european christmas markets trip

26 Best Christmas Markets in Europe, From Vienna to Zagreb

By Caitlin Morton and Jessica J. Lee

No one does the holidays quite like Europeans . From December to January, Christmas markets in Europe blend tradition with culinary flair. Think wooden chalets in medieval squares, angelic choirs and snow-capped cathedrals , twinkly lights on trees, log fires, and perhaps most importantly, seasonal treats both savory and sweet, along with all the hot mulled wine you can drink.

As the days become short and the temperatures drop, town squares fill with locals toasting the season, and celebrating with friends and family. Why not join them? Whether you want the long nights of nordic winter or the more temperate climes of southern Europe, there’s plenty of fairy-tale festiveness to go around.

Here, in no particular order, are 26 of the best Christmas markets in Europe—from big city destinations to those off the beaten track (plus, where to base yourself when you make the trip).

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. Additional reporting by Katherine LaGrave.

Cologne, Germany

Location: Cologne Cathedral in Cologne, Germany

Why we love it: This market has everything you'd expect of a classic German spread. Glühwein, crafts, twinkling lights. One thing that stands out, though, is its entertainment—more than 100 stage performances throughout the festival, including Christmas swing music and gospel, puppet shows, and performances for children. After you've had your fill of tunes (and food), head toward nearby Hohe Strasse and Schildergasse, two of Cologne's well-known shopping areas, or make your way to Heumarkt for a spot of ice skating

Where to stay: Legend Hotel Cologne (0.2 miles away)

Helsinki, Finland

Location: Senate Square in Helsinki, Finland

Why we love it: This market scores major points for its mix of contemporary and traditional—as well as its commitment to sustainability. Though visitors can do everything from playing bingo for a vegan ham to watching a holiday outfit contest for dogs, it's not all quirky: Choirs sing Christmas carols on the weekends, and visitors can stroll illuminated market stalls while drinking hot mulled wine. Try some artisan cheeses or munch on candied nuts and jam-filled pastries. Not feeling Finnish enough for you? Relax in the wood-heated unisex sauna, smack in the middle of the market in Senate Square.

Where to stay: Hotel St George (0.4 miles away)

Málaga, Spain

Location(s): Muelle Uno, Paseo de Parque, and light displays on Calle Marques de Larios in Málaga, Spain

Why we love it: Want to escape the cold and try out a Mediterranean winter ? Head to the south of Spain for one of Andalucia ’s most famous Christmas market destinations. Stroll from the old port and Santa’s Grotto to Paseo de Parque to buy some local crafts. Nibble on traditional shortbread, nougat, and borrachuelos (wine-flavored fried pastries) as you make your way to Calle Marques de Larios to see the elaborate light displays. Best of all? You can even soak up festive cheer after the main holidays end, as the markets run into early January.

Where to stay: Vincci Larios Diez (0 miles away—it’s right on Calle Larios)

Brussels, Belgium

Location: Grand-Place in Brussels, Belgium

Why we love it: Every December, “Plaisirs d’Hiver” takes over the open areas around the Bourse stock exchange, the Place de la Monnaie, the Place Sainte-Catherine, and the Marché aux Poissons, transforming the city into a winter wonderland . With more than 200 wood chalets, a covered ice rink, a Ferris wheel, and a light and sound show projected onto the Grand-Place, there’s something for the whole family to enjoy. Indulge in crisp fries with mayonnaise, tartiflette (a French potato casserole), Belgian chocolate (obviously) and waffles dotted with pearl sugar before doing a spot of Christmas shopping at the many stalls selling locally-crafted and artisan goods.

Where to stay: Hotel Amigo, A Rocco Forte Hotel (0.06 miles away)

Jessica Puckett

Olivia Morelli

Melissa Liebling-Goldberg

Devra Ferst

Prague, Czech Republic

Location: Old Town and Wenceslas Square, with smaller markets at nearby Havel’s Market and Republic Square, in Prague, Czech Republic

Why we love it: Just five minutes apart by foot, Prague’s Old Town and Wenceslas markets are the best in a city that already tops our list of places to spend Christmas. (Chalk it up to the Gothic architecture and mulled wine stalls.) Fill up on traditional fish soup cooked in steaming vats, langoš (flatbreads) topped with cheese, and smoked meat dumplings. Don’t miss the roast ham and trdelník, otherwise known as chimney cake—a hot, rolled pastry rolled in cinnamon and sugar and cooked over a grill. Also, pack your hat and gloves: It gets cold here in December.

Where to stay: Four Seasons Hotel Prague (0.7 miles away)

Copenhagen, Denmark

Location: Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen, Denmark

Why we love it: The real-life inspiration for Disneyland , this twinkling theme park is the third-oldest operating amusement park in the world and beloved by tourists and locals alike. Come winter, it gets decked out in more than 500,000 fairy lights for the festive season. Enjoy music by the Tivoli Youth Guard while you warm up by a log fire. Kids can enjoy the rollercoasters before heading inside for family-friendly stage shows at the Glass Hall Theater and Tivoli Concert Hall. And don't miss delicious Danish treats like aebleskiver, small pancake puffs topped with powdered sugar, or honninghjerter. Similar to German gingerbread, this dense honey cake is sometimes filled with jam and buttercream and topped with a chocolate glaze. Hygge, indeed .

Where to stay: Nobis Hotel (0.1 miles away)

Frankfurt, Germany

Location: Römerberg, Paulsplatz, Mainkai, Hauptwache, Friedrich-Stoltze-Platz, and Roßmarkt in Frankfurt, Germany

Why we love it: Spread over the old city center and dating back to a winter market first held in the 14th century, Frankfurt’s Christmas market is one of Germany’s largest and oldest. Pick up Lebkuchen (Germany’s traditional gingerbread), roasted chestnuts and smoked salmon while browsing handicrafts to find the right gift for everyone on your list. From Friedrich-Stoltze-Platz you can find the city’s LGBTQ+ “Pink Christmas” market, where all the stalls are decorated in—you guessed it—pink. Be sure not to catch the chiming of the church bells or the Advent concerts that take place every December weekend until Christmas. Grab a bratwurst and a locally-produced Apfelwein (apple wine) as you take in the huge scale of this Weihnachtsmarkt.

Where to stay: Steigenberger Frankfurter Hof (0.3 miles away)

Wrocław, Poland

Location: Market Square and Plac Solny in Wrocław, Poland

Why we love it: While recent years and soaring energy prices have seen the range of light displays scaled back somewhat, the Christmas market in the main city square of Wrocław remains a destination for visitors from all over Central Europe. This classic Christmas market officially comes to life around December 6, when Santa Claus greets visitors and the tree lights get switched on. But you don't have to wait until December to start sampling treats from the wooden stalls: we're talking potato pancakes, bigos (hunter’s stew),sausages, pierogi, chocolate gingerbread, waffles (in various flavors), and all the mulled wine you can handle.

Where to stay: Hotel Monopol (0.2 miles away)

Trento, Italy

Location: Piazza Fiera and Piazza Cesare Battisti in Trento, Italy

Why we love it: Each year, the cobblestoned streets of Trento, in the mountainous northern Italian region of Trentino–Alto Adige, are filled with Christmas-light-covered trees and 90 wooden huts, combining for what Italians call Città del Natale , or “Christmas Town.” Vendors sell sheep’s cheeses and dried orange slices below the 13th-century Buonconsiglio Castle, and the Alps in the distance provide an incredible backdrop to the whole scene. Don’t miss the city’s fountains decorated with nativity displays by local craftspeople and be sure to fill up on tortel di patate (potato cake) and jam-filled treccia mochèna before the evening ends.

Where to stay: Il Torrione (0.04 miles away)

Edinburgh, Scotland

Location: East Princes Street Gardens in Edinburgh, Scotland

Why we love it: Adjacent to the Scottish National Gallery , this annual market turns Edinburgh 's sprawling East Princes Street Gardens into a “Santa Land” that you can witness from high above, atop the 108-foot-tall Ferris wheel, a.k.a the Big Wheel, and where you can scope out the view of Edinburgh Castle lit up for the season. Free family events in West Princes Street Gardens include a carols concert—and a celebration of Diwali too. Visit George Street for Edinburgh's Christmas ice rink; be sure to warm up with hot drinks and food afterwards. Indulge in Scottish holiday treats like venison burgers, Scottish craft brews, and hot toddies.

Where to stay: The Edinburgh Grand (0.4 miles away)

Vienna, Austria

Location: City Hall (on Rathausplatz) in Vienna, Austria

Why we love it: Some cities just look better covered in snow , and Vienna is one of them. Add some white lights against the backdrop of the city’s imposing City Hall, and you’ll see why this market is called the Viennese Dream . It has everything from reindeer rides to an ice rink for skating and curling, plus a ferris wheel and old-fashioned merry-go-round. Fill up on sausages stuffed with cheese, vanillekipferl (vanilla crescent cookies), and mulled wine. This is about as classic as it gets, folks.

Where to stay: Le Méridien Vienna (0.7 miles away)

Budapest, Hungary

Location: St. Stephen's Square in Budapest, Hungary

Why we love it: St. Stephen’s Basilica is Hungary's largest church , dedicated to the country's first king (Stephen, of course). It's fitting, then, that this festival takes place around the landmark in Szent István Square with 160 vendors, a skating rink, and weekend folk dance shows. Most of the action is in full swing before Christmas, but if you're there on January 1, stop by the fair for some lencseleves, or lentil soup—it's traditionally made in Hungary on New Year's Day as a symbol of prosperity for the coming year. And if you aren’t yet convinced, Budapest’s Christmas market was recently crowned Europe’s best in a vote by Europe’s Best Destinations .

Where to stay: Aria Hotel Budapest by Library Hotel Collection (0.08 miles away)

Gdańsk, Poland

Location: Targ Węglowy in Gdańsk, Poland

Why we love it: This port city on the Baltic Sea boasts an unexpected claim to fame: Its Christmas market recently beat out hundreds of others to become Europe’s second best (see Budapest, above, for the top spot). The whole center of town transforms into a festive fair with over 150 stalls. You’ll find everything from nutcrackers to wool hats and handmade candles. After tasting Polish classics like pierogi and smoked cheese, you can indulge in everything from crispy tofu to fresh churros at its international food stalls. Kids can enjoy the Christmas storytelling sessions or even nature talks from the region’s forest rangers.

Where to stay: Hotel Gdansk Boutique (0.75 miles away)

Colmar, France

Location: Place des Dominicains, Place Jeanne d’Arc, Place de l’Ancienne Douane, Koïfhus, Petite Venise, and Gourmet Market Place de la Cathédrale (all six markets are in and around Old Town) in Colmar, France

Why we love it: With its timbered houses and canal-lined streets, Colmar is basically a fairytale come to life year-round. But tack on some twinkle lights, an ice skating rink, and an early-1900’s carousel, and you have yourself one of the most charming Christmas destinations in all of Europe. Each market offers its own version of holiday cheer, from nativity scenes to children’s choirs, so be prepared for some serious stall-hopping. And foodies needn’t worry: The gourmet market will have you satisfied with oysters and Alsatian wines .

Where to stay: Hôtel Le Colombier (0.06 to 0.3 miles away, depending on the market)

Alberobello, Italy

Location: Piazza del Popolo, Largo Martellotta, Largo Trevisani and Largo Pietra Ficcata in Alberobello, Puglia, Italy

Why we love it: Alberobello is famous for its mid-14th century “trulli,” conical white houses typical to southern Italy—and they take center stage at the Christmas Market Under the Trulli. Throughout December, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is alight with bright stars, moons, and snowflakes, all projected on the historic limestone walls. Wander the cobbled streets of the tiny town, admire the glimmering display, munch on cod fritters and pettole (sweet fried doughnuts), and wash it all down with a glug of vincotto. Don’t miss the “living nativity” scene in the days after Christmas—booking recommended!

Where to stay: Le Corti del Casale (1 mile away)

Zagreb, Croatia

Location: Pretty much the entire city of Zagreb, Croatia

Why we love it: Voted the best Christmas market in Europe in 2016, 2017, and 2018, Advent in Zagreb is pure holiday magic, mixed with a healthy dose of spectacle. Instead of being confined to one city block, Zagreb's festival spreads across the entire city: find traditional stalls in Trg Bana Jelačića (the main city square), ice skating in Tomislavac, concerts in European Square, and a live nativity scene in front of Zagreb Cathedral. Indulge in pork sausage sandwiches, cabbage rolls, and strudla—the Croatian take on apple strudel—washed down with a glass of rakija, a popular spirit.

Where to stay: Esplanade Zagreb Hotel (0.5 miles away from Trg Bana Jelačića)

Dresden, Germany

Location: Altmarkt Square in Dresden, Germany

Why we love it: Founded as a one-day market in 1434, the Dresden Striezelmarkt is widely considered Germany's oldest—though Frankfurt and Munich have also tried for the title. Age aside, Dresden’s market is certainly the most traditional: think handmade wooden toys, a festive train for the kids, and boughs of fragrant pine decorating every wooden stall. The annual focal points here are typically the 45-foot-tall Christmas pyramid and the stollen, buttery fruitcake dusted with powdered sugar and packaged with a special seal depicting the city's famous former king, August the Strong. Don’t miss the market’s annual gingerbread fest on December 10th.

Where to stay: Hotel Taschenbergpalais Kempinski (0.2 miles away)

Stockholm, Sweden

Location: Skansen Open-Air Museum in Stockholm, Sweden

Why we love it: If you're looking to get really traditional, visit this open-air museum on the island of Djurgarden in the center of Stockholm, where all of the historic homes and farmsteads are decorated accordingly. Tuck into smoked turkey and sugared almonds at the market, or, if you’re feeling more adventurous, participate in traditional dances around the festive tree at Bollnäs Square and make your own Christmas decorations in the workshop. And if that hasn’t gotten you in the festive mood yet, there are Christmas concerts in the Seglora church each weekend. Make sure to catch the candlelit Lucia procession on December 13.

Where to stay: Grand Hôtel (1 mile away)

Strasbourg, France

Location: Place de la Cathédrale, Place Kléber, Place Gutenberg, Place Broglie, Place du Château (all near the city center) in Strasbourg, France

Why we love it: Strasbourg, a fairytale-like town in the Alsace region of France, becomes even more magical during the holiday season, branding itself the “capital of Christmas.” Its Christkindelsmärik (the oldest Christmas market in France ) attracts several million visitors each year, thanks to its charming wooden chalets, nightly concerts, and ice skating rink—not to mention all that foie gras and hot white wine. Make sure to try some bredele (Alsatian Christmas cookies) and don't forget about the city's other seasonal claim to fame: the Great Christmas Tree illuminated in the central square of Place Kléber.

Where to stay: Hôtel Les Haras (0.5 miles away)

Winchester, England

Location: Winchester Cathedral in Winchester, England

Why we love it: From mid-November to the week before Christmas, Winchester’s Gothic cathedral plays host to a carefully curated festive market. After checking out the region’s stunningly green South Downs National Park, you can head to the market to warm up. Fancy posh macaroni and cheese, a hog roast, or a rich Scotch egg? You’ll be able to indulge as you browse sustainable crafts, stationery, wooden toys, and garden decor. Sip a mulled wine and pick up some chutney and local cheese for your Christmas feast before heading into the cathedral for one of the renowned choral performances.

Where to stay: The Wykeham Arms (0.2 miles away)

Basel, Switzerland

Location: Barfüsserplatz and Münsterplatz in Basel, Switzerland

Why we love it: We all know Switzerland is a winter wonderland , but it also happens to host some of the best Christmas markets in Europe—including Basler Weihnachtsmarkt in the Rhine-side town of Basel. The market features more than 150 vendors selling handmade toys and local treats like Swiss raclette and läckerli (traditional Swiss gingerbread) from their wooden stands, plus enough twinkle lights and trees to fill a million Instagram feeds. Don’t miss the view of the festive scene from St. Martin’s tower, open for admission throughout the Advent period, and be sure to write your Christmas wishes in the Basel Wish Book.

Stay here: Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois (1 mile away)

Tallinn, Estonia

Location: Town Hall Square in Tallinn, Estonia

Why we love it: In addition to Estonian Christmas dishes like black pudding and sour cabbage (it's better than it sounds, promise), Tallinn's market—a quaint fairy-tale village of stalls dusted with snow and twinkling with lights—also has a Santa who arrives by reindeer-pulled sleigh. The highlight, though, is its Christmas tree, which the city has been displaying in front of its town hall since 1441—making it the first Christmas tree to ever be displayed in Europe. Enjoy some gingerbread and mulled wine after taking a spin on the merry-go-round.

Where to stay: Hotel Telegraaf (0.08 miles away)

Salzburg, Austria

Location: Residenzplatz and Salzburg Cathedral in Salzburg, Austria

Why we love it: Salzburg's famed Christkindlmarkt in the center of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old City isn't just mulled wine and market stands: There are daily choral performances, sing-alongs (Tuesdays from 6–8 p.m.) and traditional wind music performed above the square on Thursday and Saturday nights. You can even try your hand at baking gingerbread or head out on a Salzburg Christmas tour to learn all about the market’s history—while indulging in goodies like roast pork sandwiches and roasted almonds along the way. We're not mad about the bauernkrapfen (fried pastries), either.

Stay here: Hotel Goldener Hirsch, a Luxury Collection Hotel (0.3 miles away)

Sibiu, Romania

Location: Piața Mare in Sibiu, Romania

Why we love it: Romania might get a lot of hype around Halloween , but the country embraces Santa Claus just as much as Dracula. See: Sibiu Christmas Market, a glittery sprawl of stalls and fairy lights located in the Sibiu city center. Here you'll find more than 100 merchants, Santa’s workshop, and an ice rink, plus a new 72-feet-tall Ferris wheel, a new addition to last year's market. Be sure to enjoy some mămăligă (polenta), cabbage rolls, and mulled wine—and don’t miss out on meeting Moș Crăciun—that’s Romanian for Santa Claus.

Where to stay: Art Hotel (0.1 miles away)

Oslo, Norway

Location: Spikersuppa in Oslo, Norway

Why we love it: Jul i Vinterland , located in Oslo's city center, has all the elements you'd expect from a classic European Christmas market, from decorated stalls to a tree-lined ice skating rink. But what makes this particular festival stand apart is the food. Be prepared for coconut cupcakes and caramel apples, gløgg and warm porridge, currywurst and smoked salmon from the Lofoten Islands —as well as a chocolate wheel to spin if you’re feeling lucky. As if the culinary delights aren’t adventure enough, there’s a ferris wheel and carnival rides to boot.

Where to stay: Amerikalinjen (0.5 miles away)

Berlin, Germany

Location: KulturBrauerei in Prenzlauer Berg, Berlin, Germany

Why we love it: While Berlin has more Christmas markets than we can count, this small Scandi-themed market in an old brewery courtyard is a real neighborhood favorite. Blend in among the locals meeting for after-work Glühwein as you enjoy a piping hot Flammkuchen (German flatbread) topped with potatoes, bacon, and cheese. Test out Finnish Glögi and Icelandic Jolagløgg (or any of the other mulled wine varieties featured) before diving into raclette or Mutzenmandeln (tiny cone-shaped fritters). Kids can enjoy a hot chocolate in a yurt before taking a ride on the swing carousel, while adults warm their hands by the many wood fires dotted around the site.

Where to stay: Hotel Oderberger Berlin (0.1 miles)

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30 of the best Christmas markets in Europe for 2023

Nov 1, 2023 • 15 min read

Here are some of Europe's best alternative Christmas markets © Image Bank / Getty Images

Chestnuts roasting on an open fire, copious amounts of mulled wine and some of the best hot chocolate you've ever had.

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas across Europe , with hundreds of festive markets glittering brilliantly as soon as the first Advent door is opened. While Germany is the real fairy-tale deal, Christmas markets sparkle across the continent, come snow or shine, with crafts, choirs, light displays, and local grub.

From Alpine summits to tiny island towns, we bring you 30 European favorites that shine with their own Christmas culture, from unmissable classics to off-the-beaten-track faves.

1. Dresden, Germany

Dates : November 29–December 24, 2023

The granddaddy of Germany ’s Christmas markets, Dresden ’s Striezelmarkt has enraptured folk since 1434. It’s big , with 240 chalets welcoming nearly three million visitors each year. But it’s not just for tourists. The backdrop is spellbinding, with thousands of lights and, on the Altmarkt, the world’s biggest Christmas pyramid adorned with life-sized figures. The city on the Elbe fizzes festively with carousels and carollers, ice skating and stalls doing a brisk trade in everything from beautifully handmade nutcrackers, Räuchermännchen (smoking men) and Erzgebirge crib figures to Germany’s tastiest Christstollen, dense, buttery fruitcake sprinkled with icing sugar.

2. Innsbruck, Austria

Dates : November 15–December 23, 2023

In the snowy Austrian Alps, Innsbruck hosts several enchanting Christmas markets. In the medieval old town, a huge tree glitters in front of the Golden Roof, folk bands play and chalets sell decorations, candles, gingerbread, and mulled wine. Kids love the traditional fairground rides and puppet shows on riverside Marktplatz or take them to fairy-tale-themed Kiebachgasse. Market stalls and trees packed with twinkling lights light up Maria-Theresien-Strasse.

3. Nuremberg, Germany

Dates : December 1–24, 2023

You can’t whisper Weihnachtsmarkt (Christmas market) without Nuremberg being uttered in the same breath. Does it live up to the hype? You bet. You’ll have to jostle with crowds, as two million visitors flock here each year, but it’s still fantasy stuff, with a blonde-locked, gold-robed Christkind launching the festivities. The hub is the Hauptmarkt, with its candy-striped chalets dishing out everything from Zwetschgenmännle (figures made from prunes, figs and nuts) to Lebkuchen (gingerbread) and brass-foil Rauschgold angels. But you’ll feel the festive vibes everywhere, with carols, concerts, fairground rides and a magnificent nativity scene in front of the Gothic church .

4. Barcelona, Spain

Dates : November 24–December 23, 2023

Who needs Santa when you can have a grinning, present-pooping log called Caga Tió? You will find this Catalan Christmas oddity in miniature form alongside mistletoe, turrón nougat and a biblical wonderland of nativity figurines at Barcelona 's Fira de Santa Llúcia, sprawling in front of the Gothic cathedral on Plaça de la Seu. And if you think Caga Tió is bizarre, wait until you see the irreverent Caganer, a defecating figurine hidden in the nativity scene for good fortune and fertile harvests.

5. Ravenna Gorge, Germany

Dates: November 24–December 17, 2023

Sheltering under a strikingly illuminated 40m-high viaduct in the thickly wooded, steep-sided Höllental (‘Hell Valley’) in Germany ’s Black Forest , this festive beauty in the Ravenna Gorge looks as though it has been plucked straight from the pages of a Grimm fairy tale. If there’s a dusting of snow, the winter wonderland picture is complete. Tourists? Not really – this one is largely for locals and is all the lovelier for it. Look out for Black Forest paper-cut designs, lambswool rugs and local smoked ham and venison sausage. Take a train to Hinterzarten or Himmelreich, then hop on the free shuttle or walk.

6. Mt Pilatus‏, Switzerland

Dates : November 17–19, 2023

For novelty value and sensational Alpine views, ride to Europe's highest Christmas market on the world's steepest cogwheel railway, which has been trundling up to 6995ft (2132m) Mt Pilatus since 1889. Perched above Lake Lucerne , the mountaintop Christkindlimärt has festive music and over 40 decorated market stalls selling beeswax candles, nativity figurines, gingerbread and other stocking fillers.

7. Zagreb, Croatia

Dates: December 2, 2023–January 7, 2024

The capital of Croatia might not immediately spring to mind when you fix your sights on Christmas markets, but Zagreb ’s is right up there with Europe’s finest. Wintry temperatures, twinkling trees and thousands of fairy lights bring a pinch of festive magic to its parks, squares and historic heart, where the twin-spired Gothic cathedral looms large. Head to Fuliranje (“Fooling Around”) market for carols, concerts, crafts and DJs, or swing across to Ban Jelačić Sq to snack on hot chestnuts, licitars (intricately decorated gingerbread hearts) and Hrvatsko Zagorje–region wooden toys.

8. Schloss Hellbrunn‏, Austria

Dates : November 23–December 24, 2023

Christmas markets glitter all over Austria come Advent, but few are as magical as Hellbrunn Advent Magic held at Salzburg 's Schloss Hellbrunn , with carollers, handicraft stalls, a Christmas train ride and petting zoo for kids, and the baroque palace's 24 windows transformed into a giant Advent calendar. A Christmas parade, brass bands, Alphorn blowers, nativity scenes and a veritable forest of 400 twinkling trees make Yuletide here special.

9. Zürich, Switzerland

Dates : 23 November–23 December 2023

Think you’ve seen one Christmas market, you’ve seen them all? Not like the ones in Zürich you haven’t. Sitting astride its namesake lake and the Limmat River, Switzerland ’s swankiest city pulls out all the stops with a flurry of markets. Hit the alleys of the historic Niederdorf quarter for mulled wine, raclette and fondue, pedal an e-bike to make the lights glimmer on the ginormous tree on the main station concourse, or head over to the Christmas village on Sechseläutenplatz to hunt for gifts in 100 chalets set up in front of the opera house. The icing on the festive cake is the Singing Christmas Tree on Werdmühleplatz, formed by choir singers wearing red beanies, who belt out carols and gospel classics at 5:30pm daily.

10. Colmar, France

Dates : November 24–December 30, 2023

For the true spirit of Christmas, you can't beat Colmar in Alsace , where the gingerbready, half-timbered old town hosts five different Christmas markets. Canal-woven Petite Venise hosts the children's market, keeping the kids entertained with its carousel, animated nativity scene and Santa's letterbox, while antique, art and craft shoppers roam the Ancienne Douane . Alsatian gingerbread, spicy Bredele cookies, anise-flavored Springerle biscuits and kirsch-laced Berawecka fruit cake make great foodie stocking fillers.

11. Lisbon, Portugal

Dates : November 18–December 21, 2023

Lisbon gets its Christmas groove on during Advent with sparkling lights illuminating its praças , parks and azulejo-clad façades. Right in the heart of Baixa, fountain-splashed Rossio Sq is where the action is, with a giant tree, Santa train, choirs, workshops, bands, and chalets selling crafts, mulled wine, hot chestnuts and porco preto (black pork) sandwiches. While you’re in the festive mood, take the kids to Wonderland Lisboa (November 30, 2023, to January 1, 2024) in Parque Eduardo VII for a spin on the Ferris wheel and ice rink.

12. Gengenbach, Germany

Dates : November 30–December 23, 2023

Few towns look as Christmassy as Gengenbach in Germany 's Black Forest . Its half-timbered old town is real snow globe stuff when the fairy lights are flicked on, timber chalets glow and carollers sing in front of the 18th-century, pink-and-cream Rathaus (Town Hall). Grab a spot here at 6pm to see one of 24 windows open to reveal an Advent calendar scene by famous artists and illustrators.

13. Helsinki, Finland

Dates: December 1–22, 2023

With frosty winds whipping across the Baltic and often the promise of snow, the Finnish capital, Helsinki , is the real Christmas deal – and one of the few cities where you can combine a festive shop with a sauna and swim in an avanto (ice hole). Market-wise, the biggie is on elegant 19th-century Senaatintori (Senate Sq), topped off by the pearly-white dome of the neoclassical Tuomiokirkko cathedral. Here a vintage carousel turns and rustic timber chalets sell traditional crafts, decorations and glögi (mulled wine). Festivities kick off with the switching on of the lights on Aleksanterinkatu, with a glittering parade, dance troupes, elves and a visit from Santa all the way from Lapland.

14. Tallinn, Estonia

Dates : December 1, 2023–January 7, 2024

You're more or less guaranteed snow in Tallinn at Christmas. Festivities are spread throughout the Unesco-listed Old Town, with an enormous tree towering above quaint wooden chalets on Raekoja plats (Town Hall Sq), its medieval centerpiece. Estonian crafts like hand-knitted hats, sea-grass animals, wickerwork and wood carvings are top buys. Santa Claus often stages an appearance in the evening. Find respite from sub-zero temperatures in candlelit cafes and warm up with hearty Estonian grub like sauerkraut and blood sausage.

15. Nice, France

Dates : December 7, 2023–January 7, 2024

It’s usually more blue skies, palms and double figures than snow, but Nice is a cracking choice if you want to combine a Christmas shop with a shot of southern French flair. The stately Promenade des Anglais dazzles with lights and Jardin Albert 1er gets properly into the festive swing with chalets selling gifts, crafts, mulled wine and (this being the ritzy Côte d'Azur) champagne and oysters. DJ sets, light festivals, fairground rides and visits from Santa are all part and parcel. And don’t miss the opportunity to grab gourmet stocking fillers like Provençal olive oil and honey.

