The most beautiful Christmas ice skating rinks in Europe 2024 await you. Put on your ice skates and skate on the most beautiful ice rinks in the heart of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe.

Whether you have decided to celebrate Christmas in Germany, France, Austria, UK, Belgium, Poland, Switzerland, Spain, Italy or anywhere else in Europe, do not miss this opportunity to discover the best Christmas destinations for Ice Skating in Europe.

Book your activities and tours in these exceptional destinations as well as your accommodation at the best price for a magical Christmas.

1. Zagreb - Croatia

From 30th November 2024 to 7thJanuary 2025

This year marks anniversary for the iconic Ice Rink at King Tomislav Square, celebrating 10 years as a beloved Advent Zagreb feature. Skaters glide on a spacious circular rink, framed by the beautifully lit Art Pavilion, creating a storybook scene in the heart of the city.

Visitors get a unique opportunity to stroll Zagreb’s vibrant streets and squares aglow with thousands of lights, bustling Christmas markets and festive exhibitions, while music fills the air carrying the season’s spirit with every note.

At Ban Jelačić Square, a towering Christmas tree takes centre stage, while Ribnjak Park sparkles with "moon dust." The grand foyer of the National Theatre is perfect for jolly snaps and the Grič Tunnel offers a magical walk through icy North Pole landscapes. 

Most of the Christmas magic is, of course, reserved for the children, and Zagreb has always had a very strong offer of fun and entertainment for families, so this year will be no exception.

From shimmering lights to gourmet bites, Advent Zagreb once again promises extraordinary holiday season, filled with festive spirit, vibrant city culture and timeless charm.

Book your flights and accommodation at the best price as well as your tours and activities in Zagreb such a "Panoramic Bus: Zagreb City Tour".

 How to get there: Book your flights to Zagreb.

 Where to stay: "Esplanade Hotel" near the main train station

2. Nottingham - UK

From 7th November to 31st December 2024

Go ice skating at one of the Best Christmas Markets in the UK, Nottingham.

Christmas returns to Nottingham with the largest event in the East Midlands! Best of all entry to Nottingham Winter Wonderland is FREE!! Featuring your favourite rides, bars and shopping spots from previous years, this is the perfect place to soak in the Christmas spirit.

While away the hours browsing over 70 traditional, Bavarian-style stalls, searching for the perfect gift as well as sampling the delicious homemade and artisan cheeses, chutneys and chocolates on offer. 

During your stay, visit the Best Christmas Markets in the United Kingdom, Best Castles in England, Best Nature Wonders in England, the Most Beautiful Secret Destinations in England, Best Places to Visit in England as well as the Best Things to do in England and discover the very best of England. 

 Opening dates: From 7th November to 31st December 2024 (Estimated dates).

 How to get there: Book your flights to Birmingham Airport (1h by car/public transport) or Manchester (2h).

 Where to stay: "Crowne Plaza Nottingham". In the heart of Nottingham.

Select the "free cancellation" option and book your accommodation at the best price in Nottingham. 

3. Craiova - Romania

From 15th November 2024 to 5th January 2025

This year visit Craiova Christmas Market, 3 times awarded among the Best Christmas Markets in Europe, and discover one of the best Christmas ice rinks in Europe.

Craiova is a city of creative and generous people, with amazing old buildings and green spaces, good vibe and fascinating traditions and gastronomy. Craiova which is an all year round destination is simply spectacular at Christmas.

This year, Craiova Christmas Market opens on 17th of November 2023 with The Artist Awards - a spectacular show with the most important Romanian artists and lasts until 2nd January 2024.

For a successful event, Craiova Municipality has distributed the various Christmas events, markets, the ice rink, the concerts, creative workshops, food stands in four different places in the city – Mihai Viteazul Square, Old Center (Piața Frații Buzești), William Shakespeare Square and Doljana Fountain area.

 Opening dates: From 15th November 2025 to 5th January 2025 (Confirmed).

 How to get there: Book your flights to Craiova.

 Where to stay: "Hotel Splendide 1900". Located in the heart of Craiova.

