Choosing the best Christmas markets in Europe in 2023 could be difficult since many Christmas cities are on the old continent. Almost every big city has a fair dedicated to winter holidays, and each one is special.
These are places where the magic of Christmas is more vital than anywhere and where people of all ages gather to enjoy the most beautiful lights, Christmas trees, and festive ornaments.
Most Christmas markets in Europe extend over a long period, from the end of November to the end of December. So there’s enough time to visit not just one, but more such markets.
If you plan to tour the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe in 2023 or visit some of them in your area, then the list below can help. Together with 25 international bloggers, I have compiled a list of the 26 most beautiful xmas markets 2023 in Europe. Time to plan some winter trips to the best places for Christmas in Europe!
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26 Best Christmas Markets in Europe in 2023
Bucharest, Romania Christmas Market
I couldn’t help but include a Christmas fair in my home country, one that I visit every year, and one of my favorite Christmas markets in Europe in general.
The Christmas Market in Bucharest is the biggest in Romania, and the opening dates are from November 28 to December 26. The fair is usually situated in Constitution Square, right in front of the Palace of the Parliament, the second-largest administrative building in the world.
Visitors can have a lot of fun here. There is a large ice rink, a stage for Christmas concerts, a manger, a colorful carousel, a towering Christmas tree, and even a house for Santa Claus, where kids can come to meet him and receive gifts. Besides, visitors can shop in any of the 130 little homes with surprises.
They can find decorations, hot chocolate, mulled wine, traditional Romanian food, toys, care products, and many sweets. The most famous sweet is gingerbread in the shape of snowmen and reindeer, but pancakes and donuts are also much appreciated.
However, the Christmas Tree is the main attraction in the Market and is enormous and beautifully illuminated. So, what do you think about adding Bucharest to your list of best places in Europe for Christmas?
By me
Best hotels in Bucharest when visiting Europe for Christmas:
- budget: Grand Boutique Hotel– free Wifi, free parking, fabulous breakfast, very good location
- mid-range: Hilton Garden Inn Bucharest– fitness center, restaurant, bar, fabulous breakfast, very good location
- luxury: Grand Hotel Continental – spa, restaurant, bar, fitness center, beautiful decor, great location
Salzburg Christmas Market 2023 (Austria) | Best Christmas Markets in Europe in 2023
Salzburg is known for many things: where the Sound of Music was shot, the birthplace of Mozart, and some of the top Christmas markets in Europe!
Nestled in the mountains, with a castle on the hill, various Christmas markets take over the whole city during December.
Squares, usually in front of significant churches, have Christkindlmarkts pop-up. Imagine hundreds of stalls opening up, instantly adding life and magical Christmas joy to the city, making Salzburg one of the best places in Europe for Christmas.
These Christkindlmarkts are the best places to get local handmade souvenirs if you want to bring back some gifts. They’re also unique because of all the local and traditional fare, from hearty meals to decadent desserts.
Plus, you can ‘rent’ a souvenir mug to fill and refill with mulled wine and apfelpunsch, a boozy apple drink. When you’ve had enough, you can return the mug and get your deposit back or take the mug home as a souvenir.
By Carine & Derek at wediditourway.com
Best hotels in Salzburg, one of the best cities in Europe for Christmas:
- budget: Hotel Max 70 – parking, bar, very good breakfast
- mid-range: Hotel Elefant – parking, free Wifi, room service, fabulous breakfast
- luxury: Hotel Schloss Mönchstein – spa, bar, free parking, fabulous breakfast, great location
Christmas Market in Dresden, Germany | Xmas Markets 2023 in Europe
The Christmas Market in Dresden is one of the oldest Christmas markets in the world, and it started already in 1434, which means that it has been ongoing every year for almost 600 years. This year marks the 585th time that the Dresden Striezelmarkt is held in the old town center.
There are over 100 stalls with artisans and handicrafts, and traditional food from Germany, including sausages and the famous glüwhein.
