If you’re planning a trip to Europe during Advent and over the holidays this year, you’re in luck because you’ll get to experience some of the Continent’s most festive and atmospheric Christmas markets.
From traditional Christmastime destinations to more laid-back and undiscovered ones, our updated list of the best European Christmas markets to visit in 2026 has it all.
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The Christmas markets below generally run from late November to late December. However, some run into early January, or don’t start until early December, so check the linked websites to see the latest dates.
The Best Christmas Markets To Visit in Europe in 2026
Austria Christmas Markets
At Christmas, it feels as though all roads lead to Austria. The country is renowned for its romantic Christmas markets, with people from all over the globe flocking to Austrian cities to get a taste of their unique festive atmosphere.
Austria’s cities go all out for Christmas, with dazzling lights, massive Christmas trees, and stalls selling everything you’ll need to fuel some holiday spirit on the spot and to take home, too.
Christmas Markets in Salzburg
One of the most sought-after Christmas destinations in Europe, Salzburg is famous for its fairytale-like Christmas markets.
Among them, the main Salzburg Christmas Market stands out not only for its location in the stunning Cathedral Square but also for the range of amazing things to do there, from buying local crafts to savoring traditional food to enjoying performances from some of Salzburg’s most beloved choirs and children’s groups.
This year, the Salzburg Christmas Market will be open from 19 November 2026 to 01 January 2027.
The Christmas Market on Mirabell Square rivals the main market in Salzburg for pomp and circumstance. You’ll find tasty holiday treats and mulled wine along with plenty of handmade ornaments, all just a few minutes’ walk from the train station.
The Christmas Market in front of Mirabell Palace will be open between 19 November and 31 December 2026.
Last but not least, the Hohensalzburg Fortress’ Advent Market is certainly one of the city’s most atmospheric, as you’ll have all of Salzburg stretched out before you.
Take a scenic funicular ride up to enjoy the booths filled with arts and crafts as well as local delicacies. There are activities for children and a rich concert program as well.
The Advent Market at the Hohensalzburg Fortress Courtyard will run from 27 November to 20 December 2026.
For more information about Salzburg Christmas Markets, click here.
Christmas Markets in Vienna
Vienna is the perfect place to enjoy Christmas. The city’s many markets are all atmospheric and surrounded by magisterial architecture.
One of the city’s biggest markets, and the one you’ll often see pictured in most Vienna Christmas Markets Instagram pics, the Viennese Dream Christmas Market promises a unique festive experience.
Vienna’s illuminated City Hall makes for a dramatic backdrop in a beautiful place where you’ll find something for everyone, from ice skating to hot wine.
The Viennese Dream Christmas Market will run from 13 November to 26 December 2026.
More than 40 festive stalls await at the Belvedere K&K Christmas Market, yet another Viennese Christmas market. The Belvedere Palace is one of Vienna’s finest, a true Baroque masterpiece, so it’s hard not to have a good time here, especially when there’s a dusting of snow on the ground.
The Belvedere K&K Christmas Market will run from 20 November to 31 December 2026.
For more information about Vienna Christmas Markets, click here.
Germany Christmas Markets
Germany practically invented Christmas Markets, so much so that many countries call their Christmas markets German-style. Therefore, why not go to the source and drink deep? We’ve put together a 10-day German Christmas Markets itinerary that takes in many of the best.
Christmas Markets in Munich
Munich hosts many wonderful Christmas markets at unique and atmospheric spots all over the city.
Munich Christkindlmarkt on Marienplatz Square is one of the oldest Christmas markets in Munich. Conveniently located outside the Marienplatz metro station, this traditional Christmas market is very easy to get to from almost anywhere in the city.
Expect a wonderful winter atmosphere with tasty food and drink, live music, and fun for the whole family.
The Munich Christmas Market on Marienplatz Square will run from 20 November to 24 December 2026.
Another authentic German Christmas market is the Christmas Market at Sendlinger Tor, set around a beautiful brick gate. This small yet utterly charming Christmas market features vendor booths selling goods from all over the world and many stalls with local food and festive drinks.
The Christmas Market at Sendlinger Tor will be open from 20 November to 22 December 2026.
For a quirky take on Christmas markets, the Munich Advent Spectacle & Medieval Christmas Market is not to be missed.
