Top 5 European Christmas Markets

Christmas markets are one of the best bits of winter in Europe. Twinkling lights, wooden huts, the smell of spices in the air and a cup of something hot in your hands… it’s an instant mood-lifter, even when it is absolutely freezing.

Whether you are flying in for a weekend, tagging a market visit onto a river cruise, or building a longer winter getaway, some cities just do Christmas better than others. Here are five of the top European Christmas markets worth travelling for, what makes each one special, and a few simple tips to help you make the most of your visit.

Hamburg Christmas Markets, Germany

Hamburg is a brilliant choice if you want that classic German Christmas market feel but with a maritime twist. The city has dozens of markets spread across the centre, with the most famous set in front of the grand Town Hall at Rathausmarkt. Wooden stalls, a huge tree and the backdrop of the historic building make it feel properly storybook.

What to expect

The historic market at Rathausmarkt focuses on traditional crafts, toys and handmade decorations. Above the square, a “flying Santa” sleigh often glides over the crowds at set times in the evening, which is a fun extra touch. Along the Inner Alster Lake, the Jungfernstieg market swaps rustic huts for elegant white tents, with reflections of the lights dancing on the water, while smaller markets on Fleetinsel and in little side streets bring a quieter, canal-side feel.

Food & drink to try

• Glühwein (mulled wine) and hot chocolate in reusable souvenir mugs

• Roasted almonds and other candied nuts

• Bratwurst and grilled specialities, plus smoked fish and snacks that nod to Hamburg’s port heritage

  
  

When it usually runs

Hamburg’s main markets generally open from late November and run until just before Christmas, with some smaller events and light trails carrying on towards the end of December. Dates change slightly each year, so it is worth checking current details when you plan, especially if you want to be there for opening week or the final weekend.

Why it is great for cruisers

Hamburg is a major cruise port, and several winter sailings from the UK are built around overnight stays here specifically for the Christmas markets. You can wander from ship to city centre quite easily, tick off a few different markets in one evening and soak up the festive atmosphere without needing to worry about flights at all.

Vienna Christmas Market, Austria

Vienna is made for Christmas. Several markets pop up across the city, but the big one is in front of the Rathaus (City Hall). The gothic building is lit up, there is a huge tree and rows of stalls wrapped around the square. It all feels very grand and very festive.

What to expect

Vienna’s markets mix old-world charm with a bit of sparkle. You will see locals and visitors bundled up in scarves and big coats, wandering between stalls, then ducking into cafés for a slice of cake and a warm-up. There is often an ice rink, children’s activities and live music in the evenings.

Food & drink to try

• Punch and mulled wine in all sorts of flavours

• Vanillekipferl (vanilla crescent biscuits)

• Käsekrainer (cheese-filled sausages)

When it usually runs

The main markets generally start in mid November and run until Christmas or just after. Some smaller markets keep going into early January, which is handy if you are planning a post-Christmas city break.

Why it is great for cruisers

Vienna features on lots of Danube river cruise itineraries, often with a full day or even an overnight. That gives time to visit more than one market, see some of the big sights and maybe catch a classical concert while you are in town.

Prague Christmas Market, Czechia

Prague already looks like a fairytale city with its spires, cobbles and old streets, and at Christmas it really leans into it. The main markets are in Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square, both right in the centre and easy to combine in a single wander.

What to expect

Old Town Square is where most people start. There is usually a big tree, a viewing platform, regular light displays and plenty of stalls selling decorations, gifts and food. Smaller markets pop up near Prague Castle and in neighbourhood squares, which are lovely in the evening once the day trip crowds have thinned out.

Food & drink to try

• Trdelník (chimney cake) cooked over open coals

• Svařené víno (Czech mulled wine)

• Grilled sausages and pork from street grills

When it usually runs

Prague’s main Christmas markets tend to open from late November and continue through to early January, including New Year. That makes it a good pick if you are restricted to travel between Christmas and New Year’s Eve.

Why it is great for cruisers

Prague often appears as a pre or post stay for Danube river cruises. It works really well as a two or three night add-on if you want a relaxed city break with guaranteed Christmas atmosphere before or after your sailing.

Budapest Christmas Markets, Hungary

Budapest is a great option if you want a bit of magic but slightly lower prices than some of the big Western European cities. Two of the best markets are the Christmas fair on Vörösmarty Square and the Advent market by St Stephen’s Basilica. Both are central and easy to reach on foot or by tram.