Striezelmarkt is also known among collectors of Christmas mugs since they have had this tradition for centuries, with new mugs every year.
Striezelmarkt is popular among locals and tourists from all over the world, making it unique and not so touristy. Therefore, when you think about Striezelmarkt, you think about one of the best European Christmas markets to visit in 2023.
By Alexander at destinavo.com
Best hotels in Dresden when visiting one of the most magical Christmas markets:
- budget: Star Inn Hotel Premium Dresden – parking, pet friendly, good breakfast, nice location
- mid-range: Vienna House QF Hotel Dresden – parking, bar, fitness center, fabulous breakfast, perfect location
- luxury: Hotel Suitess – spa, restaurant, bar, fabulous breakfast
Budapest Christmas Market 2023 | Best Christmas markets in Europe
One of our favorite European cities is Budapest, and we especially like visiting in the wintertime, as the city hosts some of the best Christmas markets in Europe!
When planning a holiday in Budapest, one Christmas market that you need to make sure of and experience for yourself is the Vörösmarty Square Christmas Market, the biggest and longest Budapest Christmas market.
Situated in the heart of the city, one of Europe’s best Xmas markets in 2023 has tons of food vendors, craft stalls, and live music you can enjoy in the background. Snack on local Hungarian cuisine and check out the pieces from local artists – we always find some awesome gifts at his market!
Your holiday will feel extra magical as you enjoy mulled wine under the city’s sparkling lights!
By Hannah & Adam Lukaszewicz at GettingStamped.com
Best hotels in Budapest, part of best Christmas cities in Europe:
- budget: Casati Budapest Hotel Superior– spa, fitness center, private parking, fabulous breakfast
- mid-range: Hotel Moments Budapest – fitness center, restaurant, room service, bar, breakfast
- luxury: Aria Hotel Budapest by Library Hotel Collection– spa, pool, rooftop terrace, great view, amazing location, bar, delicious breakfast
Christmas Market in Tallinn, Estonia
The Baltic nations may not be the first area of Europe you think about visiting to experience the top Christmas markets in Europe. Still, after hearing about Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, you may be convinced otherwise.
The historic city of Tallinn springs to life at Christmas, primarily in the Old Town Square, which is transformed into an idyllic winter wonderland full of Christmas markets, decorations, and beautiful Christmas trees in the heart of the square.
Take a stroll to the Town Hall Square if you are ready to admire a fairy tale scene, particularly if you are rewarded with wintery weather, which adds to the experience.
Christmas markets offering locally handcrafted goods are available, but indulging in local festive cuisine (black pudding, sour cabbage, and gingerbread) and Glögg (Estonian mulled wine) is undoubtedly the highlight experience.
Christmas in Tallinn is an unforgettable experience; perhaps when you visit Santa Claus at the Christmas market, your wish can be a return trip to experience this next year!
By Chris Boothman at abritandasoutherner.com
Where to stay when visiting Tallinn Christmas Market:
- budget: Hotel St. Barbara– private parking, bar, good breakfast
- mid-range: Merchants House Hotel – spa, free Wifi, parking, good breakfast
- luxury: Hestia Hotel Kentmanni – pool, spa, restaurant, bar, delicious breakfast
Belfast, UK Christmas Market | Top Christmas Markets in Europe
Every year from early November to late December, Belfast is lit with festive lights and Christmas baubles. And it all centers around the annual Christmas Market at Belfast City Hall, which makes a rather prestigious backdrop for Belfast’s interpretation of the better-known Christkindlmarkt of continental Europe.
And it feels less ‘touristy’ and more local, although it still hosts similar stalls like sausages and cheese raclette—Glühwein (mulled wine), which is best found at the two central, heated beer tents.
Aside from the market, there are more than enough things to do in Belfast on a short break, and the local bars and pubs are at their best through the festive winter months.