16. Tromsø, Norway

Dates : 1–22 December, 2023

Oslo’s festivities are bigger, but for snowglobe looks and the true heart-warming spirit of Christmas, stray further north to Tromsø , 400km (248 miles) north of the Arctic Circle. Even bah-humbugs can’t help but be touched by the magic here, with snowy streets beautifully illuminated and stalls selling woolly hats, hand-carved gifts, gløgg (mulled wine) and the local riff on a kebab (wild mutton in pitta). Stomp down to the harbor for the Ferris wheel and ice rink, or float above the city on Fjellheisen cable car to see the lights from above. Here you can combine a festive shop with Northern Lights shows, reindeer sleigh rides and dog sledding. Cool, huh?

17. Winchester, UK

Dates : November 17–December 21, 2023

Gazes are lifted in wonder to the soaring spires of one of Britain’s most magnificent medieval cathedrals at Winchester ’s Christmas market. After a romp around the city’s decorous Elizabethan and Regency streets, the market in the cathedral’s historic grounds beckons. Taking a leaf out of the traditional German book, it’s all incredibly tasteful, with baubled trees, family craft workshops and timber chalets selling everything from hand-carved music boxes to artisan cheese, bean-to-bar chocolate and hand-blown glass. For more festive spirit still, time your visit to catch one of the cathedral’s Christmas concerts.

18. St Helier, Jersey

Dates : November 23–December 10, 2023

Supporting local artisans is central to the Genuine Jersey Simply Christmas Market held in St Helier, Jersey . Chestnut trees strung with lights illuminate Royal Sq, and market stalls get shoppers into the festive spirit with mistletoe, real ales, minced pies and locally-made crafts. There'll be live music and entertainment too, bringing visitors all the Christmas spirit they need in one enticing package.

19. Ulm, Germany

Dates : November 27–December 23, 2023

Never heard of Ulm ? You’re not alone but you are missing a trick. Midway between Munich and Stuttgart, this southern German city on the Danube is a stunner – it’s the birthplace of Albert Einstein, home to a whopping Gothic cathedral crowned by the world’s tallest steeple (161m or 528ft high) and enchants visitors with its canal-woven, half-timbered old quarter. Oh, and its Christmas market is a cracker, with a live nativity scene to coo over, a carousel to ride, a tree glimmering with 18,000 lights, a storytelling yurt, and 120 stalls trading in everything from Steiff toys to beeswax candles and edible snowballs.

20. Malmö, Sweden

Dates : November 24–December 18, 2023

Malmö dishes up a Swedish smorgasbord of Christmas markets, concerts and twinkling trees. Browse for handmade decorations, pausing to warm up over glögg (mulled wine) with pepparkakor (ginger biscuits) or lussekatter (saffron-flavored buns). Katrinetorp manor (December 8–10) is the go-to-market for antiques, poinsettias and festive food, while the market in Gustav Adolf Sq sells fairtrade, recycled and vintage gifts. Slip on skates to twirl around the open-air ice rinks at Raoul Wallenberg’s and Folkets Park.

21. Berlin, Germany

Dates: November 27–December 31, 2023

Berlin turns the Christmas fun up to the max, with more than 80 Weihnachtsmärkte  switching their lights on for Advent and shimmering brightly until New Year. If you have kids in tow, don't miss WeihnachtsZauber on Bebelplatz, overlooked by the grand State Opera . Street entertainers deliver a full-on fairy tale, with acrobats, dance troupes, ice queens, golden angels, choirs and performers on stilts, and white, star-topped tents selling everything from quality ceramics to wood carvings, marzipan, fondue and schnitzel with champagne. If you fancy a shot of snow fun, head over to Potsdamer Platz for ice skating, sledding and mulled wine.

22. Seville, Spain

Dates : November 5–December 23, 2023

You might associate Seville more with flamenco and sunburn than Father Christmas and snow. But the high-spirited capital of Andalucía has tons of festive sparkle, as well as pleasingly mild temperatures and the first oranges ripening on trees in December. Most enchanting of all the Christmas markets is the Feria del Belén on Avenida de la Constitución in the shadow of the Gothic, gold-stone Catedral , which specializes in the belén (nativity scene), with exquisite and incredibly ornate hand-carved scenes, figures and decorations. The streets are also filled with lights, campanilleros (musical choirs) and sweet treats like convent-made polvorones (almond shortbread biscuits).

23. Erfurt, Germany

Dates: 28 November–22 December 2023

Medieval Erfurt , right in the heart of Germany , is a proper feast at Christmas. The city’s big market is on Domplatz, backdropped by the stately Gothic cathedral (where Martin Luther was ordained) and the three-towered, five-naved Severikirche . For kids, it’s like the Nutcracker come to life, with a 20m-high (65ft) tree, Ferris wheel, carousel, towering Christmas pyramid and nativity scene, enchanted forest, fairy-tale scenes and bakery. Brass bands and choirs enliven crowds as they browse 200 stalls selling pottery, Erzgebirge wood carvings and traditional blue-dyed fabrics. Pause to snack on Thuringian bratwurst and Erfurt Schittchen (the local take on Stollen).

24. Padstow, England

Dates : December 7–10, 2023

On the blustery Cornish coast, Padstow's Christmas Festival is a cracker. Rick Stein, Paul Ainsworth and Nathan Outlaw are among a star-studded line-up of chefs giving cookery demos to spice up Christmas dinner. Jazz bands and carollers entertain crowds milling around quayside stalls selling Cornish chutneys, pies and mulled cider, wooden toys and decorations. For kids, there's the reindeer enclosure and Santa Fun Run, where some 200 Father Christmas wannabes race for charity. Fireworks sparkle in the harbor at 8:30pm on Friday.

25. Freiburg, Germany

Dates: November 23–December 23, 2023

In Germany’s Black Forest, snug against the border with Switzerland and France, the vivacious university city of Freiburg hosts one of the country’s loveliest Christmas markets in its alley-woven medieval heart. Lights illuminate the gabled houses on Rathausplatz , where 120 wooden chalets keep things traditional with regional food and crafts. Nose around the stalls for folk carvings and nativity figures, Moravian stars, beeswax candles, sheepskin rugs and Black Forest ham. Snacks like roasted almonds and local Langer Rote sausages pair well with glühwein . Kids will have a blast baking cookies, making candles and riding the Ferris wheel.

26. Budapest, Hungary

Dates : November 18–December 31, 2023

The Hungarian capital dazzles at Christmas, especially at the market on stately Vörösmarty tér , which is transformed into a sea of gold lights and red-baubled trees. There’s no tourist tat at this nostalgic number, just choirs and concerts, glass-blowing, wood-carving and candle-making workshops, and a parade of prettily lit timber chalets where you can pick up mézeskalács (honey gingerbread), Hungarian pottery, embroidery and wood carvings. Warm up over gulyásleves (goulash soup in a bread bowl). If you can, tie in your visit with the candle-lighting ceremony of the enormous wreath at the Basilica of St Stephen at 4pm on Sundays during Advent.

27. Milan, Italy

Dates : December 1, 2023–January 6, 2024

As the fashion powerhouse of northern Italy , Milan styles Christmas in its own glam way. The headline market is Oh Bej! Oh Bej! (How Beautiful! How Beautiful!), which kicks off on December 7, 2023 (the Feast of St Ambrogio) at Renaissance Castello Sforzesco – a fortified vision in red brick. Going strong since 1510, the Christmas fair hums with stalls selling handcrafted toys, flowers, books, artisan-made iron, copper and brass creations, panettone and firunatt (necklace-like strings of chestnuts). More? Head over to the Christmas market twinkling below the Duomo , or go skating and snow tubing at the central station.

28. Basel, Switzerland

Dates : November 23–December 23, 2023

A progressive, art-loving city on the Rhine,  Basel in northern Switzerland is never more bewitching than during Advent, when a heart-warmingly traditional Christmas market springs up on historic Barfüsserplatz and cathedral -crowned Münsterplatz. Snowglobe-strung trees, a fairy-tale forest, a revolving Weihnachtpyramide (Christmas pyramid) with nativity scenes, a fantasy carousel and stalls brimming with handcrafted toys, decorations and crafts await. Snack-wise, try local potato pancakes, grilled sausages and Baumstriezel (chimney cake) with hot chocolate or mulled wine.

29. Vienna, Austria

Dates: November 18, 2023–January 4, 2024

With its palaces and horse-drawn carriages, Vienna is fantasy stuff – and never more than during Advent, when you’re only ever a step away from the next Christmas market. Go for fairground rides, ice skating and mulled wine at the buzzy market in front of the neo-Gothic Rathaus or high-quality crafts at the romantic number in the narrow Biedermeier lanes of Spittelberg . Fairest of the lot, though, is the market on the grounds of Schloss Schönbrunn , with its magnificent tree, choirs, brass bands, carousel, and 80 huts selling everything from nostalgic wooden toys to beeswax candles, felt figurines, Alpine cheese and candied nuts.

30. Brussels, Belgium

Dates : November 24–December 31, 2023

With its step-gabled townhouses, cobbles and strikingly lit Grand Place, Brussels is like a scene behind the door of an old-fashioned Advent calendar. And at Christmas, it’s a knockout. Winter Wonders sprinkles the city with fairy dust, with sound and laser shows and a fabulous tree lighting up the Grand Place, ice and curling rinks and a merry-go-round on Place de Brouckère, and a 200-stall market spreading out from Place Sainte-Catherine, where you can shop for stocking fillers, scoff waffles and pick up Belgian beer and chocolate.

This article was first published Nov 5, 2012 and updated Nov 1, 2023.

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Christmas Market tours and the world-famous Christmas Market River Cruises will once again become available in 2024 and 2025. Every year, eager travelers reserve space on Europe Christmas Market Tours to experience the yuletide season at its best. Now you can on any of our 2024 and 2025 Christmas Market Tours.

Europe Christmas Market Tours remain an incredibly affordable way to travel, mostly due to the off-peak nature of the season. Christmas Market Tours and Christmas Market River Cruises take you through popular Central European destinations like Austria, France, and Germany. Dating back to the 15th century, Christmas Markets in Europe have provided locals and visitors with festive scenes, including Christmas light shows, concerts, hot apple cider, mulled wine, and beautifully decorated trees that rival the giant spruce at Rockefeller Center! Central Europe hosts many traditional markets, with various ways to experience them, such as Christmas Market Tours and Christmas Market River Cruises.

The Difference Between Christmas Market Tours and Cruises

The main difference between a dedicated Christmas Market Tour and a Christmas Market River Cruise is that you only have to unpack once on a cruise. Historically, rivers were the highways of Europe, with major city centers situated right along the banks. For example, beautiful Prague has hugged the Vltava River for over ten centuries, with the river area now home to over 1 million residents. Multi-city bus tours that feature Prague also normally visit Vienna and Budapest. While the overland distance between these cities is around 200 miles, tours usually include stops in charming towns like Bratislava to break up the longer drives. River cruises allow you to wake up to new destinations each day while enjoying views of castles and sites along the passing river banks. Both tour and cruise options may also offer activities like biking along trails near the floating vessels.

What Makes Christmas Market Tours So Special?

• During the four Sundays preceding Christmas (Advent), Christkindlmarkts fill the streets of many cities and villages bringing Christmas to life.
• Getting to see and experience a Christmas Market in Europe by itself is most definitely a bucket list item.
• Having the chance to purchase unusual holiday ornaments not easily found in the states is also a treat.
• Experiencing warm Gluhwein while wandering through Central Europe Christmas Market during a cold winter's night is a highlight.
• Iceskating in Rockefeller Center is a wonderful experience; however, iceskating in the middle of a five hundred year old Christmas Market is entirely something else.
• Discovering hot chimney cakes, Spatzle, and Lebkuchen can transform your experience into something amazing!

But where should you begin when trying to figure out the best Christmas Markets in Europe?

The Best Christmas Markets In Europe

That's easy! The best Christmas Markets in Europe are all of the above, because they're all wonderful! It all depends on if you prefer taking a Christmas Market Tour or Christmas Market River Cruise.

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The Ultimate European Christmas Market Itinerary (2024)

Are you trying to figure out the best route for your European Christmas Market itinerary? You came to the right place!

I absolutely love the Christmas market season in Europe, and for the past 10 years, I made it my mission to visit at least one new Christmas Market each year.

This Christmas market route covers all the best Christmas markets in Europe by public transport.

Yes , you don’t need a car for the European Christmas markets tour , as you can visit all these European Christmas Markets by train or bus!

The best thing about this route is that you can choose if you want to do the whole itinerary or just one leg. 

The full itinerary will probably take you the entire month of December and make for a perfect backpacking Europe winter itinerary . 

However, I divided this itinerary into geographical units you can visit individually on a shorter trip . Also, I suggested some smaller city Christmas Markets you can add to the itinerary if you are focusing on a specific region.

If you’re ready to plan your Europe Christmas market itinerary, let’s jump right in!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. I hope you find the information here helpful!

The Best European Christmas Market Itinerary

Christmas markets in northern europe itinerary.

This European Christmas Market itinerary takes you from the North of Europe to South Central Europe, covering the most popular Christmas Markets along the way, so you have a complete Christmas in Europe itinerary this winter.

This itinerary starts in Belgium, and while I know there are Christmas Markets in other Northern European countries, we can’t cover them all in one trip! 

This is a Christmas market itinerary by train or bus, so each of these Christmas markets is easy to reach by public transport.

1. BRUSSELS Christmas Market, Belgium

The first stop on your Christmas market route is Belgium. We start our Christmas Market expedition from the European capital of Brussels. 

Two days in Brussels is enough time to enjoy the Christmas Market and visit all the main tourist attractions in the city. 

It is a delight to stroll the streets of Brussels decorated for Christmas. The majestic Christmas tree and the Christmas Market are on Grande Place. You will find the ice skating rink on Place de Brouckère.

Remember to try Belgian waffles when in Brussels. They are quintessential Belgian delicacies. My favorite vegan waffles are from Veganwaff !

Brussels Christmas Market Dates 2023 : 24th November to 31st December 2023

How to get to Brussels : You can reach Brussels by air or bus and train from most countries! I use Trainline for booking international train trips.

Where to stay in Brussels for Christmas Market?

Budget backpacker option : Meininger Hostel is super highly rated. It is in a great location and a fantastic budget option for solo travelers!

Hotel option : I love the Urban Yard Hotel in an authentic historic Belgian building for a luxurious accommodation option. 

2. Bruges and Ghent Christmas Market, Belgium (day trip from Brussels)

A visit to Bruges and Ghent Christmas Markets makes for a perfect day trip from Brussels . 

If you are in a rush, you can visit Bruges and Ghent in one day, as they are just a quick 20-minute train ride away from each other. Otherwise, spend a day in each city to get the most out of the magical atmosphere of these medieval towns’ Christmas decorations.

Both cities have enchanting Christmas Markets with a backdrop of Flemish historic buildings along the charming canals. 

Bruges Christmas Market Dates 2023 : 24th November 2023 to 7th January 2024

Ghent Christmas Market Dates 2023 : 7th December to 31st December 2023

How to get there : Take a train from Brussels to Ghent and Bruges. (30 min – 1h)

Where to stay : You can visit Bruges and Ghent on a day trip from Brussels or spend a night in either of these fairytale-like towns.

Best place to stay in Ghent: The best backpacker hostel in Ghent is  Hostel Uppelink .

Best place to stay in Bruges: The best hostel in Bruges is  St. Christophers Inn – Bauhaus Hostel .

3. COLOGNE Christmas Market, Germany (2h train from Brussels)

The Christmas Market in Cologne is one of the most beautiful in Germany. It spreads throughout the city with over 100 stalls offering German delicacies and various handmade Christmas gifts and ornaments.

There are 7 Christmas Markets in Cologne to enjoy, with the most popular one being the Christmas Market in front of the Cologne Cathedral.

Cologne Christmas Market Dates 2023 : 23rd November to 23rd December 2023

Christmas market website : Christmas in Cologne

How to get to Cologne : Take a train or a Flixbus to Cologne from Brussels. I use Trainline for booking international train trips!

Where to stay in Cologne : I only visited on a day trip, so I don’t have a personal recommendation. But, browse all Cologne accommodations on Booking !

Best Christmas Markets in Alsace

If you can only visit one region on this European Christmas Market itinerary, it should be Alsace. I might be biased since I lived in Strasbourg, but nobody does Christmas quite like the Alsatians!

4. STRASBOURG Christmas Market, France (5h 30 min bus from Cologne)

Strasbourg is a self-proclaimed capital of Christmas. It is considered the oldest Christmas Market in the world, dating back to the 16th century! 

You won’t be disappointed if your expectations are high after this introduction. 

Christmas decorations in Strasbourg are borderline extravagant – massive stuffed bears, ornaments, and gifts hanging from the windows. I find it is a magical Christmas story coming to life!

The best way to enjoy Strasbourg’s Christmas Market is to get lost in the cobblestone streets of the city center and marvel at your surroundings, as there are over 300 market stalls around the city.

Start your day in Strasbourg in La Petite France Quarter and admire artistically decorated Christmas ornaments and local product shops. You will find the giant 100m tall Christmas tree and ice skating rink on Place Kleber. 

Strasbourg Cathedral is a majestic sight any time of the year, but in December, it is home to a lively Christmas Market as well!

Alsace is a famous wine region, so you know that Mulled wine must be delicious as well! Remember to try Alsacian Bretzel, a salty snack popular in the region.

Strasbourg Christmas Market Dates 2023 : 24th November to 24th December 2023

Christmas market website: Christmas in Strasbourg

How to get there : You can reach Strasbourg by train or bus from all neighboring countries, including Cologne if you follow this itinerary. A bus from Cologne to Strasbourg is around 5h 30 min.

Where to stay in Strasbourg for Christmas Market?

Backpackers Hostel: The People is perfectly located in Krutenau, a lively neighborhood slightly outside the historic centre. 

Mid-range hotel: Hotel des Arts is located just outside the Grand Ile, only a brief walk from all the attractions.

Splurge traditional Alsacian buildings : If you ever wondered what those half-timbered houses look like inside, Le Lohkäs i s a perfect place to stay at!

5. COLMAR Christmas Market, France (Day trip from Strasbourg)

Colmar Christmas Market is like a concentrated version of the Strasbourg Christmas Market and it is a great stop if you’re visiting European Christmas markets by train.

As the end of November rolls around, the whole city gets a Christmas makeover. The narrow cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses of Colmar decked with Christmas decorations will make you feel like you’re in a Christmas movie. 

A day in Colmar is enough time to visit all the main attractions. You can explore 6 different markets in the city center of Colmar, each set up as a separate mini-village with a different theme. 

Colmar Christmas Market Dates 2023 : 23rd November to 29th December 2023

Christmas market website : Christmas in Colmar

How to get there : Take a train from Strasbourg. (30 min)

Where to stay in Colmar for Christmas Market?

Colmar is a small city, so as long as you are in the city center, you’re within walking distance of the Christmas market. 

Central accommodation option : The location of Le Balcon de Colmar or Gite Moka45 is unbeatable, and accommodation in the historic centre is usually sold out months in advance!

BONUS 1: Christmas Markets in Alsace villages (Day trip from Strasbourg)

If you have more time to discover the Alsace region, Christmas Markets in fairytale villages of Alsace is a perfect activity to add to your itinerary.

The best way to visit the villages is on a day trip from Strasbourg or Colmar.

You don’t need a car as there are special Christmas shuttles available!

The villages along the Alsace wine route already look like they belong in a fairytale. Add Christmas decorations to the colorful half-timbered houses, and you have a recipe for an immaculate Christmas movie set.

If you want to visit multiple villages on the same day, you might consider booking a day tour of Alsace villages!

Christmas Market in Riquewihr

If you want to feel like you’re in Santa’s workshop village, visit Riquewihr. Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit, drink mulled wine, and buy handmade gifts in this hilltop village. 

Visit Christmas Market in Riquewihr from 25 November to 21 December 2023

Christmas Market in Ribeauvillé

Visit Ribeauvillé for a unique Medieval Christmas Market experience. Travel back in time, and learn more about ancient Christmas traditions and practices.

You can enjoy the Medieval Christmas Market in Ribeauvillé on the first and second weekends of December 2023. 

BONUS 2: Christmas Market in Zurich, Switzerland (2.5h train from Strasbourg)

Looking at the map, Switzerland is out of the way for this itinerary. Therefore, I did not add it to the original route. However,  if you choose not to go to Central and Eastern Europe, it is a perfect place to end your 2 week Western Europe Christmas Market tour. 

I loved Zurich at Christmas time, despite the cold weather. Stroll the cobblestone streets of the city center, and admire the Christmas decorations. 

You can choose between multiple Christmas Markets around the city. Zurich Werdmühleplatz is a charming Christmas market with daily concerts!

If you get too cold, you’ll be glad to know that Zurich is home to one of the largest indoor Christmas markets. Christkindlimarkt is held at the Zurich main train station. The absolute highlight of this market is a 10m tall Swarovski crystal-embellished Christmas tree.

Zurich Christmas Market Dates 2023 : 23 November to 23/25 December 2023

Zurich market website : Christmas in Zurich

How to get there : Take a train from Strasbourg. (2.5h) I use Trainline for booking international train trips!

Where to stay in Zurich for Christmas Market?

Switzerland is pricey, and that includes hostels as well.

Budget backpacker option: I stayed at Green Marmot Capsule Hotel and had a great experience. It was my first time staying in a capsule hotel (truth be told, it is a hostel), and it was pretty cool! The location is excellent – right in the city center!

Mid-range Hotel option: ibis Styles in the city center of Zurich is a fantastic option if you want more privacy without breaking the bank. 

Best Christmas Markets in Central Europe

6. nuremberg christmas market, germany (5h bus from strasbourg).

Germany is a country with an abundance of Christmas Markets. You could spend an entire December touring Germany’s Markets and not get bored. 

I picked Nuremberg as it is one of the oldest and most famous Christmas Markets in Germany. The tradition dates back to the 16th century, with the first mention in writing in 1628.

Furthermore, it is ideally located in the middle of the country to connect this itinerary’s Western and Central European legs.  

If you get to Nuremberg Christmas Market on an opening day, you’ll see the symbol of the market – Christkind, a young, blonde woman dressed up as an angel, opening the market and taking photos with the children.

Nuremberg Christmas Market Dates 2023 : 25 November to 24 December 2023

Christmas market website : Nuremberg Christmas Market

How to get there : The easiest way to reach Nuremberg is to take a Flixbus from Strasbourg (5h)

Where to stay in Nuremberg for Christmas Market?

Budget backpacker option: Five Reasons Hostel is a great budget pick for solo female travelers. 

Mid-range Hotel option: Hotel Prinzregent is a great mid-range option at a convenient location.

7. PRAGUE Christmas Market, Czech Republic (3.5h bus from Nuremberg)

Prague is a city that feels like it belongs in a fairytale any time of the year, but it is a must-stop on Europe Christmas itinerary and one of the best places to visit in Europe in winter .

Cobblestone streets, picturesque buildings, and a castle on top of the hill?

Yes, all of that and more! Christmas decorations only enhance its ethereal vibes and it is a must-stop on your Christmas in Europe itinerary.

There are many Markets to choose from in Prague, but the main two are Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square in the city center. You can watch live performances and Christmas movie projections on the Old Square.

Visit the Christmas Market at Prague Castle for a complete fairytale experience. You will feel like you stepped back in time as you walk the cobblestone streets of the old castle area.

Prague Christmas Market Dates 2023 : 25th November 2023 to 6th January 2024

How to get there: You can take a train or a bus from Nuremberg. Flixbus is the best option, as it is direct and cheaper. (3.5h)

Where to stay in Prague?

Budget backpacker option: Hostel One is one of the best-rated hostels in Prague, and you should book it if it is available on your dates! Perfect for backpackers and solo travelers, as it is a super social hostel.

Splurge Hotel option: If you want to treat yourself to an exceptional hotel in the heart of the city, Hotel Leon D´Oro ticks off all the boxes!

8. BRATISLAVA Christmas Market, Slovakia  (4.5h bus from Prague)

Next up on our Christmas Market Itinerary is the capital of Slovakia – Bratislava. Bratislava is not often on the list of the best Christmas Markets in Europe, so it is almost like a hidden gem.

Christmas Market in Bratislava is not as extravagant as some on this list. It is smaller, cozier, and less crowded. 

Main Market is located on Main Square with a few stalls extending through to Franciscan Square. The Ice Skating rink is at square Hviezdoslavovo námestie, for a perfect winter wonderland experience. 

The best viewpoint is from the Old town hall. You get an excellent view of the Market beneath you and Bratislava castle in the distance.

Bratislava Christmas Market Dates 2023 : 21 November to 21 December 2023

How to get there: Take a 5h train from Prague or a 4.5h Flixbus. 

Where to stay in Bratislava?

Budget backpacker option: Wild Elephants Hostel is a party hostel and a perfect place to stay and make friends travelling if you’re backpacking Europe solo.  If you are after something calmer, the MetaCHORS capsule hostel is a great budget option!

Mid-range hotel option: Elisabeth Old Town is perfectly located in the city center and a great option to enjoy Christmas in Bratislava. 

9. VIENNA Christmas Market, Austria (1h bus from Bratislava)

Austria is home to some of the best Christmas markets Europe has to offer.

Vienna is traditionally the most visited Christmas Market destination in Europe. That shouldn’t come as a surprise as they have one of the largest Christmas markets in Europe. 

You can visit more than 10 different Christmas Markets in Vienna, all around the city. 

The best way to get around is to get a metro pass, as December in Vienna is very cold, and Schönbrunn Palace Christmas Market is too far to walk to anyways. 

You will find the main Christmas Market in front of the Rathaus city hall. With over 150 market stalls it is the biggest Market in Vienna. There is also a huge ice-skating rink for a unique ice-skating experience around the trees.

Altwiener is the oldest Christmas Market in Vienna, dating back to the 18th century. Today it offers a uniquely traditional Christmas Market experience.

I love how most Christmas Markets in Vienna had vegan food options!

Vienna Christmas Market Dates 2023 : 18th November to 26th December 2023

Christmas market website : Christmas in Vienna

How to get there: You can take a train or a bus from Bratislava. The Flixbus journey takes just an hour, and if you book in advance it can be as cheap as 4,99€!

Where to stay in Vienna?

Budget backpacker option: You will be spoilt for choice with hostels in Vienna. Hostel Ruthensteiner is super well-rated, and I’ve never been disappointed with the Wombats Hostel .

Mid-range hotel option : Room 55 is a great mid-range hotel option, close to the metro which means you’re in the centre in a matter of minutes!

10. GRAZ Christmas Market, Austria (2.5h from Vienna)

While you could go directly to Ljubljana from Vienna, it would be a shame to miss out on Graz. This small Austrian town is a perfect stop for a cozy Christmas Market break.

One day in Graz is enough to visit all the Markets and main tourist attractions, such as Schlossberg and the Clock Tower, Graz Hauptplatz, and the City Hall.

Murinsel or Mur Island is another cool spot to visit. It is an artificial floating island in the middle of the Mur River.

You can visit 12 different Christmas Markets around Graz. The biggest Market is the Christmas Market on Hauptplatz.

Remember to stop by the Landhaushof courtyard to see the famous nativity ice sculpture!

Graz Christmas Market Dates 2023 : 18 November to 24 December 2023

Christmas market website : Graz Christmas Market

How to get there : You can take a 2.5h train from Vienna or a 2.5h Flixbus. Flixbus tends to be cheaper, but you should book as soon as possible to get the best price!

Where to stay in Graz for Christmas Market?

Mid-range hotel: Hotel Drei Raben is a good budget option, close to the city centre and well-rated.

Luxury hotel option: I love Schlossberghotel for a luxurious accommodation option in Graz. The view from the rooms is incredible!

11. LJUBLJANA Christmas Market, Slovenia (2.5h bus from Graz)

The capital of Slovenia is home to one of the most underrated Christmas Markets in Europe. 

Ljubljana city center is rather small and makes for a perfectly cozy Christmas Market destination. 

Christmas Market stalls are on both sides of the river running through the city centre. Visit the Ljubljana Castle for a stunning panoramic view of the city and fairytale vibes.

Prešeren Square is stunningly decorated with twinkling lights mimicking the night sky. 

Ljubljana Christmas Market Dates 2023 : 24th November 2023 to 2nd January 2024

How to get there : Take a 2.5h Flixbus from Graz to Ljubljana. It is the cheapest and the simplest mode of transport between the two cities. 

Where to stay in Ljubljana for Christmas Market?

Budget backpacker option: AdHoc Hostel is the best-rated hostel in Ljubljana. Located in the heart of the old city, it is a great budget option for solo travelers!

Mid-range hotel option : I loved my stay in Viva Rooms . The location was absolutely perfect, just a 5-minute walk from Prešeren Square, and you could see the Church of the Annunciation from the window.

BONUS: Day trip to the Lake Bled

Lake Bled is a place from your winter fairytale dreams. Especially if you are lucky and get to see it covered in snow. It is a must-see destination that should be on your Slovenia itinerary.  

