Christmas markets in Europe 2024

Christmas markets in Europe are a year-long tradition during the holiday season. Some of the fairs are among the oldest in Europe, dating back to 1570. Following beautiful traditions, Christmas markets in Europe 2024 will once again create the most festive environment for cities, their residents and guests from all over the world. You will find all the information on where and when the most beautiful Christmas fairs will be held in our prepared article. By the way, “Travels 4 kids” has also visited several impressive Christmas fairs in Europe and shares its tips and recommendations.

Although the weather outside is colder, the entire holiday season is about the warmth that fills us from within during this magical time. You’ll experience many magical moments visiting these European cities, which offer especially beautiful markets and towns, full of attractions for both children and adults. For those who want to spend time peacefully, you can simply enjoy the sparkling decorations and savor hot chocolate while browsing for gifts for your loved ones. We encourage you to make the most of this season, travel, and get to know the Christmas traditions of other countries while enjoying a wonderful time. The list Christmas markets in Europe 2024 is simply impressive, offering countless places to visit.

Christmas markets in Europe 2024 – list

Make yourself comfortable – our prepared list is here for you. Read through it and choose your ideal travel destination for the end of this year.

Latvia, Riga, November 29 – January 2

The Old Town Christmas Market at Dome Square will run from early December 2024 to the first week of January 2025.

Food lovers will be delighted by traditional holiday treats – hot mulled wine, gingerbread, roasted almonds, Christmas tea, and coffee. You’ll also find delicious smoked meats and other meat specialties.

The market offers a wide selection of Latvian handmade items perfect for Christmas gifts. You can purchase cozy handmade woolen socks and other accessories, as well as amber and silver jewelry. Additionally you can find beautifully crafted wooden candleholders, jars of Latvian honey, and sweet-scented beeswax candles. There will also be eco-friendly wooden toys and cloth teddy bears.

Estonia, Tallinn, November 22 – December 27

Tallinn’s Christmas Market, one of Europe’s most enchanting holiday destinations, will be open from November 22 to December 27, 2024. Located in the heart of the Old Town at Town Hall Square, this winter wonderland invites visitors to experience a truly festive atmosphere.

The market will sparkle with lights and offer plenty of local crafts and holiday treats – from mulled wine made with nearly every type of berry and fruit grown in Estonia to traditional Estonian dishes. Here, you’ll find unique gifts for your loved ones and enjoy a festive time with a variety of cultural events and even a chance to meet Santa Claus.

Poland, Warsaw, November 29 – January 6

The Christmas market in Warsaw is incredibly beautiful and impressive, and it’s also very close to Lithuania, making it an easy trip by car or a quick weekend getaway with the family.

Throughout the holiday season, Warsaw is beautifully decorated and offers numerous attractions for the whole family.

Poland, Kraków, November 24 – January 1

The Kraków Christmas Market, located in the UNESCO-listed Rynek Główny Square, invites visitors to a magical holiday adventure. During winter, this historic square becomes a Christmas village with around 80 wooden stalls. Visitors can find handmade creations, traditional decorations, and delicious food from local artisans. Unique gifts are abundant, ranging from ceramics and wood carvings to embroidered tablecloths.

Beyond shopping, visitors can enjoy various entertainments: Christmas carols, children’s group performances, and spiced mulled wine filling the air with delightful aromas. This year, the market will also feature international items from Lithuania, Ukraine, and other countries, adding exclusive souvenirs to the festive selection.

Sweden, Stockholm (Skansen Museum), November 29 – December 22

Skansen, the world’s oldest open-air museum, has hosted a special Christmas market tradition since 1903. Here, you’ll find warm fires and numerous stalls filled with local crafts and festive foods for the Christmas table. Savor delightful flavors like crispy waffles, aromatic mulled wine, and roasted almonds.

From November 29 to January 6, every weekend, visitors can partake in ancient Christmas rituals, learn about traditional Swedish holiday dishes, and enjoy live traditional music and dancing.

Alongside fascinating historical programs, the museum will offer various workshops – from candle-making to crafting Christmas decorations. Young visitors will also have the chance to meet Santa Claus.

