Traveling to Europe around the holidays is an awesome experience for one reason: the Christmas markets. However, because of the array of enticing places, finding the right Christmas market can be challenging. To help simplify your planning, we’ve curated a list of six of the best Christmas markets in Europe.
These aren’t the typical Christmas market destinations you’d expect. And while it may be difficult to visit all of them, experiencing even just one of these magnificent markets will surely leave you with lasting memories and a profound sense of the holiday spirit.
Craiova, Romania
Craiova Market in Romania truly captures the essence of Christmas. It has been named one of the best Christmas markets in Europe for the past four years and was ranked the second best by travel website European Best Destinations this year.
There’s so much to see and do, from a vibrant cultural program to a spectacular ice rink. Worth visiting are the Christmas cottages and the towering tree, often hailed as the most magical in Western Europe. Each year, a unique theme adds extra sparkle to the festivities.
Visitors can expect numerous concerts, engaging workshops, and the tallest Ferris wheel in Romania. This year, the market has a snow queen theme with a fairy-tale-like atmosphere.
So, if you are looking for the best Christmas markets in Europe, consider Craiova.
Montbeliard, France
When it comes to the holidays and European Christmas markets, France offers a truly unique and distinct experience, particularly in Montbéliard. This year, the city ranked eighth on European Best Destinations’ list of the “Best Christmas Markets in Europe,” It’s quite likely that you’ve never heard of this Christmas market before.
Montbéliard is famed for its romantic lights, especially at the Christmas market, known locally as Les Lumières de Noël. The market transforms the city into a winter wonderland, with 140 charming stalls offering high-quality goods.
Visitors can wander through the beautifully illuminated streets, savoring delicious local foods, browsing exquisite arts and crafts, and enjoying a variety of musical and choral performances.
For those looking to extend their stay, Montbéliard also serves as a gateway to nearby ski resorts, where you can experience the winter magic of France in full.
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is a fascinating holiday destination, with the Advent Basilica taking center stage. The festivities typically begin in mid-November and last until January 1. Each year, the Christmas market offers something different, but you can expect around 100 local craft sellers, delicious Hungarian food, an ice-skating rink, music, and charity events.
Considering it’s one of the best Christmas markets in Europe, you can count on a real celebratory treat. However, if you’re considering going, you should make plans in advance because it’s a popular attraction during the holiday season.
Riga, Latvia
Latvia is another extraordinary country offering a spectacular Christmas experience. The capital Riga has an amazing Christmas light trail, which runs until February, and has earned the city acclaim as one of the “Best Christmas Lights in Europe” by European Best Destinations.
As you walk through Opera Square, Bastejkalns, and Kronvalda Park, you’ll find yourself immersed in various Latvian fairy tales set to delightful musical accompaniments.
Of course, you can’t miss the Old Riga Christmas Market in Doma Square, decked out with a large central tree, a carousel, local goods, and festive live music. Notably, Riga was one of the first European cities to display a Christmas tree, dating back to 1510.
For those looking to dive deeper into the city’s history, a walking tour of Riga is highly recommended. Alternatively, for a more adventurous experience, consider participating in a scavenger hunt to discover the city from a unique perspective.
Valkenburg, The Netherlands
Valkenburg has one of the best Christmas bazaars in Europe and one of the greatest holiday parades you’ll find anywhere. Engulfed in holiday magic, it’s rumored that Santa Claus actually comes from Valkenburg aan de Geul.
What sets Valkenburg’s Christmas market apart from others in Europe is its unique setting; a significant portion of the market is held within a network of underground caves, richly decorated for the season. These historic marlstone caves provide a fascinating atmosphere for vendors to sell their festive wares.
Head to the “Gemeentegrot” (Municipal Cave), one of the largest underground Christmas markets in Europe, for an unparalleled holiday shopping experience in an extraordinary subterranean environment.
Birmingham, United Kingdom
Looking for another of the best Christmas markets in Europe? Birmingham, United Kingdom is the place to be. Birmingham is home to the largest authentic German Christmas market outside Germany and Austria.
As you wander through Victoria Square and New Street, you’ll find over 100 stalls brimming with traditional toys, ornaments, and crafts. Cathedral Square also features vendors selling artisan gifts and local food and drinks, while Centenary Square has an ice rink and a large Ferris wheel.
If you crave more than just the winter festivities, Birmingham provides numerous opportunities to explore the city. Embark on a variety of fun tours and excursions, such as a treasure hunt filled with hidden gems and cryptic clues. This engaging activity lets you discover Birmingham’s charm through exciting puzzles and thought-provoking questions.