Lake Bled is just a short 1 hour 20 min bus ride from Ljubljana. Check the bus schedule and prices here ! 

Alternatively, you can book a day tour from Ljubljana that combines a visit to Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj.

It’s magical in the winter!

12. ZAGREB Christmas Market, Croatia (2.5h bus from Ljubljana)

When you visit Zagreb’s Christmas Market, you will find it hard to believe that Zagreb didn’t even have a Christmas Market just a few years ago! 

When I first moved to Zagreb in 2011, the Christmas Market was centralized in one giant tent on the main Ban Jelačić square that served mulled wine and sausages.

Today, with over 10 locations around the city, Advent in Zagreb is a winner of multiple Best European Christmas Market titles! That makes it a must-stop on this European Christmas market itinerary.

It is hard to pick the best Christmas Market in Zagreb because each one offers a slightly different experience. 

Zrinjevac Market is a splendid, luxurious market with an enchanting ice skating rink. Trees are covered in twinkling Christmas lights, and as you walk under them, you feel like you are in a fairytale. Ice skating in Ice Park is one of the best things to do in Zagreb !

You will find the best viewpoint and photo location at Gornji Grad Market. The viewing platform gets a holiday makeover and is a must-visit stop on your Christmas Market itinerary. The atmosphere is calmer and more intimate, so grab a cup of hot mulled wine and enjoy!

A weekend in Zagreb is a perfect city break to add towards the end of this itinerary, as Advent in Zagreb lasts until 7 January 2023. 

Zagreb Christmas Market Dates 2023 : 25th November 2023 to 6th January 2024

Christmas market website: Advent in Zagreb website

How to get there : The best way to get to Zagreb from Ljubljana is by FLixbus. There are multiple daily departures, and the journey takes around 2.5h.

Where to stay for Advent in Zagreb?

Budget backpacker option: There are many hostels in the city centre of Zagreb. Swanky mint is highly rated and located right in the city centre!

Mid-range hotel option : You will notice that mid-range options in Zagreb are studio apartments. Browse all options on Booking.com .

13. BUDAPEST Christmas Market, Hungary (5h from Zagreb)

Finally, you will end your Christmas Market tour in Hungary’s capital – Budapest. 

I’ve saved the best for last!

Budapest is my personal all-around favorite Christmas Market destination. I’ve visited multiple times, and every time the holiday spirit in the city enchants me.

Fun fact, Budapest Christmas Market was voted the best Christmas Market for 2022 by the European Best Destinations website. 

Plan to spend 2 days in Budapest to get the best of both sides of the city. Spend one day exploring the Pest side, and discover the medieval Christmas Market inside the Budapest castle.

The main Market takes place in front of St. Stephan Basilica. Another great market is at Vörösmarty Square, with plenty of food stalls.

My go-to Christmas Market food in Budapest is Kürtőskalács. You can find vegan Kürtőskalács in a small stand on the corner of Andrassy and Bajcsy-Zsilinszky streets!

Budapest is also one of the best European party cities , so you can stay here until the NYE!

Budapest Christmas Market Dates 2023 : 24th November to 31st December 2023

How to get to Budapest : You can take a train or a Flixbus from Zagreb to Budapest – approx. 5h. 

Where to stay in Budapest to enjoy the Christmas Markets?

Backpacker budget option: Budapest is a backpacker destination, so there are plenty of hostels all around the town. Avenue Hostel is a great choice if you’re solo, they organize social events almost every day and you get free breakfast! I loved my stay in Wombat’s hostel, the location is unbeatable, right in the city centre.

How cold does it get at Christmas Markets?

Most Christmas Markets on this itinerary get very cold in December which is an important thing to keep in mind if you want to backpack Europe in winter .

Christmas Markets are outdoor events, and while there might be outdoor heaters next to the food stands, it is still freezing most of the time.

Expect temperatures around 0℃ during the night to a maximum of 10℃ during the day in December.

What to wear at a Christmas Market?

Christmas Markets are open-air events, and December in Europe is cold. Therefore, remember to dress for the weather!

You might have seen photos of women strolling the Markets in jumper dresses. Trust me, it was just for a photo or in the unlikely event that it was 15℃.

Therefore, layering will be your best friend. A good, thick, winter jacket is a must, and so are waterproof boots. 

Wear a thermal underneath your jumper, double socks at night, and tights under your pants if it is something you like. I personally don’t find it necessary most of the time. A good warm scarf and gloves are a must!

Yes, full winter equipment is crucial when temperatures are under 0℃.

• Check out my article on how to pack in a personal item backpack only , if you want to try out minimal packing this year!

How to travel between the Christmas Markets?

It is possible to visit all the Christmas Market on this itinerary by public transport. Most of these destinations are accessible by train, and if not, then definitely by bus!

I use Trainline to look for and buy train tickets. They browse multiple different railway operators on the same platform, and you can buy all of your tickets at the same place instead of struggling with national railway operators.

The most straightforward way to book international coaches is Flixbus .

How many days do you need to visit a Christmas Market?

It depends on the size of the Christmas Market. One day in Colmar is enough to see all the attractions, while you will need at least two full days to discover Budapest.

When is the best time to visit Christmas Markets in Europe?

Most Christmas Markets are open from late November until Christmas Day. However, they get more and more crowded towards Christmas. If you want to avoid crowds plan your visit in the first weeks of December. 

If possible, avoid the weekends for the best experience. Most of these Markets get insanely busy on Friday night and Saturday with weekend trippers. 

Are Christmas Markets open between Christmas and New Year?

Some European Christmas Markets close on Christmas Day. Yet, many stay open until New Year’s Day or a week into the New Year. 

These markets from this itinerary are open still open after Christmas:

• Zagreb, Croatia
• Budapest, Hungary
• Ljubljana, Slovenia 
• Prague, Czech Republic 
• Ghent, Belgium
• Colmar, France
• Bruges, Belgium
• Brussels, Belgium

Are you already planning where to spend NYE this year? Here are the best places for New Year’s to consider for your next trip!

Final thoughts: European Christmas Market Itinerary

And that’s a wrap! Now you have a Christmas in Europe itinerary filled with the best European Christmas Markets!

You can easily do this Christmas market itinerary by train or bus because they are all well connected by public transport.

A full Christmas itinerary Europe tour is the ultimate winter in Europe bucket list idea , and you’ll have an amazing time discovering this side of Europe.

Natali is the founder of She's Abroad Again. She is a solo female travel and backpacking expert who traveled to more than 30 country over 3 continents, mostly solo and on a budget! She is a lawyer turned travel blogger as she traded long office hours in Croatia for a digital nomad life and currenly calls France her home.

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The 17 Most Epic Christmas Market In Europe

With so many amazing Christmas markets, each with their own unique feel, it’s nearly impossible to choose the best one.

Each market has it’s own identity with plenty of local treats, fun family activities and classics like mulled wine and nativity scenes to explore whether you go for a Christmas Market weekend break or even Christmas market trips in a day.

With the help of our fellow bloggers we’ve compiled this list of what we think are the best Christmas market trips in Europe. By the end of this list you should be set with enough options for Christmas market trips to keep you exploring new destinations every December for the next decade!

If you get through this list and still need more Christmas destination inspiration, check out this epic trip to Santa’s Lapland .

European Christmas Markets

Table of Contents

French Christmas Markets

1. amiens christmas markets.

There are quite a few Christmas Markets on throughout France but Amiens was my first choice because it’s not quite as touristy and expensive as other places such as Lille.

The town is just as quaint and authentic as others during the festive period and the rest of the year.

The Christmas Markets in Amiens are set up towards the end of November, and run until New Year’s Eve.

Hundreds of rustic huts fill the Main Street, each complete with their own delights. Everything from chestnuts roasting on an open fire, to craft gifts and mulled wine.

Every 100 yards along the road there is a Christmas-themed ride. It was a lot of fun, from cute cars filled with pretend Christmas gifts to a tree with gigantic bobbles to ride around on.

For older kids there was an ice skating rink and ice zorbing to name a few.

Read more about the Amiens Christmas Market trip and things to do in the area here .

Find the best prices on flights and hotels in Amiens here .

German Christmas Markets

2. stuttgart christmas market trips.

Germany is known for its Christmas markets which each have their own unique energy, so its hard to choose the best Christmas markets in Germany.

I came across Tübingen in Germany when my search narrowed to “best kept secrets” and “unusual markets”. The pictures of its cobbled streets and traditional buildings looked too good to miss. 

We based ourselves in Tübingen because it is only half an hour from Stuttgart, The Black Forest and Hohenzollern Castle. We went to three different Christmas markets in the Stuttgart area on our 4 day trip.

The highlight was visiting the Christmas market that opens within Hohenzollern Castle for two weeks in December. The location itself is so stunning it’s worth a visit, but it’s made even more amazing decked out for Christmas.

The biggest German market we visited with the largest variety of stalls was in Stuttgart. My son also enjoyed this market the most due to the kids fair.  

All the roofs of the market stalls were elaborately decorated and it sprawled over a vast area. This location also had an ice rick and several traditional food zones.

Read more about visiting the Stuttgart and surrounding Christmas markets here.

3. Berlin Christmas Market Trips

Germany is home to some of the best places to go for Christmas markets in the world so it’s barely surprising that the capital city, Berlin, knows how to put on a stellar festive celebration or two!

Before you set off though check out this post on some things to know before visiting Berlin .

Though there are a number of bucket-list Christmas markets around the city, we have three clear favourites for a Berlin Christmas Market Holiday; the Gendarmenmarkt Christmas market, Wintertraum am Alexa and  Breitscheidplatz Christmas Market .

The Gendarmenmarkt Christmas market is a traditional market, targeted as a luxury experience.  You’ll find tasty food, quality gifts and the most gorgeous little market stalls there. 

Set amongst beautiful classic German buildings, this is the quintessential market experience you’re probably imagining from within Germany.

By comparison, you’ll find serious fun at Wintertraum am Alexa!  With an awesome carnival feel and endless rides, games and entertainment, it makes for an incredible afternoon out for the young and young-at-heart.

Finally, the Breitscheidplatz Christmas Market is another firm favourite in Berlin.  Home to a tragic terrorist attack on December of 2016, this market bounced back remarkably well and still hosts festive fun at the base of one of the most beautiful churches in the city.

If you’re  planning a visit to Berlin  during the festive season, a visit to each of these Christmas markets should be top of your list.

Find the best prices on flights and also hotels in Berlin here .

4. Trier Chistmas Market Trips

I don’t know about you but if I think Christmas markets I think Germany. Maybe that’s because I grew up in the Netherlands and going on German Christmas market trips was something many of us looked forward to every holiday season.

Over the years I’ve been to a good number of Christmas markets in different European countries but my favorite is the Christmas market in Trier.

Trier is Germany’s oldest city and often nicknamed “Rome of the North”. With its cobblestone streets and beautiful historical buildings Trier, to me, offers the perfect setting for a traditional German Christmas market.

Located on the Hauptmarkt , in the historic center of the city it’s a cozy Christmas market that’s fun both during the day and in the evening.

Have some delicious gluhwein, try a bratwurst and browse around the market for some great Christmas gifts or to pick up some Christmas ornaments to decorate your house.

And you’ll find some fun activities for the kids on the Christmas market as well!

The Christmas market in Trier starts on November 22 nd and continues until December 22 nd . If you are looking for an authentic German Christmas market and a gorgeous city to visit, I can highly recommend Trier!

Plus, the city is compact and has a very cozy feel to it which makes it an easy city to explore, especially with kids.

Find the best prices on flights and also hotels in Trier here .

5. Dresden Christmas Market Trips

Dresden has one of the best European Christmas Markets I know and definitely one of the top Christmas markets in Germany. Dresden happens to be the oldest!

Imagine mulled wine, gingerbread, the famous German sausages, and beautiful historic buildings everywhere you look. There are definitely plenty of things to do in Dresden .

And now picture a Christmas workshop at the entrance where parents can book a Christmas cookie workshop for their kids, while they go shopping? Wouldn’t that sound awesome?

Your kids are not into baking? No problem, there’s also a fairy tale house where they can sit down and watch Christmas movies, hear a story from Santa Clause or enjoy a wonderful animated Christmas exhibition.

There’s also a huge stage where they have hourly performances – most of them specially designed for kids. In the evening it will be mostly Christmas carols from all around Germany.

As a kid, I always loved the gigantic Christmas calendar the most. Every day at 3:45 pm, there is a puppet show at the calendar where they open one window and tell a story about it!

It was just exciting to find out what they would reveal. Naturally, I also loved the ferries wheel and the historic carousel.

But here is the best part: In December, basically the whole old town of Dresden is converted into one gigantic Christmas market.

Besides the world-famous Striezelmarkt, there is also a medieval section with a more ancient approach to the festive season.

Right below the famous Church of our Lady, you’ll find the Renaissance part of the Christmas market in Dresden. There is just so much to explore that one evening seems hardly enough!

Want to take a Dresden Christmas Market tour? Click here to find out more !

Find the best prices on flights and also hotels in Dresden here .

6. Norwegian Christmas Market Trips

Tromsø is an Arctic city that’s famous for the Northern Lights and has a cozy Christmas market you won’t want to miss.

In Tromsø, starting from mid-November and going all through December, there are these awesome Christmas markets all around the city.

They’re like big holiday fairs. But that’s not all! You can also find some fantastic shops selling really unique gifts from the northern part of Norway. 

Think of handmade jewellery, bags, cosy knitted stuff, and cool art. Places like Husfliden, Wabi Sabi, and Galleri Nord have some of these treasures.

If you prefer shopping in malls, check out Jekta, Nerstranda, and Veita – they’ve got you covered for all your Christmas shopping needs.

Now, let’s talk about the food! Christmas is a big deal in Norway, and they have some tasty traditions. When you’re in Tromsø, make sure to try “lutefisk” (dried cod soaked in a special solution) and “ribbe” (pork belly) at Mathallen.

If you’re a fan of seafood, head to Fiskekompaniet for some ocean delicacies, and if you’re into craft beer, Tromsø Mikrobryggeri has you covered.

Hungarian Christmas Market Trips

7. budapest christmas market trips.

From mid-November until early January, Budapest hosts some of the best Christmas markets in Europe. 

From the popular Vorosmarty Square Christmas Market and the stunning Advent Market at St Stephen’s Basilica, to a number of delightful local Christmas markets, Budapest certainly turns on the festive charm.

Surrounded by fairy-tale architecture,  Budapest in winter  becomes even more scenic with Vorosmarty Square transforming into a real-life Christmas village in the heart of downtown Pest. 

With charming wooden cottage-style stalls, Vorosmarty Square Christmas Market showcases traditional Hungarian folk art with local craftsmen displaying their handmade artisanal Christmas fare and gifts.

With an open-air kitchen taking pride of place in the center of Vorosmarty Square, there are plenty of opportunities to sample traditional Hungarian dishes until you’re fit to burst. 

Of course, no Budapest Christmas market would be complete without a hot spiced wine, blackberry punch or krampampuli to help keep you warm. 

Who can resist sampling at least one piping-hot kürtőskalács, or traditional chimney cake?

Families can enjoy the nightly light shows projected on the surrounding shops, galleries and cafes as well as a variety of free live performances and concerts on the outdoor stage. 

On the weekends, children can also join in one of the many enjoyable Christmas activities and workshops on offer.

If you’re looking for even more Christmas cheer, head over to the nearby Advent Market at St Stephen’s Basilica to take in the majestic surroundings of this glorious Christmas market. 

Situated in the shadow of the grand Basilica, families will enjoy the nightly laser-light show, traditional Hungarian Christmas songs and other free entertainment.

Find the best prices on flights and also hotels in Budapest here .

Czech Christmas Market Trips

8. brno christmas market trips.

Christmas in central Europe is truly magic, both in terms of atmosphere and sights. There is little doubt that one of the best things to do in the Czech Republic is visiting its incredibly scenic Christmas markets.

While most people spend their time browsing the many stalls scattered around Prague, Brno, the second largest city in the country, is a lovely destination for a Christmas market holiday, that feels incredibly less touristy but just as atmospheric. 

The markets in Brno officially start on 29 November 2019 and go on until 1 January 2020. You can really buy anything there – from small local souvenirs to traditional food; from hand crafted winter clothing to Christmas tree decorations and wooden toys which children usually love.

The markets are festive and family friendly, with beautifully decorated trees; people dressed in traditional seasonal costumes that are ready to pose for photos; plenty of performances to entertain children and adult alike; carols; musicians and nativity scenes. 

The nicest market is the right by the City Council, where you’ll find the largest selection of special seasonal food and drinks – the best is mulled wine, which is bound to keep you warm on the cold nights of the Czech winter.

Children will love trdelnik, a sweet pastry topped with sugar, cinnamon and almonds – make sure they try the one filled with whipped cream for an extra sweet touch. 

The best views of the market are those from the tower of the City Hall. 

Find the best prices on flights and also hotels in Brno here .

Ireland Christmas Market Trips

9. the galway christmas market trips.

Although Ireland is home to its fair share of Christmas Markets, few are as long-running (or as loved) as the Galway Christmas Markets, which take place in the city from late November until mid-December each year.

The arrival of the much-loved festive markets sees the City of Tribes transformed into a Christmas wonderland. The streets of Galway (Shop St. and Quay St. in particular) are donned with a blanket of fairy lights, which can be perfectly admired from the confines of the city’s many lively pubs, restaurants and cafes.

While the Christmas markets mainly take place in Eyre Square and the in the area right next to it, there are several different attractions dotted across the city, from amusement rides to carol services.

One of the biggest draws for families (aside from the vendors that set up in beautiful wooden chalets, selling sweet treats and tasty bites) is the enormous Ferris wheel and the traditional merry-go-round.

Top tip: these tend to attract crowds throughout the day, so if you plan on visiting, try and arrive early in the morning.

For those adults visiting the markets with a family member that’s open to minding the kids for a few hours, you can take a little detour into the German Beer tent (you’ll find it in Eyre Square) or into one of Galway’s many (and I mean many) buzzy pubs. 

For lovers of traditional music, the iconic Crane Bar will be the ideal refuge for those seeking some respite from the cold.

Check out Dublin with Kids post here.

Find the best prices on flights and also hotels in Galway here .

Christmas Market Trips in England

10. london christmas market trips.

Christmas in London  is very magical. Shops start to decorate their windows around the middle of November and the first Christmas light displays also appear. Christmas train rides also start at this time of year too.

Oxford Street and Regent Street have more traditional lights , while Carnaby Street always has something wacky, which isn’t to everyone’s taste. It is certainly unique and well worth a visit every year.

There are tonnes of Christmas lights trails in the city.

The city has many good Christmas markets . Winter Wonderland is the most popular one. There is something for everyone.

The place is a bit similar to a theme park, as there are many rides including roller coasters, Ferris wheel, haunted house, merry-go-round, bouncy castles and mirror maze.

You can also book tickets for performances like magic shows, concerts and theatre plays. If you get hungry there is a lot of option in terms of food and drinks.

Winterville at Clapham is another fun Christmas market. It is also home to the Backyard Cinema, where you can watch festive movies.

But only after you find your way out of the maze, that they set up. It is really fun, especially for Christmas in London with kids.

London also has lots of pop up events. Christmas at Kew is the local families’ favourite. It is a 2.6 km long trail, which is illuminated with festive lights.

The London Zoo also has a similar trail, so there are lots of options. If you enjoy ice skating you can visit one of the many open-air ice rinks in London.

The National History Museum , Somerset House and the Tower of London are all great options. You can rent Penguin pals, which are fantastic skating aids for children.

Discover more exciting places to visit in London with kids here.

Find the best prices on flights and hotels in London here .

11. Winchester Christmas Market Trips

Whether you’re at home, travelling or living abroad for Christmas , a festive market is always fun! 

European Christmas fairs are famous for their delicious food, cute souvenirs and fun entertainment and Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market is no different.

It’s just an 80 minute train ride from London, and only 15 minute walk from the station.

Set in the grounds of the incredible Winchester Cathedral, the English Christmas market usually begins towards to the end of November so there is plenty of time to enjoy the winter cheer.

You’ll find locally made handicrafts, gifts and high-quality clothes throughout the market, housed in delightful wooden chalets. Take a lunch break at the café or stick to merry mince pies, mulled wine and bratwurst.

Once you’ve shopped to your heart’s content, it’s time to take a spin on the real ice rink! Book your tickets in advance to make sure you get the best time slot.

There are penguin aids for children, and you can enjoy a Parent and Toddler session if you and your little ones want to avoid the adults clumsily making their way round!!

Like most top Christmas markets, it’s better to visit Winchester on a weekday, to avoid the crowds of locals who can only go on the weekend! 

Stay in the city for a few days and explore the medieval historical attractions dotted around.

The Cathedral itself is fascinating, the city museum tells of some thought-provoking stories of the past and Jane Austen’s House Museum is such an interesting place to spend a few hours.

Swiss Christmas Market Trips

12. geneva christmas market trips.

If you are looking for a family friendly, pretty Christmas market trips in the heart of Europe, then you will love the one in Geneva, Switzerland .

The festival market is open in December (4-31 December in 2019) and happens in Parc Des Bastions, a lovely historical park sitting just below Geneva’s old town. 

It is a delightful place for all types of visitors but especially for families, who can make the market the main activity for the day or just add it as a children friendly stop while sightseeing. The Christmas marketplace is centrally located and very well served by public transport.

The market is small but well laid out.

Check out our Campervanning in Switzerland post here.

Coming in from its main entrance, you first find a carousel, light displays and Christmas trees and immediately after you have the Christmas village.

This is a series of wooden cabins selling Christmas crafts and food of all types. If you want a traditional food experience, you can head to the fondue chalet, which sells fondue made with the local cheese Switzerland is famous for, while if you prefer to tap in the rich multicultural food of contemporary Geneva, you will be spoilt for choice with stalls selling from falafel to ramen!

This is a great Christmas market to visit with small kids especially: the location in the park makes it easy to mix time at the stalls with free play and its compact size makes it pleasant yet not overwhelming.

Besides the convenient park location and the carousel, the market caters for kids with a small ice rink and of course lots and lots of sweets!

The Geneva Christmas market is perfect for families visiting  Geneva in winter . The festive Christmas market stalls and the backdrop of snowy Alpine peaks make it the perfect destination for Christmas market city breaks!

Find the best prices on f l ights and also hotels in Geneva here .

Portugal Christmas Market Trips

13. lisbon christmas market trips.

Have you considered a little sunshine and warmth with your mulled wine and Christmas shopping? Portugal’s capital city, Lisbon, is perhaps not an obvious choice for Christmas market breaks, but the city is in full crimbo swing throughout December complete with twinkling displays and festive markets.

We visited Lisbon with kids (aged 3 and 5) in the second week of December last year and there were Christmas markets at seemingly every main square.

Or your can head to Wonderland Lisboa at Parque Eduardo VII (which generally runs from the 1st December to 1st January) to go ice-skating, meet Father Christmas, and peruse even more Christmas markets. A ride on the festive Ferris Wheel is also a must; the views are fantastic.

Entry to Wonderland is free, but you pay individually for the attractions. Arrive early to avoid the queues. It’s situated right by Marquês de Pombal and Parque metro stations, and also on main bus routes, so very easy to get to.  

You will also find the main shopping streets decorated with twinkling lights, and we absolutely loved the conical tree in the main square of Comércio Plaza, which you can sit inside and looks magical when lit up at night.

Lisbon itself is also a great destination for families. Our boys (aged 3 and 5) loved riding the trams. But a huge highlight for them was the Oceanarium and Science Museum, which are handily situated next door each other.

Discover more fun things to do in Portugal with kids here .

Both are open during the winter months, and a good place to visit should it be a wet winter day (which does sometimes happen around Christmas in Lisbon!)

Find the best prices on flights and hotels in Lisbon here .

Austria Christmas Market Trips

14. vienna christmas market trips.

If you’re in Vienna at Christmas time, then you are in for a real treat!  The streets are full of beautiful decorations and lights and it seems there is a Christmas Market and Christmas tree on every corner!  However if you only have time to see one Christmas Market in Vienna make sure it’s the Vienna Christmas World at Rathausplatz.

The setting alone of the Rathausplatz is stunning.  With the lit up Gothic Revival City Hall in the background and the various little stalls in the foreground, with Christmas decorations galore, the scene is just magical! 

Throughout the stalls you will smell delicious aromas from the delightful traditional foods, baked goods and mulled wine that are served.  

Not to mention the numerous Christmas market stalls selling gorgeous little handicrafts perfect for souvenirs to take home or for Christmas gifts. 

But one of the most unique things about the Rathausplatz is they have a massive ice-skating rink there too. 

Apparently this is the largest artificial ice skating rink in the world!  For the little non skaters there is even a little practice area where they can wizz around safely with the aid of penguins.

The Vienna Christmas World is open from mid November to 26 December and is well recommended for families visiting Vienna.

Explore more of Austria in winter here !

Find the best prices on flights and also hotels in Vienna here .

Spanish Christmas Market Trips

15. madrid christmas market trips.

Many people may not consider celebrating Christmas in Spain . However it is a beautiful country to visit at this time of year, In fact, Madrid is a wonderful city to visit year-round, but it gets particularly atmospheric at Christmas time.

The main Christmas market takes place in Plaza Mayor, a charming square that no visitor can miss. This is basically the main square and meeting point in the city and even if you were to  visit Madrid in 3 days , it’s impossible to miss it. Here you’ll find nativity figurines, hand made items and tons of Christmas tree decorations.

Another nice-to-visit market is the one organized in Paseo de Recoletos. This is a showcase of artisanal items from Madrid and the surrounding area, and it’s almost guaranteed that after shopping here, you’ll need to check in extra luggage.

Besides these, Madrid organizes seasonal antiquity fairs, while other markets open year-round are interesting to visit this time of the year as well. If you’re in shopping mood, you’ll surely find something to put under the Christmas tree!

Besides this, Madrid is magical at Christmas, even more so if it’s covered in a blanket of snow (it can happen). The Three Kings parade on the 5th of January is another not-to-be-missed event, especially for the little ones.

The Three Kings come to town riding camels and throwing candies, so it’s a reason for joy for the whole family. Spaniards love this time of the year and you’ll surely feel welcome and have tons of fun!

Find the best prices on flights and also hotels in Madrid here .

16 Barcelona Christmas Market Trips

When you try to think of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe, you will certainly not immediately have Barcelona in mind. But there are even four Christmas markets to discover in the Catalan capital during the Christmas season.

The biggest and most popular Christmas market of the four is the Fira de Santa Lucía, which is located on the square in front of the Cathedral of Barcelona.

Although you will not find typical mulled wine here, you can try Turrón. This is a delicious Christmas candy that is eaten throughout the whole of Spain during the Christmas season.

Besides this, there are also typical Catalan things to buy. One of these is the so-called Caganers. These are small statues that do their business with their pants down. Even though it might sound super weird to foreigners, those statues are absolutely normal in Catalonia and part of the nativity scene.

While there are the typical Caganers with traditional Catalan outfit, there are now also various other statues such as celebrities or characters from films or comics, such as Darth Vader.

Another typical Catalan figure that can be bought here is the Tió de Nadal or Cagatió. This is a small wooden trunk with Catalan hat and a face, which, according to ancient tradition for the children on Christmas or the Epiphany, poops presents when being beaten with sticks while singing the Cagatió song. Almost like a Catalan Christmas piñata.

Another popular Christmas market in the city, the Fira de Nadal Christmas market can be found right next to the famous Sagrada Família. In addition to the typical Catalan souvenirs, you can also buy small Christmas trees while enjoying the view of the imposing Sagrada Família.

Find the best prices on flights and hotels in Barcelona here .

Estonia Christmas Market Trips

17. tallinn christmas market trips.

Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, is a fantastic destination to visit in December or in any other winter month. It is a UNESCO World Heritage city that looks like it belongs in a fairy-tale offering its visitors plenty of historic building and sightseeing opportunities.

The beauty of the city is enhanced by the soft snow carpet on the ground, which is expected at this time of the year. Tallinn is also the home of one of the coziest Christmas markets you will ever see in Europe, perfect for families with small children!

It is located in the Old Town Square where transit is already limited so it is a great place to walk around freely with the little ones. The market is open from November to January each year, showcasing several wooden huts beautifully decorated in Christmas lights.

Here you will find vendors selling a variety of gift items, local handcrafted products, plenty of traditional Christmas food and drinks and entertainment. For the kids there is a super popular Christmas road train that departures from the market and take you around the whole town.

There is also a small carousel and fair stalls with games to keep the little ones occupied while the parents enjoy the relaxing and cozy ambiance. A huge Christmas tree is set in the middle of the square and illuminated with hundreds of electric light which is sure to mesmerise young an old visitors.

Apart from the amazing Christmas Market,  visiting Tallinn in the winter  is a great idea for families.

It will not only help you avoid the summer crowds, meaning that you and your family will enjoy the city even more, but also give you a true feeling of winter wonderland.

Tallinn was also voted one of the top Christmas Markets in Europe this year.