Sweden, Gothenburg (Liseberg Amusement Park), November 16 – December 29

Liseberg, Sweden’s largest amusement park, is located in Gothenburg. It attracts visitors year-round with its attractions and festive programs. However, it’s especially magical in winter when the park transforms into a Christmas wonderland. Known for its high-quality entertainment, Liseberg offers not only thrilling rides but also family-friendly attractions, like a rabbit farm and classic carousels.

During Christmas, Liseberg becomes a stunning blend of lights, holiday markets, and cozy events. Visitors can enjoy delicious holiday drinks, stroll through the winter market, and purchase handmade gifts. The entire park lights up with millions of Christmas lights, creating a warm and festive atmosphere, even on the coldest days.

Finland, Helsinki, November 29 – December 22

The Helsinki Christmas Market at Senate Square attracts visitors each year, offering unique gifts and a special holiday atmosphere. The heart of the market features nearly 100 stalls showcasing handmade crafts from small Finnish producers. Over 20 cafes invite visitors to taste seasonal treats. The changing vendors each week ensure a diverse and continually expanding selection of goods.

The festive atmosphere is created not only by the Christmas decorations but also by various events, from visits by Santa Claus to live music performances that bring everyone together in celebration. Visitors can try glassblowing or metalworking in creative workshops. The market’s focus on responsible trading makes it both beautiful and sustainable.

Christmas markets in Germany

The list of Christmas markets in Europe 2024 is particularly enriched by Germany. As in every year (and this year is no exception), this country truly stands out with its abundance of Christmas markets. If you are planning a trip to Germany during the holiday season, make sure to visit these Christmas markets. Cities like Cologne and Munich offer more than 6 markets taking place at various locations around the city.

Germany, Berlin (Bebelplatz Square), November 25 – December 31

The festive atmosphere, extraordinary stalls, and traditional craftsmanship invite you to one of the most popular Christmas markets in Berlin, which this year will take place at Bebelplatz Square.

The market is known for its abundance of artistic offerings. In a large tent, artisans will share their skills, and visitors can purchase unique handmade candles, toys, and decorations – perfect gifts for your loved ones.

As with most Christmas markets, here you can indulge in treats such as roasted almonds and mulled wine, as well as try unique dishes at food stalls and restaurants. In a heated, cozy setting, you can enjoy traditional German dishes and soak up the festive atmosphere.

Germany, Cologne, November 18 – December 23

The Nikolaus Village Christmas Market is one of the most beloved, especially tailored for families with children. The market will be located at Rudolfplatz Square, near Cologne Cathedral, with a beautifully decorated Christmas tree. You’ll find a sparkling Christmas market featuring unique artisan crafts, organic treats, and more than 100 free events.

White rooftops, resembling the sails of a ship, will decorate Cologne’s harbor. The Christmas market will have 70 stalls offering everything from high-quality handmade goods to culinary delights from the region and around the world. The festive harbor program includes an impressive 48-meter-high observation wheel offering breathtaking views.

Neumarkt – the largest square in Cologne, this year will be decorated with many stars that will shine above the decorated houses – Angel Market.

The charming Christmas market, which will be located in Cologne’s oldest park, the Stadtgarten, will delight everyone, both young and old, with its cozy atmosphere and cultural program. Here you will find handmade items with love and exclusive design.

From November 21 to December 23, the Vrings-Veedels-Advent fair invites you to discover the flavors of the Veedel district with local drinks and food, a children’s carousel and history presented in a special app and slides at Chlodwigplatz in the south of Cologne.

From November 25 to January 5, Cologne’s Old Town will feature countless stalls located across Alter Markt and Heumarkt squares. Here, you’ll find a wide variety of Christmas offerings, including food, drinks, and gifts. Heumarkt Square will surprise you with an impressive ice skating rink.

Germany, Munich, November 27 – December 24

In the heart of Munich, Marienplatz Square hosts the original Munich Christmas Market, a tradition with deep roots dating back to the 14th century. This year, the market will again feature more than 130 stalls offering a wide selection of Christmas food and unique handmade goods.

Visitors can enjoy Advent music played from the town hall balcony, watch the traditional “Krampus” run, and learn about Christmas traditions through guided tours. The little ones will have the chance to participate in holiday workshops at “Himmelswerkstatt.” Marienplatz will become not just a marketplace, but an unforgettable festive experience, blending traditions, culture, and holiday spirit.

