Discover the Most Beautiful Christmas Markets in Europe 2024.

Get ready to explore the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe in 2024! From authentic Christmas markets to magical winter wonderlands, these top Christmas markets in Europe are must-visit destinations. Whether you’re seeking the best Christmas markets in Germany, the United Kingdom, France, Switzerland, Poland, Italy, or Austria, you’ll find festive celebrations filled with twinkling lights, local crafts, and holiday charm.

These European Christmas markets are ranked among the most stunning, offering an unforgettable experience for your Christmas holiday in Europe. Don’t miss out on the most popular Christmas markets that attract travelers from all over the world for the ultimate Christmas vacation.

Book your flights, your accommodation as well as your activities and tours and visit the Most Beautiful Christmas Markets in Europe.

1. Craiova

From 15th November 2024 to 5th January 2025

Craiova: Voted Europe’s Most Beautiful Christmas Market

Craiova, Romania, has achieved the prestigious title of Most Beautiful Christmas Market in Europe, as voted by a panel of travelers, surpassing many renowned holiday destinations.

This honor cements Craiova’s position as a must-visit festive hotspot, with a market that spans over 280,000 square meters, making it the largest Christmas event in Europe. Craiova has truly earned its status as the Christmas Capital of Romania and Europe.

This enchanting market boasts unique attractions, including Eastern Europe’s highest-flying Santa’s sleigh, a dazzling ice rink, and a panoramic Ferris wheel. The city comes alive under millions of twinkling lights, while hand-painted cottages add a touch of fairytale charm to the atmosphere.

With its breathtaking illuminations, rich traditions, and innovative attractions, Craiova Christmas Market offers a magical holiday experience that truly embodies the spirit of Christmas. Discover why it has been crowned Europe’s Most Beautiful Christmas Market!

 Opening dates: From 15th  November 2024 to 5th January 2025.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Craiova.

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

2. Montbeliard

From 23rd November to 24th December 2024

Located in Franche-Comté (Eastern France), the town of Montbéliard – well known for its hospitality- has been voted as the Most Beautiful Christmas Market in Europe.

During the time of Advent, Montbéliard revives the tradition of Württemberg and organizes a Christmas market like no other with 160 lovely stalls full of authentic and high quality items. Taking a stroll down the illuminated streets, the visitors may taste the delicious gastronomic products from Montbéliard and France, marvel at the variety of art and crafts, dance to the music and the sound of choral songs.

During your stay discover the Best Ski Resorts in France, Most Beautiful Secret Destinations in France, Best Beaches in France, Most Amazing Castles in France, Best Places to Visit in France as well as the Best Things to do in France. 

 Opening dates: From 23rd  November to 24th December 2024 (Confirmed).

 How to get there: Book your flights to Montbéliard or Basel/Mulhouse (1h by car, 2h by public transport).

 Where to stay:  "Ibis Styles Montbéliard". Perfect for a 2-night stay!

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

3. Dresden - Germany

From 27th November to 24th December 2024

If you like Christmas, you’ll love Dresden, one of the Most Beautiful Christmas Markets in Europe.  A grand total of eleven completely different Christmas markets, from the by no means Dark Ages to the après ski charm of alpine huts, makes for wonderfully conflicting decisions.

Holiday sounds fill the air throughout the city. From the many oratorios, Advent, organ and gospel concerts, Dresden’s churches brim with festive insider tips. Need more inspiration? 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 27th November to 24th December 2024 (Confirmed).

 How to get there: Book your flights to Dresden.

 Where to stay: "NH Collection Dresden Altmarkt". Situated in the real heart of Dresden.

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

4. Vienna - Austria

From 13th November to 23rd December 2024

 Vienna is with no doubt one of the Most Beautiful Christmas Markets in Europe and the Best Christmas Market in Austria. One of the most well-known Christmas Markets is the traditional "Vienna Magic of Advent", which turns the City Hall Square into a shining fairytale land.

Christmas gifts, tree decorations, sweets and warming drinks are waiting for you and have fun Christmas workshops for kids. The trees of the surrounding City Hall are festively decorated and radiate in a sea of lights - a Viennese experience, you will definitely not want to miss!

Book your flights to Vienna, accommodation at the best price, your tours and activities in Vienna such as a Christmas & New Year Concert in St. Peter's Church and your transfer from the airport.