Find the best prices on flights and also hotels in Tallinn here .

Belgium Christmas Market Trips

18. bruges christmas market trips.

From Friday 22nd November 2019 to Wednesday 1st January 2020, the gingerbread houses of medieval Bruges will illuminate as the twinkling Christmas lights create the most magical wintry setting.

Celebrating Christmas in Bruges makes for a memorable family experience. This year even more so, since for the first time there’ll be three Christmas markets in Bruges instead of two.

The new concept starts from the railway station, with a light and experience trail to all three markets. Kids will love following the enchanting lights which shine brighter as you approach your destination.

The classic markets in the heart of the city feature a collection of chalet-themed stalls. Markt square is the place to be for sumptuous treats topped with Belgian chocolate and for a slice of heart-warming bûche de Noël under the giant Christmas tree.

Take your little ones to the top of the Belfry for a magical view over this traditional Christmas market.

Then follow the twinkling lights to the second and more intimate Bruges Christmas market at the Simon Stevin square.

The linden trees that fringe this square wear strings of sparkling lights and the festively decorated stalls display handmade Christmas ornaments and unique gifts.

The eye-catcher at the third and new location Minnewater, one of the most romantic locations in the city, will be the artificial ice rink on a pontoon. A unique and inviting setting for families to join in on the icy fun.

A large winter bar will complete the festive picture. All three markets are within walking distance, allowing visitors to soak in the atmosphere at different enchanting settings.

Read more about more things to do in Bruges with kids here .

Find the best prices on flights and hotels in Bruges here .

Polish Christmas Market Trips

19. krakow christmas market trips.

The Christmas market in Krakow is one of the best in Poland. Located in the heart of Krakow’s Old Town it’s full of colourful stalls where you can buy clothes, handicrafts, souvenirs, and of course… food!

Be sure to try Polish mulled wine which (in my opinion) is so much better than German or French one. If you are hungry, try hearty  bigos  made of sauerkraut and sausage. Vegans may enjoy pierogi with cabbage.

If you are visiting Krakow during Christmas time, be sure to see the famous Cracovian Nativity Scenes that are listed by UNESCO.

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The Ultimate Guide to Christmas Markets in Europe

The winter in Europe, especially the Christmas market season, is one of the most underrated and best times to plan a trip to Europe! We went on a 10 day Europe trip in December to go to a few of the best Christmas markets before the holidays and it was one of our favorite Europe trips to date (and we have spent A LOT of time in Europe). If you are debating planning a trip to Europe this winter, take this ultimate guide to Christmas markets in Europe as your sign.

The markets in Europe are amazing all year long, but there is something extra magical about Christmas markets. The cities will go all out to make them bigger and better than any other time of year. There’s no better way to get in the holiday spirit than a winter trip to Europe!

When to go to Europe to see the Christmas markets

Christmas markets in Europe typically open in mid-November and run through December, with some markets staying open until early January. The best time to visit really depends on your travel preferences because the weather will be the same throughout that time. It may be slightly warmer earlier in the season, but there are no guarantees. If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, try to visit during the week or early in the season. If you’re looking for a more festive atmosphere, visit closer to Christmas.

We did our Europe christmas market trip the second week of December and it was very festive. The reality is that nowadays Europe is crowded all year long, and the winter is no exception with the magic of the Christmas markets. The crowds should not deter you from planning a winter trip to Europe!

The best Christmas markets in Europe

The list of the best places to see the Christmas market in Europe is a bit overwhelming. I would know – I wrote it 🙂 This list is meant to be a starting place. Depending on your travel budget, preferences and bucket list, you can use this list to narrow down where you want to visit!

Germany is home to some of the oldest and most traditional Christmas markets in Europe. The German’s really know how to throw a party and put together amazing Christmas markets. The easiest and most popular city to go to is Munich. You can always use Munich as a starting point and then take the train to smaller towns nearby.

Here are the top cities in Germany to explore the European Christmas markets.

Italy is an incredible destination to visit in Europe anytime of year, and the Christmas markets there are absolutely incredible. It is also a religious country, so they take their Christmas celebrations very seriously. Here are some of the best places to go in Italy in the winter to see the Christmas markets!

Austria is a very underrated and beautiful country known for fairytale picturesque cities, which are often set against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains in the winter. I also firmly believe that nobody does Christmas lights like the cities in Austria! Even when we visited Austria in the summer, the cities were lit up so beautifully. Popular Christmas markets include:

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Switzerland

Switzerland is one of those countries that is beautiful all year long, but the winter is unlike any other. It offers a charming winter wonderland setting for its Christmas markets. Popular Christmas markets include:

Switzerland pro-tip: Stay in a small town outside of the major cities to save money on housing! It is very easy to take the train or bus for a day to see all of the different cities. Our favorite little town to stay in Switzerland is Thun , which is a short distance from the Interlaken area!

France has one of the most diverse Christmas market scenes in Europe due to the variety of cities to visit in France. From the elegant markets of Paris, the rustic markets of the French countryside and to the small town of Annecy in the Alps . Here are some of the best markets to explore in France!

Czech Republic

The Czech Republic is known for its festive Christmas markets, which offer a unique blend of old and new traditions. We love traveling to the Czech Republic, especially to Prague in the winter . Many of the best Christmas markets here are a short train ride from Prague, so it is easy to plan a trip there as a home base and explore multiple cities. Here are some recommendations for Christmas markets to visit in the Czech Republic!

• Český Krumlov
• Karlovy Vary

Other top European Christmas market destinations

Here are a few other cities in Europe that are known for their spectacular Christmas markets!

• Budapest, Hungary
• Krakow, Poland
• Zagreb, Croatia
• Split, Croatia
• Edinburgh, United Kingdom
• Dublin, Ireland

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How to choose which European Christmas markets to visit

Like I said previously, I know that list is overwhelming! Here are some tips to choose where to go on your Christmas market trip this winter.

Choose 3 cities per every 10 days

In our Europe trip planning experience , it is best to stick to 3 cities in Europe per every 10 days traveling. When we did our Europe Christmas market trip, we went to Florence, Munich and Prague in 10 days and it was a perfect amount of time in each! It would have been overwhelming to fit more cities into that time span.

There are circumstances where you can fit more cities in that time, like if you pick just one country to explore!

Pick one country

Another approach to plan this Europe trip is to pick one country and go to a variety of cities. This is an easier approach because you can purchase flights round-trip and take trains to different cities.

You can even choose a home base city like Florence, Munich, Prague or Vienna and take day trips to smaller towns to explore for the day.

Choose destinations that you want to visit for more than the Christmas markets

I’ll be honest here, the Christmas markets are absolutely incredible but they can become a bit redundant and crowded. It is important to also choose cities that you want to do more than just explore the Christmas markets to make the most of your Europe trip.

What to do at the Europe Christmas markets

There is so much to do while exploring the Christmas markets in Europe, and there are activities for all ages and travel preferences!

First and foremost, shop! Christmas markets are a great place to find unique gifts and souvenirs. There are a variety of stalls that sell handcrafted ornaments, decorations, clothes, accessories, toys and food items.

Pro-tip: Pack a collapsible bag to check on the flight home for all of your overseas purchases!

Eat and drink

The food and drinks at Europe Christmas markets are truly some of the best! You’ll need multiple days to enjoy all that the markets have to offer. There are a variety of food and drink options, from traditional German bratwurst and gluhwein to international cuisine, and all sorts of delicious desserts!

The signature drink at the Christmas markets is mulled wine, which is typically a red wine warmed with a mix of spices. It is the perfect cocktail to warm up while browsing the markets.

Enjoy the entertainment

Many Christmas markets offer live music, entertainment and other activities for visitors to enjoy. Some of the larger markets, like in Prague, have a stage in the center of the market that have different performances all day long! Munich also had multiple tents set up with live music.

Tips for visiting the Europe Christmas markets

Book your flights and accommodations early

The European Christmas markets are popular tourist destinations, so it’s important to book your flights and accommodations in advance. Housing most likely won’t be as booked as the summer season, but it is still smart to lock in your accommodation as soon as you know your travel dates!

Take advantage of public transportation

Many Christmas markets are located in the city center, so it’s easy to get around using public transportation. Munich’s Christmas markets are a great example of this, the public transportation is so easy to use and accessible to all areas in the city!

Learn a few basic phrases in the local language

While most people will speak English and you should not have any issues communicating, it is always polite to learn a few basic phrases of the local language. The local vendors will appreciate the effort!

Dress warmly

All of the Christmas markets are typically outdoors, so it’s important to dress warmly. Be sure to wear layers so that you can adjust to the changing temperatures.

Check out our winter in Europe packing list to prepare for your trip!

Wear comfortable shoes

Anytime you visit Europe, you will end up doing a lot of walking. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes that will also keep you warm all day!

While times are changing and most stalls will have a credit card machine, be sure to carry some cash on you in case they do not.

Prepare for crowds

The Christmas markets are absolutely magical, but they will also be crowded. Take your time and enjoy the festive atmosphere with patience.

Read 50 other Europe travel tips here!

The winter is one of the most underrated and best times to visit Europe. There is something so magical about an Old City covered in gorgeous lights and holiday décor! With its charming atmosphere, delicious food and drink, and festive decorations, the Christmas markets in Europe are a must-visit for any traveler. We hope this ultimate guide to European Christmas markets helps plan your winter vacation.

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The Ultimate Guide to Christmas Markets in Europe [2023]

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Table of Contents

Map of the best european christmas markets, czech republic, netherlands, switzerland, united kingdom, final thoughts.

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Christmas markets offer a sense of merriment and celebration, with markets of all shapes and sizes dominating entire towns and cities throughout the winter season. From massive events with over 300 individual stalls and daily nativity performances to smaller events aimed at those seeking a quiet getaway, there’s something for everyone.

Discover a vast array of lights and decorations, trees and tents, rides and games, and all-out joy and celebration at one of Europe’s many world-renowned Christmas markets.

Hot Tip: Learn about the best ways to fly to Europe with points and miles in our step-by-step guide!

Salzburg Christkindlmarket on Dom- and Residenzplatz Square

2023 Dates: November 23rd to January 1st

Dating all the way back to 1491, the Salzburg Christkindlmarket on Dom- and Residenzplatz Square is one of the oldest markets in Europe. Surrounded by historical buildings, this market feels like a step back in time.

More than 90 stalls line the square and choir singers regularly perform in front of the cathedral . There’s a nativity exhibit in the Residenz courtyard and decorations as far as the eye can see. The market is a truly special event.

That’s not all … there are plenty of other Christmas markets located nearby, such as the Hellbrunn Advent Magic event and the St. Leonhard Advent Market . So there is plenty to do and a lot to see.

Where To Stay: MEININGER Hotel Salzburg City Center is a great choice. It’s right in the middle of all the Christmas action, so you won’t miss a thing.

Vienna — Christkindlmarkt

2023 Dates:  November 11th to December 26th

Out of the 12 Christmas markets in Vienna, Christkindlmarkt on the Rathausplatz is by far the largest. Located in front of Rathaus city hall, there are countless stalls, lights, decorations, and a whole slew of Christmas treats around every corner. At the center of all the Christmas stalls is a giant Christmas tree that lights up the whole area with more than 2,000 LED lights .

Hop on the Ferris wheel to get a bird’s eye view of the whole market, take a walk down the nativity scene trail, or put on some skates and take to the ice rink. Christkindlmarkt is fun for the whole family.

Where To Stay: Le Méridien Vienna  is in the heart of Vienna and only an 18-minute walk to the Christmas market.

Bruges — Grote Markt

2023 Dates: November 24th to January 7th

The Grote Markt is the biggest Christmas market in Bruges. More than 250 wooden stalls line the streets , each offering a selection of Christmas treats. The market is surrounded by historical buildings that tower over the whole area, creating the illusion of time travel.

A large dome occupies the center of the market. Inside the dome is a Christmas tree covered top to bottom in lights, tinsel, and countless ornaments. There’s a large ice rink covered in lights and surrounded by a river. It’s a picturesque location with something special for the whole family.

Where To Stay: There are plenty of places to choose from, but for those seeking the center of all the Christmas magic, NH Bruges is a great choice.

Brussels — Winter Wonders

2023 Dates: November 24th to December 31st

Located in the historic heart of Brussels is a place of Christmas joy. Stalls as far as the eye can see, delicious homemade treats, and lights and decorations all around. Brussels’ Winter Wonders (Plaisirs d’hiver) is the largest Christmas market in all of Belgium and is a real feast for the senses.

The whole area is transformed into a real winter wonderland during the Christmas period. There are over 250 wooden stalls spread around the capital, an ice rink, and a music and light show that turns the Grand Place into one giant, glowing Christmas decoration. It’s a perfect snapshot of Christmas.

Where To Stay: If you want to be in the center of all the action, then the Brussels Marriott Hotel Grand Place is the place to go.

Advent Zagreb

2023 Dates: December 2nd to January 7th

During the Christmas season, Zagreb’s city center transforms into a Christmas dream. A sea of lights and decorated trees line the streets. This is such a popular market, it’s been voted the best Christmas market in Europe from 2016 to 2018 .

Advent Zagreb is made up of over 25 individual markets that cover the city’s squares and parks. Each market has its own unique feel, yet they all tie in together to form one giant celebration of all things Christmas.

Where To Stay: There are plenty of places to stay in Zagreb, including the stunning DoubleTree by Hilton Zagreb , which is a stone’s throw away from all the action.

Bottom Line: From local cuisine and handmade trinkets to cultural performances and church choirs, there’s something for everyone at Advent Zagreb.

Prague —  Old Town Square Market

2023 Dates: December 2nd to January 6th

There are several Christmas markets in Prague, the biggest one being the Old Town Square Market . Thousands of Christmas lights and decorations light up the whole square , regular theatrical performances take place throughout the festive period, and there is an observation bridge for those who want to get the best views of the whole event.

Vendors selling traditional wooden handcrafted toys are found throughout the square, as well as food and drink stands serving up festive goodies for those looking for a tasty treat. Old Town Square’s market is the longest-running Christmas market in the whole city, so there’s plenty of time to take a trip and see the iconic festive celebrations.

Where To Stay: For those who are looking for a nice place to stay then, the Hilton Prague is located right in the heart of all of the Christmas celebrations and events.

Copenhagen — Kongens Nytorv

2023 Dates: November 3rd to December 21st

Located in King’s Square, Kongens Nytorv is the largest market in Copenhagen. The market is made up of a maze of wooden stalls selling a whole range of Danish treats and toys, beautiful decorations hanging all around, and a sea of Christmas lights illuminating the entire area to create one enormous festive celebration.

Children can have their photos taken with Father Christmas , adults can enjoy a glass of Christmas punch, and couples can take a romantic walk down the historic cobbled streets. Several other markets are located nearby, including High Bridge Square and Nyhavn, so there’s plenty to do and a lot to see.

Where To Stay:  The NH Collection Copenhagen is a great choice for those looking for a place to stay close to the action without being in the middle of everything. We also have a guide to the area’s best boutique hotels .

Tallinn — Tallinna Jõuluturg

2023 Dates: December 1st to January 7th

Tallinn has a long history of festive celebrations. Town Hall Square was the first location to ever erect a tree as a symbol of Christmas back in 1441. These days, the tree is used as the Tallinna Jõuluturg ‘s central point, as it’s visible from every market area.

Talin’s largest Christmas market is considerably smaller than a lot of other European Christmas markets. This makes it the perfect location for those who love Christmas celebrations but want to avoid crowds. Tents and wooden stalls circle the giant Christmas tree, and lights and decorations are sprinkled around the whole area . It’s a small slice of Christmas located in the heart of Estonia.

Where To Stay: There are numerous stunning hotels in and around Tallinn — one of them is the Hilton Tallinn Park situated just outside the city center.

Helsinki — Tuomaan Markkinat

2023 Dates: December 1st to December 22nd

The Helsinki Christmas Market (Tuomaan Markkinat) has around 140 vendors surrounded by historical buildings, a carousel, and a giant Christmas tree in the center . It is Helsinki’s biggest and oldest Christmas market. Handmade sweets, locally-sourced foods, and handcrafted jewelry are just some of what’s available here.

Take a ride on the carousel, listen to carol singers, and take in the sights. It’s a celebration for everyone to enjoy. It is also a green event, as the entire event is powered using energy from renewable sources.

Where To Stay: The Hilton Helsinki Strand is located close to the center of Helsinki. It’s a great hotel for those looking for a warm and welcoming place to relax after a long day of festive fun.

Metz Christmas Market 

2023 Dates:  November 24th to December 30th

Metz hosts one of several large Christmas markets in France. It has a gourmet food market, a carousel, and a gigantic Ferris wheel where tourists can enjoy a birds-eye view of the entire market . This market is a series of different events and locations that are all pushed together to create an overwhelmingly welcoming Christmas escape.

An enormous cathedral towers over the whole event at Place d’Armes, wooden Christmas huts line the streets selling Christmas goodies, and there’s even an ice rink at Place de la République for those looking to go skating. The Christmas markets in Metz offer a wholesome Christmas experience for the whole family with a little something for everyone.

Where To Stay: If you’re looking for a unique experience, then stay at Hotel De La Cathedrale . It’s a 17th-century building with views over the entire market.

Montbéliard — Les Lumières de Noël

2023 Dates: November 25th to December 24th

Located in Eastern France, this town transforms into a magical market experience during the festive period. It has over 140 stalls, each selling its own selection of high-quality Christmas treats. View an endless array of Christmas lights brightening up the streets, and enjoy the sounds of Christmas music.

Les Lumières de Noël has been going strong since 1986, with almost half a million visitors each year . Located at the foot of the Castle of the Dukes of Wüttemberg, this magical marketplace combines the modern decorations and trinkets of today with a plethora of historic buildings, creating a winter wonderland that feels warm and welcoming.

Where To Stay: Ibis budget Montbéliard is located close to the center of Montbéliard, right in the heart of all the Christmas action.

Paris La Défense Christmas Market

2023 Dates: November 16th to December 27th

Of all the Christmas markets in Paris, Le Village de Nöel sur le Paris de la Défense is by far the largest. With more than 350 chalets dotted around the entire area , tents covered in lights and glittery decorations, and a never-ending stream of festive foods and drinks, it’s a treat for the senses.

When compared to other European Christmas markets, La Défense is much more modern, with laser lights and crisp blue colors surrounded by ultra-modern buildings. It’s a classic Christmas market with a modern twist.

For those looking for a more traditional Christmas market, there are several other large markets located all throughout Paris , so there are plenty of options to please everyone.

Where To Stay: The Hilton Paris La Defense is just a stone’s throw away from some of the Christmas markets, making it a great choice for a quality place to stay.

Hot Tip: Plan the rest of your trip with our ultimate travel guide to Paris , featuring the best things to do, see, and much more! We also have guides on boutique hotels and hotels to book with points . 

Strasbourg Christmas Market

2023 Dates: November 24th to December 24th

Strasbourg’s main Christmas market is unlike any other. It is home to one of the tallest decorated public Christmas trees in all of Europe . More than 300 wooden chalets line the streets with lights illuminating every pathway, Christmas carols are sung on the church’s front steps, and the Christmas tree dominates the skyline.

Strasbourg is home to the oldest Christmas market in France, with its origins dating back to 1570, hence its nickname, the Capital of Christmas. Strasbourg has several Christmas markets, each one joining up with the next to create a citywide celebration of Christmas that offers a little something for people of all ages.

Where To Stay: The Hilton Strasbourg is a great choice for those looking for a nice place to stay in Strasbourg within easy reach of attractions.

Berlin — WeihnachtsZauber Gendarmenmarkt

2023 Dates: November 27th to December 31st

Of all the Christmas markets in Berlin, WeihnachtsZauber Gendarmenmarkt is the most popular. Located in Bebelplatz at the Staatsoper Unter den Linden, it’s surrounded by the State Opera, St. Hedwig’s Cathedral, Hotel De Rôme, and the Altes Palais/Library  and feels like a sealed-off time capsule of the past.

Countless white tents line the square, each one covered in lights and beautiful decorations. Right in the center is a giant Christmas tree that lights up the whole area.

Each market stall sells unique Christmas treats, from locally made cakes and biscuits to handcrafted toys of all shapes and sizes. Daily events and performances run like clockwork, and to top things off, the event finishes with an enormous fireworks display that can be seen from several miles away.

Where To Stay: Berlin has no shortage of beautiful places to stay , including the Leonardo Hotel Berlin . It’s close to all the Christmas action without being too central, giving everyone the best of both worlds.

Cologne — Weihnachtsmarkt am Kölner Dom

2023 Dates: November 20th to January 7th

Cologne has a multitude of Christmas markets , each one within walking distance of the next. The largest of the markets is Cologne’s Cathedral Christmas market (Weihnachtsmarkt am Kölner Dom), where vendors come from all over Europe to display their wares ranging from food and drinks to toys and gifts.

Cologne’s Cathedral dominates the skyline and stands tall over the entire event, and a giant tree stands in the middle of the square, surrounded by a sea of red chalets and lights. From a nearby ice rink to Christmas DJ performances and a boat bar, it’s a unique and unforgettable experience for people of all ages.

Where To Stay: Located in the heart of Cologne is the Hilton Cologne . With stunning views and close proximity to the Christmas markets, it’s a great choice for those looking for a beautiful place to stay.

Dresden — Dresdner Striezelmarkt

2023 Dates: November 29th to December 24th

Dresden is home to the oldest Christmas market in Germany, Dresdner Striezelmarkt . This market is unique as it is home to the world’s tallest Ore Mountain step pyramid , clocking in at over 14 meters tall . There are a total of 7 large Christmas markets scattered throughout Dresden, making the entire city one large festive event.

Numerous wooden huts line the streets, lights hang high on almost every building, and there are several Christmas rides for children to enjoy. Vendors worldwide come to Dresden to bring their taste of Christmas to the masses, making it a multicultural Christmas event to enjoy the holiday and learn about other cultures at the same time.

Where To Stay: Located on the doorstep of Dresden’s Old Town is Hilton Dresden . It’s a great place to stay for those who want to be close to the Christmas festivities.

Frankfurt — Weihnachtsmarkt Frankfurt Römerberg

2023 Dates: November 27th to December 21st

Of all the Christmas markets in Frankfurt, the Weihnachtsmarkt Frankfurt Römerberg is by far the largest one. With a 30-meter Christmas tree , over 200 Chritsmas stalls , and a handful of rides, including a carousel, it is a hub for every Christmas lover out there.

Every evening, the whole place illuminates the night sky with thousands of LED lights and glowing decorations. Vendors serve up a host of tasty German sweets and drinks, filling the area with the wonderful aromas of chestnuts and gingerbread. The historic buildings watch over the entire event, making it a truly magical experience.

Where To Stay: NH Collection Frankfurt City is a great choice for those who want to be close to the Christmas markets without being directly in the center of everything.

Munich — Münchner Christkindlmarkt

2023 Dates: November 27th to December 24th

Munich’s most popular Christmas market can be found in Marienplatz — Münchner Christkindlmarkt . It’s easy to spot, as there is a large Christmas tree right in the center with around 2,500 lights that illuminate the entire area .

Vendors surround the square, serving up a variety of traditional German food and drink. There are rides and attractions for the kids, including a carousel, and the whole place is decorated top to toe in lights and decorations.

Around the corner from Marienplatz is the Rindermarkt Christmas market, so there’s no shortage of fun activities for the family to enjoy together.

Where To Stay: Munich Marriott Hotel is located within close proximity to Munich’s main Christmas market, making it a great choice for those Christmas travelers.

Trier — Trierer Weihnachtsmarkt

2023 Dates: November 24th to December 22nd

Located in one of the most romantic places in Europe, Trier Christmas Market (Trierer Weihnachtsmarkt) is surrounded by historical buildings. The market feels like it’s enclosed in a stunning wintertime capsule. Each one of the 95 huts comes together to fill the square , all decorated with lights and ornaments.

Trier Cathedral dominates the background. Song performances, puppet shows, and a variety of talented acts are a regular sight as each vendor shows off their own unique trinkets and gifts.

Where To Stay: The Holiday Inn Express Trier is located a 20-minute walk away from all the festive activities without being too close to the hustle and bustle of the market.

Bottom Line: Trier Christmas Market is a snapshot of history and modern celebrations that come together to make Trier a romantic experience to be remembered.

Budapest Vörösmarty Square Christmas Market

2023 Dates: TBD (2022 dates were November 18th to January 1st)

There are lots of Christmas events located all around Budapest, the most popular one at Vörösmarty Square . Over 100 stalls line the square, selling everything from Hungarian sausages to handcrafted gifts and toys. It’s a real Christmas treat.

Each day ends with a spectacular light show displayed on the façade of the basilica . There are numerous performances by local singers and dancers and a plethora of activities such as blacksmith demonstrations and a free ice rink, which help to make this event a spectacular experience for all.

Kids can pay Santa Claus a visit, and adults can sit back with a glass of glühwein (mulled wine) and take in all the spectacular views that Budapest has to offer.

Where To Stay: The MEININGER Budapest Great Market Hall is a family hotel with friendly staff, lots of amenities, and close proximity to all of the festive fun. It’s an excellent all-around hotel. We have more suggestions in our guide to the best boutique hotels in Budapest .

Govone — Il Magico Paese di Natale

2023 Dates: November 12th to December 18th

Unlike Milan and Amsterdam, Govone is a small town, but it offers a special and more personal Christmas event compared to other European Christmas markets. Il Magico Paese di Natale brings the very best of local cuisine along with a variety of talented artists and performers together to create one spectacular Christmas celebration.

The small town is filled with historical buildings that date back centuries, and as for the vendors, they operate from within old-fashioned wooden stalls decorated with handcrafted ornaments and hundreds of lights . There are several other Christmas markets nearby, so there’s something for everyone in and around Govone.

Where To Stay: Stella Delle Langhe is a boutique and wellness hotel located within walking distance of the Govone Christmas market, making it an ideal place to stay.

Milan — O Bej, O Bej Christmas Market

2023 Dates: December 7th to 10th

Milan’s largest seasonal event is a mix of more than 60 individual market stalls, Christmas shows and activities, and delicious food and drink.

The O Bej, O Bej Christmas Market is filled with ornaments and handmade trinkets for Christmas shoppers.  The streets are lined with big, bright Christmas trees that illuminate the entire area, and a variety of local singers and musicians perform throughout the festive period.

There are several other Christmas markets nearby, each containing Christmas celebrations. There’s an ice rink for avid skaters, fairground rides for the kids, and of course, an almost endless sea of brightly colored shops and stalls.

Where To Stay: The Hilton Garden Inn Milan North is a great choice for those looking for somewhere nearby to have all the festive fun without being too close to the action.

Amsterdam Christmas Market

2023 Dates: December 13th to December 26th

Amsterdam’s Christmas market is smaller than a lot of other European Christmas markets but no less special. More than 45 market stalls line the street along Museumplein, and each one is lit up with colorful decorations. The museums are also open for the Christmas period, and music echoes through the streets.

There’s an ice skating rink for those who enjoy skating. There are also several stalls cooking up fresh local treats for those looking to expand their taste buds, and there’s no shortage of music and singing. Overall, it is a great place for the whole family.

Where To Stay: Courtyard Amsterdam Arena Atlas is a sleek and modern hotel with lots of amenities and luxuries. It is situated within walking distance of Amsterdam’s main Christmas market. Our guide to the best boutique hotels in Amsterdam has more suggestions.

Wroclaw — Jarmark Bożonarodzeniowy we Wrocławiu

Wroclaw is home to one of the biggest Christmas markets in all of Poland, with a plethora of Christmas stalls selling some of the finest locally made toys and treats around. The Wroclaw Christmas Market ( Jarmark Bożonarodzeniowy we Wrocławiu ) is made up of 2 smaller events: Ryned Marquet Square and Place Solny. When put together, it makes for a fantastic winter celebration.

A 3-tier fairytale house is the centerpiece of this attraction , with all 3 levels leading up to an observation deck where a picture-perfect Christmas view awaits. Music plays throughout the event, carol singers take to the streets to perform Christmas classics, and Santa Claus makes an appearance for the kids. It’s a magical place for a magical time of year.

Where To Stay: Wroclaw has many great hotels, including the DoubleTree by Hilton Wroclaw . It’s close enough to the action without being directly in the center of all the action.

Funchal — Mercado de Natal 

2023 Dates: December 1st to January 8th

Madeira brings an exotic twist to Christmas markets with displays of exotic flowers, warm days, and natural green trees all around , making it a truly unique Christmas experience. Live music fills the air, with local singers and musicians performing daily.

The Funchal Christmas Market (Mercado de Natal Avenida Arriaga) steps away from modern celebrations to adopt a more traditional Christmas celebration. Handbuilt wooden shacks line the streets, vendors sell homemade treats cooked as you watch, and an endless array of handpicked flowers decorate every square inch of space.

Where To Stay: The Wine Lodges is an aparthotel just off all the Christmas action on Avenida Arriaga and 750 yards from the beach.

