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Christmas Markets in Europe 2025
European Christmas markets for 2025 will open their doors in late November, inviting visitors to experience the enchanting atmosphere of the winter holidays. From the historic squares of Prague to the elegant streets of Vienna, and from the medieval quarters of Nuremberg to the festive charm of Strasbourg in France, each city offers a unique celebration filled with traditional crafts, regional cuisine, and cultural programs.
Prague, Czech Republic (Praha, Česká republika): Fairy-Tale Splendor at Old Town Square
Dates: November 29, 2025 – January 6, 2026
Hours: Daily 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Location: Old Town Square (Staroměstské náměstí) and Wenceslas Square (Václavské náměstí)
Prague’s Christmas markets (Pražské vánoční trhy) are celebrated as some of the most beautiful in the world. The main market is situated in the iconic Old Town Square, where the stunning Týn Church and the astronomical clock provide a magical backdrop for the festivities.
At the center of the square stands a grand Christmas tree, sourced from different regions of the Czech Republic, adorned with thousands of twinkling lights and colorful ornaments. Over 80 wooden stalls offer a variety of products, including Bohemian glass, wooden toys, handmade ceramics, and traditional Czech sweets.
Don’t miss the chance to try trdelník—a sweet pastry twisted into a tube shape and sprinkled with sugar and cinnamon—as well as hot mulled wine (svařené víno). Local artisans showcase traditional crafts such as glassblowing, sword forging, and marionette making.
In addition to the primary market at Old Town Square, be sure to visit the more intimate markets located on Wenceslas Square and Peace Square, where the atmosphere is more relaxed and prices are often more reasonable.
Click here to learn more about creating a personal itineraryVienna, Austria (Wien, Österreich): Imperial Christmas
Dates: November 14 – December 26, 2025
Hours: Daily 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Friday and Saturday until 11:00 PM)
Location: Town Hall Square (Rathausplatz) and various locations throughout the city
Vienna transforms into Europe’s Christmas capital, hosting over 20 official markets across the city. The main market in front of the magnificent Town Hall (Rathaus) is a true feast for the senses.
The Christmas Market at the Town Hall (Wiener Christkindlmarkt) is the largest and most popular in Vienna, featuring more than 150 trading pavilions offering Austrian delicacies, crafts, and festive decorations. A highlight of the market is the “Vienna Ice World” skating rink, which winds through the picturesque park in front of the Town Hall.
The Christmas Village at Schönbrunn Palace (Weihnachtsmarkt Schloss Schönbrunn) runs from November 6, 2025, to January 6, 2026, providing a regal atmosphere against the stunning backdrop of the Baroque palace. This market is known for its extended duration and exceptional quality of goods.
The Christmas Market at St. Stephen’s Cathedral (Weihnachtsmarkt am Stephansplatz) takes place from November 8 to December 26, 2025, in the heart of the old town. The Gothic cathedral creates a magnificent setting for festive shopping.
Be sure to savor traditional Viennese punch, roasted chestnuts, and the famous apple strudel. In the children’s area at the Town Hall, kids can participate in making Christmas candles and cookies.
Nuremberg, Germany (Nürnberg, Deutschland): Mecca of Christmas Markets
Dates: November 28 – December 24, 2025
Hours: Daily 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM (December 24: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM)
Location: Main Market Square (Hauptmarkt)
The Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt is Germany’s most famous Christmas market, boasting a history of over 450 years. Each Friday before the first Sunday of Advent, the market is ceremoniously inaugurated by the Christkind (Christ Child) speaking from the balcony of the Church of Our Lady.
Renowned for its lebkuchen, traditional Nuremberg gingerbread made from unique recipes with nuts and spices, the market features more than 180 wooden stalls with red and white roofs that offer handmade toys, Christmas decorations, and regional delicacies.
Don’t miss the famous Nuremberg sausages (Nürnberger Rostbratwurst), typically served in portions of 6-8 with sauerkraut or potato salad. Pair them with traditional mulled wine (Glühwein) or try Feuerzangenbowle, a hot punch with burning sugar.
In addition to the main market, explore the Children’s Christmas Market (Kinderweihnacht) at Hans Sachs Square and the Partner Cities Market (Markt der Partnerstädte), which showcases goods from 24 countries around the world.