During your stay discover the Best Ski Resorts in Austria, Best Hidden Gems in Austria, Most Beautiful Castles in Austria, Best Nature Wonders in Austria as well as the Best Places to Visit in Austria and Best things to do in Austria.

 Opening dates: From 13th November to 23rd December 2024. 

 How to get there: Book your flights to Vienna, accommodation, tours and activities. 

 Where to stay: "Sofitel Vienna" in the very heart of the city.

5. Manchester - UK

From 8th November to 22nd December 2024

The, original, biggest and - arguably - the best Christmas market in the country, Manchester Christmas Markets is one of the Most Beautiful Christmas Markets in Europe. Arriving in the city in 1999, the first Christmas market in the UK has grown every year since, now attracting more than nine millions visitors each year. 

Some 300 beautifully crafted stalls offer mouth-watering international food, drinks and finely crafted Yuletide gifts in the heart of the buzzing city centre. Spread across 10 individual sites – each with distinctive own distinctive character – Manchester Christmas Markets has something to offer every festive visitor. 

During your stay, visit the Most Beautiful Secret Destinations in England, Best Castles in England, Best Places to Visit in England as well as the Best Things to do in England and the Best Beaches in England and discover the very best of England. 

Book your flights, your accommodation as well as your tours & activities in the United Kingdom and visit the Most Beautiful Christmas Market in the UK.

 Opening dates:  From 8th November to 22nd December 2024.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Manchester.

 Where to stay: "Motel One Manchester". Guests can enjoy the on-site bar.

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

6. Trier - Germany 

From 22nd November to 22nd December 2024

Now in its 40th year, the Trier Christmas Market will again be one of the loveliest in all of Germany as well as one of the Most Beautiful Christmas Markets in Europe. Set on the medieval Main Market and in front of the imposing backdrop of Trier Cathedral, the 95 attractively decorated booths offer a fitting framework for this wonderful event.

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 Most Beautiful Christmas Markets in Europe.

 Opening dates: From 22nd November to 22nd December 2024 (Confirmed).

 How to get there: Book your flights to Luxemburg Airport (30 min) or Frankfurt (2h).

 Where to stay:  "Limehome Trier Nikolaus". One of our top picks in Trier.

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

7. 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".

 Opening dates: From 15th November 2024 to 1st January 2025 (To Be Confirmed).

 How to get there: Book your flights to Budapest. 

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

8. Frankfurt

From 25th November to 22nd December 2024

Germany is the European country that you should definitely visit if you  are keen of a wonderful Christmas atmosphere. The Christmas market tradition was born in Germany. German people push the boat out to offer you a wonderful Christmas time.

Come and discover one of the Most Beautiful Christmas Markets in Frankfurt on the Römerberg square in the historic center of Frankfurt.

Book your accommodation in Frankfurt and enjoy some activities in this beautiful city such as the Frankfurt sightseeing cruise.

Need more inspiration? Discover the Best Christmas Markets in Germany as well as the Best Hidden Gems in Germany and the Best Castles in Germany.

 Opening dates: From 25th November to 22nd December 2024 (Confirmed).

How to get there: Book your flights to Frankfurt.

 Where to stay: "Steigenberger Frankfurter Hof". In the historical financial district of Frankfurt.

9. 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.

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

How to get there: Book your flights to Brussels.

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

10. Strasbourg - France

From 27th November to 27th December 2024

Strasbourg is the capital of Christmas, often imitated but never equalled.  Its Christmas Market is truly one of the most beautiful Christmas markets 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.

 Opening dates: From 27th November to 27th December 2024 (Confirmed).

 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.

11. Erfurt - Germany

From 26th  November to 22nd December 2024

Erfurt's Christmas Market is one of the Most Beautiful Christmas Markets in Europe and one of the Best Christmas Markets in Germamy. Erfurt's Christmas Market is located in the medieval town of Erfurt and is undoubtedly one of the loveliest in Germany. The Cathedral Square area is the perfect setting for a magical Advent atmosphere.

For magical Christmas holidays in Erfurt, book your flights at the best price as well as your hotel, apartment, B&B or guesthouse.

Select the "free cancellation" option and pre-book your accommodation at the best price.

 Opening dates: From 26th November to 22nd December 2024.

 Nearest airports: Book your flights to Erfurt-Weimar, Frankfurt (2h30 hours), Berlin (2h45).