By Allan at bangorni.com
Best hotels in Belfast:
- budget: Holiday Inn Belfast– room service, parking, restaurant, bar, fabulous breakfast
- mid-range: The Fitzwilliam Hotel Belfast– parking, restaurant, bar, good breakfast, nice location
- luxury: The Merchant Hotel– spa, restaurant, bar, room service, delicious breakfast, perfect location
Art Advent Christmas Market in Vienna, Austria | Vienna Christmas Market 2023
At Christmastime, Vienna’s squares are transformed into the most beautiful fairytale scenes of wooden huts, fairy lights, and embellished Christmas trees. I think we can all agree that Vienna has some of the best Christmas markets in the world.
The Art Advent market in Karlsplatz is no different in that respect, but it does have a few aspects that set it apart from many other Vienna Christmas markets.
As you may have guessed by the name, it’s a market with a heavy focus on arts & crafts. And the organizers go to great lengths to ensure the range and quality of the stalls are second to none.
This and the dedicated kid’s area create a welcoming, homely feel that many other markets can sometimes lack. Plus, it’s just a fun and festive atmosphere!
Located at the foot of the Karlskirche cathedral, the market is a stunning sight and a delightful place to while away in the afternoon if you visit Vienna in December or Europe at Christmas.
By Nadine at lelongweekend.com
Best hotels to stay when visiting the best Vienna Christmas market:
- budget: Hotel Post Wien– room service, bar, good breakfast
- mid-range: Hotel Austria – Wien– private parking, Wifi, good breakfast
- luxury: SO/ Vienna – parking, spa, bar, fabulous breakfast, amazing view, and perfect location
Christmas Market in Funchal, Portugal | Best Christmas Markets in Europe in 2023
The Christmas Market in Funchal is a hidden gem and one of the best Christmas markets in Europe in 2023! From the 1st of December to the beginning of January you can enjoy shopping in one of the best Markets we have visited.
Despite the lack of snow on Madeira, it’s still one of the best European destinations, especially when you can still feel the fantastic Christmassy atmosphere. All at 22°C – not bad like for December!
If you visit Funchal, the capital of Madeira, during Christmas time, make sure you stay in the city around the 23rd of December. There is a good reason – Noite do Mercado! It’s a “Market Night” during which all residents and tourists flock to the famous farmers market for last-minute shopping.
From exotic flowers and a vast range of local products to traditional souvenirs – all in one place – the traditional Christmas Market in Funchal!
By Darek at darekandgosia.com
Best hotels in Funchal:
- budget: The Wine Lodges– Wifi, parking, sea view, balcony
- mid-range: Hotel Porto Santa Maria – PortoBay– pool, restaurant, breakfast, bar
- luxury: Les Suites at Cliff Bay PortoBay– 2 pools, spa, breakfast, restaurant, gorgeous view
Lisbon’s Wonderland Christmas Markets, Portugal | Xmas Markets 2023
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 top Christmas markets in Europe. Still, the city is in full Crimbo swing throughout December, with twinkling displays and festive markets.
We visited Lisbon with kids (aged 3 and 5) in the second week of December, and there were Christmas markets at seemingly every main square.
But for the big one, head to Wonderland Lisboa at Parque Eduardo VII to go ice-skating, meet Father Christmas, an abundance of Christmas kitsch, and to ride on the festive Ferris Wheel for fantastic views.
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 on main bus routes, so getting to is effortless. It’s time to put Lisbon on Europe’s list of best Christmas markets in 2023.
By Jenny at travelynnfamily.com
Best hotels in Lisbon, one of Europe’s best Christmas destinations:
- budget: Browns Central Hotel– restaurant, Wifi, bar, breakfast
- mid-range: Mercador– parking, Wifi, breakfast
- luxury: Bairro Alto Hotel– spa, parking, breakfast, bar, amazing view
Christmas Market in Malta | Best Christmas Markets in Europe
Christmas is a highly celebrated time on the island of Malta, both for its religious significance and traditional atmosphere. Festive markets are becoming more popular, and you can expect many markets throughout, comprising seasonal produce, delicacies, gifts, and local arts and crafts.