What to expect

Vörösmarty Square is full of food stalls and craft huts, with seating areas where you can sit with a bowl of something hot. Around St Stephen’s Basilica there is usually an ice rink and light projections on the church façade in the evenings, which give it a really cosy, cinematic feel.

Food & drink to try

• Lángos (deep-fried flatbread) topped with cheese, garlic or sour cream

• Goulash or stews served in bread bowls

• Traditional Christmas sweets and pastries

When it usually runs

Budapest’s main markets typically run from mid November until just after Christmas, sometimes edging towards the end of December. Midweek visits can feel much calmer, so it is worth keeping that in mind if you are not a fan of big crowds.

Why it is great for cruisers

Budapest is a key embarkation or disembarkation port for many Danube river cruises. With a night or two on land either side you can explore Buda and Pest, relax in a thermal bath and still have plenty of time for the markets.

Strasbourg Christmas Market, France

Strasbourg calls itself the “Capital of Christmas” and it really commits to the role. The city has been running its Christkindelsmärik since the 1500s, and today there are multiple markets spread through the old town, especially around the cathedral and on squares like Place Broglie and Place Kléber.

What to expect

Expect half-timbered houses wrapped in garlands, streets draped with oversized decorations and several markets all within walking distance. There is a huge decorated tree on Place Kléber, while other areas focus on local crafts, charity stalls or food. In the evenings, choirs, live music and glowing shopfronts make the whole centre feel very festive.

Food & drink to try

• Vin chaud (mulled wine), including local white versions

• Flammekueche (thin Alsatian tart with cream, onions and bacon)

• Bredele (traditional Alsatian Christmas biscuits)

When it usually runs

Strasbourg’s markets typically open in late November and run through to just before Christmas. The city is extremely popular at this time of year, so accommodation books up quickly. If you have specific dates in mind, it is worth planning well ahead.

Why it is great for cruisers

Strasbourg is a standout stop on Rhine Christmas market river cruises, with easy transfers from the river docks into town. It is also close to other Alsatian towns like Colmar, which has its own beautiful markets if your itinerary or pre-cruise stay gives you extra time.

Tips for visiting European Christmas markets

Wrap up properly

You will be outside a lot, often standing around. Layers, a warm coat, hat, gloves and comfortable shoes make a huge difference.

Carry a bit of cash

More stalls accept cards now, but some smaller traders and snack stands still prefer cash, especially for low-value items.

Avoid the absolute peak times

Evenings and weekends are magical but busy. If you have flexibility, visit in the late morning or early afternoon, then come back for a quick look at the lights after dark.

Bring a fold-up bag

You will almost certainly buy more decorations, sweets and gifts than you planned. A small tote or backpack keeps your hands free for food and drink.

Check dates before you book

Each city sets its own opening and closing dates and they change slightly year to year. Always double-check the current year’s dates on official tourism sites or trusted travel pages before locking in flights or a cruise.

FAQ: European Christmas markets

Which European Christmas market is best for a first visit?

For a first-timer, Hamburg, Vienna or Prague are great options. All three have big, central markets, plenty of things to do nearby, easy flight routes from the UK and good public transport once you arrive.

Are European Christmas markets expensive?

It varies by city. Places like Vienna and Strasbourg can feel pricier, while Budapest and some Central and Eastern European cities are usually better value for food, drink and hotels. In any market you can keep costs sensible by sharing snacks, setting a souvenir budget and staying slightly away from the main tourist streets.

When is the best time to go to Christmas markets?

Most markets run from mid November through to just before Christmas, with a few continuing into New Year or early January. For quieter crowds and often cheaper flights, aim for the last two weeks of November or the very start of December.

Can I visit Christmas markets on a cruise?

Yes. There are dedicated Christmas market cruises along the Rhine and Danube, plus ocean cruises from the UK that call at ports like Hamburg, Amsterdam and Bruges specifically for markets. It is a simple way to see several destinations in one trip without constantly packing and unpacking.

What should I wear to a Christmas market?

Comfort and warmth come first. Think warm layers, a waterproof or windproof coat, comfortable boots or trainers with decent grip, plus a hat, scarf and gloves. If you feel the cold, pop a couple of hand warmers in your pockets for evenings.