29 Best European Christmas Markets To Visit in 2025

European Christmas markets are world-renowned for being some of the best in the world, bringing a huge dose of festive spirit to the holiday season. There’s nothing like pairing history, culture and local cuisine with some of the continent’s best shopping and entertainment, all under the glow of sparkling Christmas lights.

Dating back to the Middle Ages in German-speaking regions, European Christmas markets began as Wintermarkt, where locals stocked up on essentials for the cold months. Over time, sweet treats and handcrafted items like toys, candles and decorations transformed these markets into the celebrated festivals of today.

From Finland and Norway to Italy, Spain and the U.K., countries across Europe have embraced this holiday tradition, each adding their unique spin. So, whether you're planning a trip to the Christmas markets of Europe or just want to learn more about this seasonal event, keep reading for 29 of the best and most festive European Christmas markets.

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• When Do Christmas Markets Start in Europe?
• The 29 Best Christmas Markets in Europe
• Discover the Best Christmas Food and Drink

When Do Christmas Markets Start in Europe?

Before planning your European Christmas market trip, it's good to know when the markets open. Most European Christmas markets begin for the season around the last weeks of November.

They typically close by the end of December. However, this can vary with some closing before December 25 and some staying open until the first week of January.

Conveniently, these dates give you around two months to plan a festive European Christmas market trip and offer plenty of time to visit a few of the continent's top holiday markets.

The 29 Best Christmas Markets in Europe

1. Antwerp, Belgium

Located in the Flemish region of Belgium, Antwerp’s Christmas market is one of the most famous European Christmas markets. Featuring over 100 stalls spread across the city, including in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Grote Markt, the city comes alive with food, beverages, artisan products and gift items.

There’s also an ice-skating rink, a carousel, nativity scenes, a crackling fire and a Ferris wheel overlooking the River Scheldt. You can additionally stroll through a winter forest filled with tree sculptures and decorative lights or snap a photo beneath the giant mistletoe in the main square.

Alternatively, keep warm at Antwerp’s Christmas Market with spiced mulled wine, waffles and grilled sausages — the options are endless!

Market Location: Various Locations in Antwerp

Market Operating Dates: December 6 – January 5

2. Glasgow, Scotland

One of the newer European Christmas markets, Glasgow Winterfest features more than 50 vendors set up in pine and light-draped cottage-like structures. This fun market features a Christmas carnival-like atmosphere with a drop tower ride, a carousel and an ice-skating rink as well as a Ferris wheel and a variety of other kid-friendly attractions. 

Along with enjoying the river views and various attractions, you can shop for decorations, clothing, jewelry and other gift items while snacking on Scottish pie, crêpes, chocolate-drenched churros and grilled specialties. You'll also be able to watch performances by dance troupes and marvel at the dazzlingly illuminated Glasgow Royal Concert Hall, adding to the exciting and festive atmosphere.

Market Location: George Sq. and St. Enoch Sq., Glasgow, U.K.

Market Operating Dates: November 9 – January 6

3. Nuremberg, Germany

Medieval history, Christmas spirit and culinary culture collide with the time-honored traditions of the world-famous Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt, which dates to the 16th century. Known as the Gingerbread Capital of the World, it's not surprising that Nuremberg’s market features authentic gingerbread creations.

You can additionally sample Nuremberg bratwurst and spekulatius (German spiced shortbread-like cookies) among other delicious snacks and classic German Christmas foods. After grabbing some tasty treats, you can shop for items like sheep’s wool socks, artisan honey and candles, plus handmade teddy bears, wooden toys and other locally-made items to take home as souvenirs or gifts.

Other fun things to do include watching musical performances or riding the Ferris wheel and carousel — a must if you're visiting this European Christmas market with kids.

Market Location: Various Locations in Nuremberg

Market Operating Dates: November 29 – December 24

4. Cologne, Germany

Illuminated by star-like strands of twinkling lights, Cologne Christmas markets span multiple locations around the city. While all are worth checking out, the largest and most popular European Christmas market in town sits next to the impressive spires of the Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

From cinnamon rolls, gluhwein, gingerbread heart cookies and currywurst to international cuisines like Mexican empanadas, Swiss raclette and Vietnamese bowls, you won’t go hungry at this classic European Christmas market.

Food isn't the only thing to enjoy though. You can also discover fun Christmas activities to partake in, such as shopping for Christmas decorations, cookie cutters, hand-painted glass and embossed rolling pins.