Click here to create a personal itinerary for Europe<br />Strasbourg, France (Strasbourg, France): Capital of Christmas
Dates: November 26 – December 24, 2025
Hours: Monday-Thursday 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM, Friday-Sunday 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Location: Broglie Square (Place Broglie), Kléber Square (Place Kléber), Cathedral Square
Strasbourg proudly bears the title “Capital of Christmas” (Capitale de Noël). The Christkindelsmärik is the oldest Christmas market in France, with records dating back to 1570. Over 300 wooden chalets are spread across nine squares in the city’s historic center.
The main market on Broglie Square is the largest and most traditional, featuring the finest selection of Alsatian delicacies and crafts. The iconic Christkindelsmärik arch has become a symbol of the market and a favorite photo spot.
The Cathedral Market provides stunning views of the Gothic cathedral and the charming half-timbered houses, especially enchanting in the evening when the festive lights illuminate the scene.
Kléber Square boasts a giant 30-meter Christmas tree, transported from the Vosges Mountains, making it a key highlight of the market.
Don’t miss the opportunity to sample traditional Alsatian mulled wine (vin chaud), pretzels, flammkuchen (thin flatbread topped with bacon and onions), and the region’s renowned gingerbread. Be sure to take home some beautiful Alsatian ceramics, known for their blue and white designs.
Budapest, Hungary (Budapest, Magyarország): Eastern European Charm
Dates: November 15, 2025 – January 1, 2026
Hours: Sunday-Thursday 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM, Friday-Saturday 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Location: Vörösmarty Square (Vörösmarty tér) and St. Stephen’s Basilica Square
Budapest’s Christmas markets (Budapesti karácsonyi vásárok) blend Hungarian traditions with a vibrant European festive spirit. The primary market at Vörösmarty Square, operating since 1998, is renowned as one of the best in Eastern Europe.
Situated in the heart of Pest, directly across from the famous Gerbeaud café, the Vörösmarty Square Market features over 100 pavilions offering Hungarian crafts, ceramics, textiles, and delightful traditional sweets. A free mini-railway is available for children to enjoy.
The Advent Festival at St. Stephen’s Basilica (Szent István Bazilika Adventi Vásár) was named Europe’s best Christmas market in 2024. Each evening, light shows illuminate the basilica’s façade, while an ice rink is set up in the square’s center.
A must-try culinary delight is kürtőskalács (chimney cakes), a sweet pastry baked over an open flame and coated with sugar, cinnamon, or nuts. Be sure to indulge in Hungarian mulled wine (forralt bor) and traditional lángos topped with various ingredients.
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Salzburg, Austria (Salzburg, Österreich): Alpine Fairy Tale
Dates: November 20, 2025 – January 1, 2026
Hours: Daily 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Location: Residence Square (Residenzplatz) and Cathedral Square (Domplatz)
Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart, transforms into a Christmas fairy tale with the stunning backdrop of the snow-capped Alps. The Christmas market (Salzburger Christkindlmarkt) in the historic city center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a unique atmosphere steeped in ancient Austrian charm.
The main market is located between Residence Square and Cathedral Square, where the majestic cathedral and Hohensalzburg Fortress create an impressive setting. Approximately 80 pavilions feature Austrian crafts, Christmas decorations, and regional delicacies.
Don’t miss the concert program: during the Christmas season, numerous classical concerts are held in historic halls throughout the city. Be sure to savor Salzburg Nockerl—a traditional vanilla soufflé—and local Christmas cookies.
Cologne, Germany (Köln, Deutschland): Ancient Traditions by the Gothic Cathedral
Dates: November 18 – January 4, 2026
Hours: Daily 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Location: Cathedral Square and other locations throughout the city
Cologne features several themed Christmas markets (Kölner Weihnachtsmärkte), each with its own unique charm. The main market at the renowned Cologne Cathedral is one of the most impressive in Germany.
The Christmas Market at the Cathedral (Weihnachtsmarkt am Dom) on Roncalliplatz showcases traditional German goods and delicacies against the backdrop of the stunning Gothic cathedral. The Angel Market (Heinzels Winter Märchen) at Neumarkt focuses on Christmas decorations and angels, while the Medieval Market in the old town recreates an enchanting medieval atmosphere.