Bottom Line: This old-fashioned Christmas market has the feeling of stepping back through time to a simpler period.

Craiova — Târgul de Crăciun Craiova

2023 Dates: November 11th to January 8th

During the festive season, the whole city of Craiova is transformed into a winter wonderland. Lights hang down from almost every building, stalls line the streets selling a wide array of Christmas goodies, and carol singers walk the streets spreading Christmas joy to everyone.

Local artists create intricate and beautiful handmade gifts, Christmas trucks give rides to children, and performances by local singers and actors happen like clockwork. There are opera and ballet shows, as well as Santa’s workshop and an ice rink . This historic Christmas celebration has a little something for everyone.

Where To Stay: Ramada Plaza Craiova is only a short distance away from all the festivities. It’s also one of Craiova’s most luxurious yet affordable hotels.

Madrid — Mercado de Navidad Plaza Mayor

2023 Dates: November 25th to December 31st

Christmas in Madrid is a wonderfully magical experience. With around 104 stalls stocked with all kinds of gifts, an enormous nativity scene, and a huge white light Christmas tree that makes the whole area glow, there’s a lot to see at the Madrid Christmas market (Mercado de Navidad Plaza Mayor). Located on Plaza Mayor, this Christmas market dates back to the 19th century when it started out as a festive fruit market.

While the stalls have changed, traditions have remained the same, and it continues to play a large part in Spain’s Christmas celebrations. Sit in on one of the event’s numerous performances, including fairy tales, puppet shows, and choir performances. There’s something for people of all ages.

Where To Stay: Hilton has multiple locations in the heart of Madrid, including the DoubleTree by Hilton Madrid-Prado . Some are just a 10-minute picturesque walk away from the Christmas market. Check out our guide to the best boutique hotels in Madrid for more options.

Stockholm — Stortorget Julmarknad

2023 Dates: November 18th to December 23rd

Stockholm’s main Christmas market is a fairly small event. It’s tailored toward those who enjoy Christmas markets, but don’t enjoy the hustle and bustle of overcrowded events. Stortorget Julmarknad has 41 stalls, each one offering various local specialties , from food such as moose and reindeer to handcrafted wooden horses.

Located in historical Gamla Stan, this Christmas market is a beautiful winter treat aimed at those looking for a relaxing Christmas experience. There are several other Christmas markets in and around Stockholm, turning the whole area into a city filled to the brim with Christmas fun. There is a lot of Christmas magic sprinkled all throughout the city during the festive period.

Where To Stay: The Hilton Stockholm Slussen is a great hotel located less than a mile from all the Christmas celebrations, making it the perfect choice for a romantic getaway.

Basel Christmas Market at Münsterplatz

2023 Dates: November 23rd to December 23rd

Basel is home to some of Switzerland’s most popular Christmas markets, including one in Münsterplatz . This market takes place in front of the historical Basler Münster cathedral, with stalls filling up the entire street and decorations hanging from every tree.

The Basel Christmas market was voted Best Christmas Market for 2021 thanks to its incredible range of stalls, decorations, and romantic atmosphere. With more than 180 stalls drawing in over  900,000 visitors each year , it is the perfect Christmas getaway.

Various events are peppered throughout the festive period. At Theater Basel, a public advent calendar is opened every day leading up to Christmas day. The Spielzeug Welton museum puts on special exhibits for people to see and much more.

Where To Stay: The Basel Marriott Hotel is located within walking distance of all the Christmas festivities, making it a great choice for a Christmas holiday.

Edinburgh’s Christmas

2023 Dates: November 17th to January 6th

Edinburgh’s Christmas is one of the U.K.’s biggest and most popular Christmas markets. There are more than 130 huts selling local handmade gifts and tasty treats . Each hut is covered in lights and decorations, giving the whole area a magical and warm vibe.

Take a ride on the big wheel for spectacular views of the whole festival. There are rides for children as well as adults, and there’s even a Santa’s grotto for those who want to see Santa Claus in person. Overall, it’s a magical festival that celebrates all things Christmas and is a great choice for people of all ages.

Where To Stay: Hilton Edinburgh Carlton is located within walking distance of Edinburgh’s Christmas market, making it a great choice for those looking to stay nearby for all the Christmas fun. Several of our favorite boutique hotels are also nearby.

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland

2023 Dates: November 17th to January 1st

There are numerous Christmas markets throughout London, and the most popular is Hyde Park Winter Wonderland . More than 100 beautifully decorated wooden cabins line the streets, selling everything from food and drink to clothes and toys .

This market is also home to the U.K.’s largest outdoor ice rink , as well as a giant observation wheel that provides an incredible view over the entire event. There are several rides dotted around the market, including an authentic carousel, which makes for a great place to take a family photo.

Where To Stay: There are hundreds of hotels throughout London, but the Hilton London Hyde Park is a great choice for those looking to be close to Hyde Park.

Hot Tip: Learn more about the best things to do and see in our ultimate travel guide to London !

Manchester Christmas Markets

2023 Dates: TBD (2022 dates were November 12th to December 22nd)

Manchester’s main Christmas market takes place in the stunning Piccadilly Gardens. There are over 300 stalls selling everything from food and drink to clothes and toys. Tens of thousands of Christmas lights line the pathways, and a giant light-up Santa can be found right in the center; it’s a real snapshot of Christmas.

There are several markets dotted throughout Manchester, from King Street to Catherdral Gardens . Each market leads on to the next, creating a vast network of Christmas fun. There’s an ice rink for those looking to take part in a family fun activity, along with numerous other fun events for the whole family to enjoy.

Where To Stay: Hilton Manchester Deansgate is a great option for those looking to stay somewhere nice while also being within walking distance of all the festive markets. You might also enjoy our guide to Manchester’s best boutique hotels .

There are countless Christmas markets dotted across Europe, from huge markets that take up entire cities to smaller, more low-key markets. There’s a holiday market to suit everyone. As more Christmas markets pop up every year, there’s never a shortage of festive fun across the whole of Europe.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit a christmas market.

Christmas markets are usually busy throughout the entire festive period. However, for those looking for the quietest times, the first couple of weeks in December, excluding weekends, are usually the quietest. As a general rule, the closer the Christmas, the busier the market.

Which European Christmas market is the largest?

The largest European Christmas event in terms of space is Vienna’s Christkindlmarkt on Rathauplatz. The market is around 39,000 square meters.

Which European country has the most Christmas markets?

Almost every town and city in Germany hosts its own Christmas market, making it the country with the most markets in the whole of Europe.

How long do Christmas markets usually last?

While each city and town chooses its Christmas market dates. The average length is between 3 and 4 weeks. Some markets can last up to 8 weeks, others just 2.

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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Our blogs are a great way to find the best European Christmas Markets to visit. Whether you want to try the best gluhwein, indulge in a local Trdelník pastry, or buy a decoration straight out of A Christmas Carol, we've got a guide for you.

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Are there any activities for children?

There may be a variety of activities for children, depending on the market, from hay bales to ice skating, and some have small rides or playgrounds. The main focus of a Christmas Market is the festive food and drink, crafts, and showcasing local traditions. But there's always a good chance of ice skating.

Are the markets wheelchair accessible?

The markets all take place outside and are wheelchair friendly although some are in cobblestone areas, which may be more difficult. If you require a wheelchair while you travel with Insight Vacations, or any of our sister brands, please ensure you complete the accessibility assessment prior to travel.

Are they only on in December?

Christmas Market dates change year on year and regionally. These generally start in the last week of November and will run until Christmas Day.

Do I need to carry cash with me?

This depends on the region. In Germany, Switzerland and Austria most vendors will take cards but in the Czech Republic or the Balkans then cash would be preferred by vendors in the market.

Are there washrooms?

This will depend on the market as they range in size. If a market does have washrooms, they will usually be portable restrooms and they may be limited in number.

Should I wear comfortable shoes?

Comfortable shoes are a must! There are not many places to sit down and the markets are set up for wandering, drinking gluhwein and shopping for handmade gifts and local treats.

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I Visited 8 European Christmas Markets in 2 Weeks — and These Were My Favorites

Here's what it's like to visit the Christmas markets in Germany, France, Switzerland, Austria, and Belgium — all in one trip.

pressdigital/Getty Images

I have my hometown of Chicago to thank for my love of Christmas markets . When I was growing up, my family would make the one-hour trek from our northern suburb to Daley Plaza, where the Christkindlmarket is held. There would be a huge discussion around which weekend to go: The market opens in mid-November, so picking a pre-December Saturday or Sunday means you'll be less likely to run into crowds, but still a full month out from Christmas . On the other hand, venturing into the city closer to Dec. 25 guarantees you’ll be standing shoulder to shoulder with hundreds of other glühwein seekers, but the excitement and festivity of the season somehow makes the packed stalls feel quaint rather than claustrophobic.

In order to find a happy medium, we’d typically choose the first weekend in December, which coincides with my twin sister's and my birthday. Our fondness of the Christkindlmarket is shared, and one year we got to talking about what it would be like to visit the markets this German-style one is based on. That’s how we found ourselves traveling across five European countries over the course of two weeks on a belated 30th birthday trip that had been delayed a few times due to COVID-19. 

My twin sister, Amanda, planned the whole thing, comparing "best of" lists from popular travel sites, researching the best modes of transportation to hop from one city to the next, and I got to go along for the magical ride. All in all, we basked in the wonder and pure joy of eight traditional European Christmas markets  — here's what it was like.

Brussels, Belgium

Allison Cacich

We chose Belgium as our first stop largely because neither Amanda nor I had ever been. Brussels’ Christmas market doesn’t often crack the top 10 lists, but they have one, which was a good enough reason for us to explore the city for the first time. The main market, located beneath the stunning facade of Saint Catherine’s Church, was a sight to behold, with its towering Ferris wheel, pommes frites stands, and six-tiered windmill-style bar — which is actually based on a German Christmas decoration dating back to the 16th century. Each street felt as though it was decked out for the holiday, and there were fun surprises around every corner.

One of our favorite stops was Grand-Place’s central square. It contains the city’s Town Hall (built between 1401 and 1455), the neo-Gothic Brussels City Museum (also known as the “Bread House” as it sits on the site of a former bread market), and the guildhalls of Brussels. On our first night, we were delighted to stumble across an elaborate sound and light show that took over the entire square and ended with an illumination of the Grand-Place Christmas tree. As it turns out, this is a huge production, taking place 57 times per week from late November to Jan. 1.

Day Trip to Bruges, Belgium

It takes about an hour via train to get from Brussels to Bruges , and within minutes of arriving in the canal-surrounded city, I was hooked on its fairy-tale charms. With its winding streets and cobblestone roads, I felt as though I had been transported into Disney’s "Beauty and the Beast." Similar to Brussels, the Christmas market here wasn’t the main attraction: What I loved most about Bruges were its chocolate and Belgian waffle shops and picturesque waterways.

Once again, the highlight of our day wasn’t planned. After walking around Old Town, Amanda and I spontaneously hopped on a 35-minute boat ride around Bruges’ canals, giving us an entirely different view of the city. Since the medieval architecture has largely been undisturbed, it feels like you’re floating through a different time period, with a healthy dose of holiday cheer sprinkled in thanks to the garland strands and twinkling lights dotting almost every building. And if you have the stamina, I recommend traversing Belfry Tower’s 366 steps. Though it’s a steep and narrow climb, you can see the entirety of Bruges from the top, and may even be treated to a performance by the bells hanging right above.

Strasbourg, France

To get to our next location, we took a train from Brussels to Frankfurt , Germany, where we then caught another train to Strasbourg, France. The entire journey took about five and a half hours. Strasbourg is known as the Capitale de Noël (Christmas Capital), and it certainly lives up to that name. Our hotel had a map showing where all 13 (yes, 13) Christmas markets are located around the city, and we managed to visit all over the course of one day. Since Strasbourg is located in the Alsatian region of France, my sister was keen to try some of the traditional cuisine, including tarte flambée , a flatbread-style dish that’s often topped with fromage blanc , thinly sliced onions, and cubes of bacon. These meals were a definite highlight.

Though there are more than a dozen Christmas markets, each one felt unique, like its own little world. We circled back to two groupings of stalls more than once. First, the Strasbourg Cathedral was the backdrop for five different markets, one of which sold Alsatian delicacies like mannele (milk bread in the shape of a little man). But the magnificent tree could be found at Place Kléber, the city’s central square. We walked up right as the light show was starting. Though we were surrounded by strangers, in that moment, it felt as though we were united in witnessing something magical.

Colmar, France

We could’ve taken a day trip from Strasbourg to neighboring Colmar (a 30-minute train ride), but we elected to spend the night in the northeastern French city. Colmar, with a population of around 70,000, feels like a mini Strasbourg and has the most delectable patisserie shops lining its streets. We chose one overlooking St. Martin’s Church, and enjoyed dessert and coffee while bundled under a pair of blankets. When looking for restaurants, many were at capacity due to their small dining rooms, but we managed to find a pub with open tables that served a delicious tarte flambée .

The stalls at the Christmas markets were beautiful and depicted different scenes — some religious, some seasonal. This is where a better grasp on the French language would have come in handy, since about half of the vendors we encountered didn’t speak English. Still, we had our fill of mulled wine, stuffed pretzels, cheeses, jams, and macarons. I also spotted a couple of buildings that looked like real-life gingerbread houses.

Basel, Switzerland

Next, we headed to Basel, Switzerland, which took about 45 minutes via train. There are two big Christmas markets in the city: The larger one is in Barfüsserplatz, set below a former Franciscan monastery and erected near the Spielzeug Welten Museum , also known as the Toy Worlds Museum, perfect for kids and kids at heart. The more intimate market in Münsterplatz looked like it was plucked straight from the pages of a storybook. Nestled beneath a grove of trees adorned with twinkling lights, the stalls are situated next to Basel’s most famous landmark, Basel Minster.

Having never been to Basel, we weren’t expecting hilly streets, but we certainly got a workout while walking around the Old Town. We were able to see the city’s 500-year-old Town Hall and the Spalentor gate, which dates back to the 15th century. Though we had eaten our weight in potato pancakes and sausage throughout the day, my sister found a restaurant that served fondue under the stars, which was the perfect end to a Swiss evening. 

Vienna, Austria

Confession: I was most excited to visit Vienna during our trip because I had spent a semester there during my sophomore year of college. It was the first time I had been back in more than 10 years. By the time we left the hotel that first night, it was dark, so Amanda and I decided to walk the short distance to Rathausplatz Christkindlmarkt , the city’s largest and most famous Christmas market. I’ll never forget turning a street corner and seeing Rathausplatz in all of its glory. 

At the entrance, visitors walk through a giant advent wreath arch to a double-decker carousel. Turn right and you’re surrounded by light sculptures on all sides before winding up at a Ferris wheel that offers a bird’s-eye view of the remarkable spectacle sprawled out beneath. To the left of the arch is an ice-skating rink with a canopy of fairy lights. At the risk of sounding cliché, the whole scene took my breath away. Smack dab in the middle of the market are stalls, including one with hundreds of sparkling ornaments hanging from the ceiling. After indulging in bratwurst and sugar-coated pecans, my sister and I each took home a heart-shaped glühwein mug as a souvenir. Over the next two days, we also visited markets at Karlsplatz and Belvedere Palace, and enjoyed the Italian opera "Tosca" at Vienna’s famed opera house. It became clear that Vienna is a must-see during Christmastime.

Munich, Germany

After a week and a half, we finally made it to Germany , which is where the tradition of Christmas markets originated. Munich served as our home base while we set out on a couple of day trips around Bavaria. But the city has a pretty impressive Christmas market of its own, set in Marienplatz, the main square, beneath the town hall (referred to as the New Town Hall since, at just 117 years old, it’s new for European standards). These stalls had the best selection of food by far, featuring various types of sausages, candied nuts, and an abundance of chocolate-covered fruit.

One thing I love about Chicago’s Christkindlmarket is that each year brings a newly designed glühwein mug. For many Chicagoans, these mugs become collector’s items. I was thrilled to see that Munich not only embraces specialty glühwein mugs, but also takes them to the next level by selling different designs at every stall. On a blustery night, a cup of mulled wine was exactly what we needed.

Day Trip to Neuschwanstein Castle

Thomas Winz/Getty Images

I've wanted to visit Neuschwanstein Castle , which served as the inspiration for Sleeping Beauty’s Castle at Disneyland, since I first saw a photo of it majestically sitting atop a hill in the Bavarian countryside. But the castle isn’t exactly easy to reach. Situated in the village of Hohenschwangau near Füssen, it takes a little more than two hours to get from Munich to Neuschwanstein. Luckily, my travel companion was just as excited to see it as I was, so we dedicated an entire day to the attraction.

I had been told that because the castle was never completed following the sudden death of King Ludwig II of Bavaria, who commissioned the project as a private residence in 1869, there wasn’t much to look at on the inside. That’s far from true — the rooms that were finished before the king’s death in 1886 magnificently capture his romantic interpretation of the Middle Ages, making it feel as though you’ve entered a real-life fairy tale. If you do find yourself at Neuschwanstein, make sure to tour the neighboring castle, Hohenschwangau , where King Ludwig II spent summers with his family and could keep an eye on the construction of his new palace.

Day trip to Nuremberg, Germany

We saved the world’s most famous Christmas market for last. Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt dates back to the mid-16th century, and an estimated two million people visit the array of stalls each holiday season. It takes a little more than an hour to get from Munich to Nuremberg by train, and the market is located in the heart of the city’s Old Town. Though it was smaller than we were expecting, this Christmas market ended up being my favorite. Why? For starters, the setting. The Hauptmarkt (or main market square) is anchored by a gorgeous 14th-century church and fountain in the shape of a Gothic spire. It was the most crowded market by far, but still somehow felt intimate.

The quality of the stalls is also top-notch. I had held off on buying ornaments throughout our trip because they’re difficult to transport, but it soon became clear that I couldn’t leave this market without one. I ended up choosing a round bauble that depicted the exact scene I was standing in, and it’s a keepsake I will cherish forever. Amanda and I also ventured outside the main square to explore the city. We walked to a medieval cemetery, which was a maze of intricately carved raised tombstones, and explored the Nuremberg Trials Memorial, one of the best museums I’ve visited in recent memory. 

Flight Home From Munich

As we boarded the plane home after an eventful two weeks, I couldn’t help but feel grateful. There’s a reason why so many people look forward to Christmastime : It’s festive, fun, and a chance for total strangers to connect over a shared love of joy — and I could feel that joy emanating at every single stop we made.

Related Articles

Magical European Christmas Markets By Train [2024]: Full Itinerary

• Post author: Nicoletta
• Reading time: 45 mins read
• Post last modified: February 8, 2024
• Post comments: 0 Comments

Winter is approaching, and European cities are preparing for the most special time of the year. If you want to get into the Christmas mood,  Europe is the place . Its Christmas markets just open at the  end of November  and welcome you with delicious food and drinks, souvenirs, and a magical atmosphere.

I took my time to visit all the Christmas markets I included in this itinerary and traveled on the train routes between the cities. I visited each city and rated the Christmas markets, atmosphere, and food.

Based on my experience , I’ve created this itinerary so you can also experience the best European Christmas markets this winter.

✈ Travel Resources For Your Trip ✈

Here are some of my favorite travel resources I use for my travel adventures.

Overview Of The European Christmas Markets By Train: Full Itinerary

This itinerary will also take you to the most beautiful European cities . So that it doesn’t get too boring for you in the middle of the way, only seeing Christmas stuff.

I’ve planned  one day in each city , which is enough to explore their Christmas markets. On the other day, you’ll travel by train between each destination. The cities are close to each other, but train rides are longer. So plan accordingly.

PRO TIP:  Spend  the second day exploring each city , and take a train to the other destination in the afternoon/towards the evening. This way, you’ll get the most out of each city on this itinerary.

European Christmas Markets Map

Here is a map of this itinerary. Save it to your phone and follow it once you’re traveling:

Why Are European Christmas Markets Special?

Christmas Markets originally come from Germany , so it’s the epicenter of the most beautiful Christmas Markets in the world.

Imagine cute wooden huts with various smells , from delicious sausages, soups, sweets, hot chocolate , and the famous mulled wine . These are usually in a square in the middle of a city.

Besides, everything is decorated with Christmas ornaments , and music plays in the background, bringing you into the perfect Christmas mood.

That’s why European Christmas Markets are so special; you must experience them at least once in a lifetime.

How To Get Around European Christmas Markets

We’ll  use the Interrail/Eurail Pass for this itinerary . For those of you who aren’t familiar with this pass:

Interrail and Eurail Pass is a train pass to travel through Europe. You can choose the number of days you want to travel within a month. It can be on a flexible schedule or consecutive days . With Eurail Pass, you must also select countries you’ll travel to.

DIFFERENCE INTERRAIL PASS & EURAIL PASS

✅ Interrail Pass = for European citizens ✅ Eurail Pass   = for non-European citizens 

European Christmas Markets With Interrail Pass

For our Christmas markets itinerary, we’ll need the  5-day Interrail Pass on flexible days  within 1 month . This will cover our train rides from one city to another as we’ll have four travel days out of the 9-day itinerary. 

To  use up the 5th travel day , you can travel from Brussels (end destination) to the airport or to 1 more European city you want to see.

➡ Get 5-Day Interrail Pass Here & Learn More

European Christmas Markets With Eurail Pass

The Eurail Pass works slightly differently than the Interrail pass. You’ll have to select the countries you want to travel through. The price depends on the number of countries and distances. So when getting the Eurail Pass, insert each country mentioned in this itinerary:

• Czech Republic

➡ Get 5-Country Eurail Pass Here & Learn More

🚇  NOTE:  With both passes, you’ll only have to  pay extra for the high-speed  and  night train seat reservations . All other journeys are included, so you can hop on and off the trains between the destinations on your itinerary. It’ll  save you a lot of money  and  give you much flexibility .

Travel Itinerary Planning Services

Day 0. arrive in bupadest, hungary.

Hungary, with its capital city, will ideally  put you into the Christmas mood , and you’ll feel ready to explore more.

So firstly, get to Budapest, Hungary, on the first day. Check in to your accommodation and take the first glimpse into the city in the evening.

➡ Budapest has some of the best flight deals in Europe . Click here for great flights .

🏠 Where To Stay In Budapest

These are my top hotel recommendations in Budapest:

➡ The Three Corners Downtown Edition Hotel – budget-friendly – book here ➡ Hotel Moments Budapest – mid-range hotel – book here ➡ Budapest Marriott Hotel – luxury hotel – book here

DAY 1. BUDAPEST, HUNGARY

Budapest Christmas markets are undoubtedly one of the most beautiful in entire Europe. No wonder the city itself creates a very special atmosphere with the  impressive buildings  and lights reflected in the  Danube River .

You’ll get to try  local specialties  such as  chimney cake  (Kürtőskalács), apple strudel, langos (fried dough with toppings),  potato pancakes , fried sausages with local bread, stuffed cabbage rolls, delicious goose with red cabbage, or cured meat. Then, drink local  mulled wine  and tea.

You can also buy chocolate, handmade toys (local grandmas create beautiful stuff), and Christmas ornaments.

🍭 SPECIALTIES TO TRY: Chimney Cake (Kürtőskalács), Langos, Potato Pancakes, Gulash 📍 LOCATION: Vörösmarty Square & Szent István Bazilika ✨ BUDAPEST CHRISTMAS MARKETS DATES: 17th of November until the 31st of December 2023

DAY 2. TRAVEL BY TRAIN BUDAPEST ⇒ PRAGUE

You can take some time to explore Budapest in the morning . Then, around lunchtime, take a train directly to Prague. That way, you’ll reach Prague in the evening, ready to check in to your hotel.

TOP EXPERIENCES IN BUDAPEST: ➡ City Highlights Evening Cruise With Drink ➡ Full Day Spa With Palinka

How To Get From Budapest To Prague By Train

I recommend taking either  EC Train  or  Regiojet .

Regiojet  is a Czech company providing trains and buses around Europe. Their trains are very comfortable. And you’ll get a  coffee or tea free of charge , so go for it. All train rides covered by Regiojet are included in your Interrail and Eurail Pass, which is amazing.

Use your Interrail/Eurail website to check the  timetables of the trains . Some are direct connections from Budapest to Prague. With others, you might have to change trains in Vienna.

Train ride from Budapest to Prague takes approx. 7hours & 30minutes .

🏠 Where To Stay In Prague

Here are my top hotel picks for Prague:

➡ U Medvidku Brevery Hotel – budget-friendly hotel – book here ➡ Questenberg Hotel Prague – mid-range hotel – book here ➡ Pytloun Boutique Hotel Prague – luxury hotel – book here

DAY 3. PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC

The capital city of the Czech Republic has equally stunning Christmas Markets as Budapest. However, Prague has an even more unique atmosphere . You have to see for yourself.

Don’t worry if you haven’t had enough of the Chimney Cake or are missing any other specialty from Budapest, don’t worry. You can catch up in Prague.

Enjoy more food, such as  homemade gingerbread , traditional fish soup,  sweet dumplings  filled with jam, and pancakes. Then, finish with a  big jar of Czech beer , the most delicious and cheapest in Europe.

Central European countries have  beautiful handicrafts  that local grandmas prepare. Prague is not an exception. So it might be the place to buy some decorations for your Christmas Eve back home.

🍭 SPECIALTIES TO TRY: Chimney Cake (Trdelnik), Sausage, Sweet Dumplings 📍 LOCATION: Old Town Square & Wenceslas Square ✨ PRAGUE CHRISTMAS MARKETS DATES: 2nd of December 2023, lasting until the 6th of January 2024

👉 READ ALSO: Is Prague Worth Visiting? 19 Reasons To Visit & Best Things To Do

DAY 4. TRAVEL BY TRAIN PRAGUE ⇒ SALZBURG

Traveling from Prague to Salzburg, you’ll have to  change trains in Vienna . First, take some time in the morning to explore Prague. Or eat more delicious things on its Christmas markets (maybe more Chimney cake?).

Around lunchtime, hop on a train again to Salzburg.

TOP EXPERIENCES IN PRAGUE: ➡ 50-Minute Sightseeing Evening Cruise ➡ Beer Spa Prague

How To Get From Prague To Salzburg By Train

To get from Prague to Salzburg, you can again take  Regiojet  or use the Austrian railway train network called  ÖBB .

If you travel with ÖBB,  watch out for the Railjet train . Railjet is a beautiful, spacious train. I love traveling with Railjet. But, who is going to beat Regiojet with its free coffee?… well, you answer that.

Train ride from Prague to Salzburg takes approx.  8hours .

🏠 Where To Stay In Salzburg

I recommend booking one of these hotels in Salzburg for your stay:

➡ Villa Flöckner Bed & Breakfast – budget-friendly apartment – book here ➡ Hotel Am Mirabelplatz – mid-range hotel – book here ➡ Hotel Sacher Salzburg – luxury hotel – book here

DAY 5. SALZBURG, AUSTRIA

Salzburg is the most charming city on this list, so it must be on our Christmas Market tour through Europe. It’s a  small town in Austria , close to the border with Germany.

And I’d say it’s more worth visiting than Vienna , the Austrian capital. So, if you are hesitant about which one of these cities to visit, you can make a choice now.

Go to the Residence Square , which hosts  one of the oldest markets in Europe . Then, walk across the Salzach River to  Linzergasse Street  until you reach the Mirabell Gardens. Get the best views of the Salzburg Fortress from the gardens and enjoy the Christmas atmosphere.

Sip hot  Glühwine (mulled wine), enjoy local sausages, and finish with delicious  Mozartkügel  (Mozart chocolate pralines) for dessert.

🍭 SPECIALTIES TO TRY: Brezel (Big Pretzel – sweet or sauer), Kaiserschmarrn (traditional shredded pancakes), Mulled Wine, Hot Chocolate 📍 LOCATION: Residence Square & In Front Of The Mirabell Palace ✨ SALZBURG CHRISTMAS MARKETS DATES: 23rd of November 2023 and finish on the 6th of January 2024

Experience Austrian Tradition Krampus

If you are in the region on the 6th of December , you’ll also experience a unique Christmas tradition in Austria – Krampus. It’s a parade of creatures called ‘Krampus.’ These are hand-carved wooden scary masks . Locals dress up and go to the streets and scare everybody.

It’s actually very creepy yet interesting to experience. The purpose of this tradition is to scare away all the bad energy from the places and people before Christmas and prepare for the arrival of Jesus Christ.

👉 READ ALSO: Salzburg Itinerary 3 Days: Self-Guided Tour

DAY 6. TRAVEL BY TRAIN SALZBURG ⇒ NUREMBERG

Salzburg has a lot to see, so take some time today in the morning to appreciate Classical music in Mozart’s birthplace , go up to Salzburg’s Fortress , and chill in the Mirabel Gardens before you take the train.