Before you leave this European Christmas market, head to the Christmas stage for live musical performances and puppet shows. The kids will additionally want to visit St. Nicholas Village, near the 13th-century Hahnan Gate or Heinzel’s Winter Fairytale for ice skating.

Market Location: Cologne Cathedral, Roncallipl., 50667 Köln, Germany

Market Operating Dates: November 18 – December 23

5. Helsinki, Finland

Helsinki’s Christmas Market, Tuomaan Markkinat, features approximately 140 vendors in light-draped huts. The oldest outdoor market in Helsinki, this European Christmas market sees more than 3,000 visitors a year! It additionally prides itself on a commitment to sustainability by using environmentally friendly packaging, implementing renewable energy sources, recycling and preventing food waste.

As you explore, you can shop for delights like pastries and local cheeses as well as unique items like decorations and toys. Checking out the food court for traditional culinary items like mulled wine and other hot beverages is also a must. You can even relax at the wood-heated spa having wandered around the many interesting market stalls. 

Market Location: Senate Sq., 00170 Helsinki, Finland

Market Operating Dates: November 29 – December 22

6. Seville, Spain

If you prefer a warmer European Christmas market experience, book your flight to Seville. Several areas and avenues around the city host festive European Christmas markets, with all the streets and squares lit up with lights and historic charm. Markets are located at the Feria de la Artesanía Creativa, the Feria del Belén, the Plaza del Duque de la Victoria and more.

This Andalusian region's multiple Christmas markets feature choral performances, nativity scenes, storytelling, face painting and light shows. You can also shop from adorable wooden huts that sell toys, crafts, ceramics and other Andalusian gifts. Little ones can even take a ride on the Christmas train, carousels and Ferris wheels.

As one of the best foodie cities in Spain, you can't miss out on the food and drink at Seville's Christmas markets either. Some of the best things to sample include chocolate churros, turrón (Spanish nougat), hot chocolate and roasted chestnuts.

Market Location: Various Locations in Seville

Market Operating Dates: December 1 – January 6

7. Innsbruck, Austria

Combine shopping and skiing with the spirit of Christmas at the festive Christmas markets in Innsbruck. Golden lights offset snowy white alpine peaks as old town stalls come alive with seasonal events and a holiday atmosphere. The most well-known European Christmas market in Innsbruck is the Aldstadt Christkindlmarkt.

As you wander around, you'll get to enjoy brass band performances, shop for luxurious wool items and sample Austrian dishes like kiachnl, a pastry dough filled with either sauerkraut or fruit preserves, and kletzenbrot, a sweet bread filled with nuts, raisins and spices.

Other European Christmas markets in town include the Maria-Theresien-Strasse Market and the market at Wiltener Platzl. These festive Austrian markets are notably a great place to go if you're looking for cute Christmas date ideas or are planning a romantic getaway as the ski resort town has many spas to unwind at with your partner before or after exploring the holiday markets.

Market Location: Various Locations in Innsbruck

Market Operating Dates: November 16 – January 6

8. Strasbourg, France

Set against the scenery of half-timbered homes, the Rhine River and the Gothic Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Strasbourg Christmas Market originated in 1570. It’s one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe and was the only one in France for many years. Sitting at the German border, you can expect Bavarian vibes at this exciting European Christmas market. 

Known as France’s Capital of Christmas, this Alsace region offers approximately 300 festively decorated vendor stalls spanning several squares where you can peruse and purchase hand-painted Christmas decorations, tabletop décor, souvenirs and delicious food and drink. Sip vin chaud, a type of mulled wine, and sample flambéed tarts and kugelhopf, a brioche-like bundt cake with raisins. 

Seasonal sounds and sights include international cultural performances, choirs and the Grand Sapin, a 100-foot Christmas tree. The little ones can take part in scavenger hunts and Christmas crafts as well to ensure everyone gets into the holiday spirit!

Market Location: Various Locations in Strasbourg

Market Operating Dates: November 27 – December 27

9. Vienna, Austria

The historic home of Mozart and Beethoven welcomes travelers with the sights and sounds of imperial palaces, the Austrian Alps, the Danube River and some of the best Christmas markets in Europe. 

The Wiener Christkindlmarkt is the most renowned market in Vienna, dating to the late 18th century. With nearly 150 stalls selling traditional toys, candles, artisan soaps and more, there's a lot to explore. Visitors can also marvel at the festive decorations, including Christmas trees and nativity scenes.

