As the air turns crisp and the scent of mulled wine lines the cobblestone streets, it can only mean one thing – the Christmas markets of Europe have arrived. There is nothing more magical than visiting an already fairytale-like European town and being hit with Christmas hues that ignite all of the senses. Aromas of hot chocolate and chimney cakes take over the streets to draw in crowds of every age in a jolly, social setting. In this guide, I’ll highlight the notable markets that embody that special Christmas sparkle that we all seek at this time of year.
Throughout the years, and in those of recent times in particular, Christmas Markets have become widespread across Europe as the magic which began in medieval Germany filtered into neighbouring countries. Each of these markets embody the Christmas cheer with their twinkling lights, pine trees, open fires burning and festive goodies waiting to be sampled. In saying that, however, there are some that stand out more than others, perhaps because of their authenticity to the cause, or as a result of the movie-set like towns they’re situated in. So to make matters easier for you, I’ve outlined exactly which markets are the best to visit and why, along with the crucial details like opening hours and how long they run for over the festive period. Keep reading to find out more!
German Markets:
German Christmas Markets are the holy grail out of them all. They date back to the 1300s and adapt an aura of tradition and deep- rooted origins in each major city or tiny village they appear in. Those in the cities tend to run on a daily basis while the smaller ones might only be open on weekends. The most notable to visit include:
Cologne Christmas Market
Seven markets lie in this beautifully set city along the banks of the River Rhine. The main one however is Cologne Cathedral Market, which sprawls around the Cathedral and extends into the Old Town. Over 150 festivly adorned stalls offer handcrafted gifts, ornaments, decorations and of course delectable goods to eat. The Cathedral’s Christmas tree is also a pinnacle fixture of the markets with its thousands of lights illuminating the square.
Dates & Opening Hours:
November 21 – December 23
11:00Am – 9:00 PM (Mon – Fri), 10:00 Am – 9:00 PM (Sat – Sun)
Nuremberg Christmas Market
Nuremberg plays host to one of Germany’s most renowned and traditional Christmas markets, dating back to the 16th century. The market is situated in the city’s picturesque Old Town, lined with 180 wooden stalls nestling between the medieval architecture and cobblestone streets. Nuremberg is famous for it’s “Lebkuchen” , or gingerbread, which draws in anyone who strolls by with its irresistable aroma. It also hosts a children’s Christmas Market which is ideal if you’re visiting as a family.
Dates & Opening Hours:
December 1 – 24
10:00Am – 9:00 PM (Mon – Sun)
10:00 AM – 2PM (Dec 24)
Heidelberg Christmas Market
Nestled along the banks of the Necktar River, Heidelberg’s Christmas Markets offer an enchanting experience that spread the Christmas charm with its 170 stalls each twinkling in festive decor. All of your favourite warm treats are sold here, along with regular live performances to create a lively ambiance in the area. An incredible ice-skating rink also lies with a view of the castle ruins on Karlsplatz, making this a fun outing for everyone who visits.
Dates & Opening Hours:
November 27 – December 22
11:00Am – 9:00 PM (Sun – Fri)
11:00 AM – 10PM (Saturday)
Austrian Markets:
Vienna Christmas Markets:
Vienna is home to one of the biggest Christmas Markets in Europe, along with several other markets hosting different themes. If you have ever seen pictures of Vienna, you will appreciate the fairytale – like setting of the city. Now mix that with highest quality of Christmas decorations and produce alike and you’ll fine yourself in Austrian festive heaven! The most popular market here is at Rathausplatz infront of the townhall, with Spittelberg Weihnachtsmarkt and Altwiener Christkindlmarkt attracting crowds in their droves alike. Each has it’s own special charm, so if you manage to visit, be sure to leave enough time to explore them all.
Dates & Opening Hours:
November 11 (earliest) – December 31st (latest)
Salzburg
One of the world’s oldest markets and remaining an all-time favourite for all who frequent it, Salzburg Christkindlemarkt offers practically everything you could ever wish for. Traditional chalets and delectable treats are all proudly brought to you by the locals who leave no detail to spare in the advent of the markets each year. Furthermore, there are daily events that run in the eveningtime to ensure the magical ambience is felt all round.
Dates & Opening Hours:
November 23 – January 1
10:00 AM – 08:30 PM (Mon – Thurs)
10:00 Am – 9:00 PM (Friday)
09:00 Am – 09:00 PM (Saturday)
09:00 AM – 08:30 PM (Sunday + Holidays)
Innsbruck
Innsbruck hosts a charming, smaller Christmas Market located cosily in the Austrian Alps. The setting of the snow-capped peaks as a backdrop to the adorable Old Town creates a magical aura for anyone who is lucky enough to visit here. The Christmas Market on Maria Theresien Street is a must-see with it’s Christmas Light spectacle set all around. There are also plenty of other smaller markets dotted around the city, each with their own specialities on offer.
