5 Of Our Favorite Christmas Marketings In Europe

The smell of gluhwein in the air, twinkling lights and beautifully decorated trees … There’s no place more festive than a Christmas market. We’re all aware that the Netherlands has a plethora of fantastic Christmas markets; Magisch Maastricht, Het Amsterdamse Winterparadijs, and the Royal Christmas Fair are among the best in the country. However, there are numerous other must-see Christmas attractions in Europe. Continue reading to learn about our top 7 Christmas market recommendations in Europe!

Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt; Nuremberg, Germany 

Dates: November 25th to December 24th

Not only is this one of the oldest Christmas Markets in Germany, but also one of the most popular globally, with an impressive record of over 2 million visitors annually. The first written record of the Nuremberg Christmas Market dates back to 1628, so it is certainly even older than that. The market, unlike some of its competitors, is not overloaded with junk. Instead, the stalls sell gifts and souvenirs made by local and regional artisans, and the 180 stalls in the main square are all made of local spruce.

Delicious Tip: The Nürnberger bratwurst is a delicacy that all meat lovers must try. A specialty of Nuremberg, these finger-thin sausages are cooked the traditional way over an open beech wood. Because they are only as thick as a finger, they develop a particularly strong grill smell. Make sure to order them the Franconian way: “Drei im Weggla” – “Three in a bun”.

Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz; Vienna, Austria 

Dates: November 19th to December 26th

Austria has plenty of Christmas markets. But the most famous is probably on Vienna’s Rathausplatz, the square in front of the town hall. This Christkindlmarkt is a must-see when visiting Vienna during the Christmas season. The market’s gastronomy is either certified organic or bears the Natürlich gut essen mark, indicating a focus on regional, seasonal, and organic food. Viennese specialties include delicious treats such as smoked sausages, apple strudels, and spicy punch.

Fun fact: In 2022, the more than 150 booths are required to meet new sustainability criteria.

The Christmas Market on Old Town Square; Prague, Czech Republic 

Dates: November 26th to January 6th

Set in the heart of the city, the market features dozens of wooden stalls selling traditional Czech blown-glass balls, products made of glass pearls or straw, hand-embroidered tablecloths, wooden toys, and biscuit cutters. The Prague Christmas can be found on the Old Town Square and features a stage where visitors of all ages can enjoy carolling, concerts, dance performances, and other live Christmas shows. Apart from the candy being sold on the market, the backdrop is also pure eye candy.

Good to know: Prices in the Czech Republic are generally lower than in Western Europe, so you will get much more bang for your buck at the Prague Christmas markets.

Tivoli Gardens Christmas Market ; Copenhagen, Denmark 

Dates: November 19th to December 31st

Tivoli is well-known throughout Copenhagen as a traditional historical amusement park right in the heart of the city. For Christmas it is decked out in winter scenes and snow, with a traditional market full of gifts. Simply follow the aromas of æbleskiver (Danish donuts) and hot mulled wine to find the stalls selling traditional Danish foods and drinks. You can also buy a variety of traditional Danish handicrafts, such as homemade Christmas tree decorations and other cute souvenirs. If you like sheepskin rugs or even reindeer skin rugs, this is the place to get them!

Important note: Please be aware that there is an entrance fee to enter the gardens!

Winter Wonders ; Brussels, Belgium 

Dates: November 25th to January 1st 2023

When it comes to Christmas celebrations, the Belgian capital goes all out, with a full events schedule that includes sound and light shows, a majestic tree, a skating rink, and of course a Christmas market! Although the celebrations are scattered through the city, the main event takes place on the Grand Place. Browse through the 250 stalls for last-minute stocking stuffers and local delicacies, take in the view from the top of the Ferris wheel, or ride the merry-go-round.

Must see Recommendation: From Nov. 23 to Jan. 8, Brussels will host the 10th edition of Brussels by Lights. 18.5 km of light strings will be used to decorate more than 165 streets, and guests will be able to enjoy geometric light sculptures and graffiti art.