Other fun and festive activities to partake in at this European Christmas market include taking train rides, going ice skating and riding the Ferris wheel. Of course, there are great food and beverage options as well. Top picks include mulled wine, pretzels, roasted chestnuts and Austrian Christmas treats like kartoffelpuffer (potato pancakes) and various dumplings filled with jam.

Other markets worth visiting include the Viennese Christmas Market and markets held in front of Schonbrunn Palace and St. Stephen’s Cathedral.

Market Location: Rathausplatz, 1010 Vienna, Austria

Market Operating Dates: November 15 – December 26

10. Montreux, Switzerland

Near Chillon Castle and the impressive peaks of the Alps, Montreux Noël serves Christmas with a side of lakeside scenery. Illuminated stalls at this European Christmas market are located on piers and walkways around the lake, making Montreux one of the most scenic Christmas places to visit on the continent.

The luxurious Swiss resort destination on Lake Geneva offers more than 150 vendors selling unique crafts, woodworking items, toys and other excellent gifts and souvenirs. Along with shopping, other activities include attending musical events, decorating gingerbread and snapping festive pictures at photo booths. Kids visiting this European Christmas market can go to Santa’s house or take a spin on the Ferris wheel as well.

A trip to a Swiss Christmas market also wouldn't be complete without sampling some delicious food. Montreux Noël is notably the perfect place to sample Switzerland’s famous fondue with bacon and truffles. Other treats include traditional flambéed raclette, smoked ham and rosti, a fried potato pancake dish.

Market Location: Quais de Montreux, 1815 Montreux, Switzerland

Market Operating Dates: November 21 – December 24

11. Prague, Czech Republic

Set among the Church of Our Lady Before Tyn, a 15th-century astronomical clock and Gothic and Baroque architecture, Prague Christmas Market is one of the most historical and scenic European Christmas markets to head to.

Wooden stalls sell handcrafted gifts like hats and gloves, blown glass and puppets. Traditional Czech cuisine, such as trdelník (chimney cakes), sausages, smoked meat dumplings and authentic Christmas soup, can also be purchased. 

Along with smaller markets around the city, there’s a European Christmas market at Wenceslas Square and Old Town Square. Both offer the fun festivities of a traditional European Christmas market with glittering golden hues of hundreds of lights.

Market Location: Various Locations in Prague

Market Operating Dates: November 30 – January 6

12. Copenhagen, Denmark

Pine garlands and thousands of twinkling fairy lights lead visitors to Tivoli Gardens, which opened in 1843. Evoking Danish customs and holiday cheer, this European Christmas market is interestingly the second oldest operating theme park in the world.

The more than 60 stalls spread out at this European Christmas market offer ceramics, leather products, Christmas ornaments and wooden toys. Visitors can celebrate the season by sampling glogg, aebleskiver (a pancake puff sprinkled with powdered sugar) or honninghjerter (a honey cake that’s similar to gingerbread).

Other fun and festive activities in the area include listening to the Tivoli Youth Choir and attending a show at the Tivoli Concert Hall. You can also ride one of the world’s oldest wooden roller coasters and enjoy other family-friendly rides, such as a Ferris wheel and a train, among many more attractions.

Market Location: Tivoli Gardens, Vesterbrogade 3, 1630 Kobenhavn V, Denmark

Market Operating Dates: November 15 – January 5

13. Trento, Italy

The Renaissance architecture, cobblestone streets and alpine peaks of Northern Italy’s Trentino region set the scene for the Trento Christmas Market. This European Christmas market is within Piazza Fiera and Piazza Mostra.

With 90 wooden huts decked out in holiday finery, you can shop for Christmas decorations, glassware, handcrafted items, sheep’s cheese and much more. Additionally, use your trip as a chance to indulge in authentic Italian items like tortel di patate (potato cakes) and treccia mochena (jam-filled braided pastry).

What's more, this European Christmas market’s Santa’s Magic Village is the perfect spot for entertaining the kids. It has a Christmas train, a toboggan run, arts and crafts workshops and fun games. 

Market Location: Piazza Fiera and Piazza Mostra, Trento, Italy

Market Operating Dates: November 22 – January 6

14. Colmar, France

The Alsatian village of Colmar is a Christmas fairytale of sparkling canals, Gothic churches, cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses draped in twinkling lights and holiday décor. This region of northeastern France, situated on the River Lauch at the German border, borrows the charm of German European Christmas markets and blends it with a French accent of Renaissance buildings and classic French architecture.

The Colmar Christmas Market offers six mini-markets located around town, with 180 wooden chalet-style stalls featuring vendors and artisans specifically selected to share their wares. Markets include the Place des Dominicains, the Place des L’Ancienne Douane, the Place Jeanne d’Arc, an indoor craft market, the Gourmet Market and the Petite Venise. 

