A Guide to the Best European Christmas Markets: A Complete Guide

There is something magical about Europe in December. You will observe that many parts of Europe are blanketed in snow, which I love a lot. Apart from that, many cities look like they came out of a storybook. I must say we love enjoying our winter holidays, walking cobblestone streets, and fine dining, but when it comes to Christmas markets, there is no second thought.

Europe is the home to some of the oldest Christmas markets. All the town squares from major cities are turned into winter wonderlands. You will see those amazing lights, wooden stalls, and handcrafted goods. Let’s take a look at one of the best European Christmas markets and what makes each of them worth visiting.

1- Cologne, Germany

Start with the city that will offer you a variety of Christmas markets. Yes, rather than hosting a single Christmas market, this city in Germany has 7 Christmas markets. The Cathedral Christmas market is considered one of the most iconic ones.

There is another one which is near the chocolate museum. You must visit the Cologne Christmas market as you hope between the markets, and you never get bored; every market has its own uniqueness.

2- Strasbourg, France

Welcome to the city, which is famous for being the “Capital of Christmas markets” in Europe. It is located near the border of Germany, so you will see some amazing traditional blends. You won’t believe but one of its main markets dates back to 1570, making it one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe.

It was an amazing experience seeing those hand-painted wooden Christmas decorations and those amazing stalls. The atmosphere is truly amazing, and I must recommend that you not only be in the main square but also walk around different districts.

3- Bratislava, Slovakia

Bratislava might not be the first city that comes to your mind while thinking about the Christmas markets. But you can’t ignore the charm of the city during the Christmas holidays.

The Christmas markets are held in the main square, where you will see stalls selling traditional wooden toys and handmade artifacts. The best part was those twinkling lights and the aroma of traditional Slovakian food.

4- Brussels, Belgium

Let’s also talk about food in the Christmas market, and there is no better place than the Brussels Christmas market. I still feel the taste of those Belgian waffles and hot chocolate.

I must admit that “The Winter Wonder Market” is underrated despite the place spanning almost the city center, which features over 200 chalets and a great light show at the Grand Place.

The Brussels Christmas market offers a unique blend of culture, food, entertainment, and traditional market vibes all in one place.

5- Prague, Czech Republic

The main Christmas market of Prague is set up in the old town square, which I believe is a suitable one because from here you can see an astronomical clock, the Tyn church, but the center of attention is a huge Christmas tree, which was placed at the center of the town square.

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Compared to the other Christmas markets of Europe, this place has very few tourists, but the charm of the market is still intact.

One of the market’s most beloved treats is Trdelník, a sweet rolled pastry baked over an open flame and dusted with sugar and nuts, so don’t forget your bite if you are spending your holidays in Prague.

6- Manchester, United Kingdom

When it comes to Christmas markets in the United Kingdom. Manchester hosts one of the biggest and best, and you won’t believe that it was Manchester that hosted the first major Christmas market in the United Kingdom.

Not only that, but Manchester also offers cheap airport parking and the best meet and greet Manchester, especially for tourists coming from other major cities in the UK.

The Manchester Christmas market is spread through different zones. You will see hundreds of wooden stalls where you can find handmade gifts and cards, festive decorations, and clothing, and the best part is that the place is a hub of local and international food.

7- Vienna, Austria

We're gonna end this article by discussing the city that has been hosting the Christmas markets since the 13th century, and it's none other than Vienna, which is also the capital of Austria.

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If you want to see a true depiction of a Christmas postcard coming to life, then you need to visit the “Vienna Magic Advent,” which is one of the most famous ones. Like many parts of Europe, you will also see wooden stalls, handcrafted items, and hand-blown glass ornaments.

Final Thoughts

Christmas markets are the charm of Europe; travelers around the globe plan their trips to different parts of Europe just to enjoy that environment. The environment where you will enjoy those glittering lights, huge Christmas trees, and food stalls.

Whether you are in Vienna, Manchester, or roaming the streets of Brussels, the charm is real, and you can feel that vibrant environment.