TOP EXPERIENCES IN SALZBURG: ➡ Mozart Fortress Concert With Dinner ➡ Original Sound Of Music Tour

How To Get From Salzburg To Nuremberg By Train

Finally, a shorter train ride awaits us today, crossing the border to Germany . We’ll get to explore another stunning  medieval city , Nuremberg. In the evening, get to Nuremberg and have a good rest. Tomorrow, we’ll explore the city with its markets.

You’ll have to  change in Munich  to get from Salzburg to Nuremberg. You can take a  regional train  from Salzburg to Munich (blue-yellow train) and then change to an  Intercity train . Or take 2x Intercity trains operated by  DB  ( Deutsche Bahn – German Railways ).

Train ride from Salzburg to Nuremberg takes approx.  3hours .

🏠 Where To Stay In Nuremberg

Here are my top hotel picks for your stay in Nuremberg:

➡ Leonardo Royal Hotel Nuremberg – budget-friendly hotel – book here ➡ Astoria Apartments – mid-range apartment – book here ➡ Hotel Pomader Nuremberg – luxury hotel – book here

DAY 7. NUREMBERG, GERMANY

Nuremberg is a  beautiful medieval city  and, without a doubt, one of the  best Christmas markets in Germany . Stepping into the town, you’ll immediately feel the Christmas atmosphere and tradition. These markets have been around  since the 16th century .

This is where you finally have to try  mulled wine  (glühwein), local  Nuremberg sausages , delicious gingerbread, or Schaumkuss cake . Walk around the stunning medieval walks and enjoy unique Christmas atmosphere.

🍭 SPECIALTIES TO TRY: Nürnberger Rostbratwurst, Schaumkuss, Dampknodel With Vanilla Sauce, Nuremberg Gingerbread, Mulled Wine 📍 LOCATION: Hauptmarkt (Main Square) & Rathausplatz & Next To St. Sebaldus Church ✨ NUREMBERG CHRISTMAS MARKETS DATES: 1st of December, and end on the 24th of December 2023

DAY 8. TRAVEL BY TRAIN NUREMBERG ⇒ BRUSSELS

Besides its charming Christmas markets, Nuremberg has a lot more to see. You have to  visit its castle , walk through the  historical walls around the city , admire its beautiful architecture, and learn more about the Nazi regime in the  Nazi Party Center .

TOP EXPERIENCES IN NUREMBERG: ➡ City Tour With Bimmelbahn Train ➡ Nuremberg Old Town Guided Tour

How To Get From Nuremberg To Brussels By Train

Our last train ride on this European Christmas markets itinerary will take us to the  home of European institutions ,  delicious chocolate with waffles , and more  craft beer . So towards the evening, take a train from Nuremberg to Brussels.

There is no direct train from Nuremberg to Brussels. You’ll most often have to change in Frankfurt. You can take trains from  DB ,  German Railways . They’ll get you to your final destination.

Getting from Nuremberg to Brussels by train takes approx.  6hours .

🏠 Where To Stay In Brussels

I recommend staying in the following hotels in Brussels:

➡ Marivaux Hotel – budget-friendly hotel – book here ➡ DoubleTree By Hilton Brussels City – mid-range hotel – book here ➡ OPO Hotel – luxury hotel – book here

DAY 9. BRUSSELS, BELGIUM

The  Sound & Light show   at the Grand-Place  (main square) makes the Christmas markets in Brussels a special place. The square is super charming, with impressive buildings such as the  Town Hall .

All the buildings turn into a different world during the show, and you standing in the middle of it will also be taken away. The show  starts at 5 pm  and is repeated every hour  until about 10 pm daily .

Apart from the light show, you can enjoy a big  ice skating ring  and  Ferris wheel  and sometimes see  animals in   stalls such as sheep or goats .

Hands down to the local specialties you have to try. Brussels Christmas markets will amaze you with delicious  Belgian waffles , some of the  best chocolate , glühwein, and  local craft beer . Don’t forget also to get  Belgian french fries , which are said to be the best in Europe (I agree, they are delicious).

🍭 SPECIALTIES TO TRY: Tartiflette, Belgian Waffles & Fries, Oysters, Genever, Hot Chocolate, Craft Beer 📍 LOCATION: Grand-Place & Rue de la Bourse & Place Sainte-Catherine ✨ BRUSSELS CHRISTMAS MARKETS DATES: 25th of November 2023 until the 1st of January 2024.

Budget For European Christmas Markets

The budget for this 9-day European Christmas Market itinerary per person ( mid-range traveler ) is  $1460 .

This is a very realistic budget for mid-range travelers who want to stay in nice hotels, try various local specialties at the markets, buy Christmas souvenirs, and do some of the recommended activities in each city.

Here is a breakdown of this itinerary budget for each travel category:

So the total budget for a 9-day European Christmas Itinerary by train , without restricting yourself too much and enjoying everything the cities offer, is $1460 per person .

NOTE: The budget will vary based on your preferences. You can significantly lower the cost of this itinerary if you stay in budget-friendly hotels and avoid buying a lot of stuff.

Eurostar Christmas Markets: Itinerary

If your goal is to visit Christmas Markets by Eurostar train , it’s possible. Let me give you an itinerary that you can travel by Eurostar and visit some of the most beautiful markets.

Eurostar operates within the following cities:

✅ London ✅ Paris ✅ Amsterdam ✅ Rotterdam ✅ Brussels ✅ Cologne

All of these cities host incredible Christmas Markets that you can enjoy. This is how I would plan a Christmas journey by Eurostar.

Here is a 7-day Eurostar Christmas Market Itinerary :

👉 READ ALSO: Christmas In Spain: Complete Guide With Traditions & Best Places

To help you plan your visit to the Christmas markets even more, I’ve also answered some of the most frequently asked questions. So check them out.

Do Trains Run On Christmas Day In Europe?

Yes , trains also run on Christmas Day in Europe. But they’re often fully booked way in advance as everyone travels to meet their families. Therefore, I recommend booking your train tickets at least 2 to 3 months in advance if you need to travel on Christmas Day to secure your spot.

Which European City Has The Biggest Christmas Market?

Vienna in Austria hosts the biggest Christmas market in Europe. Altogether, it has 12 markets. The biggest one is on Rathaus Square. Vienna truly has some of the most magical Christmas markets, so you should plan a visit one day.

What Is The Best Christmas Market To Visit?

The best Christmas market to visit is Salzburg . With its stunning architecture, this charming city is the perfect setup for Christmas Markets. You’ll walk through its streets hearing Christmas music, and the local markets are lovely, offering some of the best delicacies and delicious mulled wine with hot chocolate.

The atmosphere is just perfect. It’s a small city, which makes it more cozy .

Where Is The Oldest Christmas Market In The World?

Dresden has the oldest Christmas markets in the world, dating back to 1434. It’s officially called Dresdner Striezelmarkt , and you can look forward to over 200 Christmas stalls offering delicious food and drinks and some of the most beautiful Christmas ornaments to bring home with you.

Why Are All Christmas Markets German?

Because  Germany invented Christmas Markets . This tradition comes from German cities, and that’s why they’re the most famous and often some of the most beautiful in Europe. The first ever Christmas Market was organized in 1434 in Dresden , the eastern part of Germany, close to the Czech Republic.

WRAP-UP: European Christmas Markets By Train

This is my itinerary to see the most magical Christmas markets with the best European cities. Follow it and make the most out of your stay in Europe. I’m sure it’ll bring you into the proper Christmas mood.

If you have any questions or need further travel tips, you can always contact me at info(at)voicesoftravel.com . I’ll be happy to help you. Also, I can design a customized travel itinerary based on your travel needs and interests, so let me know if you’d like one.

Happy Christmas Travels!

More Travel Tips For Europe

Looking to visit more European travel itineraries? Check out my related articles:

2-Week Europe Itinerary

Christmas In Austria: Complete Guide With Traditions & Places

Austria Road Trip Itinerary 10 Days

Czech Republic Itinerary 10 Days

Slovakia Road Trip Itinerary 8 Days

Northern Italy Itinerary 10 Days

Spain Itinerary 14 Days

Switzerland Itinerary 8 Days

South Of France Itinerary 14 Days

Southern Spain Itinerary 10 Days

Switzerland Vs. Austria: Which Is Better To Visit?

About the author: Nicoletta  is a travel enthusiast and passionate language learner. While traveling, she loves to connect with locals using her language skills to learn about new cultures. Look for her skiing, hiking in the mountains, or exploring new destinations as she designs travel itineraries for her clients.

TRAVEL ITINERARIES : Interested in more travel itineraries? Check out my Travel Itineraries Page .

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Thoroughly Travel

The Best European Christmas Markets Road Trip: A One Week Itinerary

How to plan the perfect road trip through Central Europe’s most charming Christmas Market Cities from the UK, or anywhere in mainland Europe.

(Updated 2024)

This post may contain affiliate links, which means we might earn a small commission on anything purchased through these links at no extra cost to you. Learn more on our Disclaimer page .

How to plan a European Christmas Road Trip Itinerary

There are multiple components to think about when planning a European Christmas Market road trip itinerary. Home to 44 interesting and unique countries, Europe covers a large area and choosing where to go can be overwhelming. December is one of the best times to visit as the continent overhauls itself into a festive winter wonderland. Touring through Central Europe’s most charming Christmas Markets can be one of the best ways to get into the Christmas spirit. We’ve created 4 easy steps to help you plan the perfect European Christmas Market road trip itinerary.

Time needed: 1 week.

When to go: Late November-December when the Christmas Markets are open.

Weather: Cold.

Currency: Euro.

1) Choose your destinations

A lot of people who have never visited mainland Europe before (and even those who have) underestimate its size. At 10.53 million km², Europe is a huge continent. There are far too many European countries to fit into one trip and countless cities to explore too. So how do you decide where to go? Whittling your list down to only a few destinations can be difficult. You need to balance seeing as much as possible in the time available and giving yourself enough time to do each place justice.

A typical rule of thumb for visiting a European city is that you can normally hit all the main points of interest in 1-2 days. Some cities are larger than others, particularly capital cities, but up to 2 days gives you a good flavour of a place’s culture and time to see all the main sights. This means you can realistically include up to 6 cities in a week long European road trip . These can be in as many countries as you like, but logistically will depend on distances and borders. Planning a route through multiple conjoining countries can help you maximise the diversity of your trip. On the other hand, you could choose just one or two countries to really get a feel for a place by staying for multiple days.

You’ll likely choose your destinations based on where you’re starting from. For most, this will be a capital city, such as London, Paris, Berlin, Brussels or Amsterdam. Western Central Europe is the most easily accessible from these destinations, encompassing Northern France, Belgium, Luxembourg, Western Germany and The Netherlands . Using these 5 countries as a shortlist can be a good starting point for planning a European Christmas road trip.

The first thing you need to do is plot the major cities you’re interested in visiting and list your priorities.

2) The best Christmas Markets in Europe

Europe is world-renowned for its Christmas Markets and is probably the most festive place in the world to visit around Christmastime. Most towns and cities in Europe have a Christmas Market. Some run from November through to January , while others are only open in the weeks just before Christmas . The larger cities, particularly capital cities, are more likely to have longer-running Christmas Markets (although these will likely be busier and more expensive too). Europe is also home to lots of interesting cites with rich histories and attractions. Balancing a mix between Christmas festivities and traditional sightseeing activities is recommended for a well-balanced trip.

Europe is home to some of the most famous Christmas Markets in the world . Vienna, Salzberg, Budapest and Prague all top the list of best European Christmas Markets. While Germany is one of the best countries in Europe for Christmas Markets, as many of the holiday’s traditions originated there. Nuremburg, Dresden, Leipzig and Berlin are also popular German Christmas Market towns.

The issue is that these iconic Christmas Markets are spread far and wide across Europe. Visiting them all in one week would be difficult without spending the whole trip in the car. To get the most out of your European Christmas Markets road trip, you’ll need to shortlist the destinations that you can easily drive between in one week . This means condensing your search into a smaller geographical area and maybe even choosing smaller towns. We’d recommend focussing on Western Central Europe , which has a huge variety of cities to choose from across 5 countries (Northern France, Belgium, Luxembourg, Western Germany and The Netherlands). Visiting lesser known Christmas Market cities in Europe can also yield the advantages of being less busy and less expensive. We’ve listed 24 of the best cities in Western Central Europe in the next section to help you get started.

Read next: Prague’s Best Eco-friendly Hotel: Botanique

The 24 best cities in Western Central Europe

Northern france.

1) Amiens – Located in northern France, Amiens is divided by the Somme river and known for its Gothic Cathedral and Medieval Belfry. Floating market gardens ( hortillonnages ) can be found on the city’s canals, while the Christmas Market has been held every year since 1997.

2) Arras – Arras is most well-known for its military history. A network of quarry tunnels (The Carrière Wellington) can be found under the city and were used by soldiers during WWI. While the Canadian National Vimy Memorial lies north of the city. The town boasts cobbled streets, buildings with Flemish facades, a Town Hall and Belfry. Arras’ Christmas Market is the biggest north of Paris and features over 140 artisans and exhibitors.

3) Cambrai – Known as the Duke of Wellington’s headquarters for the British Army of Occupation from 1815 to 1818, Cambrai is a small city near the German border.

4) Colmar – Located in north-eastern France near the border with Germany, Colmar features a picturesque Old Town with cobblestone streets and half-timbered medieval and early Renaissance buildings. Colmar has six Christmas markets to choose from, as well as a Gothic 13th-century church and the Unterlinden Museum, which houses the Isenheim Altarpiece. Colmar is on the Alsace Wine Route, making it a firm favourite with wine lovers who stop to try local Riesling and Gewürztraminer wines.

5) Douai – Known as the City of Giants , Douai is a small city in northern France known for the region’s most impressive belfries. Douai is home to Douai Abbey, a Roman Catholic monastery founded in Paris in 1615, uprooted by the Revolution and finally returned to England in 1903.

6) Laon – Laon is a hill-top city with a dramatic cathedral at its centre. The city is encircled by walls and was once the capital of the Carolingian Empire in the early middle ages.

7) Lille – Situated near the border with Belgium, Lille is a cultural hub and bustling university city. Its historic centre, Vieux Lille , is known for 17th-century houses, cobbled pedestrian streets and a large central square. Lille is easily accessible from the UK at only 1hrs 30min on the Eurostar from London St Pancras.

8) Reims – The unofficial capital of the Champagne wine-growing region, Reims is known for its grand cathedral with stained-glass windows and Gothic carved portals, including the Smiling Angel. For more than 1,000 years, French kings were crowned here. Reims Christmas Market is the 3rd largest Christmas market in France with over 135 stalls offering regional specialities, crafted products, souvenirs and food and drink items.

9) Strasbourg – Strasbourg is the formal seat of the European Parliament. Its proximity to the German border has resulted in culture and architecture blending of German and French influences. Possibly the best Christmas Market in Europe, Strasbourg’s Christkindelsmärik features over 300 wooden huts, spread around different squares in the city.

10) Antwerp – Antwerp is a port city in Belgium known for its centuries-old Diamond District that houses thousands of diamond traders, cutters and polishers. With history dating to the Middle Ages, Antwerp is home to Flemish Renaissance architecture and the 17th-century Rubens House, period rooms which display works by the Flemish Baroque painter Peter Paul Rubens. The Christmas Market boasts over 90 stalls, as well as an ice-skating rink, miniature golf, winter bar and giant Ferris wheel.

11) Bruges – One of Europe’s most romantic cities, Bruges is renowned for its canals, cobbled streets and medieval buildings. The 14th-century City Hall and 13th-century Belfry overlook the main Christmas Market, which features an ice rink and numerous wooden chalets. In Winter, Bruges is transported into a Winter Wonderland as the annual Winter Glow Festival takes over the city.

12) Brussels – The capital of Belgium, Brussels is known for being the administrative centre of the European Union, as well as housing numerous historical and architectural landmarks, some of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. In winter, Brussels’ Winter Wonders event covers the city with festivity. Wooden chalets, pop-up bars and restaurants span over a mile (2km), while families can enjoy the Ferris wheel or merry-go-round. Brussels is easily accessible from London via the Eurostar, which takes less than 2 hours.

13) Ghent – Ghent is a strong contender with Bruges for most picturesque Belgian town. With a Medieval history and impressive cathedral, Ghent is a popular Christmas getaway destination. The Christmas Market is fun for all the family, with more than 150 wooden huts, Ferris wheel and merry-go-rounds.

Read next: The Thorough Guide to Bruges

14) Luxembourg City – The capital of a small European nation of the same name, Luxembourg City is known for ruins of medieval fortifications, dramatic cliffs and sweeping views. The annual Winter Lights Festival illuminates the city with Christmas cheer and visitors can enjoy Christmas stalls, food and drink, a Ferris wheel, miniature train, concerts, workshops and shows for children.

Western Germany

15) Bonn – Located in western Germany, Bonn is known for Beethoven House, a memorial and museum honouring the composer’s birthplace. The Christmas Market runs for over a month and visitors can shop for locally-produced souvenirs, as well as exploring Bonn Minster, the old City Hall or Poppelsdorf Palace.

16) Cologne – Famed for its twin-spired, Gothic Cathedral, Cologne is over 2000 years old. Tourists can explore the lavish Christmas huts, browsing crafts, souvenirs, jewellery, toys and tasty treats. Art lovers should visit Museum Ludwig, which showcases 20th-century art, including many masterpieces by Picasso. While the Romano-Germanic Museum houses Roman antiquities.

17) Düsseldorf – Düsseldorf is known for its fashion industry and art scene. The city is split into two, with the Old Town on the east bank and modern commercial areas lying to the west. Visitors can explore the 13th century St. Lambertus Church and Schlossturm ( Castle Tower ) or wander streets lined with boutique shops, including Königsallee and Schadowstrasse. Known as the fairytale market , Düsseldorf Christmas Markets are unique. Each market has a different theme and the wooden huts are topped with characters from the Brothers Grimm fairy-tales.

18) Frankfurt – Frankfurt is a large German city and major financial hub, home to the European Central Bank. Known as the birthplace of writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, much of the city was damaged during World War II. The reconstructed Old Town is the site of Römerberg, the square that hosts the annual Christmas market. Featuring a huge Christmas tree, these markets are the perfect place to buy a mulled wine or roasted chestnuts and watch the chiming of Frankfurt’s Church Bells.

19) Monschau – Located, near the Belgian border, Monschau has a picturesque Medieval centre, with half-timbered houses and narrow cobblestone streets. The hill-top Monschau Castle looks over the city and often hosts open-air concerts. Monschau not only hosts the traditional German Christmas Market stalls but also boasts a House of Christmas. Throughout the months of March to December, the House of Christmas offers Christmas decorations for sale on all 3 floors. Christmas carols played by various music ensembles can be heard around every corner and visitors can also explore The Red House, the 1752 home of a local and wealth cloth manufacturer, featuring lavish period furnishings and a carved, winding oak staircase.

20) Rothenburg ob der Tauber – Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a German town located in northern Bavaria. Featuring Medieval architecture, half-timbered houses and cobblestone lanes, the Old Town is home to the annual Reiterlesmarkt (Pre-Christmas Market). Visitors can also climb the Town Hall tower for panoramic views of the city, or explore the town walls, which include many preserved gate houses and towers, plus a covered walkway on top.

21) Trier – Located in the Moselle wine region, near the Luxembourg border, Trier is one of the most underrated cities in Germany. Founded by the Romans, the city contains numerous well-preserved Roman structures including the Porta Nigra gate, the ruins of Roman baths, an amphitheatre just outside the centre and a stone bridge over the Moselle River. With over 95 Christmas stalls, the Christmas Market features a daily festive programme against a backdrop of the imposing Trier Cathedral.

The Netherlands

22) Rotterdam – Located in south Holland, Rotterdam is a port city with a Maritime Museum featuring vintage ships and exhibits, as well as the 17th-century Delfshaven neighbourhood, Pilgrim Fathers Church and Erasmus bridge. Home to the Dutch Royal family, Rotterdam welcomes visitors, who can enjoy several Christmas Markets, as well as a Finnish Christmas Shop.

23) Amsterdam – The capital of The Netherlands, Amsterdam is famed for its intricate canal network, as well as numerous bike paths, the Van Gogh Museum, the Rijksmuseum (which houses works by Rembrandt and Vermeer) and modern art at the Stedelijk. There are numerous Christmas Markets throughout the city with the largest market next to the skating rink on Museumplein. The Winter Paradise Festival transforms the city with the Ice*Amsterdam Village featuring an ice rink.

24) Utrecht – Utrecht is a charming university city, known for its medieval centre, tree-lined canals, Christian monuments and Domtoren, a 14th century bell tower with sweeping city views, as well as the Gothic Cathedral of St. Martin on central Domplein square.

Read next: The 10 Best Things to do in The Netherlands

3) Choose the things you want to see in each city

Once you’ve got a rough plan of the countries and cities you want to cover, it’s time to plan what you want to see. Google Maps is a great resource which allows you to save locations as pins, plot routes and plan your own walking tours of a city. GPS My City is also a fantastic resource, which gives detailed information on all the major (and not so major!) sights in each city, and provides suggested walking routes as well as letting you design your own. DIY walking tours can be a great way to see a new city and are free too! Most Europeans cities are walkable, or have an Old Town that is walkable, so this is a great way to see your main points of interest in one day.

4) Planning the route

After shortlisting your locations and mapping out your points of interest, the next step is to solidify your plan and work out how to get there.

Looking at the locations on a map will give you a good idea of the natural order in which to visit each place (and how much you can fit into the time available), although there are other considerations.

Do you own car or are you going to hire a car?

It is possible to drive a car from the UK via the Eurotunnel. If this is your plan, your first and last night may need to be close to Calais.

Hiring a car can allow you to start and end in different places (even different countries). Hire cars are easily rented at most international airports, but there can be quite substantial surcharges for dropping off in a different country to the one you picked up in, so bear this in mind.

You can find out more about getting to and from Europe later in this article.

Daily driving time

The last thing you want is to plan your trip and then spend all your time in the car. It’s preferable to plan to spend no more than 3 hours driving each day. You can do this by making the most of the excellent European motorway network which will get you quickly from A to B. Alternatively there are some beautiful scenic routes, but it is worth considering the unpredictable European winter weather, which is very variable – it can be anything from sun through to rain, sleet, snow and dense fog! You can read more tips for driving in Europe at the end of this article.

Seeing the city by day or by night

By day, a city may be beautiful but by night it can be truly magical! You don’t have to do everything all in the same day. Some people prefer to see a city first by night, and then in daylight the following morning.

Winter days are short – typically light from 8:00 to 16:00. Maximise your daylight sightseeing hours by travelling after dusk. This does mean you end up travelling in the dark, so get no drive-by views, but that’s not a problem if you are using motorways which typically traverse less attractive landscapes anyway. Travelling after dusk can also mean you might hit rush hour traffic, although it tends to be more busy coming out of a city than going in on an evening.

Suggested destinations

We’ve created a suggested European Christmas Market road trip itinerary below, which is the perfect mix of culture, history and Christmas. It visits 5 of Europe’s most beautiful cities , without rushing. The 5 cities we’d recommend visiting are:

• Luxembourg City

These are all destinations that are not too far to drive between, minimising journey times and maximising sightseeing. This itinerary gives you a good mix of European culture, including gothic architecture, Medieval canals, picturesque landscapes, ancient history and of course, festive Christmas Markets. It’s also a flexible itinerary with suggested detours, giving you the opportunity to add destinations including:

Interactive Europe Christmas Markets Road Trip Map

Northern europe christmas road trip itinerary, day 1 – travel to ghent.

Ghent describes itself as Europe’s Best Kept Secret , and it’s not wrong. Boasting a history that goes back to the Middle Ages, with architecture to match, Ghent is one of the most beautiful cities in Belgium. The compact old city centre has a canal network and is packed with historical buildings including churches and castles, as well as lots of great places to eat and drink. The Gravensteen Castle is not to be missed, while the Graslei (row of harbourside guildhalls) makes for a perfect photo. As you pass the dramatic Cloth Hall , look up to the top windows and spot people fencing at the world’s oldest fencing club! See the city by night for a festive experience. During winter all the old buildings are illuminated until midnight, making wandering the narrow streets a magical experience. The Christmas markets are fun for all the family, with a Ferris Wheel, vintage merry-go-round, Moose bar and Children Village to boot.

Taking a boat tour is one of the best activities in Ghent. This is a great way to see the city and hear fascinating commentary from the skipper. Be aware that in winter the boats open from about 10:00 and may not run in bad weather. Climbing the Belfry for the superb views of the city is one of the best things to do in Ghent and shouldn’t be missed. You only need to take the stairs for the first couple of floors as beyond that there is a lift to the top.

Christmas Market Location: From Sint-Baafsplein Square to the end of Korenmarkt.

Christmas Market Dates: The second week of December to New Year’s Eve.

Key things to do:

• Gravensteen Castle
• Climb the Belfry
• Saint Bavo’s Cathedral
• Saint Nicholas’ Church
• Ghent City Museum
• Boat tour on the canal

The best sightseeing tours in Ghent: One of the best ways to learn about a new city in a short amount of time is on a walking tour. You can book onto a Private 2-Hour Walking Tour with a local guide to see the main attractions in Ghent, including the medieval city centre, Gravensteen Castle, Graslei and Korenlei. You’ll learn a lot through informative commentary, orient yourself and pick up local bar and restaurant recommendations too. Themed guided walks are very popular, with a Beer and Sightseeing Adventure and Small-Group Chocolate Tour  also available. Foodies can even book a Guided City Food Tour which includes food and drink tastings of local cuisine. While those who like to be a little more active, should consider joining a Guided Urban Bike T o ur .

Where to stay:

Budget: Hostel Uppelink Mid-range: Hotel Astoria Gent Luxury: Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Reylof Ghent

Day 2 – Ghent to Luxembourg City

Bordered by Belgium, France and Germany, Luxembourg is a small European country that many visitors miss. The capital, Luxembourg City ( Ville Haute ), is perched atop sheer cliffs and separated from the newer city by a deep river valley. As a truly strategic position, it has changed hands many times over the centuries, and has a rich heritage which reflects this.

The annual Winterlights Festival transforms Luxembourg City into a winter wonderland. Christmas Markets spring up all across the city, while live concerts, exhibitions, performances and workshops for kids are held in various venues. The Christmas Market stalls feature Christmas decorations, handicrafts, toys, clothes, jewellery, sweets, drinks and all sorts of food, and are particularly beautiful at night. Those who wish to learn more about the city’s festive traditions can join a Guided   Magical Christmas Tour .

While you’re in the city, wander through the Old Streets and admire the views from the Bock Casements (defensive tunnels cut into the cliffs). The impressive Cathédrale Notre-Dame is not to be missed, while art lovers should head to the National Museum of History and Art .

The superb new and free tram service makes it easy to get around, while a lot of the city is walkable. The City Line Bus Tour is a popular way to see the city in a limited amount of time, with 4 tours per day and a ticket valid for 24 hours.

Accommodation in the old city is limited (and expensive), but you can very easily stay in the new city and travel in by tram. Public transport is cheap and easy to use, and recommended as the one-way system can be congested and parking near the old city can be tricky too.

Christmas Market Location: The main market is at Place d’Armes, with other events in Place de la Constitution, Kinnekswiss, Place de Paris, the courtyard of the Old Athénée and Champ du Glacis.

Christmas Market Dates: Mid-November to early January.

• Palais Grand-Ducal
• Bock Casemates
• Cathédrale Notre-Dame
• Panoramic Elevator of the Pfaffenthal
• Musée national d’histoire et d’art Luxembourg
• Constitution Square

The best sightseeing tours in Luxembourg City: Those looking to get into the festive spirit should join a Guided   Magical Christmas Tour to learn more about Luxembourg’s history and traditions. Alternatively, taking a Guided City Walking Tour with Wine   is very popular and takes in Luxembourg City’s main sights, including Constitution Square, Place Guillaume II, Place d’Armes and Grand Ducal Palace. Those looking for a little more adventure can join a Guided E-Bike Tour , an eco-friendly way to see the city’s highlights. While those who wish to do less walking can enjoy the sights on a double decker bus as part of the City Line Bus Tour .

Budget: Luxembourg City Hostel Mid-range: DoubleTree by Hilton Luxembourg Luxury: Hotel Le Place d’Armes

Day 3 – Luxembourg City to Strasbourg

As the self-designated Capital of Christmas , Strasbourg has been hosting a Christmas market in Place Broglie since 1570. And what a market it is! Christmas lights and decorations adorn every building, an enormous Christmas tree pops up in Place Kléber and over 300 Christmas stalls can be found in every square (and there are lots of squares!). It’s no wonder that more than 2 million people visit Strasbourg Christmas Market ( Christkindelsmärik ) every year. Couple this with the fact that it is a truly beautiful city, and it’s easy to see why Strasbourg is top of many people’s Europe Christmas Markets list.