Be sure to try Cologne’s Halver Hahn, which consists of rye bread and cheese, paired with local Kölsch beer served in traditional thin glasses.
Click here to create a personal itinerary for Europe<br />Edinburgh, Scotland (Edinburgh, Scotland): Celtic Christmas
Dates: November 19, 2025 – January 5, 2026
Hours: Daily 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Location: East Princes Street Gardens
Edinburgh’s Christmas Market combines Scottish traditions with European festive spirit, all set against the magnificent backdrop of Edinburgh Castle. It stands as one of the largest Christmas markets in the United Kingdom.
The market features a traditional setup with over 200 trading pavilions, attractions like a Ferris wheel offering castle views, and an outdoor ice rink. A special area with carousels and playgrounds caters to children.
Indulge in traditional Scottish haggis, hot toddy (whisky toddy), and local sweets. Be sure to catch daily performances by Scottish musicians and dancers.
Copenhagen, Denmark (København, Danmark): Scandinavian Hygge
Dates: November 17 – December 31, 2025
Hours: Daily 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Location: Tivoli Gardens
The Christmas market at the famed Tivoli Gardens blends Danish hygge with festive attractions and holiday magic. The park transforms into a winter fairy tale, adorned with thousands of lights and festive decorations.
Tivoli offers not only traditional trading pavilions but also year-round attractions. The roller coaster and historic carousel are particularly popular. Sample traditional Danish dishes at numerous restaurants and cafes throughout the park.
Make sure to try æbleskiver – traditional Danish dough balls, gløgg – Danish mulled wine with almonds and raisins, and roasted almonds.
Click here to learn more about creating a personal itineraryTallinn, Estonia (Tallinn, Eesti): Medieval Atmosphere
Dates: November 24, 2025 – January 7, 2026
Hours: Daily 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Location: Town Hall Square (Raekoja plats)
The Christmas market, known as Tallinna jõuluturg, is set in medieval Old Town Tallinn, enveloped by Gothic buildings dating back to the 13th and 14th centuries. The main market takes place in Town Hall Square, featuring a Christmas tree that has been a tradition since 1441.
Visitors can explore wooden pavilions selling Estonian crafts, woolen goods, ceramics, and traditional sweets, with particularly popular items including products made from juniper and Baltic amber.
Don’t miss the
opportunity to sample traditional Estonian mulled wine (hõõgvein), black bread topped with smoked fish, and gingerbread treats. On weekends, the square comes alive with medieval music concerts and performances.
Practical Tips for Visiting Christmas Markets
Trip Planning
Best time to visit: The first two weeks of December are ideal for experiencing the market when it is fully operational but not overly crowded as it is closer to Christmas. Weekdays tend to be less busy than weekends.
Accommodation booking: Hotels in European city centers during the Christmas market season fill up quickly. It is advisable to make reservations 3 to 4 months prior to your trip.
Financial Matters
Currency: While most European countries accept euros, Hungary uses forints, the Czech Republic uses crowns, and the UK uses pounds. Many markets accept bank cards, but cash is preferable for small transactions.
Budget: Mulled wine typically costs between 3 to 6 euros, traditional dishes range from 5 to 12 euros, and souvenirs can vary from 2 to over 50 euros, depending on their quality and uniqueness.
Gastronomic Discoveries
Drinks: Mulled wine (known as Glühwein, vin chaud, or forralt bor) is a staple at any market. Many stalls offer beautifully crafted ceramic mugs as souvenirs.
Food: Each country showcases its traditional dishes, from German sausages to Hungarian chimney cakes, with an increasing number of vegetarian options available.
Shopping and Souvenirs
Crafts: Seek out locally produced goods; although they may be pricier than mass-produced items, they make for unique souvenirs.
Christmas decorations: Glass ornaments from the Czech Republic, wooden toys from Germany, and ceramics from Alsace all make wonderful gifts.
Photography
Best time: The best lighting for capturing the market’s festive atmosphere is during twilight, about an hour before sunset.
Permissions: Photography is generally allowed in most places, but be sure to respect private property and the privacy of individuals.
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