Everything you would need to get into the holiday spirit. In Malta, you will have the best Christmas in Europe!
Our favorite Christmas markets in Malta are the Valetta waterfront and the Sliema market, with plenty of Christmas, themed activities, caroling, and street performances.
The Piazza Tigne Market in Sliema set up for the festive season, is always a highlight. Most local regions also arrange smaller village markets for everyone to enjoy.
By Rai at araioflight.com
Best hotels in Malta:
- budget: Duncan Guesthouse – parking, breakfast, private beach
- mid-range: Marina Hotel Corinthia Beach Resort Malta– 2 pools, spa, bar, parking, private beach
- luxury: The Westin Dragonara Resort– 2 pools, spa, free parking, bar, delicious breakfast, private beach
Copenhagen, Denmark Christmas Market | Biggest Christmas Markets in Europe in 2023
Christmas in Copenhagen isn’t complete without a visit to Tivoli Gardens Amusement Park in the city’s center. As the second oldest amusement park in the world, Tivoli takes on a new level of sparkle and charm come late November when it opens for the Christmas season.
Stroll along illuminated lanes and under twinkly lights with a warm mug of tasty Scandinavian mulled wine, known as gløgg while you peruse the pretty wares in charming little chalets.
Find iconic Danish design, local delicacies, warm Nordic knitwear, and more at Tivoli’s Christmas Market. And don’t miss the flæskesteg sandwich, a classic Danish Christmas-time treat made with roast pork and crispy crackling, red cabbage, and a tangy mustard sauce.
For something sweet, you must try some æbleskivers – round pancakes served with powdered sugar and jam, when visiting one of the biggest Christmas markets in Europe.
By Erin at oregongirlaroundtheworld.
Best hotels in Copenhagen:
- budget: Generator Copenhagen – Wifi, parking, breakfast
- mid-range: Hotel Skt Petri– parking, room service, restaurant, bar, fabulous breakfast
- luxury: Rosenborg Hotel Apartments– Wifi, parking, great location
Basel, Switzerland Christmas Market | Best Christmas Markets in Europe 2023
One of the best places to visit in Switzerland in December is Basel – because in Basel, you’ll find some of the best Christmas Markets in the world.
There are a few Christmas Markets in Basel to choose from, and the two main ones are the Christmas Market at Münsterplatz and the Christmas Market at Barfüsserplatz.
Both are located in the city center and can be easily combined with a sightseeing trip. They are perfect for people of all ages – some carousels, a lot of festive decorations, beautiful Christmas trees, and tons of food stalls. So, whether you want something sweet or salty, you can eat your weight in some yummy snacks.
And while the kids enjoy some activities, the adults can enjoy the famous mulled wine. Both markets have about 180 stalls – so there is something for every taste. And, of course, you can buy last-minute Christmas gifts at the Christmas Markets in Basel, too.
By Arzo at arzotravels.com
Best hotels in Basel:
- budget: Hotel Rochat– Wifi, pet friendly, fabulous breakfast
- mid-range: Steinenschanze Stadthotel– Wifi, pet friendly, fabulous breakfast, parking
- luxury: Grand Hotel LES TROIS ROIS– parking, room service, bar, delicious breakfast, fantastic view, excellent location
Nuremberg Christmas Market in Germany | Xmas Markets 2023 in Europe
Germany is famous for being the home of the top Christmas markets in Europe, and every town, big or small, will have one (or more!) to visit. Still, in my opinion, you can’t beat the stunning Nuremberg Christmas Market if you want to experience the best Christmas European markets!
The primary Christmas market extends all over Hauptmarkt, in the heart of the Old City – the square houses market stalls year-round, but when Advent comes, cute wooden houses replace food trucks and vegetable stalls, and the scent of gluhwein and lebkuchen (gingerbread) fills the air.
