Some of the most magical Christmas markets in Europe
2. Striezelmarkt, Dresden, Germany • Dates: Late November to Christmas Eve • Highlights: The oldest Christmas market in Germany, dating back to 1434, Dresden’s Striezelmarkt is famous for its Stollen (a traditional Christmas cake) and the world’s tallest Christmas pyramid.
3. Vienna Christmas Markets, Austria • Dates: Mid-November to Christmas Eve • Highlights: Vienna hosts several markets, with the Rathausplatz market being the most famous. Visitors can enjoy ice skating, a children’s area, and a wide variety of handcrafted gifts, as well as traditional Austrian treats like Glühwein (mulled wine) and roasted chestnuts.
4. Advent in Zagreb, Croatia • Dates: Late November to early January • Highlights: Voted one of the best Christmas markets in Europe several times, Zagreb’s Advent offers a festive atmosphere with live music, traditional food, and beautiful decorations spread across various locations in the city.
5. Christmas Markets, Prague, Czech Republic • Dates: Late November to early January • Highlights: Prague’s main markets in the Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square are particularly picturesque, with a giant Christmas tree, nativity scenes, and plenty of Czech specialties like Trdelník (a sweet pastry) and hot mead.
6. Strasbourg Christmas Market, France • Dates: Late November to Christmas Eve • Highlights: Known as the "Capital of Christmas," Strasbourg’s market is one of the largest in Europe, offering an array of Alsatian treats, including bredele cookies and spiced wine, along with beautiful wooden toys and decorations.
7. Funchal Christmas Markets, Madeira • Dates: Early December to first week of January • Highlights: The market features numerous stalls selling a variety of traditional Madeiran products, including local crafts, wines, and sweets. The market is not just about shopping; it also hosts live performances, including traditional folk music and dances, which add to the festive cheer.
8. Winter Wonders, Brussels, Belgium • Dates: Late November to early January • Highlights: The Brussels Christmas market, known as Winter Wonders, features a massive Ferris wheel, ice skating, and more than 200 stalls selling holiday gifts, Belgian chocolates, and waffles.
9. Old Town Christmas Market, Tallinn, Estonia • Dates: Late November to early January • Highlights: Located in the medieval Old Town, Tallinn’s Christmas market is intimate and charming, with traditional Estonian food, handcrafted gifts, and a cozy atmosphere.
10. Budapest Christmas Fair and Winter Festival, Hungary • Dates: Late November to early January • Highlights: Held at Vörösmarty Square, Budapest’s main Christmas market is known for its culinary delights, including chimney cakes (Kürtoskalács) and goulash, as well as its festive concerts and cultural performances.
Each of these markets has its own charm and offers a unique experience, making them some of the best places to soak up the festive spirit in Europe.
