It's the most wonderful time of the year indeed! December is here, and with it the cities are filled with laughter, joy and mulled wine. Speaking of lights and mulled wine you know what else comes with December? Christmas Markets! Caroling, roasted chesnuts, and hot chocolate... What’s not to love?
In this blog, we are going to show you the best Christmas markets in Europe so you can be inspired and visit them to get the festive cheer!
1 - Christkindelsmärik (France)
One of Europe's oldest Christmas markets happens in Strasbourg, circling its cathedral since 1570. Across a dozen places in the city, there are thirty stalls to explore. At the heart of it all is Place Kléber, featuring a grand Christmas tree surrounded by food and drink stalls. There are many events and a unique market called “The Off Market”. It's a treasure trove of organic food, vintage furniture, custom clothes, original art, and even second-hand appliances.
2 - Joulupukin Pajakylä (Finland)
Rovaniemi, the capital of Lapland in northern Finland, is officially known as the hometown of Santa Claus. It's no wonder that it has one of the biggest Christmas markets around. Established in 1985, it has a hotel, two restaurants, themed shops, Santa's hideaway, and a post office - the only one with a special stamp from the Arctic Circle. Alongside Siberian huskies and reindeers, one of the main attractions is SantaPark, a secret cavern doubling as a theme park. Here you can explore the Elf School, take part in a cookie decorating workshop, ride a magical train, and even visit an ice bar.
3 - Adventi ünnep a Bazilikánál (Hungary)
This Christmas market, one of the most beautiful in Hungary, takes place in Budapest, surrounding St Stephen's Basilica" (Szent István Bazilika), where you'll find dozens of vendors, regional food, and various entertainments. In the center, in the center is an ice rink, where you can skate for free around the incredible Christmas tree. This year, there's also a special attraction: a projection on the basilica. On Wednesdays, Fridays, and weekends, the display is preceded by a musical concert.
4 - Óbidos Vila Natal (Portugal)
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Vila Natal in Óbidos has returned to the medieval town until the 31st of December. The lineup includes the most sought-after attractions, all of which are Harry Potter themed this year. These include the Ice Ramp, Quidditch ice skating, and the Broom zipline. At the same time, the schedule is packed with activities for the whole family, such as Hagrid's House where everything is big and you feel very small!
In total, there are over ten areas for both kids and adults to enjoy. The lineup includes the most sought-after attractions like the ice ramp, the carousel, and the Christmas train. At the same time, the schedule is packed with activities for the whole family.
5 - Christkindlmarkt am Rathausplatz (Austria)
The Christkindlmarkt am Rathausplatz is one of the world's biggest Christmas markets. Attracting over four million visitors annually, it is the oldest and biggest in Vienna. With 100+ stalls selling crafts and tasty treats like gluhwein (mulled wine) and bauernkrapfen (similar to doughnuts), it's a must-visit. Located at Rathausplatz, in front of Vienna’s town hall, it features an ice skating rink, a carousel, and a huge Christmas tree. Don’t miss the Tree of Hearts covered in red hearts or the Nativity scenes — they really get you in the festive mood!
6 - Christmas in Covent Garden (UK)
Few things capture the Christmas spirit quite like the towering 60-foot Christmas tree adorned with over 115,000 vibrant lights in Covent Garden. Make your way to witness its majestic sparkle. While there, step into the enchanting Christmas Village across the East Piazza of the market building. Explore the craft stalls for holiday shopping, sip on one of the 25 types of mulled wine available, and enjoy the daily snow showers, guaranteeing a white Christmas.
7- Zagreb Christmas Market (Croatia)
During Christmas, the Croatian capital really gets into the spirit. Several streets are decked out with wooden chalets selling a variety of items, from knitted scarves and mittens to sweet almonds and tree decorations. Make sure to visit Park Zrinjevac, where you'll discover even more handcrafted gifts and get a taste of Zagreb specialties like krpice sa zeljem (pasta with cabbage) and apple strudel at food stalls near the bandstand.
I hope this blog has helped you get into the Christmas Spirit!
See you soon!
