Discover Europe’s best Christmas markets for your perfect winter getaway!
Snow-topped roofs, twinkling lights, and soft carols on every corner – nothing captures the festive season quite like Christmas markets. These magical events make for iconic winter travel destinations-I'm certainly willing to plan my trip around a buzzing Christmas market.
From wooden stalls selling hot chocolate and handmade ornaments to enchanting ice rinks and live choirs, Christmas markets are the heart of the holiday season.
Christmas Markets for Your Winter Getaway
Ready to plan your winter getaway? Read on for our list of the best Christmas markets in Europe and find everything you need to know, so you can choose the best place for a winter weekend away.
Why Strasbourg is the Capital of Christmas: A Must-Visit Market
Strasbourg is often called the Capital of Christmas and is home to one of Europe’s oldest and most enchanting Christmas markets: the Christkindlmarkt, which dates back to 1570. Millions of visitors travel every year to browse the 300+ stalls and enjoy the Alsation traditions.
Wander through the city’s cobblestone streets, lined with wooden chalets offering mulled wine, artisanal gifts, and festive treats. Don’t miss the Great Christmas Tree at Place Kléber, a towering symbol of the season adorned with twinkling lights and decorations. The market truly transforms the city into a winter wonderland.
Explore Berlin's Christmas Market
Berlin boasts several Christmas markets, but Potsdamer Platz stands out with its impressive ice rink, toboggan rides, and extensive offering of winter food and drinks to enjoy.
Indulge in hearty German classics like bratwurst and beer as you soak up the lively atmosphere. This vibrant market is a must-visit for families, offering endless entertainment and festive cheer.
You can find all the Christmas markets mapped out here and plan your visits accordingly. Best of all, the Christmas market on Breitscheidplatz is open until January 5, so you can enjoy the jolly spirit into the new year!
Copenhagen's Christmas Magic
Copenhagen takes Christmas markets to the next level, spreading the festivities across the city in famous locations like Tivoli Gardens, the city zoo, and Nyhavn harbor.
Did you know that Tivoli Gardens, one of the world's oldest amusement parks, transforms into a winter wonderland with over a million twinkling lights during the holiday season? Some markets are already open, but they all promise a fantastic festive buzz!
Shop for Nordic ornaments, savor traditional Danish treats like æbleskiver (warm pancake balls), and immerse yourself in the city’s magical holiday spirit. With multiple markets to explore, Copenhagen offers a truly unique Christmas experience.
Festivities in Manchester
Manchester is a Christmas hotspot, hosting a series of markets stretching from the Winter Gardens to the city’s shopping districts.
This year marks the city's 26th market, which boasts over 240 stalls. Sip on hot chocolate or mulled wine as you explore stalls brimming with festive goodies, hearty food, drinks, arts and crafts, jewelry and all sorts of knick knacks. This lively destination is perfect for getting into the holiday spirit with loved ones.
Don't miss out on the viral cheesy chips at Manchester's Christmas market this year!
Warsaw: A Polish Winter Wonderland
In Warsaw, Christmas is all about light displays and cozy winter vibes.
Warsaw is a beautiful Christmas destination with dazzling markets, illuminated streets, stunning decorations, and a picturesque ice rink. Known as one of Poland’s best Christmas markets, it’s an ideal spot to indulge traditional Polish dishes like pierogi and oscypek and enjoy festive entertainment.
If you're traveling in Poland, don't miss Krakow's Christmas Market which is also worth visiting! Located in the historic Rynek Główny square, it’s renowned for its charming stalls, unique gifts, and the backdrop of the city's iconic medieval architecture. Both cities promise a truly magical Christmas experience!
Tallinn's Award-winning Christmas Market
Tallinn’s Christmas market is like stepping into a fairy tale. Set in the city’s medieval town square, it was awarded the title of Best Christmas Market in Europe in 2019. It features traditional Estonian dishes like black pudding and sour cabbage, handcrafted mulled wines, and delicious gingerbread biscuits, alongside community activities, handmade crafts, and children’s activities. If you get chilly, there are stands selling handmade woolen mittens and scarves.
It’s the perfect place to experience the charm of a classic European Christmas and to get a taste of traditional Estonian dishes. Enjoy the magic of the market until December 27!
Celebrate Christmas with Locals
There’s no better way to experience the magic of Christmas than by immersing yourself in local traditions. The holiday season offers the perfect opportunity to connect with locals, learn about their festive customs, and try traditional homemade dishes.
With Eatwith, you can meet a local host, explore Christmas markets together, and even toast to the New Year in their home. It’s a unique way to make your holiday travels truly unforgettable!
Check out all experiences on the Eatwith website, and know that you can also book private dining Christmas events just for you and your group.
Explore the Best of Europe’s Christmas Markets This Holiday Season
No matter where you go, Europe’s Christmas markets offer excitement, festive charm, delicious food, and unforgettable traditional experiences.
This holiday season, immerse yourself in the joy of Christmas, explore new cities, and create lasting memories. Wherever you celebrate, let the spirit of the season guide you to warmth, wonder, and cheer.
Ready to make your plans? Find extraordinary holiday experiences on Eatwith’s website and make this Christmas your most magical one yet!