Dates & Opening Hours:
November 15 – December 23
11:00 AM – 09:00 PM Daily
French Christmas Markets
Strasbourg Christmas Markets
Standing out as ‘The Capital of Christmas’, the Christmas markets here in Strasbourg are one of the most picturesque in Europe. The city’s medieval architecture provides a fairy-tale backdrop to the market’s 300 stalls, creating an enchanting atmosphere that transports visitors to a bygone era. These particular markets are renowned for their emphasis on craftsmanship, with stalls offering Alsatian ornaments, handmade toys, and intricate lacework. While you’re here, you should try to visit some of the other magical markets in the Vosges mountains, such as Ribeauvillé, Kaysersberg anf Eguisheim.
Dates & Opening Hours:
November 24 – December 24
11:30 AM – 09:00 PM Daily
11:00Am – 06:00 PM (Dec 24)
Colmar Christmas Markets
Conveniently located just 30 minutes from Strasbourg, Colmar offers a perfectly- set winter fairytale scene in it’s beautiful Old Town lined with half-timbered houses and cobblestones streets. The market itself is smaller and more intricate than its’ larger neighbour, and hosts a life-size nativity scene alongside everything else you’d expect in as impressive a manner as you could hope for.
Dates & Opening Hours:
November 24 – December 30
02:00 – 07:00 PM (Mon – Thurs)
10:00 AM – 07:00 PM (Weekends)
Across the Map
Budapest Christmas Market
There are plenty of markets to explore in Budapest across the festive season, with three standing out on top – Gozsdu Court, St Stephen’s Basilica, Vörösmarty Square and Erzsébet Square. Not only are there many of them, they are also considered among the most beautiful in Europe, and are considerably well-priced overall. With the finest of food (chimney cake galor) and gift stalls, coupled with winter activities like ice – skating and ferris wheels, exploring the city over the festive period is a must do if you’re heading on a weekend getaway!
Dates & Opening Hours:
November 11 (earliest) – December 31 (latest)
Edinburgh Christmas Market
Located in the historical city centre, Edinburgh is up there with the best of them and is a great alternative to the central European options which may not be as easily accessible to some. East Princes Street Gardens is the largest of the markets in the city, and houses over 80 stalls offering both local and international goods of the highest quality. There is also an eye-catching Ferris Wheel that overlooks the city, with an ice rink conveniently located nearby on George Street.
Dates & Opening Hours:
November 17 – January 6
11:00AM – 10:00PM
Prague Christmas Market
If you’ve been to Prague, you’ll know the sense of exploring something straight out of a children’s storybook the city gives off. Now image that, with Christmas decor and feels in all their glory. Prague hosts it’s main market in Old Town Square, overlooked by the glorious Tyn Church. Smaller markets dotted around the city include Wenceslas Square, Republic Square and Na Kampe Square near Charles Bridge. Locally decorated huts proudly display exquisite souvenirs, decorations, drinks and foodstuffs alike – with the infamous Tredelník in all of its glory. Prague is also famous for its beers, so be sure to grab a Pilsner or Staropramen while you’re here!
Dates & Opening Hours:
November 25 – January 8
11:00AM – 10:00PM
Bruges Christmas Market
Considering how alluring this city outside Brussels is in Summer, it is no wonder the city is famed for the beauty of it’s winter festivities. The large central market is lively and atmospheric, paired with a Belgian twist on treats to include more chocolate, waffles and beer than anywhere else. Bruge is also host to a skating rink in the centre of Grote Square meaning there’s opportunity for activities amongst all of the beauty.
Dates & Opening Hours:
November 25 – January 8
11:00AM – 10:00PM
When choosing between those outlined above, it is worth noting that they are individually incredible so it really doesn’t matter which one you visit, you’re sure to love them either way. The great thing about these cities is that they are magical year-round without the addition of Christmas Markets, so they’ll make a lasting mark in your memory on a visit this time of year!
One top tip I would for visiting the main markets would be to think about what you want to get from them. The markets tend to be very busy on weekends especially in the interim weeks before the big day. So if you want a leisurely stroll around them, with the ability to take in all that feasts your eyes then try to visit midday or on weekdays. If it’s a social, bustling and lively atmosphere with plenty of mulled wine sampling you’re after, then opt for a weekend visit.
Before I finish, I’d like to put an idea into your head. Yes, markets are great individually, but don’t overlook a trip between a few of them! Central Europe is very easy to travel by renting a car, and would be an incredible way to get the most from your time away. You don’t even need that many days to tick off a few, not to mention the incredible scenery you would experience along the way!
Here are some ideas that may whet your appetite for more exploration:
Nuremberg – (1hr 54) – Munich – (1hr 42) Salzburg
Prague (3hr 30) – Nuremberg (2 hr 35) – Heidelberg – (1 hr 33) Strasbourg
Cologne – Heidelberg (2 hr 45) – Strasbourg (1 hr 33) – Colmar (56 mins)
Dresden – (1 hr 53) – Prague
Budapest – (2 hr 54) – Vienna – (3 hr 35) Hallstatt – (1hr 11) – Salzburg