In this perfect setting that will take you back to the Middle Ages, where merchants wear their traditional costumes and delicious foods are baked, this themed Christmas market promises an unparalleled experience to remember.
The Medieval Christmas Market will run from 20 November to 23 December 2026.
For more information about Munich Christmas markets, click here.
Christmas Markets in Berlin
Germany’s capital doesn’t have the same reputation for massive Christmas markets that the cities of Bavaria and Saxony can boast, but there’s plenty of festive cheer to be had in Berlin.
It doesn’t get more central than Alexanderplatz. Described as something between a market, a fairground, and a party, the Christmas Market on Alexanderplatz guarantees you’ll have a good time there.
The Christmas Market on Alexanderplatz will run from 23 November to 26 December 2026.
A market right in front of the seat of power in Berlin, the Christmas Market at Berlin City Hall is a piece of Berlin history, with narrow lanes of market stalls, street performers, and organ grinders. Kids, young and old, will be thrilled to find an old-time carousel and a circular ice-skating rink.
The Christmas Market at Berlin City Hall will run from 23 November 2026 to 03 January 2027.
If you’re looking for the most atmospheric backdrop you could ever wish for, head to the Christmas Market at Charlottenburg Palace.
Come hungry, as you’ll be tempted by gingerbread and freshly baked bread from a wood-fired oven. The emphasis here is on traditional Christmas, whether that’s the food or the nostalgic fairground attractions to be found near the Orangery.
The Christmas Market at Charlottenburg Palace will run from 23 November to 27 December 2026 (closed on Christmas Eve).
For more information about Berlin Christmas markets, click here.
Striezelmarkt in Dresden
Dresden is famous for its Christmas markets. It has almost a dozen of them in various squares throughout the city, and the one known as Striezelmarkt might just be the oldest Christmas market in Germany, having started in the 15th century.
Considering Germany’s role in the development of Christmas mythology, that’s really something special.
The Striezelmarkt will run from 25 November to 24 December 2026.
For more information about the Striezelmarkt in Dresden, click here.
Christmas Market in Frankfurt
Dating back to 1393, the Frankfurt Christmas Market is one of the brightest and largest Christmas markets in Germany. With its great Christmas tree, elaborate festive decorations, and colorful stalls, the Christmas Market in Frankfurt is one of the best Christmas markets in Europe.
The Frankfurt Christmas Market will be open from 23 November to 22 December 2026.
For more information about Frankfurt’s Christmas Market, click here.
France Christmas Markets
It’s no secret that France is one of the most beautiful countries in Europe. At Christmas, this enchanting country of gorgeous cities and dreamy landscapes becomes even prettier; if that’s even possible.
Christmas Market in Strasbourg
Strasbourg is called the Capital of Christmas, and for good reason. Since 1570, the Strasbourg Christmas Market has been transforming the city into a magical world that fascinates adults and children alike every December.
Christmas lights and decorations in Strasbourg are second to none, while the air is scented with the sweet aromas of cinnamon and spices. No place feels more festive than Strasbourg during the holidays.
The Strasbourg Christmas Market will run from 27 November 2026, but the entire schedule is yet to be finalized.
For more information about Strasbourg’s Christmas Market, including this year’s exact dates, click here.
Christmas Markets in Paris
The City of Light sparkles all year long, but even more so at Christmas. Scattered across the city, you will find several Christmas markets in Paris, with The Magic of Christmas at Tuileries Garden being one of the best among them.
Complete with a Ferris wheel, an ice-skating rink, and countless food trucks and drink stalls, the Tuileries Garden Christmas market has no shortage of festive cheer.
It will run from 06 November 2026 to 08 January 2027.
Another Paris Christmas market not to miss is the Hotel de Ville Christmas Market, which pops up in front of the ornate City Hall every December. Apart from its impressive decorations, the Hotel de Ville Christmas Market is also famous for the amazing light show it puts on after sunset.
The provisional dates for this year’s Hotel de Ville Christmas Market are from 04 December 2026 to 03 January 2027.
Czech Republic Christmas Markets
Situated in the heart of Central Europe, the Czech Republic is a country filled with magic, especially at Christmas.
Christmas Markets in Prague
Few cities can boast the fairytale-like vibes that the Czech capital abounds in. One of the prettiest cities in Europe, Prague is a sight to behold during the Christmas season.
