There's nothing quite like the experience of visiting a Christmas market in Europe. The crisp winter air, the scent of cinnamon and mulled wine, and the twinkling lights that transform a town or city into magical wonderlands. As you plan your festive escape for 2025, you will be spoilt for choice. From historic traditions to modern marvels, here is our guide to the top European cities to visit for Christmas markets in 2025.
The Quintessential Christmas Market Experience: Germany
Germany is widely regarded as the birthplace of the Christmas market, and its cities offer a truly authentic and unforgettable experiences.
1. Cologne, Germany
Cologne's Christmas markets are a feast for the senses, with several distinct markets spread across the city. The most iconic is the one set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Cologne Cathedral. With over 150 stalls, a massive Christmas tree, and a stage for live performances, it’s a hub of festive activity.
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Dates: November 17 to December 23, 2025
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What to expect: A dazzling atmosphere with lights illuminating the square. You can indulge in local treats like potato pancakes (Reibekuchen) and sip on Glühwein (mulled wine) while browsing for handcrafted gifts. Don’t miss the smaller, themed markets, such as the Angel's Market in Neumarkt Square, where vendors are dressed as angels.
- Top tip: Purchase a round trip ticket for the Christmas Market hop on hop off express train and enjoy interesting city commentary and cheerful Christmas music whilst stopping st four of the most stunning Christmas markets in Cologne.
2. Berlin, Germany
Berlin, a city known for its history and modernity, offers a diverse range of Christmas markets. With around 80 different markets, each neighborhood has its own unique festive flair.
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Dates: Vary by market, generally from mid-November to late December 2025 or early January 2026.
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What to expect: A captivating blend of tradition and a vibrant atmosphere. T he market at Gendarmenmarkt is a must-visit for its stunning architectural setting and high-quality artisan crafts. For a more traditional, regal backdrop, the market at Charlottenburg Palace is a great choice. You can also find modern, pop-up style markets and even a Nordic-themed market at the Kulturbrauerei.
- Top tip: Visit the Winterwelt (Winter World) at Potsdamer Platzis. A special highlight is the 12-metre high and 70-metre long winter slide. The toboggan run scores with a view of the Brandenburg Gate and, with its colourful disco lights, it is sure to make children's eyes light up.
Timeless Elegance: France and Belgium
Discover a touch of French and Belgian romance as you explore their stunning Christmas markets.
3. Brussels, Belgium
Brussels transforms into a spectacular "Winter Wonders" festival, spreading the festive cheer across it's historic city centre. With over 200 chalets, this isn't just a market, it's a 2km long festive journey filled with lights, sounds, and flavours.
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Dates: November 28, 2025, to January 1, 2026.
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What to expect: A vibrant and sprawling event that includes multiple market locations. The heart of the festival is the Grand Place, where a majestic Christmas tree and a breathtaking sound and light show mesmerize visitors. The market itself is primarily located at Marché aux Poissons, which features a giant Ferris wheel and hundreds of stalls. Indulge in classic Belgian waffles and of course, warm up with some mulled wine. The city is also beautifully illuminated with the "Brussels by Lights" event, adding to the enchanting atmosphere.
- Top tip: Book your hotel early, there is lots of nice accommodation at great prices but if there's a major event on the whole city can sell out fast! We stayed at Hotel Aris which was only 100 metres from the Grand Place.
4. Bruges, Belgium
The medieval city of Bruges transforms into a romantic fairy tale during its "Winter Glow" festival. It's cobbled streets and serene canals, shimmering with festive lights, create a truly magical setting.
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Dates: November 21, 2025, to January 4, 2026.
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What to expect: A cosy and intimate atmosphere. The main market at Grote Markt, with its ice rink and wooden chalets, is the heart of the celebration. You can enjoy Belgian waffles, local chocolates, and of course, a variety of Belgian beers, both traditional and spiced for the season.
- Top tip: Follow the 3km light trail to experience the magic of unique light installations in surprising places immersing you into different worlds.