During the holiday season, Munich offers many more Christmas markets across different locations, showcasing handmade crafts, unique tree decorations, fragrant candles, and delicious winter food. These markets will feature artisans’ workshops where visitors can observe craftsmen at work, as well as special educational activities for children – from puppet theaters to Christmas crafting sessions. Each market will create a festive atmosphere, with visitors enjoying traditional holiday drinks, Advent music, and Christmas decorations.

Germany, Dresden (Striezelmarkt), November 27 – December 24

In 2024, Dresden will host the oldest Christmas market in Germany – the 590th Striezelmarkt. If you’re looking to experience a truly authentic Christmas market, Striezelmarkt is the perfect place for it.

Dresden’s Striezelmarkt is one of the best Christmas markets in Germany, where the festive atmosphere is created by shining lights, twinkling stars, and Christmas carols. Visitors can enjoy not only traditional Christmas food but also participate in various activities: Santa Claus movie screenings with short films for the whole family, craft workshops with professional guidance, and a bakery where children can bake cookies with the help of experienced bakers. The historic observation wheel, two-story carousel, and fairy-tale forest with a children’s railway will make this experience an unforgettable holiday adventure.

Czech Republic, Prague, November 20 – January 6

In 2024, Prague, a city of stunning beauty, will host Christmas markets in its main squares: Old Town Square, Republic Square, Wenceslas Square, and Peace Square.

November 23 – December 24 Christmas Market at Peace Square. In front of St. Ludmila Church, about 60 stalls will offer a wide range of traditional goods. Visitors can enjoy organic products, Czech Christmas treats, a hand-painted nativity scene, and various activities for both children and adults.

November 30 – December 30 Christmas Market at Republic Square. If you’re looking for a place to buy Christmas goods, this market offers a vast selection. From festive food and pastries to Advent wreaths, candles, toys, Advent calendars, and other handcrafted items.

November 30 – January 6 Christmas Market at Old Town Square. The liveliest Christmas market, with a festive program including live performances, song concerts, creative workshops for children, and even a mini zoo. You’ll find a variety of food, warm drinks like hot chocolate and mulled wine, as well as gift ideas, decorations, toys, jewelry, winter clothes, and accessories.

November 30 – January 6 Christmas Market at the Lower Part of Wenceslas Square. This market will be adorned with beautiful wooden stalls, offering a selection of delicious Christmas treats. Children will enjoy hot chocolate, while parents can indulge in aromatic mulled wine and find unique wooden and metal gifts.

Hungary, Budapest, November 17 – January 1

A key tradition in Hungary for Christmas Eve is the Budapest Christmas Markets, which are held at five lively locations throughout the city.

The two main Christmas markets in Budapest are less than 10 minutes apart by foot:

• In Vörösmarty Square, in the heart of the city, right in front of the famous and historic Gerbeaud Café, you’ll find cozy wooden huts crafted by local artisans. Culinary stalls will invite you to taste authentic Hungarian dishes. The main stage will host various animations, concerts, and children’s entertainment every day. The British magazine Time Out ranked this market as one of the top five most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe!
• After visiting Vörösmarty Square, take a stroll to St. Stephen’s Basilica, just under 10 minutes away. Here, an ice rink will be set up for a more active experience. Artisan and gourmet stalls will also be abundant. And the highlight – every day you can enjoy unique animated film projections on the basilica’s facade.

Although Christmas markets in Europe 2024 are mostly similar, different locations have different atmospheres, so it’s definitely worth visiting various places to add to your Christmas market list.

• Just 100 meters from Vörösmarty Square, you’ll find Deák Ferenc Street, often referred to as “Fashion Street.” This approximately 500-meter-long street will stand out with its impressive and vibrant Christmas decorations.
• Visiting the cozy Town Hall Park is ideal with children. This Christmas market is focused on young visitors, with plenty of activities for kids.
• At the Christmas market in Erzsébet Square, you can enjoy Christmas dishes or pack them as gifts.

Christmas markets in Austria

If you’re a Christmas enthusiast and want to experience the true holiday atmosphere, Austria, Vienna is the perfect place to visit at the end of the year. During this time, Vienna is definitely a must-see, not only for its history and landmarks but also for the numerous Christmas markets it offers.