While Strasbourg may be French, its proximity to the German border and turbulent history has resulted in a mix of culture and architecture that has both German and French influences . The city became French after the conquest of Alsace in 1681. It was then taken back by Germany after the Franco-Prussian War in 1871 until the end of World War I in 1918 saw it revert back to France. Today, visitors can visit the Gothic Cathédrale Notre-Dame which features daily shows from its astronomical clock and offers sweeping views of the Rhine River from partway up its 142m (466ft) spire.

Upon arrival, the best way to orient yourself is with a guided walking tour. Explore the Historical Centre on a Private Walking Tour or jump straight into the festivities with a Christmas Market Tour . Those looking for a unique perspective should consider joining a 1.5-Hour Guided Segway Tour , which is fun for all abilities. While foodies will love a Traditional Food Group Walking Tour , which introduces you to the city’s highlights and stops to sample traditional delicacies and drinks.

Day 4 – Strasbourg (and the Colmar/Alsace region)

Strasbourg is a beautiful spot and, as the Capital of Christmas , deserves a full day on this European Christmas Market road trip itinerary. Start your day with a Batorama Boat Tour , a large glass-topped boat. Cruising around the city is a great way to orient yourself. Make sure you book the longer tour, which will not only take you into the picturesque Petite France but will also show you the more modern districts, including the European Parliament, whilst giving an insightful commentary into the turbulent history of this town on the French-German border.

Photographers shouldn’t miss Petite France, a lovely place to stroll, and so photogenic. While history buffs can head to the Historical Museum of the City of Strasbourg. If you’d like to explore the area, you can join a Full-Day Highlights of the Alsace Tour , which visits highlights of the region, including Colmar, Eguisheim, Riquewirh and Haut Koenigsbourg Castle. While a Wine Tour & Tastings fr o m Strasbourg is the perfect way to spend the day if you’re a wine lover. This highly-rated tour explores the Alsace Wine Route, tasting local wines and visiting local villages. A Half-Day Wine Tour is also availale for those who wish to spend a little more time in Strasbourg’s centre.

The Christmas Markets are the main event. They are all located in the Old Town ( Grand Ile ), which is an easily walkable area encompassed by the River Ill. And of course make sure you stay until after dark, when the city lights up and the streets become truly magical. To really get in the festive cheer, consider spending the day on a Alsace   Christmas Markets Tour , which visits local Christmas Market Towns, including Colmar, Eguisheim and Riquewihr.

Accommodation in Strasbourg gets booked very early and tends to be very expensive. The Park & Ride tram service, runs frequent services in and out of the city and is incredibly reasonably priced. Booking a hotel or B&B out of the city and transiting in can save you money.

Christmas Market Location: The main market is in Place de la Cathédrale de Strasbourg and Place Kléber, with others spread across Place Gutenberg, Place Broglie, Place du Château, Place du Marché aux Poisson, Place du Temple Neuf, Place Saint Thomas, Place des Meuniers, Place Benjamin-Zix, Place Grimmeissen, Advent Village at Square Louise-Weiss and Place du Corbeau.

Christmas Market Dates: The end of November to Christmas Eve.

• Cathédrale Notre Dame de Strasbourg
• Palais Rohan
• St. Thomas Church
• Parc de l’Orangerie
• Ponts Couverts de Strasbourg
• Historical Museum of the City of Strasbourg

The best sightseeing tours in Strasbourg: Explore the city’s highlights and Historical Centre on a Private Walking Tour or a 1.5-Hour Guided Segway Tour . Learn more about the city’s festive traditions on a Christmas Market Tour or sample local delicacies on a Traditional Food Group Walking Tour .

Budget: The People – Strasbourg Mid-range: HANNONG Hotel & Wine Bar Luxury: Maison Rouge Strasbourg Hotel & Spa, Autograph Collection

Day 5 – Strasbourg to Trier

Trier is one of the lesser well-known German cities but so worth visiting. Located conveniently between Strasbourg and Bruges, Trier has some of the best preserved Roman ruins in Europe, as well as beautiful buildings and of course a wonderful Christmas Market.

Visiting the Porta Nigra , an amazingly preserved Roman gateway to the city, is a must, while the Constantine Basilica features Emperor Constantine’s throne room, a huge and impressive building which is today used as a church. And the Imperial Roman Baths are one of three in the city, reached by a pleasant walk though the Palasgarten (Palace Gardens) and are unmissable for a history lover.

Set against the imposing backdrop of Trier Cathedral, Trier Christmas Market boasts over 95 wooden huts, selling local produce, handmade crafts, souvenirs and tasty food and drink. The romantic setting in the main square is the perfect place to grab a mulled wine and take in the twinkly fairy-lights.

Christmas Market Location: Domfreihof, the main square in front of the cathedral.

Christmas Market Dates: The end of November to just before Christmas Day.

• Porta Nigra
• Kaiserthermen
• Trier Amphitheatre
• Trier Saint Peter’s Cathedral
• Palasgarten
• Liebfrauenkirche
• Rheinisches Landesmuseum Trier

The best sightseeing tours in Trier: Take a Guided City Highlights Walking Tour to learn more about Trier’s rich Roman and Medieval history. Or consider doing a self-guided outdoor-escape-game for a fun and unique way to explore the city.

Budget: FourSide Hotel Trier Mid-range: Best Western Hotel Trier City Luxury: Park Plaza Trier

Day 6 – Trier to Bruges via Waterloo/Monschau/Brussels

As the trip comes to an end, it’s time to start heading back home. Travelling from Trier to Bruges can be done via a scenic drive through Monschau , taking in the German countryside. Brussels would make a good alternative to visit en-route, as it’s half-way between Trier and Bruges. While history lovers should stop at Waterloo, the site of the 1815 Battle of Waterloo. The battlefield site is a large, flat area, with a huge mound topped by a lion statue, as a memorial to all those who fought. You can climb the Butte de Lion (the lion monument), which was built on a man-made mound between 1823-1826. There is also a well laid out and thought-provoking museum, where you can learn more about the history of the battle through artifacts and a 3D movie.

As you arrive in Bruges, it’ll most likely be dark. This is the perfect time to head out and appreciate the magical festive lights which are part of the annual Winter Glow festival , which takes over the city in winter. Follow the Light Experience Trail, which illuminates some of Bruges’ most iconic buildings or enjoy a hot drink in the cosy winter bar pop up at the Minnewater ( Lake of Love ). Or take a walking tour to orient yourself. You can join a classic 2-Hour Guided Walking Tour to learn more about the city’s history, or a Dark Side of Bruges Private Evening Tour to discover mystery, dark stories, interesting facts, and the old legends of Bruges’ Medieval Centre.

Day 7 – Bruges

The capital of West Flanders, Bruges is known for its Medieval houses with crow-stepped gables, impressive Neogothic architecture and historic centre, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Start your day with a Boat Cr uis e and Guided Walking Tour , taking in the highlights of this romantic city. Visit the Lace Centre to learn more about the history of lace in Bruges, or climb the 366 steps up the Belfry of Bruges ( Belfort ), a 13th century clock tower that stands 83 metres (272ft) high and give tourists panoramic city views. There are plenty of wet weather activities, including the Historium , Fries Museum and Chocolate Making Workshop with Chocolate Museum Entry , with museum passes available ( Musea Brugge Card ). While foodies can join a Belgian Beer Tour , Waffle and Beer Workshop or Private food Tour .

Overlooked by the Neogothic Provinciaal Hof (the former meeting place for the provincial government of West Flanders), Bruges’ Christmas Market can be found in the 10th century main square, Markt , as well as along Simon Stevinplein Street. Featuring a large ice rink, festive decorations and numerous wooden stalls selling unique souvenirs, Bruges Christmas Market is one of the best in Belgium, if not the whole of Europe.

Christmas Market Location: Grote Market with huts also along Simon Stevenplein street.

Christmas Market Dates: End of November to early January.

• Belfry of Bruges
• Basilica of the Holy Blood
• Church of Our Lady Bruges
• Sint-Salvatorskathedraal
• Bruges City Hall
• Historium Bruges
• De Halve Maan Brewery

The best sightseeing tours in Bruges:

Orient yourself on a 2-Hour Guided Walking Tour , or discover Bruges’ darkest secrets on a Dark Side of Bruges Private Evening Tour . Those who like to stay active can join a City Highlights Bike Tour , while foodies can sample local cuisine on a Private food Tour . Give the poor ponies a break and skip the horse-drawn carriage ride, instead opting for a Guided Rickshaw Tour , a fun and cruelty-free way to see the city.

Budget: Hotel Malleberg Mid-range: The Black Swan Hotel Luxury: Grand Hotel Casselbergh Brugge

Day 8 – Travel home

You can head home at the end of day 7, or spend another night in Bruges and head home on day 8, depending on your destination. Those heading for the UK will likely spend a whole day travelling, while those going to an airport might have a shorter journey. You can find out the best, easiest and most accessible ways to transit to and from Europe in our How to get from the UK to Europe and How to get to Europe Internationally sections below.

Europe Accommodation

While we’re big fans of spontaneous travel, with short trips like this it’s best to plan ahead to make the most out of your time. Christmas is a very popular time of year to visit Europe with Christmas Markets seeing hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. Accommodation therefore often books up in advance.

City centre hotels within walking distance of the main attractions are very convenient, but also very expensive, and get booked up very quickly. Many also offer parking (often at an extra cost). Bear in mind that parking can often be underground – check your car will fit the low ceilings and tight parking spaces before booking.

Renting an apartment is possible (even for 1 night) and can be a good alternative to staying in a hotel. There are also lots of great, locally-owned B&Bs in Europe.

Many cites have excellent public transport, which are often trams, so you can stay a little further out of the city and still have easy access to the centre. Websites like Booking.com or Hostelworld.com are good for initially sourcing accommodation. It’s always worth checking whether you can get the room cheaper via the accommodation’s own website.

How to get from UK to Europe

For many, a trip to mainland Europe starts or ends in the UK. Or you may be an international visitor, wishing to include the UK in your itinerary. Here are the best ways to get between the UK and mainland Europe. Each route can be done without flying, which is more eco-friendly and means you can take a car too.

Ferry crossings UK to France

The Dover to Calais ferry crossing is the most popular option to get to France by boat. It takes less than two hours with up to 20 sailings a day. P&O Ferries is one of the largest providers of the route. Booking in advance can be far cheaper than leaving it to the last minute.

It’s also possible to cross from the UK to France via the following routes:

• Newhaven to Dieppe
• Portsmouth to Caen, Cherbourg or St Malo
• Poole to Cherbourg
• Plymouth to Roscoff

These routes are run by DFDS Seaways and Brittany Ferries . They’re less frequent than the Dover-Calais crossing and typically more expensive.

Ferry crossings UK to The Netherlands

It’s also possible to cross from the UK to The Netherlands.

Hull to Rotterdam is the most popular route. Run 3 times a day by P&O Ferries , the route takes around 10 hours so is popular as an overnight route. You get a cabin included in your ticket and can make the most of your days by transiting overnight. P&O often run sales between October-December where you can travel for around £50 or you can buy one get one free.

DFDS S eaways provides crossings from Newcastle to Amsterdam (Ijmuiden) which runs 7 times a day. This is a convenient option for those travelling from the north of England or Scotland. While Harwich to Hook of Holland is operated by Stena Line and runs 16 times daily.

Trains UK to France

The fastest way to get from the UK to France is by Eurostar . Leaving from London St Pancras , the Eurostar heads to Lille, Paris, Lyon, Avignon, Bourg-St-Maurice and Marseille . The shortest route (stopping at Lille) takes under 1 1/2 hours, while the last stop is 8 hours away from London.

If you wish to take your own car from the UK, it’s best to book the Eurotunnel . Running 24 hours a day, 365 days per year, with up to 7 departures per hour, the crossing takes only 35 minutes from Folkestone to Calais . Tesco Clubcard Voucher codes can be redeemed when booking the Eurotunnel, so if you save up those points you can actually get the crossing for free!

Trains UK to Belgium

The Eurostar runs from London to Brussels , which takes less than 2 hours, and Antwerp in less than 3 1/2 hours. Bruges can be accessed with a quick change at Brussels Midi/Zuid on an Any Belgian Station ticket.

Alternatively, you could take the Eurotunnel from Folkestone to Calais and then drive into Belgium.

Trains UK to The Netherlands

The Eurostar also stops in Rotterdam and Amsterdam , which takes less than 4 hours.

Buses from UK to Europe

Taking a bus is one of the most eco-friendly ways to travel Europe. Flixbus operates hundreds of routes and is our preferred method of transport in Europe, being comfortable and super affordable. It services a large number of major UK cities, with those leaving from London heading to destinations including Lille, Paris, Bruges, Ghent, Brussels, Antwerp, Cologne, Frankfurt, Rotterdam, Amsterdam and Utrecht . It’s then possible to get a Flixbus to pretty much any city in Europe. National Express also runs routes from the UK to Amsterdam, Brussels, Paris and Dublin.

How to get to Europe Internationally

There are several major European airports that serve most international flights. Paris, Brussels, Frankfurt and Amsterdam are popular airports, due to their location being easily accessible to most of Central Europe. Typically, flights into a capital or large city are cheaper than flying a less busy route. The best time to buy flights is around 10-12 weeks before your flight date.

Getting around Europe

Flixbus offers hundred of routes throughout Europe and connects almost every major city. It’s super cheap and eco-friendly too. Europe has a great railway network that is affordable (although considerably more expensive than Flixbus). Tickets can be booked through Rail Europe or Trainline . If you want freedom to travel at your own pace, hiring a car is preferable.

Most European cities will be walkable, or have a walkable Old Town. Larger cities are usually served by tram networks, which are often very affordable.

Things to Know Before You Go

If you plan to drive your own car abroad or hire a car, check your car insurance and breakdown cover will cover you. Road conditions can be unpredictable in winter so it’s best to be completely covered.

Read next: The 6 Best Travel Insurance Companies for Every Kind of Trip

To drive in Europe in your UK car, you also need UK magnetic plates (not GB) on the back of the car.

Tolls are common and have different lanes for you to pay by card or cash (it’s a good idea to carry both). Be careful as you approach them to get in the right lane for you, which can be worked out by the large signs above each lane. Watch out as you pull away from the toll too, as many lanes condense back into a few and there are vehicles on both sides.

Some cites (for example , Brussels) need you to pre-register your car for emissions purposes. Check each city you plan to visit, as some might have no-vehicle zones or specific times cars can and cannot enter certain areas.

It’s a smart idea to read up on the road rules for each country as they might vary. For example, France requires you to carry a breathalyser kit and warning triangle in your car at all times. The motorways flow seamlessly from one country to another, but the speed limits change and isn’t always clearly signposted, so be sure to be careful and know the rules.

As with any customs, there are strict import/export rules between the UK and Europe. Check what you can take with you and what you can bring home. Brexit has impacted the free flow of goods between UK and the rest of Europe, and there are rules on things like meat and dairy products that you might not expect. And if you are planning on bringing back alcohol and food as presents, know what the limits are. The Christmas Markets provide some great opportunities for Christmas shopping, as do many of the small specialist shops, but don’t ignore the supermarkets – they can also have great choice at reasonable prices.

COVID-19 regulations are still changing on a frequent basis. While most countries are back to business as normal, it’s still a good idea to check entry requirements and any testing/paperwork requirements that might exist at the time of travel.

Don’t forget your passport and driving license. It’s also a good idea to carry a EHIC (European Health Insurance Card), although having comprehensive travel insurance is a must too.

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Lucy and Dan are travel writers, photographers, content creators, and founders of Thoroughly Travel. They're on a mission to help others travel for less money, with less environmental impact. You'll find them whale watching, wildlife spotting, road-tripping and seeking authentic experiences around the world. After quitting their 9-5s to backpack Mexico and Central America, they travelled New Zealand for a year on working holiday visas. They're currently Digital Nomad-ing their way around Europe.

Christmas Market tours

Drink hot mulled wine and marvel at sparkling Advent displays in historic squares across Europe. Get in the holiday spirit when you visit these iconic Christmas markets on our trips.

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What travelers say about their Christmas Market tours

Tips for planning a trip to europe’s christmas markets.

There are so many Christmas markets all around the world! We offer tours to Christmas markets in Amsterdam, Brussels, Vienna, Budapest, Prague, and Heidelberg, to name a few.

Here are some of the top markets on our European Christmas Market tours:

• Maastricht, the Netherlands.  Maastricht, in the  Netherlands , is a charming medieval city with cobblestone streets and fairy tale views. The small huts are filled with holiday gifts, mulled wine, local cheeses, and more.
• Trier, Germany.  Christmas markets originated in  Germany , making this one even more magical. From local artwork to handmade ornaments, you can find the most unique gifts here—and also some of the best gingerbread cookies around.
• Brussels, Belgium.  This market, like the city itself, is very large. In addition to the vendors selling food and other goods, there’s a large ferris wheel, ice skating rink, carousel, games, and beer tents.
• Innsbruck, Austria.  If you’ve ever dreamed of strolling through a  Christmas market in the Alps  with a cup of hot mulled wine, this one’s for you.

There are also Christmas Market tours outside of Europe, too. From New York to Toronto, check out  our 5 favorite Christmas markets not in Europe .

One of the best parts of our tours to Christmas markets is seeing all the souvenirs and gifts our travelers find. From scented ornaments and Advent calendars to cinnamon cookies and handmade nutcrackers, you’re bound to find a gift for everyone on your list. Check out  the best souvenirs you can find on our European Christmas Market tours .

The most important thing to know about European Christmas market vacations is that each one is unique. You could visit ten markets and have a different experience at each one! Read our blog on  what to do at Europe’s different Christmas markets .

Another tip is to be sure to visit at least one market at night. That’s when they’re the most magical! Show up hungry, too, because there are so many delicious foods to try at each market.

Lastly, if you’re wondering what to pack for a Christmas Market tour, bring lots of warm layers to keep toasty as you walk around the outdoor winter wonderland. And of course, our best tip is to leave room in your luggage for all the souvenirs you’ll bring home!

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Journey of Doing

7 Christmas Market Trip Itinerary Ideas

Hopefully by now, I’ve convinced you to make your own Christmas market trip to Europe!  Despite the cold, there is nowhere I’d rather celebrate the holiday season than in Europe.  The smell of roasted chestnuts, the warmth of mulled wine, traditional wooden stalls selling beautiful Christmas decor, and glimmering Christmas lights all get me out of our hotel room on the coldest of nights.  That being said, even if the Christmas markets don’t get you going, these Christmas market trip itineraries can help you plan your vacations at any point in the year.

This post is heavily focused on central Europe.  Did you know that Hungary and the Czech Republic are not  considered to be part of Eastern Europe?  Test your knowledge through this  European map quiz .  It’s sure to inspire a whole host of alternate itineraries to try, particularly if you want to experience Eastern Europe destinations.  Estonia, Latvia, and the entire Balkan peninsula are calling to me.

If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out this list of some of the  best European Christmas markets !

Disclosure:  This post contains affiliate links for tours and products I love at no additional cost to you.  You can read my  full disclosure policy here.

Christmas Market Trip Travel Tips

To maximize your trip, I highly suggest that you book an open jaw ticket.  A open jaw ticket is one that arrives in one city and departs from another city.  Typically, I like to choose my two furthest points to minimize any backtracking.  I use Skyscanner to get an idea of what are the cheap travel deals. Using my home airport (DFW) I search to anywhere in Europe.  I also subscribe to Scott’s Cheap Flights and CheapDFW .  Once I know what is on sale, I use ITA Matrix to figure out which flights I want. I use Book with Matrix to find the best deal for my specific flight.

Use Rome2Rio to compare train, bus, and car transportation options.  Trains are usually the most efficient way to travel, but it depends on the size of your group.  In some cases, it might be better to drive.  We’ve done both.  If you’ve never been abroad and you’re not comfortable navigating public transportation, you might want to consider a river cruise, but I promise that you can do this!

Winter in Europe is cold.  I could do a whole packing post on what I’ve learned, but I haven’t done it yet.  My suggestions are to purchase cuddledud base layers that can be layered under leggings or jeans.  I find cashmere sweaters to the best for staying warm.  I have a pair of wool lined waterproof Ugg books that I’ve had for six years.  They keep my feet warm and dry.  Beyond that, you’ll want a scarf, a hat, an ear band, and gloves, too.  I am all about the layering!

One Week Christmas Market Trip Ideas

Classic central europe.

Salzburg, Austria (2 nights)

Vienna, Austria (2 nights)

Prague, Czech Republic (3 nights)

Affordable Central Europe

Munich, Germany (2 nights)

Bratislava, Slovakia (2 nights)

One Week Itinerary for France Christmas Markets

The Alsace wine route is great at any time of year, and it’s perfect for Christmas markets, too!  I recommend flying into Paris and immediately catching a train from Charles de Gaulle to Strasbourg.  We’ve done this Paris to Strasbourg itinerary twice and it’s super easy!  From there, you can rent a car or take the train.  If you opt for the train, I think Strasbourg and Colmar are the best connected.  On the return, you can spend a couple nights in Paris and enjoy their Christmas markets, too.  We’ve spent Christmas in Paris twice and it’s just magical at Christmas time.

Note:  Not all Alsatian Christmas markets are open every day.  You’ll want to check the Alsace Christmas market calendar before making plans, especially for some of the smaller towns in Alsace.  The suggested itinerary below is for markets that stay open consistently, but there are some off the beaten path towns in Alsace that I love!  I would choose Strasbourg or Colmar and then fit together some of the smaller towns based on your own Christmas market trip timing.  (We actually walked from Colmar to the Eguisheim Christmas markets one day.  That might be a little intense, but it’s doable!  

Strasbourg (2 nights)   

Colmar (2 nights)

Paris (3 nights)

10 Day Christmas Market Trip Itineraries

Both of these itineraries will allow you to see some of the most popular Christmas markets in Europe.  Many popular river cruises use some variation of these itineraries, but this will allow you to enjoy seeing the cities at night.  I think they appeal to difference audiences, though I love each of these itineraries equally.  

Don’t miss the incredible ice rink in Slovakia.  It’s one of my favorite memories of our first trip, though I love the ice rink in Salzburg as well.  (I came home from studying abroad with black and blue knees from ice skating!)

Central European Capitals

Budapest, Hungary (3 nights)

Bavarian Christmas Tour

Salzburg, Austria (3 nights)

Nuremberg, Germany (2 nights)

Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany (2 nights)

Munich, Germany (3 nights)

Two Week Christmas Market Trip Itinerary Ideas

This is the first Christmas market trip itinerary that we used, and it is intense.  It’s worth it though.  For me, there was nothing more magical that ending our trip with the big Christmas tree in the middle of Old Town Square.  It felt like my favorite scene in the Nutcracker and I loved every minute of it.

Classic Central Europe Itinerary

Vienna, Austria (2 nights)

Prague, Czech Republic (3 nights)

German Christmas and Central Europe Itinerary

This itinerary flies into and out of Munich.  If your trip will end on or shortly after Christmas Day, I recommend reversing it to end your trip in Salzburg .  On Christmas Eve, you can visit the chapel where Silent Night was first performed .  How’s that for a magical Christmas Eve??

Nuremburg, Germany (2 nights)

Which are the Most Beautiful Christmas Markets?

All of these cities are beautiful in their own right.  There are things I love about all of them.  Nuremberg is the original German Christmas market.  I think Salzburg has the most beautiful views.  Vienna has the most beautiful Christmas lights.  Marienplatz in Munich is one of the most beautiful squares I’ve ever seen.  Old Town Square is a scene out of The Nutcracker.  Budapest at night is pure magic.  The old town in Bratislava epitomizes Christmas cheer.  Rothenburg ob der Tauber is the Christmas village of  Kathe Wohlfahrt in real life.

You can’t go wrong with any combination of these cities.  Pick your favorite Christmas market trip and get excited!  They are all lovely in their own right.  If you’re looking for more Christmas markets in Germany, Lorelei has a lot of unique Bavarian Christmas markets, villages, and towns on her blog!

Salzburg:  The Alpine Christmas Markets

Where to Stay:   Hotel Goldgasse or Hotel Goldener Hirsch

Where to Eat:   Zum Zirkelwirt or Gasthof Wilder Mann

Don’t Miss:   Apple Strudel and Christmas Cookie Class

Who Loves Salzburg:   People who don’t mind being outside.  Between the Christmas market at Hohensalzburg Fortress, the one at Helbrunn Schloss, and the lakeside village markets, you have to enjoy spending time outside.  I wouldn’t recommend missing any of those markets, in addition the ones in the middle of the aldstadt, but if you don’t enjoy being outside, I would head to a city that offers more indoor activities.

Vienna:  The Beautiful Christmas Markets

Where to Stay:   Hotel am Stephansplatz or Ritz Carlton Vienna

Where to Eat:   Trattoria da Angelo – I love the rose ravioli!

Don’t Miss:   The Christmas lights!  I love the chandeliers near St. Stephan’s Cathedral.

Who Loves Vienna:  If you love music, culture, and cafes, Vienna has plenty of things to do on cold, wet days.  After touring Schonnbrunn Palace, you can take in a classical concert or see a strudel show.  I love sipping amaretto hot chocolate and reading at Cafe Central.  There are numerous museums, covering every topic you could imagine in the heart of Vienna.  If that’s not enough to satisfy your culture appetite, take a class to learn the Viennese waltz.  (We did; it was fun!)

Bratislava: Christmas Markets for Foodies

Where to Stay:   Sheraton Bratislava or Roset Boutique Hotel

Where to Eat:   Rio Grande Restaurant – I love the lava steak!

Don’t Miss:   A food tour of the Christmas markets !  You’ll try a lot of Slovak specialties.  Find a place where you can comfortable enjoy the ambiance around the ice rink in the old town.  A lot places have outdoor heaters and blankets to keep warm!  It’s worth it!

Who Loves Bratislava:   If Vienna is too big, too modern, or too expensive for you, Bratislava feels like a world away from the grand architecture of Vienna.  Less than an hour away, it offers a similar beauty to Prague without the crowds.  Despite the cold temperatures, we enjoyed the public art, seeing the fortified city walls, and learning more about the differences between Slovakia and the Czech Republic, which ultimately led to their split during our lifetime.  I find this piece of modern history fascinating.

Budapest:  The City Backdrop for Christmas Markets

Where to Stay:   Hilton Budapest

Where to Eat:   Pest Buda Bistro and Strudel House

Don’t Miss:   Any of these tours: Budapest night walking tour with river cruise , historical Budapest , Budapest Christmas market tour .  These are some of my favorite tour guides in Europe.  I can’t wait to go back and book them again!

Who Loves Budapest:   How can you not love Budapest?  That being said, if you love history, you’ll love Budapest.  If you love beautiful architecture and grand boulevards, you’ll love Budapest.  Budapest is the coldest of the Christmas markets we visited, so you’ll want to be prepared for that, but I think it is worth it.

Prague: The Fairytale Christmas Markets

Where to Stay:   Four Seasons Prague or Mandarin Oriental Prague

Where to Eat:   Pasta Fresca  or Meat and Greet

Don’t Miss:   St. Vitus Cathedral .  The Spanish Synagogue .  Old Town Square at night.  Charles Bridge in the early morning light.  Mala Strana.  The list for Prague goes on and on, doesn’t it??

Who Loves Prague:   If you like nightlife, Prague is your city.  (That’s not really my jam, but I recognize that it may be other people’s.)  If you love awe-inspiring stained glass and fairy tales come to life, don’t skip Prague.  One of my most fond memories of Prague is wandering the lamplit streets of Mala Strana on the way to the castle.  I could picture easily what it must have felt like in the 1500s.  I love getting out early and experiencing the Charles Bridge when its mostly empty with only the lamps are illuminating it.  The entire city seems mysterious and magical.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber: The Christmas Village

Where to Stay:   Hotel Klosterstuble

Where to Eat:   Profumo di Pasta da Guiseppe

Don’t Miss:   The Night Watchman’s Tour, eating a schneeballen , and visiting Kathe Wohlfahrt .

Who Loves Rothenburg ob der Tauber:   Anyone who loves Christmas.  It’s hard not to be a Grinch in this postcard perfect town.  If you love medieval town walls (my husband does), it’s neat to be able to walk around the city as though you are the night watchman.  The views of the German countryside are beautiful, too.

Munich:  The Traditional German Christmas Markets

Where to Stay:   Aloft Munich

Where to Eat:   TBD – we’re still in search of truly great meals in Munich!  That being said, Aldi has fresh and delicious pretzel rolls that Tom and I both still talk about.  (Why yes, my husband has identified the best products at Aldi in Europe, too.  It’s his favorite store.  He tells our family if Aldi doesn’t sell it, you don’t need it.)

Don’t Miss:   Listening to the traditional band and making friends at Hofbrauhaus .

Who Loves Munich:   Anyone who loves science or history.  Munich occupies a large space in World War II history, and I highly recommend learning more about its role in the world during that time.  The Deutsches Museum is the most comprehensive science museum I’ve ever visited, and I highly suggest visiting it.  Munich is much larger than it seems, so you’ll want to plan to get out of the old town and experience more of the neighborhoods with different feels.  The Aloft gave us a map of all the Christmas markets in the city, and many offer more traditional crafts than the markets in the city center.  (That’s yet another reason to stay with them – they encourage you to see more!)

