Visitors travel from all over the world to experience the magic of the European Christmas markets and join locals sipping mulled wine and purchasing local treasures to gift to family and friends.

The first recorded Christmas market was in Dresden, Germany, in 1434. It was initially referred to as a "Striezelmarkt," named after a type of sweet cake known as "Striezel" (now called Stollen).

Christmas markets started to spread to other German-speaking cities and towns during the Renaissance (16th and 17th centuries) and became deeply rooted in European holiday traditions during the 18th and 19th centuries. The markets were not only places to buy goods but also served as social hubs for communities to gather and celebrate the festive season.

In the late 19th Century, the markets began to align their opening times with the Christian liturgical calendar, which places the Advent season in the four weeks leading up to Christmas.

Today, Christmas markets have evolved to accommodate a diverse range of goods, from traditional handicrafts to international delicacies. These markets aim to recreate a medieval atmosphere, with wooden stalls, traditional crafts, and entertainment reminiscent of historical times. This is seen as a nod to the historical roots of these markets.

While Germany remains at the heart of the Christmas market tradition, the concept has spread throughout Europe. Cities and towns in countries like Austria, Switzerland, France, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom host their own unique Christmas markets, each infused with local traditions and flavors.

The popularity of these markets has also extended beyond Europe. Various countries around the world, including the United States and Canada, have embraced the tradition and adapted it to their cultural contexts.

Christmas markets continue to play a significant role in European holiday traditions, fostering a sense of community, celebration, and the joy of the festive season. The combination of historical elements and contemporary festivities makes these markets a beloved and enduring part of Christmas celebrations in Europe.

Here is a list of some of the best Christmas markets in Europe. Please note that the details might change, so check the market websites for the most accurate and up-to-date information when planning your visit.

Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market, Germany

While Cologne actually has a few different holiday markets throughout the city, the Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market, situated around the stunning Cologne Cathedral, is the largest and most visited (more than 4 million people visit each year!). It offers a magical atmosphere with more than 150 festive stalls, an ice rink, and themed events.

Opening Dates: November 23 to December 23, 2023.

Opening Times: Sunday to Wednesday 11:00 am to 9:00 pm; Thursday to Friday 11 am to 10 pm; Saturday 10:00 am to 10:00 pm.

Website: Cologne Christmas Market

Vienna Christmas Market, Austria

Considered one of Europe’s biggest and most beautiful holiday markets, the Vienna Christmas Market, or "Christkindlmarkt," transforms the City Hall Square into a winter wonderland with its twinkling lights, artisan crafts, and a vast array of festive treats.

Opening Dates: November 10 to December 26, 2023.

Opening Times: Daily from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm (closes at 6:30 pm on December 24).

Website: Vienna Christmas Market

Strasbourg Christmas Market, France

Known as the "Capital of Christmas," Strasbourg boasts one of the oldest and most enchanting Christmas markets in Europe. It features more than 300 stalls, festive decorations, and a giant Christmas tree.

Opening Dates: November 24 to December 24, 2023.

Opening Times: Open at 2 pm on November 24, and then stalls are open daily from 11:30 am to 9:00 pm (closes at 6:00 pm on December 24).

Website: Strasbourg Christmas Market

Tivoli Gardens Christmas Market, Copenhagen, Denmark

Tivoli Gardens transforms into a magical Christmas village, offering festive rides, holiday-themed shows, and traditional Danish treats.

Opening Dates: November 19 to December 31, 2023.

Opening Times: Sunday to Thursday 11:00 am to 10:00 pm; Friday and Saturday 11:00 am to midnight. Closed on December 24.

Website: Tivoli Gardens Christmas Market

Prague Christmas Markets, Czech Republic

There are Christmas Markets all over Prague, but the largest and most popular is in the Old Town Square, famous for its stunning Christmas tree, handmade crafts, and a festive atmosphere with live music and performances.

Opening Dates: All markets are open from December 2, 2023 to January 6, 2024.

Opening Times: Daily from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm.

Website: Prague Christmas Market

Brussels Winter Wonders, Belgium

Brussels Winter Wonders encompasses a series of Christmas markets around the city center, featuring an ice rink, a Ferris wheel, and an enchanting light show on the Grand Place.

Opening Dates: November 24 to December 31.

Opening Times: Daily from 12:00 pm to 10:00 pm (closes at 6:00 pm on December 24 and 31).

Website: Brussels Winter Wonders

Budapest Christmas Fair, Hungary

The Budapest Christmas Fair in Vörösmarty Square offers a festive atmosphere with traditional Hungarian crafts, delicious street food, and a Christmas tram.

Opening Dates: November 17, 2023 to January 1, 2024.

Opening Times: Sunday to Thursday 11:00 am to 9:00 pm; Friday and Saturday 11:00 am to 10:00 PM. (December 24 10 am to 2 pm; December 25-26 12 pm to 6 pm; December 29-30 11 am to 10 pm; December 31 11 am to 3 am; January 1 11 am to 5 pm).

Website: Budapest Christmas Fair

Edinburgh Christmas Market, Scotland

The Edinburgh Christmas Market, set against the backdrop of the historic Princes Street Gardens, features a European-style market, festive rides, and a panoramic view of the city.

Opening Dates: November 18, 2023 to January 6, 2024.

Opening Times: Daily from 10:00 am to 10:00 am (closes at 8:00 pm on December 24; closed on December 25; December 26 12:00 pm to 8 pm; December 31 10 am to 6 pm; January 1 12 pm to 8 pm).

Website: Edinburgh Christmas Market

Amsterdam Light Festival, Netherlands

While not a traditional Christmas market, the Amsterdam Light Festival illuminates the city with captivating light installations along its famous canals.

Opening Dates: November 30, 2023 to January 21, 2024.

Opening Times: The light installations are best viewed after sunset.

Website: Amsterdam Light Festival

Zurich Christmas Markets, Switzerland

There are a variety of Christmas markets in Zurich including the largest indoor one in Europe at the main station that offers a festive ambiance with its Swarovski Christmas tree, artisan stalls, and a winter wonderland atmosphere.

Opening Dates: All martets are open from November 23 to December 23, 2023.

Opening Times: Sunday to Wednesday 11:00 am to 9:00 pm; Thursday to Saturday 11:00 am to 10:00 pm.

Website: Zurich Christmas Markets

Enjoy exploring the holiday magic of these historic and delightful European Christmas markets!

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