There’s something particularly magical about visiting Europe during the Christmas season. From historic squares that have been transformed into winter wonderlands to streets with twinkling lights and the scent of roasted chestnuts filling the air, there’s a lot to enjoy. But what are the best European Christmas markets to explore? Although some of the best ones are in Germany, plenty of other countries in Europe have incredible events and Christmas markets taking place in the holiday season too.
Christmas markets have a history dating back to the medieval period. The first recorded market is said to have taken place in Dresden in the mid-15th century. Since then, these markets have become a beloved seasonal tradition throughout Europe. They were originally set up as small winter fairs for locals to buy supplies for the holidays. Now they’re large-scale events that draw in millions of visitors annually. Here’s a look at some of the best European Christmas markets to visit this year.
When are European Christmas markets open?
The majority of European Christmas markets open at the end of November and continue until late December. Some markets, such as those in Germany and Austria, extend into the first week of January to coincide with the Epiphany.
Opening hours vary depending on the location. Christmas markets in larger cities will have longer opening hours, whereas small, local markets will close earlier in the day as they tend to be less busy.
Before planning your trip to some of the best European Christmas markets, check the start dates and opening times of the specific markets you want to visit. This will help you avoid any unwanted surprises during your trip.
Best European Christmas markets
Berlin, Germany
The great thing about visiting Berlin around the Christmas period is how many markets are taking place. Each market has its own distinct theme, so you could easily spend several days in Berlin, hopping between them all. You’ll find everything at these markets, from traditional crafts to funfairs and delicious food stalls. Plus, some of the Berlin Christmas markets have iconic backdrops, like the Charlottenburg Palace Market.
Other notable Christmas markets in Berlin to visit include:
- Alexanderplatz
- Rotes Rathaus
- Potsdamer Platz
- Spandau
- Lucia Weihnachtsmarkt
- Gendarmenmarkt
Most of these markets will have their own opening hours, but the majority of Christmas markets around the city will begin at the end of November. Some of the smaller markets may only be open for a weekend, so I’d recommend browsing the Visit Berlin website for more information on those.
Don’t forget to try roasted chestnuts, Glühwein (mulled wine), bratwurst, and other delicious treats while you’re walking around the markets! Many of the food stalls are expensive, so it’s not a bad idea to share everything to split the costs.
Where to stay in Berlin: MEININGER Hotel Berlin Mitte Humboldthaus or aletto Hotel Potsdamer Platz.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen may not be the first place you think of when it comes to the best European Christmas markets, but it should be on your list. We visited in 2024 and had a fantastic time exploring the Danish capital. The Christmas markets in Copenhagen are spread out across the city, including in the iconic Tivoli Gardens. Other markets such as Nyhavn, Thorvaldsens Plads, Højbro Plads, and the H.C. Andersen Christmas Market are beautiful spots to visit as well. This is especially true if you’re interested in trying a variety of food and drinks.
These markets are popular because they offer high-quality handicrafts and blend in well with Denmark’s hygge culture. Food such as waffles, hot soups, warm pastries, and spiced cakes are just some examples of what to try. The Copenhagen Christmas markets typically start at the end of November, and some may run into early January.
Where to stay in Copenhagen: Generator Copenhagen.
Frankfurt, Germany
One of the best European Christmas markets in terms of size and activities is located in Frankfurt. The market in Frankfurt is enormous, taking up a large portion of the old town. It’s famous for its beautiful setting amongst the half-timbered historic houses, with a large Christmas tree set up in the Römerberg. Many of the festival’s stalls in the main square spread out into other surrounding squares too, such as Paulsplatz.
In 2025, the Frankfurt Christmas Market runs from November 24th to December 22nd, and it’s open throughout the day. You’ll find lots of beautiful wooden stalls here, giving you many opportunities to buy gifts or souvenirs to take home with you. However, what you really need to indulge in is the food.
We found the food at the Frankfurt Christmas Market to be less expensive than other German cities, and there was more variety too. I’d recommend trying bratwurst, potato pancakes, and specialty cookies. Of course, you can’t leave without grabbing a local beer or some mulled wine either!
