and illuminations

- Piața Frații Buzești – a historic square with themed festive attractions

- Piața William Shakespeare – another part of the Christmas village, featuring shopping and entertainment areas.

At the fair, you can buy Christmas decorations, handmade gifts, ceramics, and traditional Romanian souvenirs. Among the local delicacies, be sure to try sarmale—cabbage rolls stuffed with meat, mici—grilled meat sausages without casings, the sweet pastry cozonac, and hot spiced wine.

Dates for 2026: November 13, 2026, through January 3, 2027. One to two days are sufficient to visit the main holiday attractions. It’s especially interesting to visit in the evening when the lights come on. Krajowa is perfect for a family Christmas trip thanks to its abundance of themed decorations and entertainment.

Nuremberg, Germany – a legendary Christmas market with a centuries-old history

The Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt is one of Germany’s oldest and most famous Christmas markets, with a history dating back to the 16th century. Every year, about 180 wooden pavilions with distinctive red-and-white roofs are set up in the central Hauptmarkt square. This has earned the market the nickname “a town made of wood and fabric.” The main tradition is the grand opening, featuring the Christmas angel Christkind, who delivers a festive address from the balcony of the Frauenkirche.

Unlike many modern Christmas festivals, Nuremberg takes particular care to preserve its historical traditions.

Among the most interesting locations and attractions:

- Christkindlesmarkt on Hauptmarkt – the main market featuring wooden toys, glass ornaments, Christmas pyramids, and traditional souvenirs

- Kinderweihnacht—a children’s Christmas village on Hans-Sachs-Platz with carousels, a mini-train, and creative workshops where children can make their own gifts

- Markt der Partnerstädte—a sister cities fair on Rathausplatz featuring Christmas gifts and traditional goods from various countries

- Sternenhaus – a cultural space for children featuring theater performances, fairy tales, and holiday events.

Nuremberg’s special pride is its famous Nürnberger Lebkuchen gingerbread, made with nuts, honey, and spices. Also worth trying are the small grilled sausages known as Nürnberger Rostbratwürste, traditional mulled wine (Glühwein), and the local drink Feuerzangenbowle—hot wine with rum and caramelized sugar.

Dates for 2026: November 27 through December 24. The grand opening will take place on November 27 at 5:30 p.m. The main market will be open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., and on December 24, until 2:00 p.m. The sister cities’ market will close a day earlier, on December 23.

One to two days are sufficient to visit the Nuremberg Christmas Market. The best time to visit is in late November or early December. The main festive venues are within walking distance of one another, so it’s convenient to explore them while strolling through the historic city center.

Cologne, Germany – Christmas markets near the famous Gothic cathedral

Cologne is famous for hosting some of Germany’s most visited Christmas markets. The main Weihnachtsmarkt am Kölner Dom attracts about 5 million visitors each year. It is located on Roncalliplatz near Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A huge light canopy shaped like a starry sky shines over the wooden pavilions, and a festive Christmas tree is set up in the center.

Over 100 free cultural events are organized for guests, including concerts and children’s performances.

In addition to the market near the cathedral, Cologne offers several themed holiday villages:

- Heinzels Wintermärchen – Cologne’s largest Christmas market by area, located at Alter Markt and Heumarkt. It features over 100 market stalls, children’s carousels, and an ice rink covering an area of about 1,800 m²

- Hafen-Weihnachtsmarkt – a market near the Chocolate Museum on the banks of the Rhine. About 70 market stalls are decorated in a nautical style, and the 50-meter Ferris wheel offers a panoramic view of the city

- Markt der Engel – the “Market of Angels” on Neumarkt Square, known for its festive lights and romantic atmosphere

- Nikolausdorf – St. Nicholas’ Christmas Village on Rudolfplatz near the medieval Hahnentorburg Gate

At Cologne’s markets, be sure to try Reibekuchen (potato pancakes) with apple sauce, grilled sausages, gingerbread, and hot mulled wine. Those with a sweet tooth will enjoy chocolate treats, caramelized nuts, and traditional Christmas pastries. Popular souvenirs include wooden toys, ceramics, candles, and handmade ornaments.

Dates for the 2026 Cologne Christmas markets:

- Weihnachtsmarkt am Kölner Dom – November 16 through December 23

- Heinzels Wintermärchen – November 23 through January 10, 2027. The Alter Markt location will be open only until December 23; the market will be closed on December 24–25

- Hafen-Weihnachtsmarkt – November 13 through January 3, 2027

- Markt der Engel – November 16 through December 23

- Nikolausdorf – November 16 through December 23

You should set aside two days to explore Christmas in Cologne. Most of the central markets are located close to one another, and the main one near the cathedral is just a few minutes’ walk from the central train station. If you’re planning a trip after December 25, be sure to check out Heinzels Wintermärchen and the Hafen-Weihnachtsmarkt, which remain open through the New Year’s period.

