Planning a winter getaway but not sure where to go? These magical Christmas markets on the Continent might just give you the inspiration you need.
Flocking to continental Europe each year in search of the next best winter wonderland has become standard practice for many in the UK. Merely a few hours away by plane (or train), its cobbled streets, ancient landmarks and medieval squares — the backdrops to myriad Christmas markets — sit poised and ready for yuletide festivities to begin.
Picture the scene: postcard-perfect strolls along charming lanes as crowds gather excitedly around artisan craft stalls and children glide hand-in-hand across ice rinks.
Arrive hungry and indulge in the regional treats on offer, whether it’s pierogi, draft beer, sweet cinnamon pastries or a hearty goulash. If you’re after an additional dose of festive cheer, pick the markets animated by carol singers or captivating light shows and those offering the delightful possibility of a sprinkling of snow.
So, take a break from the dreary UK winter and let our pick of the top Christmas markets in continental Europe tempt you on a twinkling festive escape.
Christmas in Tivoli, Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen, Denmark
15 November 2024 to 5 January 2025
With the aromas of caramelised almonds and cinnamon-infused mulled wine in the air, experience the magic of Nordic Christmas at Copenhagen’s historic Tivoli Gardens. Stroll beneath trees swathed in twinkling lights and 70,000 festive baubles, and soak up the sights of the spinning Ferris wheel and miniature wooden houses decorated with snow-covered pine branches.
As you enjoy a delectable treat or warming beverage, browse the 60-plus stalls selling intricate decorations, knitted sweaters, handcrafted leather products and traditional toys (mini wooden horses are a favourite). Pause for a while in front of the large red Christmas heart that projects classic Nordic Christmas stories, then wander on to gaze up at the two magnificent Christmas trees — one outside Tivoli Concert Hall and one on Tivoli Lake.
St Stephen’s Basilica Christmas market, Budapest, Hungary
15 November 2024 to 1 January 2025
Standing on Szent István Square, in front of the neo-classical St Stephen’s Basilica, the Basilica market is one of two prominent Christmas markets in Budapest and the city’s oldest. Food stalls, handicraft shops and free concerts abound, while each evening laser projections dance across the Basilica itself. Breathing new life into the festive season, the mesmerising light display is held every 30 minutes from 5.30pm.
Skate around the ice rink that encircles the grand Christmas tree, savour chocolate bonbons and goulash soup and enjoy Hungarian folk dances by the Göncöl Ensemble. To celebrate the Advent season, a candle-lighting ceremony is held every Sunday at 4pm, starting on 2 December.
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Heinzels Winter Fairytale, Cologne, Germany
25 November 2024 Â to 5 January 2025
A strong contender for a must-visit Christmas destination, this market is themed around the city’s famed Heinzelmännchen: legendary house elves that are said to take care of locals’ housework while they sleep (if only, right?). It really does look like it’s been built by elves, and is widely regarded as one of the prettiest and most exquisitely decorated markets in Cologne — a renowned Christmas destination in itself.
A celebration of ornate garnishing and intricate craftsmanship, the market sees artisans from across Europe gather to showcase their skills, from wood carvers to blacksmiths and confectioners. Watch these masters at work before participating in one of the many ice sports on offer. And don’t forget: elves are a fan of great food, so come with an empty stomach, ready to sample traditional culinary delights like handbrot (stuffed bread), potato fritters and flame-grilled salmon.
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Old Town Square Christmas market, Prague, Czech Republic
30 November 2024 to 6 January 2025
In a city famous for its intriguing architecture and enchanting bridges, Prague’s main Christmas market is a captivating festive treat. Held in Old Town Square, the bustling centre of the market is sandwiched between glorious historic sights — the 14th-century Church of our Lady Before Týn and the famous 15th-century astronomical clock — and its stalls brim with homemade traditional Czech delicacies like roast pork, gingerbread and trdelnÃk (a cylindrical cake).
Scour the stands to find items from hand-blown glass baubles to unique handmade crafts, plus plenty of svařák (a popular citrussy mulled wine). What truly sets the Old Town Square market apart are the goats, sheep and donkey available for petting, adding an extra touch of magic to this festive experience.
Christmas at Liseberg Park, Gothenburg, Sweden
16 November to 29 December 2024
For another Nordic wonderland offering ample opportunity for mulled wine indulgence, consider Liseberg Park in Gothenburg. A vibrant amusement park for most of the year, it transforms into a charming open-air Christmas market come winter, offering festive activities such as free children’s entertainment and a chance to visit Santa in his wooden workshop.
With the scent of candied almonds and cashew nuts following you round the market, indulge in fudge toffee, delicious cheeses and sausages — and perhaps some smoked reindeer if you’re feeling adventurous. Find unique gifts like sheepskin mittens, slippers and mouth-blown glass ornaments, as well as ceramics and wooden toys. Plus, don’t miss the enchanting half-hour ice show. With the market open from 3pm to 10pm most days, it’s the perfect setting for a special evening on a romantic getaway.
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Krakow Christmas market, Krakow, Poland
29 November 2024 to 1 January 2025
Each year from November to January, Rynek Główny, the main square of Krakow’s Old Town and one of the largest medieval squares in Europe, morphs into a festive utopia. Flanked by the iconic 14-century St Mary’s Basilica and the 15th-century Cloth Hall, the square — part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed historic town centre — becomes a hub of holiday activity. Crowds gather around the stunning architecture and families come together to enjoy Polish delicacies and the buzzing ambience.
A paradise for any adventurous foodie, at Rynek Główny you’ll be tempted by pierogi, smoked cheese with cranberry reserve and goulash — and you can wash it all down with sweet, vodka-based hot drinks and draft beer on tap. Traditional decorations, stalls and horse-drawn carriages pepper the square and, as snow is no stranger to the region, you could step into an enchantingly magical scene.
Salzburg Christkindlmarkt, Salzburg, Austria
23 November 2024 to 1 January 2025
At the Salzburg Christkindlmarkt, or Christmas market, you can find yourself immersed in centuries of history via song and dance. Known as the city of Mozart, Salzburg has a Christmas market tradition dating back to the late 15th century, when it served locals with a variety of goods from vendors who had travelled from far and wide. To this day, it’s celebrated worldwide for its charming stalls and traditional decorations.
Situated on Domplatz and Residenzplatz, the market offers ample opportunity to come by unique, handcrafted treasures and delightful stocking fillers while sampling Austrian specialities such as mulled wine and chocolate gingerbread. Enjoy free daily carolling concerts at 5pm in front of the cathedral, including traditional wind music on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. And if you’re feeling particularly festive, you can even join in a sing-along choir on Tuesdays from 6pm to 8pm.