Where to stay in Frankfurt: Living Hotel Frankfurt or Hotel Frankfurt Messe.
Edinburgh, Scotland
One of my favourite Christmas markets in Europe is in Edinburgh. It’s well known for being a family-friendly market, with food stalls, festive lights, and rides to enjoy. The main part of the market can be found in Princes Street Gardens, which is where there’s a large Ferris wheel, food stalls, and plenty of other stalls selling all types of handmade goods. With a few exceptions, the Edinburgh Christmas Market is open from November 15th, 2025 to January 4th, 2026.
The market is located at the base of the old town, next to the main train station, so it’s very easy to access. If you’re planning a weekend in Edinburgh during the Christmas period, you can easily spend a few hours at the market followed by a day or two exploring the streets of the old town. This part of the city is also beautifully lit up for the festive season. From the old town you’ll also get a great view of the Christmas market below, which is especially magical in the evening.
Where to stay in Edinburgh: House of Gods or RÌGH Residences.
Manchester, England
Among the best European Christmas markets, and the biggest in the UK, sits Manchester. These markets are also scattered around the city centre, offering a big variety of food, drinks, and gifts. Two of the main areas where a good selection of stalls can be found are in Cathedral Gardens and Albert Square. You can find more market stalls at Piccadilly Gardens, St Ann’s Square, and along Market Street.
Compared to other top Christmas markets in Europe, I wouldn’t say there are a lot of activities to do here. The main reason to come would be to look at the products for sale and to try some incredible street food. As well as mulled wine and roasted chestnuts, food such as Yorkshire pudding wraps, Korean corn dogs, and apple crumble with custard offer something a little different to sink your teeth into. There are plenty of other places to eat in Manchester too, if you don’t find something you like at the Christmas Market.
The Manchester Christmas Market is set to take place from November 7th to December 22nd, 2025. They’re expecting over 200 stalls across ten sites, so it’s sure to be a great experience.
Where to stay in Manchester: Novotel Manchester City Centre or Hampton by Hilton Manchester Northern Quarter.
Mainz, Germany
Although Frankfurt gets a lot of attention for its Christmas market, there are some other, much smaller markets a short distance from Frankfurt worth considering too. We took a short train ride to Mainz, which is popular for its historical take on a Christmas market. The architecture that surrounds the market here brings the atmosphere to a whole new level, especially with the backdrop of St Martin’s Cathedral.
This market is much more intimate than others in Germany, but it still boasts a lot of charm. It runs from the end of November to the end of December in various venues across the old town. It’s worth double checking the dates though, as some markets differ in times from others. The food here is similar to Frankfurt, but it’s slightly cheaper which is always a bonus.
Brussels, Belgium
One of the best European Christmas markets to explore for a weekend is Brussels. Its Winter Wonders features more than 200 wooden chalets, with the heart of the event taking place in the Grand-Place, Marché aux Poissons, and Place Sainte-Catherine. In Grand-Place you’ll find a towering Christmas tree, a beautiful nativity scene, and a unique light and sound show that’s projected onto the walls of the historic buildings in the square.
Around the city you’ll find plenty of other festive activities taking place and a few more clusters of stalls in smaller squares too. And of course, food and drink are part of the experience. Visitors should try crispy fries, hot chocolate, local jenever, and Belgian waffles.
Where to stay in Brussels: MEININGER Hotel Bruxelles Gare du Midi.
Are European Christmas markets worth it?
Finding the best European Christmas markets to indulge in is all part of the fun. From traditional markets in Germany to unique alternatives in the UK and beyond, there are a lot of options at your fingertips. Beyond the hand-crafted gifts and sparkling lights is a chance to immerse yourself in local customs and sample seasonal foods, both local and international.
Whether you visit one market or you plan a Christmas road trip across several countries, you’re sure to have a memorable experience.
If you have any questions about my list of the best European Christmas markets, or if you have some tips about other markets worth visiting, please reach out. You can get in touch via email or through the contact form on my website. Don’t forget to follow my travels on Instagram and TikTok as well!
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