Pick up Alsatian wines, gourmet foods, schnapps and more as you stroll around town. Other attractions at these European Christmas markets include an ice-skating rink, a 1900s-era carousel, nativity scenes and children’s choirs.

Market Location: Various Locations in Colmar

Market Operating Dates: November 26 – December 29

15. Zagreb, Croatia

Zagreb, the capital city of Croatia, has received honors for hosting one of the best European Christmas markets in 2016, 2017 and 2018. Christmas in Zagreb blends authentic cuisine with entertainment, live performances, attractions and a festive atmosphere. 

When exploring the markets here, you can peruse traditional gift stalls filled with handcrafts, candles, ceramics and wooden toys built using traditional techniques. Other things to do at this festive European Christmas market include visiting the live nativity in front of the Zagreb Cathedral, going ice skating and taking in a concert.

Sampling local and regional specialties is a must as well, with delicacies available at the market including rakija, a popular spirit, mulled wine and strudla, a Croatian version of apple strudel.

Market Location: Various Locations in Zagreb

Market Operating Dates: November 30 – January 7

16. Stockholm, Sweden

First opened in 1903, Skansen’s Julmarknad features approximately 70 stalls where you can purchase ceramics, homemade candles, Swedish specialties, textiles and more. Located on the island of Djurgarden in the Baltic Sea, just across and easily accessible from central Stockholm, this European Christmas market welcomes thousands of visitors every year. 

Fun things to do include listening to concerts, learning traditional dances, making your own Christmas ornaments and walking through a scenic pathway of winter lights. Festive snacks to taste range from smoked turkey to waffles, gingerbread cookies and marzipan.

There are also some other European Christmas markets in the capital city of Stockholm to check out after visiting Skansen’s Julmarknad. These include Stortorgets Julmarknad, Beckmans Julmarknad and the Christmas fair at Taxinge Castle.

Market Location: Djurgårdsslätten 49-51, 115 21 Stockholm

Market Operating Dates: November 29 – December 22

17. Dresden, Germany

Dating to 1434, Dresden Striezelmarkt is one of the oldest European Christmas markets in the world. Visitors to this renowned market can walk by more than 200 stalls wafting with the scent of pine, baked goods and holiday charm. Draped in thousands of sparkling lights, the market is an excellent spot to discover a variety of wooden toys and other authentic German gifts.

A Ferris wheel, the world’s tallest Christmas pyramid, a Christmas caroling competition and a gingerbread fest are just a few of the other attractions and activities you’ll find at this European Christmas market.

Don't forget to also indulge in classics like mulled wine and christstollen, a candied fruit and nut-filled bread that’s more like a cake and sealed with the seal of August the Strong, the city’s former king.

Market Location: Altmarkt Sq., 01067 Dresden-Altstadt, Germany

Market Operating Dates: November 27 – December 24

18. Sibiu, Romania

It may be Transylvania, but it’s all about Santa and holiday cheer at Sibiu’s Christmas market. Located in the Great Square in the Sibiu city center, more than 100 stalls are surrounded by string lights to create a magical European Christmas market. 

Shop for authentic Romanian crafts and gifts and celebrate the season by meeting Santa Claus, watching cultural performances, ice skating and riding the Ferris wheel. Food treats to try at this European Christmas market include mamaliga (a polenta dish), mulled wine and kürtoskalács (chimney cake).

Market Location: Sibiu City Center, Romania

Market Operating Dates: November 15 – January 5

19. Basel, Switzerland

Twinkling lights, musical performances and Christmas-themed circus acts are the highlights at the Basler Weihnachtsmarkt. Situated in northwestern Switzerland on the Rhine, this European Christmas market has more than 150 vendors in charming white-roofed stalls. The main market is at Barfusserplatz and Munsterplatz, but there are several others around town if you're looking for more places to shop and take in the festive spirit.

As with many other European Christmas markets, this is an excellent place to pick up some gifts and souvenirs like locally made toys and handmade ornaments to decorate your tree at home. You can also find food gifts like honey and jam.

This fun European Christmas market has some cool events for kids as well, like cookie decorating sessions and candle-making workshops. In terms of food, culinary delights on offer include raclette, läckerli (a Swiss spice biscuit), gluhwein, fondue and öpfelchüchli (deep-fried apples). 

