The Best European Christmas Markets To Visit in 2023

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As winter sets in and the sound of jingle bells starts to fill the air, many of us get excited about one thing: hopping over to a European Christmas market. These markets, with their rich history, light up beautifully, drawing folks in with sparkling decorations and the irresistible scent of tasty treats.

If you’re looking for a fun and memorable way to get into the holiday spirit, these European Christmas markets are a must-visit. And for the foodies among us, I’ve got some top tips on the best dishes to try, ensuring you make the most of your festive market experience. So, get ready to eat, explore, and be merry!

Best Christmas Markets in Europe 2023: Dates and Destinations

The Most Beautiful European Christmas Markets to Visit

With its rich tapestry of history and culture, Europe offers many enchanting destinations, particularly during Christmas. Amidst this vast expanse of festive choices, we’ve curated a list of the most captivating European Christmas markets. Dive in and let the Yuletide spirit lead the way!

Prague Christmas Markets

With its cobbled streets and historic squares, Prague transforms into a winter wonderland come December, hosting some of Europe’s most magical Christmas markets. The Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square, illuminated by thousands of lights, become the epicenters of festive cheer. At these markets, wooden huts showcase intricate glass ornaments, handcrafted wooden toys, and traditional Czech Christmas crafts. However, it’s the culinary delights that truly captivate the senses. When you’re there, don’t miss the “trdelník,” a traditional Slovak rolled pastry roasted over an open flame, often filled with sugar and walnut mix. Savor the warmth of “svařené víno”, the Czech mulled wine, or indulge in “klobása”, a grilled Czech sausage. For a hearty meal, go for the “guláš”, a stew usually served with dumplings. As you explore the Prague Christmas markets, let the rich aromas guide your gastronomic journey.

When: The Prague Christmas Markets are open daily from 2nd December 2023 to 6th January 2024.

Budapest Christmas Markets

Budapest, the heart-stealing capital of Hungary, comes alive in a special way during the Christmas season. The city’s Christmas markets, particularly the ones at Vörösmarty Square and St. Stephen’s Basilica, are a feast for the senses. The cobblestone streets are adorned with twinkling lights, wooden stalls brimming with artisanal crafts and the air filled with the sweet melodies of festive tunes. A trip to these markets would be incomplete without indulging in traditional Hungarian culinary delights. One mustn’t miss the “kürtőskalács” or chimney cake, a spiral-shaped dough roasted over an open flame and coated with sugar and various toppings. Another savory treat to relish is the “lángos”, a deep-fried bread topped with cheese, sour cream, and garlic. And as the cold sets in, warm up with a mug of “forralt bor” (mulled wine) infused with spices and fruit. Embrace Budapest’s Christmas markets’ warmth, flavors, and ambiance for a truly unforgettable holiday experience.

When: The Budapest Christmas Markets are open daily from 17th November 2023 to 31st December 2023.

Stockholm Christmas markets

Stockholm, the serene capital of Sweden, transforms into a winter wonderland during the Christmas season. Its Christmas markets, or “julmarknader,” are integral to the city’s festive celebrations. One of the most iconic is the market held in Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s old town, which has been a tradition since the early 1900s. Cobbled streets and medieval architecture provide a picturesque backdrop to stalls laden with Swedish handicrafts, festive decorations, and an array of traditional treats. Visitors must try ‘pepparkakor’ (ginger snaps) and ‘lussekatter’ (saffron buns) for a culinary adventure. Pair these with a warming cup of ‘glögg’ – a spiced, often alcoholic, mulled wine bursting with flavors of cloves and cinnamon. For those with a savory palate, indulge in ‘knäckebröd’ (crispbread) topped with local cheeses or ‘gravlax’ (cured salmon). Immerse yourself in this Nordic festivity, and let Stockholm’s Christmas markets satiate both your wanderlust and appetite.

When: The Stockholm Christmas Markets are open daily from 18th November 2023 to 23rd December 2023.

Copenhagen Christmas markets

Copenhagen, Denmark’s charming capital, is transformed into a winter wonderland during Christmas. Its streets and squares are adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations, offering an enchanting backdrop for its renowned Christmas markets. Tivoli Gardens, one of the city’s most iconic locations, is especially magical, with stalls selling traditional Danish crafts and delicacies. For those seeking a culinary experience, Copenhagen’s markets provide a gastronomic delight. A must-try is the “æbleskiver,” traditional Danish spherical pancakes, often dusted with powdered sugar and served with raspberry jam. Pair this with a warm glass of “gløgg,” the Danish version of mulled wine infused with spices and raisins, for a cozy, heartwarming treat. Venturing through Copenhagen’s Christmas markets, indulge in these flavors and let them enhance your festive experience.

