Craiova: Europe’s Most Beautiful and Largest Christmas Market

Craiova, Romania, is on the podium of the Best Christmas Markets in Europe, with more than 90.000 votes last year (surpassing past year record of votes for Budapest). It has also been voted the title of Most Beautiful Christmas Market in Europe by a panel of travellers, surpassing renowned destinations. This recognition reflects the market's remarkable growth, with over 280,000 square meters, making it Europe's largest Christmas event. Craiova has truly become the Christmas Capital of Romania and Europe.

This year, the Christmas market’s theme is the iconic story of the Nutcracker, which is brought to life with thousands of giant sweets and toy ornaments covering the city centre, lit up by millions of amazing light decorations.

In Craiova, you can see the highest-flying Santa sleigh in Eastern Europe, ride the huge panoramic wheel or even dance on the icerink.

From 14 November to 4 January, four Christmas experiences combine in one place: the magical realm of The Nutcracker, the cheerfulness of Santa’s Village, the peace and generosity of the traditional Christmas story and the joy of riding the Christmas carousel. Decorations inspired by fairies, giants and dolls sit beside stands decorated like carousels. From the smell of gingerbread and mulled wine, to unforgettable arts and crafts, everything is designed to give you an unforgettable experience.

Visitors can enjoy attractions such as Eastern Europe’s highest-flying Santa’s sleigh, an ice rink, and a panoramic Ferris wheel. The city is illuminated by millions of lights, and hand-painted cottages add a fairytale charm.

And if you’re a foodie, get ready to discover the legendary flavours of Eastern Europe’s best food and wine. Craiova is a multicultural culinary metropolis, showing influences from all over Eastern Europe. Food from Azerbaijan, Armenia, Georgia, Greece, North Macedonia, Hungary, Ukraine or Turkey - as well as the Republic of Moldova, Bulgaria or Serbia – can be tasted at Craiova Christmas Market 2025, among many more. 

Let yourself be enchanted by the fairytale atmosphere of Craiova at Christmas time.

For more information visit: 

facebook.com/TargdeCraciunCraiova  or www.primariacraiova.ro 

Did you know that Craiova was the Christmas Romanian destination with the most beautiful Christmas lights? Over a million lights shine on Christmas in Craiova. Come and discover its magical illumniations this winter.

What could be more wonderful than seeing your child write his letter to Santa Claus? Creative workshops for children are organized in Craiova during the Christmas market. This winter treat yourself to memories for a lifetime by visiting one of the most beautiful Christmas destinations in Europe. 

For young and old alike who want to go back to childhood, nothing better at Christmas than to ice skate with loved ones. The Craiova ice rink is truly magical. After a little sport, you need to recharge your batteries by tasting the Romanian culinary specialties. 

Craiova is a place to visit if you love traditional cuisine.If you try the local food such as roasted dock rolls with fried polenta, spicy dried red peppers,  leek dishes, stuffed crayfish or meat rolled in cabbage leaves, drink wine and traditional plum brandy,  you will fall in love with Craiova, its cuisine and its people.