Riga, Latvia – a Christmas market in the heart of the Old Town

Riga offers one of the most atmospheric Christmas markets in the Baltics. The main Vecrīgas Ziemassvētku tirdziņš takes place on Doma Square (Doma laukums), near the famous Riga Cathedral. The market has been held since 2000, and last season it welcomed tourists from over 50 countries around the world. The festive village is known for its traditional Latvian crafts, live music, and wooden pavilions serving local delicacies. Unlike large-scale Christmas festivals with numerous attractions, Riga captivates visitors with its authentic Baltic atmosphere.

Among the fair’s main highlights:

- Dome Square – the main Christmas tree, festive huts, handicrafts, and traditional Latvian products

- Santa Claus’s House – a festive spot for children where they can meet Christmas characters and send a letter to Lapland

- Musical program—performances by choirs and folk ensembles, as well as festive concerts

- Latvian crafts—woolen mittens and socks with traditional patterns, amber jewelry, ceramics, and beeswax candles.

Riga’s culinary highlights include traditional Latvian gray peas with bacon (pelēkie zirņi ar speķi), smoked meats, rye bread, and Christmas gingerbread cookies (piparkūkas). At the fair, you can also buy roasted almonds, local sweets, and hot mulled wine with spices.

Dates for 2026: November 27, 2026, through January 3, 2027. One to two days are enough to explore Christmas-time Riga. In addition to the market on Dome Square, it’s worth taking a stroll through the narrow streets of the Old Town, visiting the House of the Blackheads, and seeing Līvu Square. All these locations are close to one another, so it’s easy to visit them on foot.

Walkenburg, the Netherlands – unique Christmas markets in underground caves

Valkenburg in the Netherlands offers one of the most unique formats for Christmas celebrations in Europe. The local Christmas markets are held not only in the town squares but also in underground caves, among ancient limestone galleries. In 2025, the city won awards for Europe’s best Christmas parade and the Netherlands’ best Christmas market. The Christmas Town Valkenburg festival program features underground shopping galleries, themed exhibitions, light installations, and street parades.

Among the most interesting locations in Valkenburg are:

- Gemeentegrot – a large-scale underground Christmas market where booths selling gifts, decorations, and souvenirs are lined up along illuminated cave corridors

- Fluweelengrot – a festive market in historic underground galleries featuring Christmas decorations, handmade crafts, and historical murals

- Landal Christmas Parade – a Christmas parade with illuminated floats, music, and festive characters on the city streets

- Santa’s Village – a Christmas village with market stalls, themed decorations, and festive treats

- Incredible Sand – an exhibition of sand sculptures depicting the Christmas story, on display at the Nieuwe Kerk.

At the markets, you can sample Dutch mini-pancakes (poffertjes), caramel waffles (stroopwafels), traditional Christmas sweets, and hot chocolate. Popular souvenirs include glass Christmas tree ornaments, candles, ceramics, and crafts by local artisans.

Dates for 2026:

- Christmas Town Valkenburg – November 13, 2026, through January 3, 2027

- Gemeentegrot – November 13 through December 30, 2026

- Fluweelengrot – November 13 through December 30, 2026

- Incredible Sand – from November 13, 2026, to January 3, 2027

Both underground markets will be open on weekdays from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and on weekends from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. The cave markets will be closed on December 25.

There is an admission fee for the underground markets. At Gemeentegrot, an adult ticket costs 9.30 euros on weekdays and 11.30 euros on weekends when booked online. It is recommended to book your visit in advance, especially for Saturdays and Sundays. You should set aside 1–2 days to explore the two caves and the festive venues in the city center.

Zurich, Switzerland – Christmas markets with light shows and an Alpine atmosphere

Zurich offers several Christmas markets, each with its own unique atmosphere: from traditional wooden huts in the Old Town to a large-scale festive village right at the central train station. What makes Zurich special during the Christmas season is the blend of Swiss traditions, modern light installations, culinary festivals, and picturesque architecture.

During the 2026 season, tourists will be able to visit the following festive locations:

- Christkindlimarkt at Zürich Hauptbahnhof—one of Europe’s largest indoor Christmas markets. The station’s main hall will feature over 100 market stalls, a large Christmas tree, and festive light displays

- Bellevue Noël—a revamped Christmas market on Sechseläutenplatz in front of the Opera House. In 2026, it will feature an unusual 50-meter-long Advent wreath that visitors can walk through, as well as a cozy fondue restaurant

- Münsterhof – a festive village near the Fraumünster Church, known for products from local brands, unique souvenirs, concerts, and workshops

- Dörfli in the Niederdorf district – Zurich’s oldest Christmas market, featuring market stalls lining the narrow streets of the Old Town and a small, free children’s ice rink at Rosenhof

- Werdmühleplatz – a small market whose main attraction is the Singing Christmas Tree—festive choir performances on a stage shaped like a Christmas tree.

