Top Christmas Markets in Europe: A 2024 Updated Guide

If you’re planning a trip to Europe during Advent and the holiday season this year, you’re in for a treat! You’ll get to immerse yourself in some of the Continent’s most festive and enchanting Christmas markets. From renowned holiday hotspots to charming, lesser-known destinations, our updated selection of the best Christmas markets to visit in 2024 has something for everyone.

The Christmas markets listed below generally operate from late November to late December. However, some extend into early January or don’t commence until early December, so be sure to check the linked websites for the latest information on opening dates.

The Best Christmas Markets To Visit in Europe in 2024

Christmas Markets in Austria

During the Christmas season, Austria becomes a must-visit destination. Known for its enchanting Christmas markets, the country attracts visitors from around the world eager to enjoy its unique festive atmosphere. Austrian cities are adorned with sparkling lights, towering Christmas trees, and stalls brimming with holiday cheer—perfect for both on-site enjoyment and memorable souvenirs.

Christmas Markets in Salzburg

Salzburg, a top Christmas destination in Europe, is renowned for its storybook-like Christmas markets. The main Salzburg Christmas Market is spectacular, located in the picturesque Cathedral Square. Here, you can explore local crafts, indulge in traditional foods, and enjoy performances from beloved local choirs and children’s groups. This year, the Salzburg Christmas Market will be open from November 21, 2024, to January 1, 2025.

Another noteworthy market, the Christmas Market on Mirabell Square, rivals the main market with its festive offerings. Just a short walk from the train station, this market features delightful holiday treats, mulled wine, and many handmade ornaments. It will be open from November 21 to December 24, 2024.

Lastly, the Advent Market at Hohensalzburg Fortress is known for its breathtaking views of the city. Take a scenic funicular ride to enjoy arts and crafts booths, local delicacies, and activities for children, alongside a rich concert program. This market will run from November 22 to December 22, 2024.

For more information about Salzburg’s Christmas Markets, click here.

Christmas Markets in Vienna

Vienna is a stunning city to celebrate Christmas, with its numerous markets surrounded by magnificent architecture.

The Viennese Dream Christmas Market, one of the city’s largest markets often featured in Instagram pictures, promises a delightful festive atmosphere. The beautifully illuminated City Hall serves as a striking backdrop to ice skating, hot wine, and a variety of festive attractions. The Viennese Dream Christmas Market will be open from November 16 to December 26, 2024.

Located in front of one of Vienna’s most beautiful classical buildings, the Christmas Village on Maria Theresien Square combines architectural allure with holiday fun. Enjoy a program of live performances and cozy wooden huts offering tasty snacks. It will be open from November 13 to December 23, 2024.

At the Christmas Village Belvedere Palace, you’ll find over 40 festive stalls set against the backdrop of this baroque masterpiece—especially enchanting when dusted with snow. This market will run from November 15 to December 23, 2024.

For more information about Vienna’s Christmas Markets, click here.

Christmas Markets in Germany

Germany is considered the birthplace of Christmas markets, and many other countries have adopted the German style. So why not visit the origin and indulge in the festive spirit? We’ve curated a 10-day itinerary showcasing some of the best German Christmas markets.

Christmas Markets in Munich

Munich is home to several delightful Christmas markets set in unique and atmospheric locations.

The Munich Christkindlmarkt on Marienplatz Square is one of the city’s oldest Christmas markets, conveniently located near the Marienplatz metro station. Expect a wonderful winter atmosphere filled with delicious food, live music, and family-friendly activities. The Munich Christmas Market on Marienplatz will run from November 25 to December 24, 2024.

The Christmas Market at Sendlinger Tor is another charming market situated around a lovely brick gate. This small yet captivating market features vendor booths offering international goods and plentiful local delicacies. It will be open from November 25 to December 22, 2024.

For a unique experience, don’t miss the Munich Advent Spectacle & Medieval Christmas Market. Immerse yourself in a medieval-themed setting, complete with merchants in historical attire and traditional baked goods. The Medieval Christmas Market will be open from November 25 to December 23, 2024.