Nuremberg Christmas Market is a great European destination to pick up Christmas decorations, wooden objects, or foodie items. Still, if you fancy something a little more unusual, we recommend heading to the Sister Cities Market.
This is located just north of the primary Christmas market, and it includes exhibitors from Nuremberg’s sister cities, like Verona in Italy, Shenzhen in China, and San Carlos in Guatemala. Naturally, you can also find local street food from these cities if you’ve had enough traditional German food!
By Margherita Ragg at thecrowdedplanet.com
Best hotels in Nuremberg, one of the best Christmas cities in Europe:
- budget: Hotel Fackelmann – parking, Wifi
- mid-range: Hotel Victoria Nürnberg– parking, Wifi, bar, great breakfast
- luxury: Hotel Drei Raben– parking, Wifi, bar, great location, delicious breakfast
Barcelona, Spain Christmas Market | Best places in Europe for Christmas
During a December sailing around the Mediterranean Sea with Viking Cruises a couple of years ago, we made several stops, but none were as memorable as Barcelona’s Christmas market.
Like other European Christmas markets, the Barcelona crowds are lively and extensive, food and drink are plentiful, and crafts are local and fun. One unique thing about Barcelona Christmas markets is the Catalan tradition of the Tió de Nadal or Caga Tió (Christmas log or poop log).
During the 14+ days leading up to Christmas, children keep the log warm by placing a blanket over it. Parents feed logs with small presents and sweet treats.
On Christmas Eve, children hit the logs with sticks, and the log “poops” out the gifts. I hope you added “buying a poop log” to your travel wish list, and a Barcelona Christmas market is the place to fulfill that dream!
By Charles McCool at mccooltravel.com
Best hotels in Barcelona:
- budget: Hotel Casa Luz– Wifi, bar, delicious breakfast, restaurant
- mid-range: H10 Madison 4* Sup– Wifi, room service, restaurant, bar, great breakfast
- luxury: Alma Barcelona GL– pool, spa, room service, Wifi, bar, delicious breakfast
Edinburgh, Scotland Christmas Market
Scotland’s capital city is well known as a top destination for travelers in the summer. However, if you visit Edinburgh at Christmas, you are in for a treat since here you’ll find one of the most magical Christmas markets. The ancient metropolis oozes festive spirit and turns into a magical winter wonderland.
Most of the action is focused around Princes Street Gardens, under the shadow of the Scots Monument. You will find many rows of little wooden cabins selling Scottish and European culinary delights here.
The air is thick with the delicious scent of Bratwurst sausages, spiced wine, and cider. Everything is decorated with brightly colored fairy lights, so visit after dusk to maximize the experience.
There are also some unique gifts on sale created by local artisans, the perfect Christmas gift for someone special.
If you are looking for an adrenaline rush, ride the Yeti, the Big Wheel, or the jaw-dropping Star Flyer that takes you 60 meters into the sky (not for the faint-hearted!).
If you are with the kids, there are plenty of less terrifying options, including the Helter Skelter and the Santa Train. That said, we can conclude that in Edinburgh we’ll find one of the best Xmas markets in Europe.
By Gillian at scotlandbucketlist.com
Best hotels in Edinburgh, a perfect Christmas destination:
- budget: Eden Locke– Wifi, bar
- mid-range: Market Street hotel– Wifi, parking, bar, fabulous breakfast
- luxury: The Balmoral Hotel– spa, parking, bar, fantastic breakfast, great location
Strasbourg, France Christmas Market | Best Christmas markets in Europe
The serene and quaint town of Strasbourg, located in the Northwest Alsace region of France, feels like a fairytale!
With a river running through the center of town, lined with old and slanting half-timber houses with pitched roofs, you could easily see Belle running through the streets with her nose in a book!
This beautiful town gets even more magical as the holiday season approaches! The Strasbourg Christmas Market is believed to be the oldest Christmas market in Europe, with records dating back to the 1500s.