Among the traditional Swiss treats, be sure to try cheese fondue, raclette, hot chocolate, waffles, and spiced mulled wine. Tirggel—thin honey cookies with distinctive embossed patterns—remain a popular local treat.

Dates for Zurich’s Christmas markets in 2026:

- Christkindlimarkt at the main train station – November 19 through December 24

- Bellevue Noël – November 19 through December 23

- Münsterhof – November 19 through December 24

- Dörfli in the Old Town – November 19 through December 23

- Werdmühleplatz – November 19 through December 23

The Illuminarium in the courtyard of the Swiss National Museum is definitely worth a visit; it will be open from November 5 to December 30, 2026. Visitors can enjoy light shows, music, and food courts. Two days are enough to explore Zurich’s main Christmas venues. Most of the markets are located in the city center, so they’re easy to reach on foot or by public transportation.

Bruges, Belgium – Fairytale Christmas markets amid medieval canals

Bruges, Belgium, is considered one of the most romantic Christmas destinations in Europe. Medieval houses, narrow cobblestone streets, and picturesque canals create a special atmosphere, and during the Winter Glow (Wintergloed) festival, the historic center comes alive with festive lights, wooden pavilions, and Christmas entertainment. For the 2026/2027 season, the city has prepared a revamped program featuring a light and music show and new cultural events.

Bruges’ top Christmas spots:

- Markt (Market Square) – the central Christmas market near the famous Belfry. Here you’ll find Christmas tree decorations, gifts, sweets, and traditional Belgian treats.

- Simon Stevinplein – a cozy market with an emphasis on local produce, artisanal goods, and handmade souvenirs.

- Koning Albert I Park – a winter destination featuring an ice rink and the festive IJsgloed bar, where you can relax after a stroll through the city.

- Bruges’ Historic Center – festively decorated streets, canals, and squares. In 2026, the program will be complemented by a new light and music show.

Bruges will be especially appealing to foodies. At the markets, be sure to try Belgian waffles, chocolate pralines, French fries with a variety of sauces, and hot mulled wine. Popular souvenirs include traditional Bruges lace, chocolate assortments, ceramics, and holiday decorations.

Dates for 2026:

- Christmas markets at Markt and Simon Stevinplein – from November 20, 2026, to January 3, 2027.

- Winter Glow Festival – from November 20, 2026, to February 14, 2027.

You should set aside 1–2 days to visit Bruges during the Christmas season. Both markets are located in the historic center, about a 5-minute walk from each other. The city looks especially beautiful after sunset, when the festive lights are reflected in the water of the canals. For a romantic getaway, you can round out your itinerary with a stroll along the Rozenhoedkaai Canal and a visit to the historic Burg Square.

Edinburgh, Scotland – Christmas markets with a view of the ancient castle

Every year, Edinburgh, Scotland, hosts one of the UK’s largest winter festivals—Edinburgh’s Christmas. During the 2025/2026 season, over 3 million people attended the festive events. The main Christmas market is located in the East Princes Street Gardens, offering views of Edinburgh Castle and the famous Scott Monument. There are about 70 market stalls here selling gifts, crafts by local artisans, and Christmas treats. Christmas in Edinburgh in 2026 offers not only traditional markets but also numerous attractions and festive shows.

Among the most interesting locations:

- East Princes Street Gardens – the main Christmas market with wooden huts, souvenirs, and food courts

- LNER Big Wheel—a 46-meter-tall Ferris wheel offering views of the historic city center and festive lights

- Around the World Starflyer—an 80-meter-tall ride with suspended seats and panoramic views

- West Princes Street Gardens – the Festive Family Funfair, a family-friendly amusement park with carousels, rides, and festive treats

- George Street – a festive area featuring the Polar Ice Bar and other winter activities.

At the Christmas markets, you can sample Scottish shortbread, traditional meat pies, hot chocolate, spiced cider, and mulled wine. Popular gifts include wool scarves with tartan patterns, jewelry, ceramics, and items crafted by Scottish artisans.

Dates for 2026: November 14, 2026, through January 3, 2027. The festive market in East Princes Street Gardens will be open throughout the holiday season, except on December 25. Admission to the market is free, but tickets for the Ferris wheel, rides, and certain attractions are sold separately.

You should plan to spend 2–3 days visiting Edinburgh. In addition to the Christmas markets, you can stroll along the Royal Mile, visit Edinburgh Castle, and see the festive lights in the historic city center. If you’re planning to stay until New Year’s, be sure to check out Edinburgh’s Hogmanay—a large-scale Scottish New Year’s festival taking place from December 29, 2026, to January 1, 2027.

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We remind you! Skyscanner has highlighted 10 travel destinations for 2027 that have seen a noticeable surge in interest: from Bishkek to Samos, Greece. Read more about the top picks, their main attractions, and the best time to visit.

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