Austria, Vienna, November 8 – January 6

Art Advent at Karlsplatz, November 15 – December 23

Art Advent is one of the most popular and beloved Christmas markets for art lovers. It is the only Christmas market in Austria that stands out with entirely organic gastronomy. Live music and unique handcrafted goods will also be key highlights of this market.

Vienna’s Dream of Christmas at Rathausplatz, November 15 – December 26

Vienna’s oldest and largest Christmas market – Vienna’s Dream of Christmas at Rathausplatz – boasts more than 100 stalls. Every year, the square is brightly lit with Christmas decorations. The market nearby offers not only a variety of treats and great gift ideas but, most importantly, a festive atmosphere.

Christmas Market at Schloss Schönbrunn, November 8 – January 6

This Christmas market, located in front of the stunning Schönbrunn Palace, enchants with its unique historical backdrop and guarantees a festive atmosphere for every visitor. Lovingly decorated stalls offer a wide range of discoveries from about 80 participants, creating a special Advent mood.

Christmas Market at Stephansplatz, November 8 – December 26

The Christmas market at Stephansplatz delights with a dreamy atmosphere and a unique location – right next to the famous St. Stephen’s Cathedral. It is a perfect stop during a festive tour of Vienna, with special lighting creating a magical Christmas glow around the cathedral, inviting visitors to enjoy a peaceful time with loved ones.

Baroque Christmas Atmosphere in Front of the Belvedere Palace, November 15 – December 23

A stylish Christmas market in front of the Belvedere Palace draws visitors in with its baroque style, elegant stalls, and enchanting holiday lights. Here, you will find works of visual art, masterful handicrafts, unique gifts, and a variety of culinary delights.

Christmas Market at Spittelberg, November 15 – December 26

A favorite for sustainability enthusiasts, the Spittelberg Christmas market is known for its cozy and authentic atmosphere. Located in Vienna’s second-largest pedestrian zone, it attracts visitors each year with its unique charm. The market focuses on sustainability, offering a wide range of organic, vegetarian, and vegan treats. After enjoying some hot punch, you can explore the romantic alleys where local artisans’ handmade goods make perfect, special Christmas gifts for loved ones.

If you want a larger selection, here is a list of other Christmas markets taking place in Vienna:

• Christmas village Maria-Theresien-Platz
• Winter market at the Riesenradplatz
• Old viennese Christmas Market Freyung
• Chritmas Market Am Hof
• Christmas village Altes AKH – Campus of the University of Vienna
• Winter in the MuseumsQuartier
• Christmas market at the Central Station

Denmark, Copenhagen (Tivoli Gardens) November 17 – January 1

Celebrate Christmas in the historic Tivoli Gardens amusement park, where visitors will be greeted by over 70,000 Christmas decorations that create the perfect Nordic Christmas atmosphere. The attractions are a place where there’s something for the whole family to enjoy, and visiting them during the holiday season makes it even more fun.

Around 60 stalls offer Christmas decorations, snacks, sweet or hot drinks to warm you up on even the coldest days. You can also find knitted goods, leather products, handmade crafts, and various Christmas treats – perfect gifts for loved ones. Entrance to Tivoli Gardens is paid.

Netherlands, Amsterdam December 12 – 26

For locals and city visitors, the legendary Museumplein square in Amsterdam once again offers a variety of Christmas attractions this season. The “Christmas Village” Christmas market, now in its eighth year, invites you to enjoy delicious food, warm drinks, and unique shopping in a magical winter setting. This family-oriented holiday market features over 45 stalls, an ice skating rink, and various activities for both children and adults.

The beautifully illuminated ice rink will certainly remind you of a Christmas movie, and it will be especially fun to try your skills on the ice. The stalls will offer a variety of handmade crafts, unique holiday gifts and ornaments, and traditional Dutch snacks. In addition, events and workshops will showcase Dutch holiday traditions, making the “Christmas Village” the perfect place to immerse yourself in the Christmas spirit and explore a different culture.

Belgium, Brussels (Winter Wonders) November 29 – January 5

One of the most popular Christmas markets in Europe, this winter with an extensive list of activities that will ensure you won’t be bored during your visit to the capital.