Strasbourg is known as La Capitale de Noel or The Capital of Christmas. Guaranteed, Christmas markets must have been quite different 500 years ago, but today you’ll find stalls full of beautiful handmade Christmas crafts, mulled wine, spices, traditional Alsacian foods, toys, and more!
Be sure to wander to Petit France, to see the adorable half-timber houses decorated for the season. As if the stunning decorations weren’t enough, the backdrop for the Christmas market is the vast and ornate Strasbourg Cathedral.
Every year Strasbourg hosts an international market where a specific country hosts several stalls. Strasbourg is one of the best Christmas Markets in Europe that you cannot miss!
By Vanessa at iheartfrance.co
Where to stay in Strasbourg when visiting one of the biggest Christmas markets in Europe:
- budget: Le Moment Bleu– parking, Wifi
- mid-range: Hotel D – Strasbourg – spa, fitness center, private parking, fabulous breakfast
- luxury: Hotel & Spa REGENT PETITE FRANCE– spa, restaurant, bar, fabulous breakfast
Christmas Market in Bruges, Belgium | Best Christmas Markets in Europe in 2023
If you believe in eateries, magic, and fairies, one of the best Christmas markets in Europe is in Markt, Bruges. Nothing says Winter quite like the scent of Belgian waffles wafting through the crisp, clean air and seeing everyone walk with a glass of mulled wine.
One of the things to do in Bruges, Belgium, at the Christmas markets is to enjoy the historic architecture, watch the people and walk through its stunning piazza.
There is also an abundance of quality artisan chocolate stores and restaurants known for their Flemish stew, bread, and mussels, and if that’s not enough, don’t forget to grab flavored Belgian beer to hit the sweet notes and bring on the Christmas cheer.
By Pashmina at thegonegoat.com
Best hotels in Bruges:
- budget: Gallery Guesthouse– Wifi, restaurant, terrace, fabulous breakfast
- mid-range: Hotel Navarra Brugge– spa, pool, fitness center, private parking, bar, fabulous breakfast
- luxury: Hotel Van Cleef– Wifi, parking, bar, great location
Christmas Market in Konstanz, Germany
Who can say no to a German Christmas market, known as one of the best in Europe and the world?
Officially, the Christmas market in Konstanz, Germany, is known as “Weihnachsmarkt am See.” This is quite an appropriate name, meaning “Christmas Market on the Lake”.
And, if you know anything about Konstanz, you know that it’s situated on the shores of its namesake, Lake Constance.
The Christmas market doesn’t just occur on the lake’s shores, though. It even extends into the lake itself as a “Christmas ship” moored in the harbor!
In addition to many stalls selling local arts and crafts, the ship boasts an ice bar with a 360-degree panoramic view of beautiful Lake Constance and its surroundings.
Therefore, when you think about visiting Europe for Christmas, maybe you should add the Christmas Market in Konstanz to the list of your favorite Christmas markets in Europe.
By Wendy at thenomadicvegan.com
Historical Christmas Market in RAW Friedrichshain, Berlin, Germany
If you love themes and dressing up, this is the best Christmas Market in Europe to visit. It has a unique medieval piece and sells one-of-a-kind artisan crafts handmade by woodcarvers and blacksmiths rather than your usual Christmas decorations.
You can even buy freshly baked bread from an artisan who kneads and bakes the bread in wood-fired clay over, right before your eyes!
If that’s not enough, why not try your hand at some archery, knife, and ax throwing or riding ponies?
Or, if you prefer to sit around a toasty bonfire and sip glühwein, you can enjoy watching acrobats, jugglers, and fire dancers perform in the evening.
Make sure to dress up in medieval style to add to the fun. As a bonus, you’ll also get in for free! By Chloe & Michael Smulian at nomadandinlove.com
Best hotels in Berlin:
- budget: Leonardo Hotel Berlin Mitte– fitness center, restaurant, bar, good breakfast
- mid-range: The Westin Grand Berlin– spa, restaurant, fitness center, good breakfast
- luxury: Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin– pool, fitness center, bar, fabulous breakfast
Krakow Christmas Market 2023 | Best Places in Europe for Christmas
The Krakow Christmas Market is set in one of Europe’s most romantic destinations so it would be gorgeous even without the twinkling lights and delicious smells of cooked food.