4. London - UK

From 21st November 2024  to 5th January 2025

London’s spectacular Christmas destination - Hyde Park Winter Wonderland returns on November 2024 for six exciting weeks of winter festivities with FREE admission and even more entertainment than before. With more than 100 rides and attractions on site, there's something for everyone.

For those Christmas shoppers, there’s the traditional German Christmas market with over 200 chalets. The Angels Christmas Market of London offers unusual and handmade gifts and crafts.

This year, enjoy a unique experience by ice skating on one of the most beautiful Christmas ice rinks in Europe.

Need more inspiration? Discover the "Best Christmas Markets in the UK".

 How to get there: Book your flights to London and your transfer.

 Where to stay: "The Chamberlain" near to the Tower of London.including ceramics, candles, jewellery, wooden toys, nativity scenes and Christmas decorations.

5. Essen - Germany

From 15th November to 23rd December 2024.

When fragrant mulled wine warms your hands, the smell of freshly roasted almonds fills the air and a festive glow hangs over the entire Essen city center, it can only mean one thing: The Essen International Christmas Market has started again. From November 17 to December 23, look forward to one of the largest and most beautiful markets in the country, which will make your pre-Christmas season that much more beautiful and magical.

During your stay visit the Best Castles in Germany, Best Ski Resorts in Germany, Most Beautiful Secret Destinations in Germany and Best Places to Visit in Germany and discover the very Best of Germany. 

Book your flights, your accommodation as well as your activities & tours in Germany and visit the Best Christmas Markets in Germany.

 Opening dates: From 15th November to 23rd December 2024 (Confirmed).

 How to get there: Book your flights to Dusseldorf Airport (30 min by car or public transport).

 Where to stay:  "Hotel Essener Hof" Stay in the heart of Essen.

Select the "free cancellation" option and book your accommodation at the best price in Essen.

6. Poznan

From 19th November to 23rd December 2024

Visit Poznan Christmas Market, the Best Christmas Markets in Poland. Poznań Christmas Market is located in the center of Poznań, opposite  "Dworzec Zachodni" Railway Station, on historic square „Plac Powszechnej Wystawy Krajowej” and is surrounded by the most representative buildings of MTP Poznań Expo.

The unique atmosphere of the Christmas Market at the Fair is created by extraordinary holiday decorations and light illuminations (over 43,000 LED Lights). Our Visitors can find over 20 light decorations and photo spots, a 16-meter Christmas tree, a beautiful Ferris wheel (over 30 meters), the city's only outdoor ice rink, the most beautiful Christmas Ice Skating Rink in Europe, and a rich selection of shopping and gastronomic options (over 70).

The festive scene of our Christmas Market invites all guests to free concerts, performances, and animations for children. Participation in the event is free of charge.

Book your flights, your accommodation as well as your tours & activities in Poznan and visit one The Best Christmas Markets in Poland.

 Opening dates: From 19th November to 22nd December 2024. 

 How to get there: Book your flights to Poznan as well as your accommodation and tours & activities.

 Where to stay: "Puro Poznan". Located 250 m from the Old Market Square.

7. Warsaw - Poland

From 25th November 2024 to 6st January 2025

This year go ice skating in one of the best Christmas destination for ice skating and one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Poland.

The Warsaw Christmas Market is one of the first heralds of Christmas in the city. At the end of November, next to the Old Town’s defensive walls, colourful stands appear, ushering in a season of winter attractions and entertainment.

The sounds of traditional Christmas carols and the smell of gingerbread cookies encourage us to slow down and do some Christmas shopping. Here you can find hand-decorated baubles, woollen sweaters, caps and scarves as well as regional cuisine. A cup of hot chocolate or mulled wine will warm you up in frosty weather. 

 Opening dates:  From 25th November 2024 to 6th January 2025.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Warsaw, accommodation and tours & activities in Warsaw.

 Where to stay: "Hotel Gromada Warszawa Centrum" is a 3-star hotel located in central Warsaw. 