Market Location: Barfusserplatz, 4051 Basel, Switzerland

Market Operating Dates: November 28 – December 23

20. Winchester, England

Hosted around the Gothic Winchester Cathedral, Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market is a festive wonderland complete with musical performances and Advent and Christmas services. Along with enjoying these events, visitors can peruse stalls selling all kinds of items, from home and garden décor, to wooden toys, clothing and games. 

Once you've thoroughly explored the shopping opportunities at this European Christmas market, sample comfort foods like Scotch eggs, English cheese, slow-roasted pork and Yorkshire pudding wraps. Wash it all down with mulled wine or mead.

You can additionally attend Christmas workshops, ranging from candle making and painting to singing, silversmithing and glass fusing. There's certainly no shortage of things to do at this charming European Christmas market!

Market Location: 9 The Close, Winchester Hampshire, S023 9LS, U.K.

Market Operating Dates: November 22 – December 22

21. Oslo, Norway

Oslo, on the Southern coast of Norway, features the festive and fun Jul I Vinterland. This European Christmas market takes place at Karl Johans Gate, the city’s main street, making it easy to access. At this market, you can sample a range of food and drink items like authentic glogg (mulled wine) and fresh doughnuts, among many other Norwegian and international dishes.

You also have the chance to shop for clothing, gifts and toys at this European Christmas market. Entertainment and attractions are aplenty as well and include plays, concerts, a Ferris wheel, carnival rides and an ice-skating rink.

Market Location: Karl Johans Gate, Oslo, Norway

Market Operating Dates: November 9 – December 22

22. Monaco

For a chic and sophisticated touch of Christmas spirit fit for a prince or princess, head to the luxurious destination of Monaco. Located in Port Hercule, alongside the French Riviera’s luxury yachts, Christmas Village is one of the best European Christmas markets for French flair and a glamorous vibe. Approximately 25 vendor chalets offer gifts and sweet treats like crêpes and churros.

Light displays and additional shopping can be found along an avenue leading to the palace and the Monte Carlo Casino. At this European Christmas market, you can listen to Christmas choirs, go ice skating beneath palm trees or ride a Ferris wheel to take in sweeping views of the harbor.

Market Location: Port Hercule de Monaco, 98000 Monaco

Market Operating Dates: December 6 – January 8

23. Budapest, Hungary

A golden glow illuminates Vörösmarty Classic Xmas, Budapest’s oldest European Christmas market. This European Christmas market is an excellent place for shopping, with visitors being able to peruse more than 100 wooden huts that sell gifts, culinary items, crafts and more. There's also a festive ice skating rink and free concerts.

Having fully explored the shopping opportunities, re-fuel with some Hungarian specialties like a warming bowl of goulash. There are several other European Christmas markets around town as well, including those in Erzsébet Square and Castle Hill, if you want to extend your holiday activities.

Market Location: Vorosmarty Square, Budapest, Vorosmarty tér 3, 1051 Hungary

Market Operating Dates: November 15 – December 31

24. Tallinn, Estonia

Decorated in dazzling ornaments and lights, the Medieval cobblestone streets of Old Town sparkle with wooden stalls draped in twinkling lights. The fairytale-like Tallinn Christmas Market even features a 52-foot Christmas tree as the center of attention!

This European Christmas market on the Baltic Sea is held at the oldest square in the city near the 13th-century St. Nicholas Church. There are many unique and handmade items to shop for at this Christmas market like knitted items and alpaca wool products.

Delicious food to snack on includes local specialties like blood sausages, handcrafted truffles, elk sausages and ciabatta with raclette. You can also enjoy dance performances, listen to carol-singing choirs and visit Santa’s house at this exciting European Christmas market.

Market Location: Town Hall Square in Old Town

Market Operating Dates: November 22 – December 27

25. Salzburg, Austria

Famous for “Silent Night,” written in 1816 by an Austrian priest, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Salzburg is home to the perfect European Christmas market for enjoying tradition and the season's spirit. Although its origins date to the 15th century, the current Salzburg Christkindelmarkt began in 1974.

Visitors can enjoy free daily concerts, carol singing sessions and special events like Christmas stories, raucous Krampus parades, choruses and more. You can even pick out a freshly cut fir tree at the Christmas Tree Market.

There are also around 100 vendor stands where you can indulge in Austrian and German specialties, such as hot punch, mulled cider and mulled wine, plus raclette, pretzels, sausages, hot chestnuts and Mozart balls, which are round dark chocolate-covered candies with pistachio, nougat and marzipan.