When: The Copenhagen Christmas Markets are open daily from 17th November 2023 to 31st December 2023.

Vienna Christmas Markets

With its imperial elegance and timeless charm, Vienna transforms into a winter wonderland during Christmas. The city’s Christmas markets, known as “Wiener Christkindlmarkt,” are a true embodiment of the festive spirit, with their glittering lights, meticulously crafted ornaments, and the rich aroma of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts filling the air. The Rathausplatz, in front of the iconic City Hall, hosts the most renowned of these markets, beckoning visitors with its enchanting ambiance. For a culinary delight, one shouldn’t miss the chance to savor ‘Sachertorte’, a decadent chocolate cake, or ‘Apfelstrudel’, a traditional apple pie. Pair these treats with a warm cup of ‘Glühwein’ (mulled wine) or ‘Punsch’ (a spiced, often fruity, alcoholic drink) to ensure you fully indulge in the Viennese festive experience. Remember, in Vienna, Christmas isn’t just a season; it’s a sensory experience.

When: The Vienna Christmas Markets are open daily from 18th November 2023 to 26th December 2023.

The Best Christmas Markets in Germany

Germany is home to some of the best Christmas markets in Europe. Here are some of the most popular ones to check out this season.

Munich Christmas Markets

Munich, the Bavarian capital, transforms into a winter wonderland during the Christmas season, with its iconic Christmas markets taking center stage. The Marienplatz market, nestled in the city’s heart with the impressive Neues Rathaus as its backdrop, has twinkling fairy lights, festive decorations, and wooden stalls selling traditional crafts. While the ambiance is second to none, Munich’s Christmas markets are also a culinary delight. For an authentic taste of Bavaria, don’t miss out on the “Reiberdatschi” (potato pancakes) best enjoyed with apple sauce. Relish the “Bratwurst” grilled sausages, and warm up with a mug of “Gluhwein” (mulled wine), infused with spices. Finish with a soft and sweet “Marzipanbrot” or the nutty, chocolatey “Nussecken”. As you indulge, remember to enjoy each bite slowly, savoring the rich traditions and flavors of Munich’s festive season.

When: The Munich Christmas Markets are open daily from 27th November 2023 to 24th December 2023.

Nuremberg Christmas Markets

The Nuremberg Christmas Market, or “Christkindlesmarkt” as it’s locally known, stands as one of Europe’s oldest and most celebrated Christmas markets. Nestled in the heart of Nuremberg’s Old Town, it transforms the city square into a festive wonderland every December. Wooden stalls draped with red-and-white cloth offer many traditional goods, from intricate ornaments to handcrafted toys. But the true essence of the market lies in its gastronomic delights. Visitors must savor the iconic Nuremberg Lebkuchen, a gingerbread treat with nuts, honey, and spices. Another must-try is the Nuremberg Bratwurst, tiny sausages grilled to perfection and best enjoyed with a dollop of mustard. As you wander the market, warm your hands and soul with a mug of “Gluhwein” – a mulled wine infused with spices and citrus. In Nuremberg, the culinary experiences are as integral to the festive spirit as the crafts and carols.

When: The Nuremberg Christmas Markets are open daily from 1st November 2023 to 24th December 2023.

Frankfurt Christmas Markets

Frankfurt, often referred to as the financial heart of Germany, transforms into a festive wonderland during the Christmas season. The Frankfurt Christmas Market, one of the oldest and most renowned in the country, dates back to the 14th century. Set against the historic backdrop of the Römerberg square and the Frankfurt Cathedral, the market brims with ornate wooden stalls, twinkling fairy lights, and a giant Christmas tree that stands as a beacon of festive spirit. For those visiting, a culinary journey here is a must. Delight your palate with traditional treats such as “Bethmännchen”, a marzipan and almond cookie distinctive to Frankfurt, and the heartwarming “Apfelwein”, a local apple wine. Don’t forget to indulge in the classic “Bratwurst” sausages, and ensure you have a piping hot mug of “Gluhwein”, the spiced mulled wine, to keep you warm as you wander the cobbled streets.