The biggest of all Christmas markets in Prague is the Old Town Square Christmas Market. With food vendors and sparkling lights in a setting of unfathomable beauty, you simply can’t escape the festive cheer there.
The Old Town Square Christmas Market will run from 28 November 2026 to 06 January 2027.
Smaller yet equally festive, the Wenceslas Square Christmas Market is held in the magnificent square’s pedestrianized zone.
This year’s dates for the Wenceslas Square Christmas Market are 28 November 2026 to 06 January 2027.
For a More Local Feel
Although spectacular, central Prague’s Christmas Markets can be heavily geared towards tourists. For a more local feel, head to the neighborhood squares just outside the historic city center, like Namesti Miru.
The Namesti Miru Christmas Market will run from 20 November to 24 December 2026.
For more information about Prague Christmas markets, click here.
If you want to experience an even more authentic Czech Christmas Market, include Brno, Czechia’s second city, in your itinerary, or go overboard on medieval atmosphere and head to Cesky Krumlov.
Slovakia Christmas Markets
Often overshadowed by its popular neighbor, Czechia, Slovakia has a lot in store for those willing to explore its off-the-beaten-path charms, especially at Christmas.
Bratislava Christmas Market
If you’re dreaming of a cheerful yet intimate setting, away from the inevitable crowds that the most popular Christmas markets attract, look no further. The Old Town Christmas Market in Bratislava has it all, from stalls selling food and crafts made by local artisans to festive events to sparkling lights.
The Bratislava Christmas Market will run from 26 November 2026 to 03 January 2027, but it will be closed on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
Read more about the Bratislava Christmas Market here.
Kosice Christmas Market
Kosice Fairytale Christmas is this lesser-known city’s main Christmas market. Spreading along the main pedestrianized street in Kosice, this is so much more than just another Christmas market.
It’s a winter wonderland that transforms the city into a true fairytale with music and dance shows, culinary delights, and several stalls selling authentic gifts.
You can experience the Kosice Fairytale Christmas through the entire month of December.
Poland Christmas Markets
Right in the heart of Central Europe, Poland is a country known for its rich history, hearty cuisine, and smiling people. Polish cities boast spectacular architecture, which you can explore with a cup of hot chocolate in hand on a cold day, and they become even more beautiful under the sparkling Christmas lights.
Krakow Christmas Market
The indisputable star of Poland, Krakow hosts one of Poland’s most festive Christmas markets. Covering about a quarter of the city’s vast Market Square, probably the most iconic spot in Krakow, the Krakow Christmas Market abounds in glistening lights, but also delicious treats.
Apart from several stalls selling Christmas ornaments and other handmade goods, one of the market’s biggest draws is the freshly cooked food served on-site, the best way to warm up on a cold winter day.
Although the exact 2026 dates aren’t confirmed yet, the Krakow Christmas Market is expected to run from the end of November to early January.
Gdansk Christmas Market
Built along Poland’s Baltic Coast, Gdansk is a gorgeous city that takes great pride in its Christmas celebrations, and for good reason. The Gdansk Christmas Market won first place in the Best Christmas Markets in Europe competition for 2025.
Apart from festive lights and colorful stalls selling everything from handmade crafts to delicious treats, this Christmas market also hosts several cultural events that range from theatre, dance, and singing performances to creative workshops and meet-ups with Santa Claus.
The Gdansk Christmas Market will run from 20 November to 23 December 2026.
Click here for an overview of Poland’s Christmas markets.
Switzerland Christmas Markets
If you’re looking to combine festive cheer with some of Europe’s most spectacular natural landscapes and postcard-perfect cities, Switzerland should be part of your next winter adventure.
Zurich Christmas Market
Although there are several Christmas markets dotting Zurich, we’d like to focus on the one held at the city’s main train station.
What makes the Zurich Main Station Christmas Market stand out is that it’s one of the largest indoor Christmas markets in Europe. So, if you’re not a great fan of cold weather, this Christmas market is for you.
This unique Christmas market will be around from 19 November to 24 December 2026.
Read more about Zurich’s Christmas markets here, or be inspired by more Swiss Christmas markets here.
Hungary Christmas Markets
Everybody knows Budapest. Yet, its quaint capital aside, Hungary is one of the most undiscovered countries in Europe. As such, it deserves your attention this holiday season.
