The most beautiful christmas markets in Europe

There is nothing in the world quite like Christmas time in Europe. Picture wooden huts from the 13th century, snow-covered cathedrals, seasonal cookies and cakes in shop windows, and of course, plenty of hot mulled wine. All of this combines to make Europe sparkle with a magical festive atmosphere. The largest Christmas markets in each country can be quite different: local cultural influences create a variety of Christmas experiences across the continent. A journey through Europe's cities during Advent is a wonderful way to get to know different countries and people.

Christmas market in Helsinki

The Christmas market in Helsinki attracts over 300,000 visitors each year, who come to explore more than 120 huts and attractions on the city's Senate Square. Of course, there are traditional stalls and hot mulled wine everywhere. However, the market also caters to a modern audience with countless vegan options and even a wood-heated sauna. After purchasing a few handmade wooden lanterns, you can take a ride on the vintage carousel next to the giant Christmas tree.

Christmas market in Helsinki 

In late November, wooden stalls pop up all over Cologne, marking the official start of the Christmas season for the city's residents. The most impressive of these markets takes place under the famous Gothic cathedral, where hundreds of twinkling lights adorn the red-crowned gables. Each year, it expands with new attractions, such as the "Christmas Avenue," an LGBTQ+ market with live performances. Additionally, you should try not only the warm mulled wine but also Kölsch, the regional beer, in its various forms at the many stalls.

"Winter Wonders Market" in Brussels

The "Winter Wonders Market" is much more than just a regular Christmas market, making Brussels a particularly popular destination during the holiday season. From ice skating and a ride on the Ferris wheel to a wonderful light and sound show, guests can lose themselves in Christmas fun at the festival, which stretches across the entire Grand-Place. The heart of this winter wonderland is the 240 chalets in the center, offering classic Belgian beers, waffles, handmade jewelry, and decadent chocolates. The wide variety of offerings ensures that tourists from all over Europe and beyond visit the market each year.

Christmas time in Brussels

 

The markets on the Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square, with stalls set against towering Gothic and Renaissance architecture, give visitors a feeling of exploring a piece of Prague's history. At the same time, there are themed performances and handmade jewelry to enjoy. In the festive atmosphere, visitors can warm up with delicious Czech treats like trdelník—a spit cake rolled in cinnamon sugar—and mulled wine with a citrus twist while admiring the impressive sights. Make sure to try the special sweets from the country that are available at the various stalls.

Christmas market in Prague

 

With thousands of lights, hundreds of huts with wooden toys, and a glittering ice rink in the city center, Slovakia's capital is the ideal Christmas wonderland for your children. The festive lighting of the grand tree in the main square marks the beginning of the season and the opening of the markets. An added bonus: Bratislava also has an official Christmas tram, which makes it easy to travel between different squares. It's especially popular as a way to warm up on cold winter days.

Christmas market in Bratislava

 

Budapest boasts not one but two charming Christmas markets, both just a short walk from each other. On Vörösmarty Square, you'll find the oldest Christmas market in the center of the capital, with countless food vendors and artisans offering traditional Hungarian goods. The market in front of St. Stephen's Basilica is slightly smaller, but also features hundreds of stalls lining the square, as well as an ice rink and folk dance performances on weekends, which attract not only locals but also tourists from around the world.

Weihnachtsmarkt in Budapest 

 

Advent in Zagreb, considered one of the best Christmas markets in Europe, puts the Croatian capital in the global spotlight. The fountain on Ban Jelačić Square, serving as both a light display and a towering Christmas tree, is the centerpiece of the festival and a cozy meeting place for guests. Candles and lanterns illuminate the tree-lined streets leading to an ice rink, ice sculptures, pop-up bars, street food stalls, and music stages. During Advent, there's even a culinary event where visitors can enjoy various mulled wines and hearty štrukli while dancing in the streets. 

Christmas market in Sibiu

There is perhaps no place that exudes as much Christmas spirit as the old Transylvanian town of Sibiu in Romania. The colorful market takes place in the heart of the town on Piața Mare, which is surrounded by stunning Baroque architecture. The vendors offer a wonderful selection of jewelry, handcrafted ornaments, and delicious treats. Be sure to keep an eye out for stalls selling unique leather goods. There is also a train that runs through Sibiu during the Christmas season.

Christmas market in Sibiu

 

In early December, the Piazza in front of the Basilica di Santa Croce transforms into a festive German-style market filled with treats and gifts from around the world. For almost 500 years, the market on Piazza Santa Croce, with its more than 50 stalls selling artisanal treasures, has been one of Florence's most cherished traditions. Look out for stalls selling the regional snack of the Christmas market: a chimney cake coated with cinnamon and chocolate, particularly popular in winter.

Christmas market of Funchal on Madeira

You wouldn't necessarily expect a subtropical island to be a Christmas paradise—but Madeira is the exception. In the capital city of Funchal, a market is held that features rare flowers, delicious Portuguese dishes, and plenty of Christmas spirit. You'll definitely want more of the grilled meats marinated in wine and the local Madeira punch. In addition, there are performances every evening by traditional Christmas carolers and folklore groups.