You’ll additionally find many hand-knitted items, felt slippers, wooden games and other top-quality products at this festive European Christmas market.

Market Location: Dom and Residenzplatz Sq., Salzburg, Austria

Market Operating Dates: November 21 – January 1

26. Paris, France

The sparkle and shine of the City of Lights lends itself to being among the brightest and best Christmas markets in Europe. One of the most popular market locations in Paris is La Magie de Noël which is found at the Tuileries Garden near the Louvre. This European Christmas market offers more than 100 vendors as well as a luxurious champagne bar and carnival rides.

There's also an excellent food selection, including French specialties like truffles, escargots, macarons and caviar. Of course, there are many shopping options as well, with high-end products like jewelry, leather goods and cashmere scarves available.

Other Paris Christmas markets are held at Square Viviani, Montmartre, La Defense Esplanade, Saint Germain des Pres and the Eiffel Tower, which specializes in gourmet food.

Market Location: Various Locations in Paris

Market Operating Dates: November 16 – January 5

27. Gdansk, Poland

Located in northern Poland on the Baltic Sea, Gdansk held its first Christmas markets in the 17th century. They’ve only gotten brighter and more festive since, with Gdansk Christmas Market attracting thousands of visitors every year. Notable features at this market include an ice-skating rink, a carousel and beautifully decorated Christmas trees.

Visitors can enjoy holiday activities and events like shopping for jewelry, knitted hats and clothing or watching puppet and magic shows, elf parades and festive musical performances. Other things to do include kissing under the mistletoe at the gazebo, visiting Santa and spotting the Snow Queen!

On the culinary side of this European Christmas market, take time to try pierogies, currywurst, Greek bougatsa (a custard phyllo pie filled with cream), mulled wine and roasted chestnuts at this European Christmas market.

Market Location: Targ Weglowy, Gdansk, Poland

Market Operating Dates: November 22 – December 23

28. Málaga, Spain

If your Christmas travel dreams lean more toward palms than pines, Málaga, Spain, is a magical Mediterranean destination to head to. Málaga Christmas markets combine pine garlands, poinsettias and festive bows with tropical plants and nativity scenes to create one of the best Christmas markets in Europe for those who love the golden sand beaches of the Costa del Sol.

Visiting the Snow Village, singing carols and watching a procession of the Three Wise Men are just a few of the fun activities to enjoy at the multiple markets around the city.

There are many items to purchase as well, including holiday-themed products and items traditional to the area like ceramics and art pieces. You can also enjoy sampling unique food items like borrachuelos, a wine-flavored fried pastry, and turrón, a type of nougat.

Market Location: Various Locations in Málaga

Market Operating Dates: December 1 – January 5

29. Frankfurt, Germany

One of the oldest, largest and most famous European Christmas markets in Germany, the Frankfurt Christmas Market has been in operation since 1393 and attracts more than three million visitors a year. The main market stretches along the Zeil promenade, with large parts being held in the historic Old Town.

The market offers more than 200 stalls that sell items like wooden carvings, decorations, ornaments and apparel. You’ll also want to sample authentic gingerbread, smoked salmon, grilled sausages, marzipan pastry and apfelwein (apple wine) at this European Christmas market.

Seasonal events are also aplenty and include chiming church bells, choirs, Advent concerts, nativity performances and visits with Saint Nicholas. Being one of the most renowned European Christmas markets, it's not surprising that exploring all the attractions Frankfurt Christmas Market is known for may take a few days!

Market Location: Various Locations in Frankfurt

Market Operating Dates: November 25 – December 22

Discover the Best Christmas Food and Drink

Are you craving the festive food and beverages found at Christmas markets in Europe? By booking food tours in Europe and other destinations, you can discover the best foodie locations in a range of cities.

Tours are led by seasoned local guides who know all the best bars, restaurants and cafés to sip and savor regional favorites. If visiting a city in Europe during the holidays, your guide may even take you to find some of the best food at local Christmas markets!

If you’re unable to make it to Europe, you can bring the continent to your place in the world by learning how to make traditional recipes at a hands-on cooking class near you. Hosted by gourmet chefs, you’ll master techniques for preparing the most delicious dishes from all corners of the world.

Exploring stunning European Christmas markets makes a fun activity for almost everyone, from families and couples to singles and groups of friends. Whether you’re traveling this year or planning for next year, you’ll want to add some of these festive events to your itinerary. If you’re not already overflowing with the Christmas spirit, these European Christmas markets are bound to spark that inner glow of cheer by the end of your adventures.

For more ways to enjoy the holidays, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.