Budapest Christmas Market
The grandest of all Christmas markets in Budapest, the Christmas Market at Vörösmarty Square is home to over 100 stalls that sell everything from handmade Christmas decorations to delicious seasonal treats. There are also live performances and music concerts.
The 2026 dates for the Christmas Market at Vörösmarty Square are from 13 November 2026 to the early hours of New Year’s Day.
For more information about Budapest Christmas markets, click here.
The Baltics Christmas Markets
If you’re dreaming of a white Northern European Christmas but without crowds of holiday-goers, you should start thinking of a festive trip to the Baltics.
Tallinn Christmas Market
Tallinn, the bijou capital of Estonia, feels like a fairy tale that comes to life during Christmas. Set in a marvelous location at the city’s Town Hall Square, the Tallinn Christmas Market offers a special experience to cherish for life.
The Tallinn Christmas Market will run between 20 November 2026 and 06 January 2027.
For more information about the Tallinn Christmas Market, click here.
Riga Christmas Market
While there are several small Christmas markets scattered across the capital of Latvia, the Old Town Christmas Market in Riga is the one not to miss. Held in Doma Laukums, the city’s historic main square, the Old Town Christmas Market in Riga is one of Europe’s lesser-known Christmas markets.
The Old Town Christmas Market in Riga will take place from 27 November 2026 to 03 January 2027.
For more information about the main Riga Christmas Market, click here.
Vilnius Christmas Market
Home to one of the most beautiful Christmas trees in the world, the Christmas Market at Cathedral Square in Vilnius awaits to transport you into a world of Christmas magic. At Vilnius’ main Christmas market, you can find handcrafted souvenirs to buy and mouthwatering local treats to try.
The Christmas Market at Cathedral Square in the capital of Lithuania takes place between 28 November and 27 December 2026.
Click here for more information.
Croatia Christmas Markets
If you’re looking for a somewhat warmer place to visit this Christmas, Croatia might just be the perfect destination, as it has no shortage of bright Christmas markets to visit and feel festive.
Advent in Zagreb is probably the most famous of all Christmas markets in Croatia. This award-winning Christmas market takes place at the city’s main square and is renowned for its varied stalls, bright decorations, music events, and other live entertainment.
Advent in Zagreb will run between 28 November 2026 and 07 January 2027.
For more information about Advent in Zagreb, click here.
Portugal & Spain Christmas Markets
Speaking of a warmer Christmas, the Iberian Peninsula can never disappoint. In Portugal and Spain, you can find the perfect combination of Christmas decorations and pleasant weather.
Christmas Markets in Lisbon, Portugal
The Portuguese capital has no shortage of festive cheer during Advent and Christmas. The heart of the holiday celebrations beats at one of the city’s main squares, Rossio.
Known for its iconic black and white pavements, the square is transformed into a Christmas wonderland from mid-November to Christmas Eve.
This year’s dates for the Rossio Christmas Market are 15 November to 22 December.
Speaking of that, Lisbon has its very own Wonderland Lisboa, set at the edge of the lush Parque Eduardo VII. Complete with an ice rink, a giant Ferris wheel, and a Santa Claus village, Lisbon’s winter wonderland smells of Christmas at every turn.
This year’s dates are between 28 November 2026 and 3 January 2027.
For more information about Christmas markets in Lisbon and the rest of Portugal, click here.
Christmas Markets in Barcelona, Spain
We’re pretty sure you don’t need a special reason to visit Barcelona, which is, without a doubt, one of the best places to visit in Spain. However, a pre-Christmas trip to the country’s vibrant second city can never be a bad idea.
The city looks extra cheerful with all its Christmas decorations, especially if you stroll through its two main Christmas markets.
The centuries-old Fira de Santa Llucia is known for its Nativity Scenes and Christmas traditions and awaits you from 01 to 23 December 2026 near the city’s Cathedral.
Under the shadow of Barcelona’s most iconic landmark, the Sagrada Familia Christmas Market is held between 01 December 2026 and 03 January 2027.
For more information about Barcelona’s most popular Christmas markets and suggestions for other amazing things you can do in Barcelona during the holidays, click here.
