23rd October 2023

The markets in mainland Europe are known for their festive atmosphere, charming decorations, and unique holiday treats. While there are many to choose from, here are five of our favourites, each with its unique charm.

Strasbourg

Strasbourg is often called the "Capital of Christmas" and is home to one of Europe's oldest and most beautiful Christmas markets. The city's historic centre is transformed into a winter wonderland with hundreds of stalls selling crafts, decorations, and delicious Alsatian treats. The Strasbourg Christmas market is known for its stunning Cathedral backdrop and intricate decorations.

Vienna

Vienna's Christmas markets are famous for their classical elegance. The city hosts several markets throughout the holiday season, with the one at Rathausplatz being a favourite. Visitors can enjoy mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, and artisanal gifts surrounded by the city's stunning architecture and twinkling lights. 

Prague

Prague's Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square come alive during the Christmas season with beautifully decorated wooden huts, a towering Christmas tree, and a festive atmosphere. Visitors can shop for handcrafted ornaments, enjoy Czech holiday treats, and admire the city's stunning architecture.

Nuremberg

Nuremberg's Christkindlesmarkt is one of the most famous Christmas markets in Germany. This market is renowned for its strict quality standards, ensuring the products sold are authentic and traditional. You can savour Nuremberg sausages and delicious gingerbread, plus shop for unique, handmade gifts in a historical setting.

Cologne

Cologne hosts multiple Christmas markets, but the one at the Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom) is a must-visit. With the imposing cathedral as a backdrop, this market is known for its traditional German stalls, festive entertainment, and the famous Kölsch beer. The aroma of gingerbread and roasted almonds fills the air.

Our team love a Christmas market! Here are our top picks...

Nicola: Mine is Bruges - I loved all the pretty colourful buildings lit up and the smell of waffles is very inviting! Nip into one of the bars for a Belgian beer off the main square - my go-to is always a strawberry beer or a mulled wine to warm you up - but don't forget your gloves; it can get very cold!

Shell: Heidelberg was one of my favourites. It isn't as big as some others, but the town is beautiful, making the markets a lot cosier and less crowded too!

Sarah: Dresden in Germany was beautiful. It is the oldest German Christmas market. The city is very pretty, lit with lots of beautiful architecture.

Beccy: My vote goes to Colmar in France. The houses are all fairytale-like and timbered, and they have six different markets across the city with different themes. Try La Choucroute, the Alsace version of Sauerkraut. It's made using Riesling and has a sweeter flavour.

Want to visit the Christmas markets for yourself? We recommend a river cruise - see our selection here.