When: The Frankfurt Christmas Markets are open daily from 27th November 2023 to 31st December 2023.

The Best Christmas Markets in Italy

Italy is home to some of the best Christmas markets in Europe. You can find the best Christmas markets in the Trentino Alto Adige region.

Bozen Christmas Markets

Nestled in the heart of South Tyrol, Italy, the Bozen (Bolzano) Christmas Market is a harmonious blend of Alpine traditions and Mediterranean charm. As the snow cloaks the surrounding Dolomites, the city center comes alive with the gentle glow of lanterns, the scent of mulled wine, and the melodies of festive songs. Among the wooden stalls, artisans showcase their handicrafts, from intricate ornaments to hand-knitted apparel. For the culinary adventurer, Bozen is a delight. A word of advice: do not miss out on the ‘Strauben’, a local delicacy resembling funnel cakes, or the ‘Zelten’, a traditional fruit and nut bread. Pair these with a steaming mug of ‘vin brulé’ (mulled wine) or apple cider, and you’ve got a perfect festive treat. Embracing the gastronomic offerings at the Bozen Christmas Market ensures an authentic, flavorful experience of South Tyrolean festivities.

When: The Bozen Christmas Markets are open daily from 24th November 2023 to 6th January 2024.

Trento Christmas Markets

The Trento Christmas Markets in northern Italy are a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a genuine taste of Italian yuletide tradition. Nestled within Trento’s charming, historic squares, these markets exude a magical atmosphere, enhanced by the picturesque backdrop of the snowy Alps. A gastronomic delight awaits food enthusiasts here; the aroma of roasted chestnuts, mulled wine, and traditional Trentino dishes fills the air. For an authentic local experience, don’t miss the chance to savor ‘Canederli’ – delicious bread dumplings often served in broth or with melted butter and cheese. Pair them with a glass of Trentodoc, the renowned sparkling wine of the region, to create a memorable culinary experience that perfectly encapsulates the warmth and joy of an Italian Christmas.

When: The Trento Christmas Markets are open daily from 19th November 2023 to 8th January 2024.

Other Christmas Markets Around Europe:

Some other popular Christmas markets around Europe include the following:

• Amsterdam – 13th to 26th December 2023
• London – 17th November 2023 to 1st January 2024
• Salzburg – 23rd November 2023 to 1st January 2024
• Helsinki – 1st December to 22nd December 2023
• Barcelona – 25th November to 23rd December 2023
• Madrid – 25th November to 31st December 2023

How To Plan Your European Christmas Market Adventure

Planning a visit to Europe’s finest Christmas markets requires a blend of research and spontaneity. Begin by identifying the top markets you wish to explore; cities like Vienna, Bozen, and Nuremberg are renowned for their festive offerings. Once you’ve pinpointed your destinations, check the specific dates and timings, as some markets open earlier in November and others last until the New Year. Make your accommodation reservations well in advance, as these cities tend to fill up quickly during the holiday season. Equip yourself with a map highlighting each market’s location, but also leave room for serendipitous discoveries. Lastly, immerse yourself in local traditions by sampling regional foods, participating in workshops, or attending live performances. Remember, the magic of the European Christmas markets is not just in the stalls but in the shared joy and warmth of the season.

Quick Tips for a Magical Visit:

• Research Markets: Start with renowned cities like Vienna, Strasbourg, and Bozen.
• Check Dates and Timings: Some markets begin in November, and others continue into the New Year.
• Book Accommodations Early: Popular destinations fill up quickly during the festive season.
• Use a Market Map: Helps in navigation and in identifying key attractions.
• Stay Spontaneous: Leave room for unplanned discoveries.
• Dive into Local Traditions: Sample regional foods, join workshops, and attend performances.

Visiting Christmas Markets Is a Must-Do Experience

Visiting Europe’s Christmas markets is akin to stepping into a living fairy tale. These festive havens shimmer with a unique blend of tradition, magic, and warmth, offering travelers a chance to immerse themselves in the authentic spirit of a European Yuletide. From the intoxicating aroma of spiced mulled wine to the soft melodies of age-old carols echoing through historic squares, each market tells its own story. By wandering among stalls adorned with handcrafted gifts and savoring delicacies from various regions, one truly connects with the continent’s rich tapestry of cultures. To experience a European Christmas market is to embrace a timeless tradition that rekindles the soul’s joy and wonder during the festive season.