For more information about Munich’s Christmas markets, click here.

Christmas Markets in Berlin

While Berlin may not be as renowned for its large Christmas markets as cities in Bavaria and Saxony, it still offers plenty of festive cheer.

The Christmas Market on Alexanderplatz provides a central location and a vibrant atmosphere—a blend of market, fairground, and party. It will run from November 25 to December 26, 2024.

Positioned in front of Berlin’s City Hall, the Christmas Market at Berlin City Hall is rich in history, featuring winding lanes of market stalls, street performers, and an old carousel. It will be open from November 25 to December 30, 2024.

For an atmospheric experience, visit the Christmas Market at Charlottenburg Palace, which emphasizes traditional holiday foods and nostalgic attractions. This market will run from November 25 to December 29, 2024 (closed on Christmas Eve).

For more information about Berlin’s Christmas markets, click here.

Striezelmarkt in Dresden

Dresden is renowned for its numerous Christmas markets, with Striezelmarkt being one of the oldest, dating back to the 15th century. This market holds a special place in history, reflecting Germany’s rich Christmas traditions. The Striezelmarkt will be open from November 27 to December 24, 2024.

For more information about the Striezelmarkt in Dresden, click here.

Christmas Market in Frankfurt

With roots tracing back to 1393, the Frankfurt Christmas Market is one of Germany’s largest and most vibrant markets. Adorned with a large Christmas tree, lavish decorations, and colorful stalls, it stands out as one of the best Christmas markets in Europe. The Frankfurt Christmas Market will be open from November 25 to December 22, 2024.

For more information about Frankfurt’s Christmas Market, click here.

Christmas Markets in France

France, known for its breathtaking cities and picturesque landscapes, becomes even more enchanting during the Christmas season.

Christmas Market in Strasbourg

Strasbourg, often hailed as the “Capital of Christmas,” transforms into a magical haven each December. Established in 1570, the Strasbourg Christmas Market enchants visitors with breathtaking lights and festive decorations, complemented by the enticing aroma of cinnamon and spices. The Strasbourg Christmas Market will run from November 27 to December 27, 2024.

For more information about Strasbourg’s Christmas Market, click here.

Christmas Markets in Paris

The City of Light shines even brighter during Christmas. Various markets can be found scattered throughout Paris, with The Magic of Christmas at Tuileries Garden being one of the foremost. Complete with a Ferris wheel, an ice-skating rink, and numerous food stalls, the Tuileries Garden Christmas Market is bursting with festivity. It will run from November 16, 2024, to January 1, 2025.

Another must-visit market is the Hotel de Ville Christmas Market, set against the splendid backdrop of City Hall each December. Known for its impressive decorations, this market frequently features a stunning light show after sunset. While this year’s dates haven’t been confirmed yet, it’s generally open for the entire month of December.

Christmas Markets in the Czech Republic

The Czech Republic, centrally located in Europe, is filled with magical charm, especially at Christmas.

Christmas Markets in Prague

Few places exude the fairytale charm of Prague during the holiday season. The crown jewel of Christmas markets in Prague is the Old Town Square Christmas Market, featuring food stalls and twinkling lights set in a stunning backdrop. It opens from November 30, 2024, to January 6, 2025.

Smaller but equally festive, the Wenceslas Square Christmas Market takes place in this magnificent square’s pedestrian area from November 30, 2024, to January 6, 2025.

For a More Local Feel

While the popular central markets cater mainly to tourists, you can find a more authentic experience just outside the historic city center in neighborhood squares like Namesti Miru. The Namesti Miru Christmas Market will run from November 20 to December 24, 2024.

For an even more authentic experience, consider visiting Brno, Czechia’s second city, or the medieval setting of Cesky Krumlov.

For more information about Prague’s Christmas markets, click here.

Christmas Markets in Hungary

Though Budapest is well-known, Hungary is rich in charm and deserves attention, especially during the holiday season.

The largest Christmas market in Budapest, Christmas Market at Vörösmarty Square, boasts over 100 stalls selling handmade decorations and seasonal delights, along with live music and performances. While the exact dates for the 2024 market are still to be confirmed, it typically runs from mid-November through New Year’s Day.