Christmas Market in Madrid, Spain
If you’re already in Barcelona, why not complement your Spain itinerary with a trip to Madrid, the country’s fantastic capital? Plaza Mayor, Madrid’s main square, hosts a colorful Christmas market with over one hundred stalls selling festive decorations, traditional handicrafts, and unique gifts.
The Plaza Mayor Christmas Market runs from late November to 31 December 2026.
For more information, click here.
UK Christmas Markets
While mainland Europe is famous for its centuries-old holiday traditions, the United Kingdom has built a fantastic Christmas market scene of its own.
From giant city-center winter wonderlands with massive fairground rides to quiet, historic streets lined with local artisan chalets, these markets bring a great festive energy across the country.
Whether you are looking for handmade crafts in a Georgian town, independent Scottish designs in the Highlands, or street food beneath a historic castle, here are the most iconic Christmas markets to add to your merry UK itinerary.
Christmas Markets in London
London transforms into an absolute wonderland during the festive season, making it a spectacular destination to take in the holiday spirit. The UK capital truly comes alive as world-famous streets and public spaces are clad in millions of glittering fairy lights.
If you are hunting for the ultimate seasonal spectacle, Hyde Park Winter Wonderland stands as the city’s crowning jewel.
Spread across a vast historic park, this famous event is known for its high-energy, vibrant atmosphere. Visitors can wander through a massive Bavarian village, brace for thrilling fairground rides, or glide along the UK’s largest open-air ice rink.
The Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is scheduled to run from 19 November 2026 to 03 January 2027.
For a completely different vibe, take a stroll over to the Southbank Centre Winter Market, which offers a wonderfully cozy alternative. Nestled right along the banks of the River Thames, this pathway features a gorgeous lineup of traditional Alpine chalets.
It is a dream destination for foodies looking to sample artisan street food, like bubbling raclette and sweet Dutch pancakes, while taking in illuminated, panoramic views of the London skyline.
The Southbank Centre Winter Market will welcome visitors from 02 November 2026 to 04 January 2027.
There are many other Christmas markets scattered across the British capital, so click here to learn more.
Bath Christmas Market
But it’s not just London that deserves your attention this Christmas. Often dubbed the best Christmas market in the United Kingdom, the Bath Christmas Market brings a world of magic set against the backdrop of a gorgeous, UNESCO-listed Georgian town.
The Christmas market in Bath is famous for its local artisan and craft stalls. There are also live music events while street performers add to the irresistibly cheerful atmosphere.
The Bath Christmas Market will run from 26 November to 13 December 2026.
Learn more about this unique Christmas market here.
York Christmas Market
The York Christmas Market stands out because it’s deeply rooted in the local community, with over 80% of its traders hailing from the surrounding Yorkshire region.
Instead of generic imports, the market features authentic regional crafts, independent makers, and traditional food, all set against a stunning medieval backdrop.
Wooden alpine chalets wind through cobblestone streets right next to historic timber-framed buildings and the grand York Minster, creating an atmosphere that feels like stepping into a living winter fairytale.
The York Christmas Market runs from 12 November to 21 December 2026.
Click here to read more about the Christmas market in York.
Christmas Markets in Scotland
Further north, Scotland awaits to fascinate you. Christmas markets in Scotland stand out for blending a traditional European festive spirit with rich Scottish history, dramatic architecture, and exceptional local flavors.
The Edinburgh Christmas Market is widely considered one of the best holiday markets in the UK because it completely transforms the city center into a multi-site winter wonderland.
Apart from holiday shopping stalls, the Christmas market in Edinburgh also boasts thrilling, large-scale fairground attractions.
The Edinburgh Christmas Market runs from 14 November 2026 to 03 January 2027.
For a completely authentic experience, head to Inverness, the capital of the Highlands. At the Eden Court Christmas Craft Fairs, you will find entirely Scottish-made items, such as antler art, authentic Harris Tweed gifts, hand-carved driftwood, and Scottish botanical skincare.
The fairs are designed for finding slow-made, one-of-a-kind gifts straight from the hands of the artists.
The Eden Court Christmas Craft Fairs will take place over two weekends in November 2026: from 20 to 22 November and from 27 to 29 November.
Learn more about what to do in Scotland at Christmas here.
Check Out Some Christmas Market Tour Ideas
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Born and raised in Athens, Maria’s passionate about travel and storytelling, a combination that makes her ideal for her role as our content manager.