The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to get into the spirit than by visiting a magical Christmas market? The smell of mulled wine, the sound of carolers, and the sight of twinkling lights all combine to create an unforgettable experience. As the world gears up to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year, we've rounded up the 12 best Christmas markets around the globe that are sure to make your holiday season merry and bright.
Related: 12 Picturesque Festive Locations for the Winter Holidays
Vienna’s Rathausplatz Christmas Market is a mesmerizing blend of history and festivity. Set against the backdrop of the city’s magnificent town hall, it features over 150 stalls selling ornaments, local crafts, and delicious Austrian specialties like sausages and Lebkuchen. Visitors can enjoy ice skating on beautifully lit rinks, while children delight in workshops creating seasonal crafts. The twinkling lights adorning the square and the sound of carolers add to the enchanting atmosphere. Whether you’re here for the food, the handmade gifts, or the festive spirit, this market captures the magic of a classic European Christmas.
Often referred to as the "Capital of Christmas," Strasbourg boasts one of Europe’s oldest and most iconic Christmas markets. Situated around the towering Gothic Strasbourg Cathedral, the market dates back to 1570. Visitors can explore rows of wooden chalets offering Alsatian delicacies such as bredele cookies and mulled wine.
The grand Christmas tree in Place Kléber stands as a centerpiece of holiday cheer. The market also focuses on community with its "Sharing Village," promoting togetherness and festive goodwill. The cozy streets, illuminated by twinkling lights, make Strasbourg a must-visit for holiday enthusiasts.
Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt is the epitome of traditional German Christmas markets. Located in the city’s historic main square, it’s renowned for its dedication to handcrafted goods like nutcrackers, wooden toys, and the iconic Nuremberg gingerbread.
The market’s opening ceremony, led by the Christkind dressed as an angel, sets the tone for a festive celebration. Visitors can warm up with a cup of glühwein while soaking in the medieval ambiance. With its focus on authenticity and tradition, this market is a beloved holiday destination.
Prague’s Old Town Square transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. The market is surrounded by stunning historic architecture, including the famous Astronomical Clock. Stalls brimming with traditional Czech crafts and delicacies like trdelník and hot mead create an irresistible festive atmosphere.
A towering Christmas tree, adorned with lights, stands at the center of the square. Live performances of holiday music and dance further enhance the experience, making it a perfect stop for travelers seeking a blend of history and holiday cheer.
Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens offers a magical holiday experience in its historic amusement park setting. The market’s Scandinavian-inspired stalls sell everything from handcrafted decorations to Nordic treats like aebleskiver and gløgg. Visitors can enjoy the park’s rides or glide across the ice-skating rink set on the park’s lake.
The fairy-tale lighting, combined with festive entertainment, creates a dreamy atmosphere that delights visitors of all ages. Tivoli’s unique blend of tradition and modernity makes it a standout destination.
Related: 5 Most Unusual Christmas Markets Around Europe
The Main Market Square in Kraków comes alive with festive spirit during the Christmas season. Known for its old-world charm, this market offers a variety of Polish specialties, including pierogi, oscypek cheese, and spiced nuts. Stalls display intricate wood carvings and hand-painted glass ornaments, perfect for unique holiday gifts.
Travelers can also enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides through the historic streets for a picture-perfect holiday experience. In addition to its culinary delights, Kraków's market is also renowned for its traditional crafts.
Brussels’ Winter Wonders is a holiday extravaganza! The market is a kaleidoscope of twinkling lights, colorful stalls, and the aroma of Belgian waffles and speculoos. Visitors can enjoy ice skating in the heart of the city, sip mulled wine, and shop for unique gifts and handmade crafts. The Christmas tree on the Grand Place, surrounded by illuminated decorations, sets the scene for a magical atmosphere. With its charming blend of tradition and holiday cheer, Brussels’ Winter Wonders offer a delightful escape into the festive season.
Salzburg's Christkindlmarkt is pure Austrian Christmas magic. It's set against the stunning backdrop of the Hohensalzburg Fortress and the Salzburg Cathedral, which just adds to the charm. You can find beautiful handcrafted ornaments, local crafts, and all the delicious treats you'd expect: gingerbread, roasted chestnuts, and, of course, Glühwein. It has a classic, traditional feel, with beautiful decorations.
It can get busy, but the atmosphere is genuinely festive and heartwarming. You will be transported back in time for a great Christmas experience. This old town market is a must.
The Toronto Christmas Market, now called The Distillery Winter Village, is a charming, historic spot turned festive. It's nestled in the Distillery District, with all those cool Victorian-era buildings. You can browse handcrafted gifts, sip hot chocolate, and munch on all sorts of treats. Think poutine, pretzels, and other yummy comfort food. There's usually live music, a big, sparkly tree, and lots of photo ops. It's a bit smaller but is a great visit. The atmosphere is festive. Also, it is a great way to get into the holiday spirit.
Tallinn's Christmas Market feels like stepping into a proper fairytale. It's set in the Town Hall Square, surrounded by all those beautiful old buildings. You'll find local crafts, warm woolly socks, and handcrafted ornaments. Of course, there's plenty of good food too - try the black pudding if you're feeling adventurous! It's less frantic than some of the bigger markets, with a genuinely cozy, old-world vibe. The air smells of gingerbread and roasted almonds. It's the perfect place to soak up some authentic Christmas magic. The entire area turns into a land of wonder.
Related: Time Travel 100 Years to Celebrate Vintage Christmas
Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland turns the iconic London green space into a festive paradise from November to January. The park bursts with twinkling lights, a giant ice rink, and colorful market stalls. Visitors can enjoy thrilling rides, delicious street food, and the enchanting Spirit of the Season show. Whether you’re skating under the stars or sipping hot chocolate by the fire pits, the festive atmosphere and family-friendly activities make it a magical destination for all.
Hibiya Park's Christmas market is a fun little slice of Europe in the middle of Tokyo. You can find all sorts of goodies: think German beer, sausages, and those cute wooden ornaments. Twinkling lights are everywhere, and there's usually a big Christmas pyramid imported straight from Germany. It gets pretty crowded, especially on weekends, but the atmosphere is pure holiday cheer. Great music, good food, cool decorations. What more does a good market need? It is fun for everyone.