Add in stands selling everything from warm mittens to jewelry to wooden carvings to sweets, and it’s a magical Christmas market experience. You’ll also find the requisite warmed alcohol here with varieties including traditional wine, hot beer, and spiked tea.
Follow your nose to find the stands grilling up incredibly cheap yet delicious sausages and vegetables, or grab some traditional pierogi for a snack. Both options will help keep you warm as you stroll through the market and enjoy the scenery and Christmas décor.
By Kris at nomadbytrade.com
Best hotels in Krakow:
- budget: Hotel Maximum– Wifi, restaurant, breakfast
- mid-range: Hotel Senacki– fitness center, restaurant, Wifi, bar, good breakfast
- luxury: Balthazar Design Hotel – Wifi, fabulous breakfast
Prague Christmas Market 2023 in the Czech Republic
Almost all European Christmas markets are lovely, but imagine one in a fairy tale setting of the majestic Prague Castle.
Absolute magic happened when Prague decided to open the Prague Castle grounds to a Christmas market a few years ago. The atmosphere there is like nowhere else, making Prague one of Europe’s best Christmas cities.
The market can be pretty crowded during the day, but the crowds die down substantially once dusk falls. If you visit after 4 pm, you can combine a Prague Castle Christmas market visit with strolling through the famous Golden Lane, for free!
Allow extra time when visiting this Christmas market. Security frames protect the entrance to the Prague Castle complex, and often lines can form. I recommend you enter from the Old Town side, walking up Nerudova Street or the Castle stairs (Zámecké school).
By Veronika Primm at travelgeekery.com
Best hotels in Prague:
- budget: Miss Sophie’s Downtown– Wifi, breakfast
- mid-range: Alcron Hotel Prague– fitness center, Wifi, bar, delicious breakfast
- luxury: Four Seasons Hotel Prague– spa, restaurant, bar, good breakfast
Rathausplatz Christmas Market in Vienna, Austria | Best Christmas Markets in Europe 2023
Europe at Christmas sounds good, but visiting the Rathausplatz Christmas market, the largest and most visited one in Vienna, Austria, makes it sound even better. It features about 150 stalls selling Christmas decorations, handcrafted items, and delicious Christmas delicacies.
This is the one Christmas market to indulge yourself with doughnuts, stuffed potatoes, dumplings, and other hearty wintery foods while warming up with a cup of hot apple cider or spiced wine.
But the magic in this Europe Christmas market doesn’t stop there. In the area next to the market, you’ll also find a giant ice skating rink of approximately 9000 m²!
Along with all the illuminated decorations and other beautiful Christmas displays, it’s safe to say that the Rathausplatz Christmas market is one of the best Christmas markets in Europe.
By Or at mypathintheworld.com
Gothenburg Christmas Market in Sweden
Gothenburg is home to several Christmas markets, but one of the biggest Christmas markets in Europe is found at Liseberg amusement park. Due to the large selection of Christmas stalls, amusement rides, and Swedish winter treats, it regularly pulls in half a million visitors.
Being based in Gothenburg, the world’s most sustainable city, means the five million Christmas lights that decorate Liseberg throughout the festive period are all run off wind power, and there isn’t any single-use plastic in sight!
Liseberg is open daily from noon until 11 pm. 80 shops are selling bespoke gifts, handicrafts, and traditional items. So ensure you arrive early enough to shop, enjoy the rollercoasters, see the daily ice ballet show, and squeeze in a trip to Santa’s workshop to meet him in person.