Nuremberg:  The Original German Christmas Market

Where to Stay:   Melter Hotel and Apartments

Where to Eat:   at the Christmas market!  (I love the Nuremberg sausage.  And the pretzels.)

Don’t Miss:   Taking a food tour of Nuremberg !

Who Loves Nuremberg:   People who love history.  You need to visit the Documentation Center.  Not everything can be filled with Christmas cheer, but it’s important to understand that the atrocities that happened during World War II didn’t happen over night.  It is the result of a slow and methodical stripping away of the humanity of others.  We’re in danger of repeating that again, so I encourage you to learn more than we were taught it school.  It remains one of the most transformative experiences of my education.

Strasbourg Christmas Markets: The Capital of Christmas

Where to Stay:   Regent Petite France Hotel & Spa or Le Bouclier d’Or

Where to Eat:   at the Christmas market!  Don’t miss the Vin Chaud Blanc – my favorite is right in front of the Strasbourg Cathedral – literally smack dab in the middle.  It’s an additional Euro and it’s worth it.  

Don’t Miss:   Strasbourg Christmas Market Food Tour  

Who Loves Strasbourg:   People who are looking for a bigger city with their Christmas market.  For me, it felt like a smaller Vienna or similar to Bratislava.  I really loved being able to take a break from the crowds at our hotel spa, too.  (It overlooks the Petite France canals, too!)    

Colmar Christmas Markets: Christmas Markets with Canals

Where to Stay:   La Maison des Tetes

Where to Eat:   Via Roma , La Pignata , or the Covered Market right across from Petite Venise.  (You’ll want reservations anywhere in Colmar during Christmas time.  Colmar gets so busy!   

Don’t Miss:   Alsatian wine tasting at Domaine Martin Jund

Who Loves Colmar:   People who don’t mind crowds.  People who love holiday decor.  People who want to feel non-stop Christmas cheer.  The entire town is decked out for Christmas and it’s busy.  It can be a little overwhelming if you have sensory overload issues.  If you find yourself in that position, take a morning and head over to Eguisheim.  It’s a little quieter, a little calmer, and absolutely gorgeous.  

What Should I Buy at a Christmas Market?

For me, the best souvenirs at Christmas ornaments.  Tom and I have started a tradition where we purchase a Christmas ornament from the cities we visit.  Many of the Christmas markets have regulations that you can’t sell cheap crap that is mass produced.  Thus, you’ll find beautiful hand-painted or hand-blown Christmas ornaments.  I could look at them for hours, to be honest.  Whether your Christmas tree has a theme or a color, chances are, you’ll find something that is absolutely perfect for you.  Strasbourg had the best selection of the incense houses to create a Christmas village at home.  

Beyond that, look for things you can’t find at home.  In each city, I’ve always found something that was unique to the region.  My grandmother loves her potpourri Christmas tree we purchased in 2016 and it still smells great!  Similarly, my cousin loves the wooden dog statue we found for her on this last trip.  My mother-in-law loves her traditional German wooden pyramid decoration.  I love the bath salts my mom found me; she loves the schnapps, spices and oils she purchased for herself.  You can certainly purchase things like jewelry and journals, but I think the best part of Christmas markets is finding the specific regional things that you can’t find easily in the United States.

Sara loves to help people use their vacation time more effectively by planning beautiful, memorable, and delicious trips. She spends several weeks every year exploring Italy and central Europe. In addition to her full-time job, she is constantly searching for beautiful places and spaces. She loves the direct flights between Dallas and Italy, France, and Germany but is always up for wherever a great deal on an airline ticket will take her. (Sara also really loves European Christmas markets and tries to visit at least one new one every holiday season.)

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Stockholm is yours to explore ttoday oon a guided tour.

WOW, absolutely beautiful! I can’t believe how many cities/countries you’ve traveled to in Europe and have gotten to experience the true Christmas spirit each has to offer!

great ideas for christmas ITINERARIES 

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European Christmas Market Itinerary by Train

If you are a regular reader then you already know that I LOVE Christmas markets. Ever since I discovered that they existed way back in 2011 when I travelled for the first time, I’ve been kind of obsessed. The holiday season may be cold in Europe, but it’s so darn magical and hands down one of my favourite times to visit. The lights, the decorations, the cute mugs full of delicious gluhwein , sausages, cookies, and other snacks and treats. European Christmas markets are basically the adult version of Santa’s village and I love everything about them. However, having been to many markets over many years, I realize that planning a Christmas market itinerary can be a bit overwhelming.

Europe has no shortage of Christmas markets so which ones do you choose? How do you get there and travel around? When should you go and what should you see and do? If these are questions you have then this is for you. I’m sharing the exact 2-week European Christmas market itinerary that I did by train through Germany and France. If two weeks is too long, you can easily cut it into one week in a single country. Ready to get festive? Here we go!

Why Explore European Christmas Markets by Train?

As you can see from the title, this European Christmas market itinerary is designed for train travel! Trains in Europe are amazing (so much better than in Canada). It’s a lot more relaxing than driving and still allows for more flexibility than an organized tour like a Christmas market cruise . Plus, they are more convenient, affordable, and environmentally friendly than flying.

For this itinerary, I used a mobile Eurail pass for the first time which was gifted to me by the company. I had 7 travel days to use within a 1-month period and complete freedom over my itinerary. It was super convenient because it allowed me to plan the big journeys in advance but could book my day trips day-of. This was handy for a number of reasons including affordability. Typically, the longer you wait to buy a train ticket, the more expensive it gets. With the Eurail pass, it’s a one-time fee that you pay upfront. So, unless you are on a train that needs a seat reservation (more on that later) then you can leave planning the smaller day trips to fit the weather and/or your mood when you are there.

European Christmas Market Itinerary  

As I said above, I did two weeks but you can also turn this into a one week European Christmas market itinerary very easily by choosing just one country to explore. For my two weeks, I chose a mix of big, well-known destinations and smaller, more local markets. If that sounds like your kind of European Christmas Market itinerary, then here’s how to plan.

Day 1 & 2: Nuremberg, Germany

Nuremberg Germany is my favourite Christmas market. The setting is beautiful in front of a huge gothic church. The stalls are lined with red and white striped paper to look like a candy cane and the first time I went I even had some snow which added that extra magic touch. Mostly though, I love the quality of the products here. One thing you will note about European Christmas markets is that they can get repetitive, but the Nuremberg Christmas market stands out to me as one that has different, interesting, and plenty of local products.

Where to stay: I loved Hotel Sorat Saxx . It’s right on the square of the Christkindlesmarkt, the main Christmas market, and only about a 15 minute walk (or a quick taxi ride) from the train station. 

I have a full guide for Nuremberg Christmas markets which I suggest you check out for more in-depth reading, however, since this is the start of your tour I recommend spending 3 nights in Nuremberg. That way you can rest up a bit from the jetlag if you are coming from overseas and not feel too rushed. Although for one of those days, I will suggest a day trip which I will get to next.  

Day 3: Day trip to Coburg OR Augsburg

After two days exploring Nuremberg, I suggest hopping on a train to nearby Coburg or Augsburg. I visited both during my recent trip and both have their perks and advantages depending on what you are looking for.

Coburg is a gorgeous little town only about 1 hour and 15 minutes by train to Nuremberg. The city centre is a 15-minute walk and full of beautiful old buildings in a range of pastel shades. The Christmas market here is tiny and mostly food based but, set up in the old square it is hands down one of the prettiest Christmas markets I’ve been to. I visited as a half-day trip but I do wish I went earlier in the day because the town is also home to an impressive fortress (one of the best-preserved medieval fortresses in all of Germany!). Coburg really gives fairy-tale vibes which makes it a fun pick.

The other option is Augsburg, which is about 1 hour and 30 minutes from Nuremberg. A little further away, this market is also much bigger although the town isn’t quite as pretty. However, Augsburg is known to have one of the oldest Christmas markets in Germany thanks to old gingerbread baker markets during the holiday season. Like Coburg, you can walk to the market from the train station in about 15 minutes.

What I loved about both options is that they felt so local. I didn’t hear anyone else speaking English during my time at either of these German Christmas markets.  

Day 4 & 5: Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber, Germany

If you are familiar with Germany at all you have no doubt heard of or seen photos of Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber. The medieval walled city is a popular stop on Germany’s Romantic Road route. It’s absolutely stunning at any time of year but it’s really something special during the holiday season. The Christmas market here has grown over the years but, truthfully, as far as markets go, it’s not the most exciting. However, what the Christmas market lacks the town makes up for. The decorations, the lights, and of course the two massive Käthe Wohlfahrt shops which are winter wonderland fairy tales in their own right are some of the highlights here.

Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber is quite small, but because it takes longer to get to I suggest spending two nights so you have one full day. Most people come here just as a day trip so it can get quite busy late morning/early afternoon. But, when they leave or early in the morning before they arrive is a really magical time to explore and have more of a local feel.

Stay at: Hotel Sonne , located in the Old Town. It also has a great restaurant. 

Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber is about 2 hours from Nuremberg and 3 hours from Munich including transfers. The Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber Train station is an easy 10-minute walk from the Old Town Walls, but the streets are cobblestone which can make it tricky if you have lots of luggage.

Day 6: Munich, Germany

Next up is Munich. Munich has a number of Christmas markets including the Pink Market (run by the Queer community), the Medieval Market (complete with knights), and the big market in front of Marienplatz. Now, Munich will hold a special place in my heart as being the place where I first discovered that Christmas markets existed but, in relation to other cities and destinations, Munich’s Christmas markets are just, well, average. I don’t love them and they get very busy and crowded. For this reason, I suggest only spending about 24 hours in Munich. I managed to visit 6 Christmas markets in that time which kept me plenty busy and entertained before moving on. For a central location, stay at Mercure Hotel Munchen Altstadt.

At this point, depending on your schedule, you can end your European Christmas market itinerary in Munich on day 7. That will have given you 1 week of German Christmas markets. But, if you have the time, then I suggest moving on to France to continue.

Day 7 & 8: Strasbourg, France

Take the time to explore a little more of Munich in the morning then take an afternoon train to Strasbourg, France. It’s a long train journey compared to the rest on this European Christmas market itinerary (around 4 hours, with at least 1 transfer) but worth it!

Located in the Alsace region of France, Strasbourg is one of the prettiest places for European Christmas markets. The houses, the businesses, the lights- Strasbourg does decorations beautifully!

There are 13 Christmas markets in Strasbourg. You can check out my Strasbourg Christmas market guide for all the details but many of them are smaller and some are themed. What I like about the Strasbourg Christmas markets is that it really feels like a mix. The larger markets are big and busy while smaller ones had that smaller, more local feel.

Everything is located within the old city making it an easy walk from the train station. I recommend stating at  BOMA Easy Living , which I loved. Plus, it was only an 8-minute walk from the train station.

Day 9: Day trip to Colmar, France

Another must-see in the Alsace region is Colmar, known for being the inspiration for Belle’s village in Beauty and the Beast. Magical at the best of times, Colmar rivals Strasbourg when it comes to the most decorated Christmas markets in Europe. It’s only 30 minutes by train and a 15-minute walk to the Old Town area from the train station.

It is a very popular day trip option so expect it to be busy, but it’s worth it. I usually go a little earlier in the day to enjoy the market during daylight hours when it’s warmer since I head back to Strasbourg for the night. However, it looks pretty gorgeous in the dark with all the lights and I expect it’s a lot quieter in the evening when the day trippers leave.  

For more, check out my guide to Christmas Markets in Colmar .

Day 10, 11, 12: Reims, France

Time to take a break from gluhwein and vin chaud and head to Reims, the capital of champagne. Some of the best-known champagne cellars in the world are located here and offer tours and tastings. I spent two days exploring major international champagne brands and a couple of smaller, local ones. In the evenings, after learning about (and drinking) bubbles, I’d wander through the Reims Christmas Market and grab some delicious raclette from a vendor. Since Reims is known as the champagne area, it wasn’t busy at all with Christmas tourists which means that it had that local authentic feel. Although I do have to say my Canadian heart burst with happiness when I saw a couple of Quebec tents selling Canadian maple syrup, beer, and other Canadian liquors. While not as decorated or atmospheric, I found this to be a really friendly European Christmas market as a tourist.

I loved  MM Suites Cathedral which was a really cute apartment (up 2 flights of stairs, no elevator). If you’d prefer a hotel try Grand Hotel de Templiers .

Day 13-14: Paris

Last but not least is beautiful Paris, the ending point for this European Christmas market itinerary and only 45 minutes by train from Reims.

Paris has a number of markets including some small weekend-only pop-up ones. There are also plenty of decorations and light displays around the city. The Christmas windows of department stores like Printemps and of course the famous annual tree at Galleries Lafayette. Check out my full guide on Christmas in Paris  for the holiday highlights and if you are looking for central places to stay try Hotel Crayon Rouge or Snob Hotel . If those are a bit above your budget, take a look at my list of affordable hotels in Paris .  

Using Your Eurail pass

The 7 travel days within 1-month Global travel pass was perfect for the above itinerary. With the mobile pass, I was able to map it out in advance on the app under the ‘My Trip’ section. When I was happy with the results, I confirmed my travel days by tapping the icon to add the journey to my pass. Then, under my pass, I had the QR code with the ticket to show the conductor when they came to check. It’s simple and convenient!

A couple of things to be aware of. Not all trains have WIFI, so you’ll want to make sure that you have a sim card with data so you can pull up your pass on the train. Additionally, some trains do have seat reservations which cost extra and need to be booked in advance and, in my experience, printed as a paper ticket. This added an extra $90 CAD total to my itinerary since I booked a few high-speed trains through France.

Last but not least, if travelling with a friend you’ll want to order your seats together through the website. I did this trip with my mom and we both booked seats individually but there was no option to choose seats so unfortunately, we didn’t get to sit together. Once booked, your seats cannot be changed. If you need help figuring that out, get in touch with the Eurail team who can walk you through the steps.

Check out Eurail and their pass options here.

Final Tips for Your European Christmas Market Itinerary

If you love the holiday season as much as I do then this European Christmas market itinerary is sure to get you into a festive mood! Just keep in mind that it is one of the most popular travel times and therefore things do book up quickly. I suggest planning out your route and booking hotels and any big train journeys in advance to ensure you get the places and times that you want.

Ready to Book Your Trip?

Don’t forget travel insurance!

Please do not travel without travel insurance! I’ve had to use it multiple times throughout my travels and it has saved me thousands of dollars. You can learn more about travel insurance  here . If you are looking for a provider I love and recommend  SafetyWing . For Canadian readers, take a look at  SoNomad.

Book your accommodation

I love and recommend  booking.com  for accommodation. They have a range of hostels, guesthouses, hotels, and resorts. Plus, the platform has a great loyalty program that means the more you book, the more you can save. 

Book your tours

My go-to tour provider that I love to recommend is  GetYourGuide . They have options all over the world and partner with local companies for everything from day trips to food experiences and even airport transfers. 

Get connected

If you want to have data while travelling for online maps or any other needs, an esim is one of the easiest solutions. I’m a big fan of Airalo and have used their sim cards around the world from Brazil to Uzbekistan, Greece to the USA. It’s really easy- you download the app, pick what country you want an esim for, and after you purchase it follow the installation instructions. You can use promo code HANNAH3326 to save $3USD on your next esim purchase. 

Not sure what to pack?

I have destination-specific guides for some countries but you can also check my  travel essentials  and  camera gear  if you are looking for some ideas. 

Looking for a travel buddy?

Check out my group trips!

Oooh, we LOVE this post! And really, it’s a great itinerary any time of year, but especially for the Christmas Markets. You’ve got us planning another trip!! Last time, we spent a whole week just exploring the markets in Paris before heading to Alsace. Time to hop aboard and head for Germany! 😍

Yes the markets in Germany are incredible too!

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Europe from Munich Christmas market tours

Feel the magical spirit on a  Europe  Christmas market trip from Munich. Taste the spicy sweet gluhwein as you stroll through the dazzling markets in Salzburg, Vienna and finish off with a soak in the warm open-air baths of Budapest.

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Hello! This is planning way in advance but I need suggestions so here we go.

I am still in the planning stage to all options are open. Specific questions -

1. What is the best time to visit. I can have about 2 weeks to travel

2. Towns and cities suggestions that can be accessed by trains. Would ideally like to spend at least 3 nights in one place as we don't want to rush.

A white Christmas would be a bonus!

Many thanks and look forward to the suggestions!

4 replies to this topic

http://www.salzburg.info/en/salzburg/advent/salzburg-christmas-market.

Just outside Salzburg, by bus: http://www.salzburg.info/en/salzburg/advent/hellbrunner-adventzauber

St Wolfgang market http://www.wolfgangseer-advent.at/en, can get to St Wolfgang by bus again.

https://christmasmarketsineurope.com/vienna-christmas-markets/

As for a white Christmas, you will need to get to a place with altitude to be safe. I like Seefeld in Tirol . it's at over 1000 meters and very nice Austrian ski village. A small Christmas market is open all of December. The place fills up for Christmas so as a previous poster indicated, don't wait to book!

https://www.seefeld.com/en/seefeld-christmas-market.html

Have a nice time

Thank you everyone for your responses. Will check these out.

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Travel Between 2 Popular European Cities Just Got Easier With New High Speed Train

Post may contain affiliate links; we may receive compensation if you click links to those products. This has no impact on how offers are presented. Our site does not include all offers available. Content on page accurate as of posting date.

Traveling Europe by train is at the top of many travelers' bucket lists.

From epic coastal trips from one iconic city to another and even winter wonderlands to hop around Christmas markets, seeing Europe the old-fashioned way just can't be beaten.

That being said, a new route connecting 2 popular European cities is more about convenience and saving time more so than taking a thrilling tide through some of Europe's top sites.

The latest high-speed train in Europe was just announced to launch by year's end , sending traveling from Brussels to Amsterdam, or vice versa, in record time.

New Trains, Less Stops, And Faster Service

Belgium and The Netherlands are neighboring countries where it's not difficult at all to go from one popular city to the next.

In this case, Brussels is definitely the most popular city in Belgium, and despite Amsterdam being a bit grumpy with tourists this year, you can't knock how cool it is to visit.

Travelers wanting to visit both destinations during their European escapades will soon have a lightning-fast option.

There is already a train (Benelux) connecting this dynamic duo, but more stops equals more time wasted for travelers.

The new line is trimming the fat by removing stops more common for daily commuters, rather than tourists.

Stops at Brussels-North, Brussels-Central and Amsterdam-Central will no longer be on the docket and will be replaced by only stopping at Brussels-South, Antwerp-Central, Rotterdam-Central and Amsterdam Schipol .

By doing so, around 40 minutes are shaved off your trip and brings your total ride to just 45 minutes total !

Travelers will be able to ride on brand new trains that are being advertised with capabilities of reaching speeds of 125 mph.

There is one caveat, however. There is full support backing the new high-speed train, but there is an expected review of dropping certain stops before officially launching.

Why Visit Brussels?

We probably all know Brussels is the capital of Belgium, but for some reason, it is often seen as an afterthought compared to Europe's stalwarts-Paris, London, and Barcelona, to name a few.

Brussels will flat-out rock your socks off, so it's a bit of a surprise it's not in the same conversation.

Like Paris and all the others, Brussels is easily reachable from the U.S. with nonstop flights from multiple American hubs via Belgium's flagship airline, Brussels Airlines.

Jam-packed with cultural sites, stunning architecture, and an underrated foodie scene, this city packs a punch and you may find it to be a bit less crowded than other major cities.

Beyond stuffing your face with Belgian waffles, visiting incomparable destinations like the Atomium is a must, along with stunning palaces and scenic city parks.

Plus, Brussels makes for a great gateway to other incredible cities, like Bruges, which oddly enough is the perfect alternative to Amsterdam with its picturesque canals.

She Loves Me, She Loves Me Not…

We just can't figure Amsterdam out.

Taking on the persona of a modern-day ‘Karen', Amsterdam has been quite moody in terms of welcoming tourists into their world-renowned city.

Their famous red lights have taken on a new meaning as if to say stop coming here.

Over-tourism is definitely real, but when your culture welcomes a party atmosphere, doesn't it seem counter-intuitive to ween out the party crowd?

Amsterdam is one of Europe's most unique cities, especially given their bicycle-friendly culture and geographical placement of their always popular canals.

People will always want to visit, but it remains to be seen if Amsterdam will become more tourist-friendly again since they have continuously launched campaigns asking tourists to stay home or go somewhere else.

The new high-speed train from Brussels is expected to launch in December 2024. Since the last stop is Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport, that may be the only way you want to visit this year.

The Netherlands is an awesome country home to numerous similar cities to Amsterdam without the crowds and no off-putting tourist restrictions, such as Utrecht and Dordrecht.

Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 30 countries and written over 400 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.

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Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.

The post Travel Between 2 Popular European Cities Just Got Easier With New High Speed Train appeared first on Travel Off Path .

General election latest: Starmer 'prepared to use nuclear weapons if needed' as Labour makes national security push

Rishi Sunak is pledging to change the Equality Act to state that "sex" means "biological sex". Meanwhile, Sir Keir Starmer is reaffirming his commitment to the UK's nuclear deterrent. And a YouGov poll at 5pm will project how to Commons will look after 4 July.

Monday 3 June 2024 10:58, UK

• General Election 2024

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Election news

• Starmer 'prepared to use nuclear weapons' if needed
• Tories pledge to protect 'biological sex' as characteristic
• But Badenoch put on spot about why she hasn't done it already
• Starmer reaffirms support for nuclear deterrent
• Poll to reveal projected election winner at 5pm
• Politics at Jack and Sam's : The Day... We talk culture wars and real wars
• Be in the audience for our election leaders event
• Live reporting by Ben Bloch

Expert analysis

• Adam Boulton: 'Starmtroopers' are purging Labour
• Darren McCaffrey : Scotland used to be a Labour fiefdom - it could become so again

Election essentials

• Trackers: Who's leading polls? | Is PM keeping promises?
• Follow Sky's politics podcasts: Electoral Dysfunction | Politics At Jack And Sam's
• Read more: Who is standing down? | Key seats to watch | How to register to vote | What counts as voter ID? | Check if your constituency is changing | Your essential guide to election lingo | Sky's election night plans

Sir Keir Starmer is challenged again on his position on the war in Gaza, and is asked if human rights matter there, in his view.

He replies: "Yes, of course, and international law matters in Gaza, and accountability matters in Gaza.

"And you wouldn't be human if you weren't affected by the images that we've seen, the reports coming out of Gaza, the sheer number of people who've been killed - many of them women and children.

"And also the knowledge that [Israeli] hostages are still being held."

He goes on to say the "best thing we can do for both sides is to press for that ceasefire immediately, straight away", adding: "That's been our position for weeks and weeks and weeks and months."

The key will be stopping the fighting, getting hostages out, and getting aid in.

"And then that duty we will have if we come into power to play our full part in resolving the conflict in the Middle East for the long-term and that can only happen if we work with our allies, if we play our part on the world stage and clear the path for a two-state solution."

Next, Sir Keir Starmer is asked if the public battle with the left of his party is part of his campaign strategy, and if he is comfortable with the way Faiza Shaheen - who was blocked from standing days ago despite having been selected by her local party - has been treated.

The Labour leader reiterates that his party has "changed", and "part of it is about making sure I've got the best possible candidates to put before the country".

He points to the veterans standing behind him who will be standing for Labour.

"That is evidence of a changed Labour Party," he declares.

A journalist from Forces News is next to ask a question of the Labour leader, and it centres on the nuclear deterrent.

All prime ministers when they come into the role have to write a letter to the commanders of Royal Navy nuclear submarines with instructions on whether or not to retaliate against a devastating nuclear attack on Britain.

Sir Keir Starmer is asked if he has given any thought to what he would write, and he replies that his commitment to the nuclear deterrent is "absolute".

But he says the "circumstances" of the use of nuclear weapons is "a matter of high confidentiality" and we should not expect someone who is serious about being PM to disclose them.

Next to ask a question of Sir Keir Starmer is Sky News political correspondent Serena Barker-Singh .

She puts to him that 100 creatives have signed a letter urging him to halt UK arms sales to Israel if he becomes PM to "end the UK's complicity in war crimes".

She notes that Sir Keir has said he wants to see the government's internal legal advice on Israel's complicity with international law, but she asks if he believes in the moral case for stopping arms sales given his concerns about what is happening in Gaza.

The Labour leader replies that the "scenes in Gaza are horrifying, particularly in relation to Rafah", which is why a ceasefire is the "number one priority".

He says there have been too many deaths, aid is "desperately needed", and Israelis are still being held hostage by Hamas.

Sir Keir says he has already been speaking to the UK's allies about the process towards a ceasefire so they can be ready for if they enter government.

On arms sales, he tells Serena that it is "for the government, obviously, to review the licences", but he has "been pressing for them to disclose that legal advice" and says he would request fresh advice if he becomes PM.

Next, Sir Keir Starmer is asked about the shadow foreign secretary and the deputy party leader having voted against the UK having nuclear weapons just eight years ago, and if he has spoken to the pair about that.

He replies: "I lead this party, I've changed this party. If we're privileged to come in to serve, I will be the prime minister of the United Kingdom, and I've made my commitment to this absolutely clear.

"I've got my whole shadow cabinet behind me on this. We have changed the Labour Party.

"I know full well that national security, defence of our country is the number one issue."

The Labour leader is taking questions from journalists, and he is asked by the BBC if, as PM, he would authorise the firing of nuclear weapons if needed.

Sir Keir Starmer replies that the nuclear deterrent is "fundamental" and "a vital part of our defence".

"Of course, that means we have to be prepared to use it."

He adds: "Nobody who aspires to be prime minister would set out the circumstances in which it would be used - that would be irresponsible."

Sir Keir is also asked if Labour has really changed on defence, noting that both the shadow foreign secretary and the deputy party leader voted against the UK having nuclear weapons just eight years ago.

He repeats that it is a "changed Labour Party", and adds: "The most important thing is that I voted in favour of the nuclear deterrent."

He says his "commitment to the nuclear deterrent is absolute".

The Labour leader has just delivered a speech in Greater Manchester on national security and the UK's nuclear deterrent.

Here is what he said, as he said it:

• Sir Keir Starmer opens by remembering the "bravery" and "courage" of the soldiers who served on D-Day and "brought liberation to Europe";
• He echoes the PM's language, saying the world "is perhaps more dangerous and volatile than at any time since then", which is a "shock" for his generation that remembers the feeling when the Berlin Wall came down;
• He says the moment Russia invaded Ukraine is "when I understood the post-war era is over and a new age of insecurity has begun";
• Sir Keir reiterates the message of his "changed Labour Party" since the Corbyn era, declaring "national security will always come first";
• Turning to politics, the Labour leader says he tried to not make national security a political issue, but accused the Tories of having "questioned this Labour Party's commitment to national security", and declares: "I will not let that stand";
• He says the UK has to be "fit to fight", and adds that Labour is "totally committed to the security of our nation, to our armed forces, and importantly, to our nuclear deterrent";
• He says Labour will maintain the UK's at-sea deterrent, fund all future upgrades, and oversee the construction of four new nuclear submarines in Barrow-in-Furness;
• Sir Keir also recommits to spending up to 2.5% of GDP on defence "as soon as possible" - but does not say when that will be;
• He closes by saying national security is "not a party political issue - it is a national issue".

The shadow defence secretary is first to speak about Labour's plans to keep the UK secure.

John Healey opens by saying that when Sir Keir Starmer first appointed him to the role, he told him: "John, never again will Labour go into an election not trusted on national security."

He says Labour has "deep pride" in helping with the UK's defence, noting that the party helped established NATO after the Second World War, as well as the nuclear deterrent.

He declares that "Labour is now the party of defence", saying the party has changed since the Jeremy Corbyn era - which really seems to be the key message of today.

Mr Healey says a total of 14 ex-forces members will be standing for Labour on 4 July, which is a record.

The shadow defence secretary commits to spending up to 2.5% of GDP on defence - but does not say when that will be met.

Sir Keir Starmer and his shadow defence team are in Greater Manchester delivering speeches on national security.

The Labour leader himself will recommit to his party's pledge to protect the UK's nuclear deterrent into the future with a "nuclear triple lock".

Watch live on Sky News, in the stream above, and follow live here in the Politics Hub.

Sky News' deputy political editor Sam Coates and Politico's Jack Blanchard are back in your podcast feeds with their daily guide to the election day ahead.

This is day 12 of the campaign. Jack and Sam discuss the Conservatives' announcement on gender laws, what Labour are saying about the UK's nuclear deterrent and what to expect from the first TV debate of the campaign, involving Scottish political leaders.

👉 Tap here to follow Politics at Jack at Sam's wherever you get your podcasts 👈

Email Jack and Sam: [email protected]

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