8. Budapest - Hungary

From 15th November 2024 to 1st January 2025

The city of Budapest is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe at Christmas. Each year, the city invests in the decoration of the most beautiful monuments, the most beautiful arteries but also trams, public places. Budapest is really magic at Christmas.

If you are looking for an authentic place where you can still find the spirit of Christmas, forget London and Paris and discover Budapest at Christmas. The magnificent Christmas tree in front of the Hungarian Parliament is a perfect starting point for strolling around Budapest and marveling at the beauty of the decorations and illuminations of the Hungarian capital. 

Small but charming, its Christmas ice rink is truly one of the most beautiful Christmas ice rinks in Europe.

Book your flights and accommodation at the best price as well as your tours and activities in Budapest such as a "2-hour Danube cruise with live music".

 How to get there: Book your flights to Budapest. 

 Where to stay: "Kempinski Budapest" situated in the real heart of Budapest. 

9. Cologne - Germany

From 18th November 2024 to 5th January 2025

Advent is the time for Christmas markets, and Cologne is no exception. The aroma of baked apples, cinnamon biscuits and mulled wine will waft through the alleys, and many differently themed Christmas markets will invite people to stroll, shop and explore.

Cologne’s Christmas markets attract millions of visitors from all over the world every year. During your stay visit the Best Castles in Germany, Best Ski Resorts in Germany, Most Beautiful Secret Destinations in Germany and Best Places to Visit in Germany and discover the very Best of Germany. 

Book your flights, your accommodation as well as your activities & tours in Germany and visit the Best Christmas Markets in Germany.

 Opening dates: From 18th November 2024 to 5th January 2025 (Confirmed).

 How to get there: Book your flights to Cologne.

 Where to stay: "Excelsior Hotel Ernst am Dom" located directly opposite Cologne Cathedral.

Select the "free cancellation" option and book your accommodation at the best price in Cologne.

10. Brussels - Belgium

From 29th November 2024 to 5th January 2025

Brussels has one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe and for sure the most beautiful Christmas Market in Belgium. At Christmas the whole city is decorated with twinkling lights and welcomes visitors from all over the world.

Come celebrate the magic of Christmas in the capital of Belgium. Come admire the famous games of lights, taste the Belgian fabulous chocolates ! We have also selected the best activities in Brussels, as for example a Waffle Making Workshop, a Chocolate Workshop or a guided walking tour.

How to get there: Book your flights to Brussels.

 Where to stay: "Hotel des Galeries". In the historical heart of Brussels.

11. Strasbourg - France

From 27th November to 24th December 2024

Strasbourg is the capital of Christmas, often imitated but never equalled.  Its Christmas ice rink is truly one of the most beautiful Christmas ice rinks in Europe.

Strasbourg is a perfect destination to celebrate Christmas. Come and discover its traditional Christmas market and illuminations. Do not resist the temptation of pastries and treat yourself to a mulled wine in this beautiful city. 

Book your flights and accommodation at the best price as well as your activities and tours in Strasbourg such a guided tour of the Christmas market and wine tasting.

During your stay visit the most beautiful Christmas markets in France, Best Ski Resorts in France, Most Amazing Secret Destinations in France as well as the Best Castles in France and discover the best of France.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Strasbourg or Basel Airport (1h by car).

 Where to stay: "Hotel Rohan" 150 m from the Strasbourg Cathedral.

12. Liege - Belgium

From 29th  November 2024 to 5th January 2025

Come ice skating on one of the Best Christmas ice rinks in Europe. Liege more lit up and convivial than ever. A variety of events to please young and old alike: the biggest Christmas village in Belgium, a Christmas skating rink, the European Circus Festival, etc.

The Liege Christmas Village is not only the biggest in Belgium, but the oldest too. Loyal to the long-standing Germanic tradition of Christmas markets, in the very heart of the city, the Liege Christmas Village reproduces the special, magical and fairy-tale atmosphere of the Christmas festivities. Yet also loyal to its Latin character, with the aid of its Village Council and its many food-serving chalets, the Christmas Village boasts an innovative festive and friendly atmosphere that has become its distinguishing feature, helping it to stand out from its Germanic and Alsatian counterparts.