For more information about Budapest’s Christmas markets, click here.

Christmas Markets in the Baltics

If you’re dreaming of a serene, snowy Northern European Christmas away from bustling crowds, consider visiting the Baltics this festive season.

Christmas Market in Tallinn

Tallinn, the charming capital of Estonia, transforms into a winter wonderland during Christmas. Set in the enchanting Town Hall Square, the Tallinn Christmas Market offers a memorable experience that you’ll cherish forever. It will be open from November 22 to December 27, 2024.

For more information about the Tallinn Christmas Market, click here.

Christmas Market in Riga

Riga’s Town Square Christmas Market is a gem, often overlooked compared to other European markets. Located in Doma Laukums, the historic main square, it will run from November 29, 2024, to January 2, 2025.

For more information about the main Riga Christmas Market, click here.

Christmas Market in Vilnius

With one of the world’s most stunning Christmas trees, the Christmas Village at Cathedral Square in Vilnius will whisk you away into a realm of festive magic. Here, you can explore handcrafted souvenirs and enjoy delightful local delicacies. The Christmas Village at Cathedral Square will run from November 29 to December 29, 2024, with the magnificent Christmas tree remaining on display until January 7, 2025.

For more information, click here.

Christmas Markets in Croatia

If you’re looking for a warmer Christmas destination, Croatia offers vibrant markets brimming with holiday spirit.

The acclaimed Advent in Zagreb is Croatia’s most famous Christmas market. Set in the city’s main square, it features a plethora of stalls and joyful decorations coupled with music events. Advent in Zagreb will run from November 30, 2024, to January 7, 2025.

For more information about Advent in Zagreb, click here.

Christmas Markets in Portugal & Spain

If you’re seeking a warmer Christmas escape, check out the charming markets in Portugal and Spain.

Christmas Markets in Lisbon, Portugal

Lively festive cheer fills Lisbon during Advent and Christmas. The heart of holiday celebrations beats in Rossio, a major square known for its iconic black and white pavement, which transforms into a Christmas wonderland from mid-November to Christmas Eve. Exact dates for the Rossio Christmas Market are still pending confirmation.

Also, Lisbon hosts its very own Wonderland Lisboa at the lush Parque Eduardo VII. Complete with an ice rink, a giant Ferris wheel, and a Santa Claus village, Lisbon’s winter wonderland is full of festive delight. While the exact dates for this year are still to be confirmed, expect it to run from November 30, 2024, to January 1, 2025.

Stay tuned for announcements and more information regarding Lisbon’s Christmas markets and other festivities in Portugal.

Christmas Markets in Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Spain, and a pre-Christmas trip is always a delightful idea. The city radiates joy with its festive decorations, especially showcased in its two main Christmas markets. The historic Fira de Santa Llucia, renowned for its Nativity Scenes and Christmas customs, will be open from November 28 to December 23, 2024, near the city’s cathedral.

Under the iconic Sagrada Familia, the Sagrada Familia Christmas Market will also light up from November 28 to December 23, 2024. The best time to catch the lively atmosphere is on December 21 or 22 when Santa Claus is a special guest.

For more information about Barcelona’s vibrant Christmas markets and other exciting activities during the holiday season, click here.

Christmas Market in Madrid, Spain

While in Barcelona, consider extending your trip to Madrid, the vibrant capital of Spain. The main square, Plaza Mayor, hosts a colorful Christmas market with over a hundred stalls featuring festive decorations, traditional crafts, and unique gifts. The Plaza Mayor Christmas Market will operate from November 29 to December 31, 2024.

For more information, click here.

Explore Some Christmas Market Tour Ideas

Are you dreaming of a Christmas vacation in Europe? We can help bring your vision to life. Choose an itinerary that appeals to you, estimate the cost, and share your exact travel dates with us. We’ll handle the rest, making your journey to Europe’s merry Christmas markets a reality!

Born and raised in Athens, Maria is passionate about travel and storytelling, making her an ideal content manager for all things travel.