• Christmas market with over 200 cozy wooden houses
• Impressive Ferris wheel
• Carousels
• Curling and ice rink
• Giant Christmas tree
• Sound and light show
• Various cultural events and activities

Belgium, Bruges November 22 – January 5

Two festively decorated Christmas markets in the city center have returned, spreading coziness and the Christmas spirit.

Each market has its own unique character. In Market Square, you’ll find everything you can expect from a traditional Christmas market – a place where classic holiday elements blend with warmth. Meanwhile, in Simon Stevin Square, the focus is on short-chain production and handmade items, offering the opportunity to discover unique artisan crafts and eco-friendly holiday gifts.

France, Strasbourg November 27 – December 27

If you want to visit the Christmas capital, head to Strasbourg. France’s oldest Christmas market, which is also one of the oldest in Europe, has been alive since 1570.

The facades and streets shine with decorations, hymns echo from the churches, and the main Place Kléber Square welcomes visitors with a massive, ornate Christmas tree – one of the tallest in Europe. The market, with hundreds of artisans and their crafts, invites visitors to explore 300 stalls where they can find unique gifts, handmade ornaments, taste traditional Christmas treats, and see many other holiday delights.

United Kingdom, London (Hyde Park) November 21 – January 5

For 6 weeks, starting from November 21, Hyde Park transforms into a true Christmas wonderland. “Winter Wonderland” is a Christmas market filled with a variety of attractions, breathtaking rides, activities, delicious food, warm drinks, and everything you’d expect from a festive market. London, such an active city, will offer an unforgettable time with plenty of lights, laughter, and most importantly, a Christmas atmosphere.

Scotland, Edinburgh November 17 – January 5

Edinburgh’s Christmas market is one of the best in the United Kingdom, ranking high on the list of top Christmas markets. Edinburgh’s Christmas is the most anticipated event of the year, transforming into a festive spot for traditional Christmas markets and family-friendly activities. It attracts millions of visitors every winter, with over 2.5 million people attending last year.

In Edinburgh, four spectacular Christmas markets will take place this year, offering a festive atmosphere and various events:

• East Princes Street Gardens: November 17 – January 5
• West Princes Street Gardens: November 18 – January 5
• St Andrew Square Garden: November 18 – December 24
• George Street West and Castle Street: November 18 – January 5

Each market offers a unique experience. At East Princes Street Gardens, you’ll find over 70 Christmas stalls and an impressive Ferris wheel. West Princes Street Gardens will delight families with various attractions, a lighted pathway, community activities, concerts, and dances. At St Andrew Square Garden, children can meet Santa Claus, and the Goodness Festival offers opportunities to donate to those in need. The George Street market features an ice skating rink where you can enjoy stunning views of the New Town, as well as try delicious treats and Scottish artisan crafts.

Switzerland, Zurich, November 23 – December 24

If you want to visit Christmas markets that are a must-see in December, head to Zurich. The whole city transforms into a seasonal festive destination.

This year, Zurich will host ten Christmas markets, each located in different parts of the city, creating a festive atmosphere and offering a variety of entertainment.

• Dörfli Market Niederdorfe: November 21 – December 23
• Wienachtsdorf Village: November 21 – December 23
• Main Station Christmas Market: November 21 – December 24
• Münsterhofe Market: November 21 – December 24
• Werdmühleplatz Market with Singing Christmas Tree: November 21 – December 23
• Europaallee Christmas Boulevard: November 21 – December 23
• Einsiedeln Monastery Market: November 29 – December 8
• Rapperswil Christkindlimärt: December 5 – December 22
• Winterthur Teuchelweiher Square Market: November 20 – December 23
• Winterthur Old Town Market: November 21 – December 22

Luxembourg, Luxembourg City, November 22 – January 1

At the end of the list of Christmas towns and markets in Europe 2024 is Luxembourg. Immerse yourself in the festive magic of “Winterlights” in Luxembourg! As Christmas approaches, the city transforms into a winter wonderland, inviting visitors to an eventful program full of excitement. The “Winterlights” events include Christmas markets, leisure activities, music, exhibitions, theater, and shopping. A wide range of other cultural and tourist attractions will allow you to enjoy a unique holiday season in Luxembourg.

This article “Christmas markets in Europe 2024” is the author’s work and was prepared by “Travel 4 kids®”. Copying and use without permission is strictly prohibited.

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