When thinking of Christmas, images of Santa Claus, Advent, holiday trips, snow, and time spent around the Christmas tree with loved ones come to mind. One tradition not to be overlooked is the European Christmas Markets.
Over the years, these markets have become a beloved tradition across Europe, with many cities in Germany, Belgium, Austria, Italy, and even Scandinavia hosting them annually. These markets, often set up in city squares, bring a festive spirit with open-air stalls selling seasonal foods, drinks, and unique gifts that make perfect Christmas presents.
Below is a list of cities in Europe that host some of the best Christmas markets, each conveniently located near an NH Hotel:
Vienna, Austria
The Vienna Christmas Market or Christkindlmarkt runs from November 12 to December 23, 2024, in Rathausplatz, open daily until 9:30 p.m. (Fridays and Saturdays until 10 p.m.). The market blends traditional charm with modern attractions, offering ice skating, caroling, and over 150 vendors with sweets, glogg, and unique gifts.
Prague, Czech Republic
The Czech capital shines during the holidays from November 27, 2024, to January 2, 2025, with five Christmas markets to choose from. The main one in Old Town Square is iconic, with a giant Christmas tree visible from afar. Enjoy Czech delicacies and lively street performances, with the market easily accessible by tram or metro.
Brussels, Belgium
Winter Wonders in Brussels runs from November 26, 2024, to January 2, 2025. It features over 200 outdoor stalls, a Ferris wheel, an ice-skating rink, and a spectacular Christmas tree and light show at Grand Place.
Bruges, Belgium
Bruges’ Christmas Market takes place from November 19, 2024, to January 9, 2025 in the historic market square. Here, visitors will find handmade decorations, chocolates, and an ice skating rink at Simon Stevinplein, as well as the Ice Sculpture Festival.
Ghent, Belgium
The Gentse Winterfeesten in Ghent is open from December 9 to December 31, 2024. Korenmarkt hosts stalls filled with seasonal delights, a giant Ferris wheel, and a “Land of Ice” village, perfect for families.
Maastricht, Netherlands
Magical Maastricht’s Christmas Market runs from November 26 to December 31, 2024 in the picturesque Vrijthof Square. In addition to shopping, visitors can ride a Ferris wheel or enjoy ice skating, in this popular market that draws nearly a million visitors each year.
Livigno, Italy
At 1800 meters, Livigno’s Christmas village is set against snow-capped mountains from November 29 to December 24, 2024. Wooden chalets offer local crafts and culinary delights.
Zurich, Switzerland
Switzerland’s largest market is in Zurich, with stalls across the city. The main market, held in the central train station atrium, surrounds a towering Swarovski-decorated tree. Open from November 21 to December 24, 2024.
Aosta, Italy
Aosta’s Piazza Chanoux transforms into a Christmas village with ice skating from November 23, 2024, to January 6, 2025. Nearby, Bard hosts a medieval Christmas market with handmade nativity displays.
Strasbourg, France
Strasbourg’s Christmas Market at Kléber Square is one of Europe’s busiest, featuring a 30-meter Christmas tree.
Bolzano, Italy
Italy’s most famous Christmas market runs from November 28, 2024, to January 6, 2025. Local treats like speck and mulled wine are plentiful from the Duomo to Parco dei Cappuccini.
Naples, Italy
In Naples, San Gregorio Armeno street is known for nativity figurines, ranging from classic to contemporary.
Paris, France
The Ville Lumière hosts Christmas markets in front of the Hôtel de Ville and in areas like La Défense and Montmartre from November 16, 2024, to January 7, 2025.
Krakow, Poland
Krakow’s Jarmark Bożonarodzeniowy in Europe’s largest medieval square is open from November 15 to December 26, 2024.
Verona, Italy
Verona’s Christmas Market takes place in Piazza dei Signori from November 15 to December 26, 2024, with wooden stalls and over a hundred vendors.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Tivoli Gardens hosts a Christmas market with around 60 stalls, while smaller free markets pop up throughout the city.
Stockholm, Sweden
Stockholm offers multiple markets starting in November, drawing locals and tourists alike.
Budapest, Hungary
Vörösmarty Square in Budapest hosts a bustling market near St. Stephen’s Basilica from November 15 to January 1, 2025.
Merano, Italy
Merano’s Christmas Market transforms the town into a sparkling village from November 29, 2024, to January 6, 2025.
Nuremberg, Germany
The Christkindlesmarkt in Nuremberg dates to the 17th century and runs from November 26 to December 24, 2024, with over 200 stalls selling regional foods and decorations.
Dresden, Germany
One of the oldest markets, Dresdner Striezelmarkt, dates back to 1434, and is open from November 22 to December 24, 2024 in Altmarkt Square, with more than 250 stalls.
Munich, Germany
Munich’s Marienplatz market, running from November 22 to December 24, 2024, is among the largest in Europe, while Sendlinger Tor offers a smaller, traditional experience.
Hamburg, Germany
Hamburg’s market in front of City Hall is open from November 22 to December 24, 2024, with an additional “erotic Christmas market” in St. Pauli for those seeking a unique twist.
Berlin, Germany
Berlin boasts 26 markets from November 22 to December 31, 2024, from Gendarmenmarkt to Alexanderplatz, blending traditional and contemporary festive experiences.
Düsseldorf, Germany
The Düsseldorf Christmas Market in the city’s historic center runs from November 18 to December 30, 2024, showcasing traditional crafts and holiday foods.
Cologne, Germany
Cologne’s market opens the last Monday before Advent and remains open until December 23, 2024. The main market, by the iconic Cologne Cathedral, has over 150 stalls, each offering unique food, drinks, or live music.
Whether you’re seeking culinary treats, unique gifts, or seasonal festivities, Europe’s Christmas markets provide magical experiences and lasting holiday memories.