5. Strasbourg, France
Dubbed the "Capital of Christmas," Strasbourg is home to France's oldest Christmas market, Chrìstkìndelsmärik, dating back to 1570. The city's picturesque medieval streets and half-timbered houses are a perfect canvas for the festive decorations.
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Dates: November 26 to December 24, 2025.
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What to expect: Over 300 traditional wooden chalets spread across the city's main squares. The grand Christmas tree at Place Kléber is a centrepiece of the festivities. The market's charm lies in its commitment to tradition, offering local Alsatian specialties and handcrafted items.
- Top tip: Whilst there are 9 Christmas markets spred out cross the historic centre of the city, its lso close to many others in the region. Colmar is only 30 minutes away by train and makes an easy day trip if you want to see even more holiday magic.
Fairy-Tale Charm: Central and Eastern Europe
For a magical, storybook-like Christmas market experience, head to these historic cities in Central and Eastern Europe.
6. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. The city's main markets in Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square are famous for their enchanting atmosphere and traditional Czech crafts.
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Dates: November 30, 2025, to January 6, 2026.
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What to expect: Wooden stalls brimming with handmade toys, beautiful Christmas decorations, and local delicacies. Be sure to try Trdelník, a sweet pastry cooked over an open flame, and enjoy a hot cup of honey wine. The view from the Old Town Hall Tower provides a breathtaking panoramic view of the illuminated market below.
- Top tip: Enjoy some of the finest Prague foods whilst taking in some jaw-dropping sights aboard the Vltava River cruise.
7. Vienna, Austria
Vienna's Christmas market tradition dates back to the late 13th century, making it one of the oldest in Europe. The city's imperial architecture and grand palaces provide a magnificent setting for the festive season.
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Dates: November 14 to December 23, 2025.
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What to expect: An elegant and sophisticated atmosphere. The main market at City Hall Square (Rathausplatz) is a Viennese dream, with a towering Christmas tree and a wide array of stalls. Don't miss the smaller, charming markets at Schönbrunn Palace and Belvedere Palace, which offer a more intimate and romantic setting.
8. Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is celebrated for its warm and welcoming Christmas markets, offering a unique blend of traditional Hungarian culture and a lively festive mood.
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Dates: November 15 to December 31, 2025.
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What to expect: The main markets at Vörösmarty Square and St. Stephen's Basilica are filled with Hungarian handicrafts, delicious street food like Lángos (fried dough with various toppings), and a wide selection of mulled wines and hot beverages. The ice skating rink outside the Basilica, illuminated by a mesmerizing light show, is a highlight.
The Nordic and Beyond: Unique Christmas Markets
For a different kind of festive experience, consider these destinations.
9. Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen brings the Danish concept of hygge (cosiness) to life during the holidays. The city's most famous market is within the enchanting Tivoli Gardens, which becomes a true winter wonderland.
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Dates: November 4, 2025, to January 5, 2026.
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What to expect: A festive theme park experience with thrilling rides, thousands of twinkling lights, and a multitude of stalls selling Danish festive food and crafts.
10. Gdansk, Poland
Voted the "European Best Christmas Market 2024," Gdańsk is rapidly gaining a reputation for its charming and picturesque market. Set in a beautiful historic city, it offers a truly enchanting experience.
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Dates: November 21 to December 23, 2025.
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What to expect: A fairytale-like setting with a giant Advent calendar, a beautiful Venetian carousel, and a wide array of local crafts and delicious Polish treats. The market's unique charm and festive atmosphere make it a rising star on the European Christmas market scene.
Tips for Your 2025 Christmas Market Trip
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Book in advance: Christmas markets are incredibly popular. To secure the best flights and accommodation, it's essential to book well ahead of time.
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Pack for the weather: European winters can be chilly. Bring warm layers, a waterproof coat, comfortable walking shoes, gloves, and a hat.
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Check dates and times: While the dates provided are based on available 2025 information, they can be subject to change. Always double-check with the official tourism websites before you travel.
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Carry cash: While many vendors accept cards, smaller stalls often prefer cash, especially for quick purchases of food and drinks.
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Embrace the local flavour: Don't just stick to mulled wine. Each city offers its own unique seasonal treats and drinks. Be adventurous and try local specialties!
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