 Where to stay: The Krämerbrücke Erfurt Hotel has an excellent regional cuisine restaurant; it is located in a 13th century building, close to the Krämer Bridge in Erfurt's historic district.

12. Prague - Czech Republic

From 30th November 2024 to 6th January 2025

Prague Christmas Market is one of the Most Beautiful Christmas Markets in Europe. The Christmas markets in Old Town Square in the centre of Prague are the biggest project of its kind in the Czech Republic.

Grown-ups will enjoy the typical mulled wine, and all gourmet, young and old, will enjoy Czech Christmas biscuits, hot roasted chestnuts, gingerbread biscuits or typical Czech grilled sausages and skewered foods.

Book your flights, accommodation and tours and activities in Prague such as a sightseeing dinner cruise and discover the most beautiful Christmas market in the Czech Republic. 

Select the "free cancellation" option and pre-book your accommodation at the best price without obligation.

 Opening dates: From 30th November 2024 to 6th January 2025.

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

 Where to stay: "Grandior Hotel Prague", located in the ciy centre.

13. Basel - Switzerland

From 28th November to 23rd December 2024

The Basel Christmas market is one of the Most Beautiful Christmas Markets in Europe.

Basel has a deep-rooted tradition as Switzerland’s most beautiful and largest Christmas city, and is well worth a visit every year. Not only the well-preserved Old Town is radiant in the warm Christmas light, but the shops and the facades of many buildings glitter with a golden glow. 

A magnificent Christmas tree stands on Münsterplatz, with ornaments by the well-known decorator Johann Wanner.

Book your flights, accommodation and tours and activities at the best prices in Basel such as a private tour with a local.

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

 Opening dates: From 28th November to 23rd December 2024.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Basel Airport.

 Where to stay: "Hyperion Hotel Basel", just a short walk from the Old Town; it offers a sauna and a fitness center.

14. Salzburg - Austria

From 21st November 2024  to 1st January 2025.

The Christmas Market on Cathedral Square is truly a romantic market with a long history. Its origins go back to 1491, making it the oldest market in Salzburg. 

Spending the Advent season in Mozart's city is like walking into a fairy-tale. The Fortress sits high above the city and the Cathedral serves as a magnificent backdrop for the sales booths while the tempting fragrance of bake apples, incense and cotton candy wafts through the air. 

During your stay discover the Best Ski Resorts in Austria, Best Hidden Gems in Austria, Most Beautiful Castles in Austria, Best Nature Wonders in Austria as well as the Best Places to Visit in Austria and Best things to do in Austria.

 Opening dates: From 21st November 2024 to 1st January 2025.

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

 Where to stay: "Hotel Goldgasse" located 300 m from the Christmas Market.

15. Vilnius - Lithuania

From 29th November to 29th December 2024.

Vilnius Christmas Market is one of the Most Beautiful Christmas Markets in Europe. Its authentic Christmas market located at the foot of the Christmas tree, is considered one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in the world.

The capital of Lithuania is seen today as a must-see, a safe and authentic destination for unique experiences. Here you will find Christmas delicacies sweetening winter evenings - gingerbreads, honey cakes, teas, home-made cheeses, colourful sweets and all sorts of pastries.

Book your flights, accommodation and tours and activities such as a Lithuanian food tour and discover Vilnius, ranked among the best Christmas destinations in Europe.

Pre-book your accommodation at the best price for the 2021 edition by selecting the "free cancellation" option.

 Opening dates: From 29th November to 29th December 2024.

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

 Where to stay: "Hilton Garden Inn Vilnius City Center".  Stay in the heart of Vilnius.

16. Tallinn - Estonia

From 22nd November 2024 to 7th January 2025.

Snow is guaranteed at Christmas in Estonia. The Tallin Christmas Market is one of the most famous Christmas markets in the region and one of the Most Beautiful Christmas Markets in Europe. Come discover the Estonian's most famous Christmas tree surrounded by little snow huts selling food, drinks and crafts. 

Need more inspiration? Discover the Best Christmas Trees in Europe, the Most Beautiful Christmas Lights in Europe as well as the Best Sunny Christmas Destinations in Europe, the Best Christmas City Breaks in Europe and the Best Christmas Ice Skating Rinks in Europe.

 Opening dates: From 22nd November to 7th January 2025.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Tallinn as well as your transfer.

 Where to stay:  "Hotel Telegraaf". The Christmas Market is 160 m away.