Best Christmas Markets in Europe to Visit in 2025

From candlelit courtyards to palace gardens glowing with fairy lights, Europe’s Christmas markets offer a timeless blend of tradition and wonder. In 2025, travellers are seeking immersive seasonal experiences, places where mulled wine meets medieval architecture, and handcrafted gifts come with a side of storytelling.

These are the top markets to explore this winter, based on verified travel roundups and regional tourism boards.

Vienna, Austria

The Wiener Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz is a grand affair with over 150 stalls, a giant Advent wreath, and nightly classical concerts. The Belvedere Palace market offers a quieter, romantic setting with artisanal gifts and spiced punch. Expect ice curling, gospel choirs, and fire dances across the city’s dozen markets. Vienna Christmas Markets Guide includes dates and transport tips.

Watch: Rathausplatz Christkindlmarkt shows the full market experience in 4K.

Salzburg, Austria

Held in Domplatz and Residenzplatz, Salzburg’s market dates back to the 15th century. Expect over 90 choirs, nativity exhibitions, and Krampus runs. Smaller markets at Hellbrunn Palace and Hohensalzburg Fortress add alpine charm. Salzburg Christmas Market Info includes choir schedules and guided tours.

Watch: CHRISTMAS IN SALZBURG (FT KRAMPUS RUN) captures the festive and folkloric mix.

Prague, Czech Republic

Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square host Prague’s main markets from 29 November to 6 January. Expect Czech pastries, wooden toys, and a towering Christmas tree. Food stalls run until midnight, and smaller neighbourhood markets offer quieter charm. Prague Christmas Markets Guide includes maps and local tips.

Watch: Christmas in Prague: the fairy tale came to life! 2025 shows the city’s festive glow.

Sibiu, Romania

Running from 14 November to 4 January, Sibiu’s market transforms Piața Mare into a fairytale square. Over 110 artisan stalls, a Ferris wheel, Santa’s Workshop, and the Enchanted Lift create a magical atmosphere. Sibiu Christmas Market Guide includes history and planning tips.

Watch: Exploring Sibiu's Magical Christmas Markets offers a visual tour of Romania’s festive gem.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Tivoli Gardens hosts Copenhagen’s most iconic market from 14 November to 4 January. Expect vintage rides, Danish treats, and thousands of twinkling lights. Santa’s Train and ice skating add family appeal. Visit Copenhagen provides opening hours and ticket info.

Watch: Tivoli Gardens at Christmas in Copenhagen shows the full park transformation.

Berlin, Germany

Berlin offers over 80 markets, from the elegant Gendarmenmarkt to eco-friendly pop-ups. Expect gourmet food, fire shows, and high-end crafts. Charlottenburg Palace and Alexanderplatz host large-scale events. Berlin Christmas Market Guide includes maps and district breakdowns.

Watch: How to do a Berlin Christmas Market City Break tours the city’s top festive spots.

Brussels, Belgium

Winter Wonders runs from 28 November to 1 January across Grand Place, Sainte-Catherine, and Place de Brouckère. Expect over 200 chalets, a Ferris wheel, sound-and-light shows, and Belgian waffles. Brussels Winter Wonders includes full event listings.

Watch: CHRISTMAS IN BRUSSELS GUIDE (Winter Wonders Guide walks through the market’s highlights.

Rovaniemi, Finland

Santa Claus Village hosts Rovaniemi’s market from mid-November, with reindeer rides, igloo restaurants, and daily visits from Santa. Expect snow-covered stalls and Arctic Circle magic. Visit Rovaniemi includes booking links and weather updates.

Watch: Countdown to Christmas Santa Claus Village captures the season’s opening ceremony.

Where tradition meets travel

Christmas markets are more than seasonal attractions, they are cultural touchpoints, where local heritage meets global curiosity. Whether you are chasing snow, searching for handcrafted gifts, or simply soaking in the glow of a historic square, these markets offer a modular way to experience winter across Europe.