Europe is home to the world’s oldest traditional Christmas markets. Why not venture abroad and experience European traditions? These Christmas markets will put you in a festive mood!
1. Nuremberg, Germany
There’s nothing quite like Nuremberg’s Christmas Market! Dating back over 400 years, it’s a feast for the senses. You’ll discover beautiful decorations, traditional toys, and delicious treats like Nuremberg Lebkuchen (gingerbread), mulled wine (get the souvenir mug!), roasted almonds, and Rostbratwurst sausages.
2. Colmar, France
Colmar is like a fairytale come to life, especially at Christmas! This 16th-century town transforms into a dream, hosting six enchanting Christmas markets. Beyond the magical decorations, you’ll find incredible food stalls brimming with local delights like foie gras, festive sweets, and Alsatian wines.
3. Prague, Czech Republic
Crave Christmas cheer? Prague’s got you covered! Hit both main markets in a day, starting with the dazzling tree lighting in Old Town Square. Then, it’s just a 5-minute stroll to Wenceslas Square for more festive fun. Prague in December is pure magic!
4. Strasbourg, France
Strasbourg proudly claims the title of “Capital of Christmas” and for good reason! Its sprawling Christmas market, dating back to 1570, is one of Europe’s oldest and largest. With over 300 stalls spread across 11 sites, it transforms the city into a magical winter wonderland, drawing millions of visitors each year.
5. Zagreb, Croatia
Zagreb reigned supreme as the Best European Christmas Market from 2016 to 2018! It’s a festive wonderland spread across multiple enchanting locations. Warm up with delicious treats at Zrinjevac, witness a Live Nativity Scene by the Cathedral, or glide on the ice at King Tomislav Park’s fantastic Ice Park. Fun for everyone!
6. Cologne, Germany
Cologne totally gets into the Christmas spirit with markets all over the city, each with its own vibe! The biggest is right at the Cologne Cathedral. Stroll through them on foot or hop on the Christmas-Market-Express train for an easy way to see them all.
7. Brussels, Belgium
The Brussels Christmas market expands from the Grand Place until Place St. Catherine. It was pretty cold in December here. The two markets were within walking distance of each other. It includes a Ferris wheel, a huge Christmas tree, an ice-skating rink and the Christmas market with over 200 stands.
8. Bruges, Belgium
Bruges truly shines at Christmas! Its medieval squares glow with festive lights, creating a magical atmosphere. Head to the Grote Markt, the heart of the Christmas market, where a huge ice rink awaits. You’ll find about 20 stalls overflowing with Belgian waffles, local beers, hot chocolate, and more, with charming cafes and chocolate shops just steps away.
9. Lille, France
The Christmas Market in Lille is small but perfectly formed and very festive. Coming off the square are lots of cobbled streets. There is also a big wheel which you can ride and when at the top you can see for miles across Lille and all the decorated streets below.
10. Aachen, Germany
Aachen’s Christmas market is a festive treat, super easy to reach from the Netherlands, Belgium, and France! Sip on some local Punsch or Glühwein while exploring about 120 stalls nestled around the magnificent Aachen Cathedral, Germany’s first UNESCO World Heritage site. Don’t miss the giant Printen cookies guarding the entrance – they’re the local gingerbread specialty!