 Opening dates: From 29th November 2024 to 5th January 2025.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Brussels (1h by car or public transport).

 Where to stay: "Amosa Liège City Centre" 70 m from Liège Christmas Market. 

13. Bruges - Belgium

From 24th November 2024 to 7th January 2025

Treat yourself to a romantic stay at Christmas and come ice skating on one of the most beautiful Christmas ice rinks.

From the end of November the historic city centre of Bruges will be transformed into a giant Christmas market.

In addition to a wonderful atmosphere and plenty of seasonal jollity, you will also be able to find that unusual last-minute present for someone special.

The Bruges Christmas and winter market will be located on the Markt and Simon Stevinplein, in the cosy city centre. There will be a good range of stalls offering all kinds of delicious local food and drinks. Home-made hot chocolate, ice-cold jenever, spiced glühwein... along with Belgian beers, cheeses and hearty dishes. There’s something for everyone. 

 Opening dates: From 22nd November 2024 to 5th January 2024.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Brussels (Zaventem Airport - 1h30 by car or public transport).

 Where to stay: "Relais Bourgondish" 200 m from the Christmas Market.

14. Paris - France

From 18th November 2024 to 5th January 2025

Paris is a must-see destination for Christmas lovers. Just like in London, the atmosphere at Christmas time is sweet in the streets of Paris. Each year  shops of all kinds rival in inventiveness to offer you the finest decorations and the most beautiful shopwindows. If you want to be amazed, go visit the Galeries Lafayette and their wonderful Christmas tree!

Treat yourself to a Night Cruise in Paris or select one of our best activities in Paris and book a charming hotel for a successful holiday in the city of love.

Choose from the most beautiful Christmas markets in France and experience a magical Christmas in France.

How to get there: Book your flights to Paris.

 Where to stay: "The Chess Hotel". Located in central Paris.

15. Maastricht- Netherlands

From 28th November to 30th December 2024

There’ll be plenty of magic at the Vrijthof this year too. Alongside the familiar Ferris wheel, the idyllic Alpine-inspired chalet or ‘Almhütte’, the 900 m2 covered ice rink, and the Christmas market, the Saint Servatius Basilica will be opening its doors for the first time this year during the winter event. In line with a fine local custom, visitors can light a candle and enjoy a moment of peace and tranquillity. Whispering tours for children (a Christmassy exploration of the basilica's many treasures), music, and Christmas stories are brought together magically in the fun at the Vrijthof and the time for reflection in the basilica.

Need more inspiration? Discover the Best Secret Destinations in The Netherlands, The Most Beautiful Castles in The Netherlands as well as the Best Places to Visit in The Netherlands and Best Things to do in The Netherlands. 

 Opening dates: From 28th November to 30th December 2024.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Maastricht, Brussels (1H) or Düsseldorf (1H) and your accommodation in Maastricht. 

 Where to stay: "Hotel Britannique". The Christmas Market is 200m away.

16. Bath - UK

From 28th  November to 15th December 2024

Regularly voted amongst the most popular events in the UK, the 18-day Christmas shopping extravaganza is the biggest Christmas Shopping event in the South West and consists of more than 170 beautifully decorated wooden chalets in the heart of Bath’s World Heritage Site. 

This year there will be lots of new and exciting stallholders from across the South West. In keeping with Bath Christmas Market’s tradition of being distinctively British, each chalet will be selling a variety of high-quality artisan products. Over 70% of stallholders are businesses from Bath and the surrounding region, and 60% of goods available at the market are handmade in the UK.

The Bath Christmas Market has a romantic atmosphere and attracts thousands of visitors from across the UK. Set in the picturesque streets surrounding Bath Abbey, there couldn’t be a more perfect and magical setting for a Christmas Market. The city also boasts a unique mix of independents, designer boutiques and high street brands. Needd more inspiration? Discover the Best Secret Destinations in England. 

 How to get there: Book your flights to Bristol (45 min by car) or Southampton (1h45min).

 Where to stay: "The Z Hotel Bath" is in a prime location in Bath.