By Roshni at thewanderlustwithin.com
Best hotels in Gothenburg when visiting the magical Christmas market:
- budget: Olof Wijksgatan, by Anna&Jesper– free parking, Wifi, great breakfast
- mid-range: Hotel Eggers– restaurant, room service, Wifi, pet-friendly, good breakfast
- luxury: Dorsia Hotel & Restaurant– restaurant, room service, parking, bar, fabulous breakfast
Ravennaschlucht Christmas Market in Freiburg, Germany
When discussing the best Christmas destinations, we must mention The Ravennaschlucht Christmas Market, a magical Christmas market like none we have ever seen.
It is in the forest just out of Freiburg underneath a 40-meter arched railway bridge. At night, the arches are lit by lights that change from blue, green, red, and yellow.
It is a significant effect but even more impressive when a train is traveling over the top of it! The stalls are all set around the bottom of the bridge, with fires where you can warm yourself with a fantastic cup of Ghluwein (hot mulled wine) or a sausage cooked by one of the vendors.
Being out in the forest can get very cold, so you must dress well and stop by the fire occasionally.
By Bec Wyld at wyldfamilytravel.com
Best hotels in Freiburg:
- budget: Haus Schönwald– Wifi, terrace, garden
- mid-range: Hotel Hirschen in Freiburg-Lehen– pool, restaurant, room service, bar, good breakfast, Wifi
- luxury: Colombi Hotel– pool, spa, restaurant, fitness center, fabulous breakfast
Tuileries Christmas Market in Paris, France | Best places in Europe for Christmas in 2023
Paris is not only known as a romantic destination but also as one of the best cities in Europe for Christmas.
The Tuileries Christmas Market is one of the biggest Christmas Markets in Paris. This Christmas Market is only two years old and replaces the famous Christmas Market in Champs Elysées.
The Tuileries Christmas Market is located in the iconic Tuileries Gardens, in the first Arrondissement in Paris. It is near the Louvre Museum so it can be the perfect stroll in the fresh air after your visit.
The Tuileries Christmas Market consists of over 100 wooden chalets offering great ideas for your Christmas gifts. The Market is also perfect for tasting Christmas foods and drinks like nougat, traditional sweets, or mulled wine.
Apart from the chalets, there are different rides for kids and adults, a Ferris wheel, and an ice-skating rink, perfect for an afternoon of fun with the family.
Don’t miss the Tuileries Christmas Market in Paris, one of the best European Christmas markets!
By Elisa at worldinparis.com
Best hotels in Paris:
- budget: Le Relais Montmartre– room service, Wifi
- mid-range: Hidden Hotel– breakfast, bar, Wifi, room service
- luxury: Cour des Vosges – room service, Wifi, fabulous breakfast
Wroclaw Christmas Market in Poland
A secret gem that most travel community has not seen is the Wroclaw Christmas Market, one of the best Christmas Markets in Europe. Perhaps a lesser-known market compared to its counterparts in Munich, Hamburg, and Krakow, Wroclaw provides more of a magical experience, probably due to the lack of crowds that can quickly dull the charm of a location.
Within the biggest market in Poland, you will have enough space to take in the authentic vibes of the quaint wooden stalls sprawled all over the Rynek Market Square, Plac Solny, and the streets of Olawska and Swidnicka.
Here, the traditional Christmas parade and a parade of dwarves are held on the 9th and 16th of December, respectively.
A walk around the market will reveal attractions that only appear in storybooks, like the 3-story fairytale house at the center of the market and the enchanted fairy woods where animatronic characters tell classic tales to children as they walk by.
The Wroclaw market is also the best place to taste Polish cuisine, from famous cheese, oscypek, to savory sausages and sweet pastries.
By Karolina at karolinapatryk.com
Best hotels in Wroclaw when visiting this European Christmas market:
- budget: Hotel Traffic Wrocław– Wifi, parking, fabulous breakfast
- mid-range: Europeum Hotel– bar, fitness center, fabulous breakfast
- luxury: Hotel Monopol– pool, spa, restaurant, bar, great breakfast, excellent location
christmas markets