Ultimate Guide To The Best European Christmas Markets

Planning a trip to see the best European Christmas markets is no small feat, especially early in the season. After months of planning and researching, we took a trip from Florida to see some incredible, wintery, and Christmas-filled sights. It was absolutely magical. Everything you think about Christmas markets is likely true.

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There were a few things that made our trip slightly difficult, with the timing being the biggest hurdle.

We were visiting Europe during the week of Thanksgiving, which meant planning around when the holiday season started in many cities. We couldn’t visit all of the well-known, best European Christmas markets, but we could see a great mix, and I think I have an idea of what best truly means based on our itinerary. 

In this guide, I want to share lessons I learned, tips, and tricks for traveling with a younger kid and navigating multiple countries to see their Christmas markets. 

Christmas Market Logistics

The logistics to get between multiple countries, understand where each city’s markets are located, find out when they open, and when national holidays occur is a big feat. I highly recommend extensively researching before making your decision on where to go.

Check out the logistic tips and tricks at the bottom of this post! 

• Our trip was 11 days total, leaving the East Coast of the USA on November 20th and flying back to the USA on November 20th. 
• We had 4 flight routes total (not including layovers) to get TO Europe, within Europe, TO the UK, then back home. 
• We were on multiple trains, between multiple cities throughout the trip. 
• We visited five countries, but this itinerary can also be done with six countries, which I will discuss below. 
• This was not a slow travel vacation for us, but it also wasn’t the goal, so we were fine with that. If it is your goal, I would eliminate a few of the stops we made.
• We traveled with backpacks only! This was a first for us, and it worked out really well. We were very intentional about packing, which made it easy once we were traveling. Check out my full guide to packing for Europe in the winter. 

Countries With Christmas Markets We Visited 

Before sharing the full itinerary, it’s helpful to know where we went throughout our trip. Each location was different in it’s own way, with multiple markets to visit and lots to explore before the markets opened. 

Copenhagen, Denmark 

Our first stop was Copenhagen. I have heard such wonderful things about Copenhagen and I have to say, they are all true. The people, the views, the markets, etc. It was all well worth the visit. We would love to come back on a future trip (hopefully in the summer) and see more of this amazing city. 

It snowed on our first and second day, which made me cry each time a snowflake fell from the sky. It was pure magic to experience firsthand. 

Cologne, Germany

I’ve read that no stop for European Christmas Markets is complete without a stop in Germany to see the German Christmas Markets. Due to our travel dates, Cologne was one of the first major cities to open its markets, so we added it to our itinerary. 

While we loved the markets, they were all very crowded, especially by the cathedral. So plan to arrive early and have alternate plans for the evening if you opt to visit Cologne, or focus on the other markets instead of the cathedral – though it’s absolutely a must visit if you’re there! 

Colmar, France 

Storybook Christmas vibes around every corner! The other well-known French Christmas markets are in Strasbourg, but they didn’t open until the week after our visit. I thought I would feel disappointed, but Colmar was incredible!

We arrived on the first day of the market’s opening and I wouldn’t say it was very crowded. There were a few times where people were gathering, like on the bridge in Little Venice, but otherwise, it was my favorite markets to see! 

In my opinion, Colmar likely gives Strasbourg a run for its money to be one of the best Christmas markets in the area for families. 

Zurich, Switzerland 

Zurich has a piece of my heart. From the first time we visited, I knew we would be back again and again. I was worried that the Christmas markets in the city wouldn’t be as exciting as the other smaller markets we had just visited in France, which they weren’t, but they were still well worth the stop! 

The main Zurich market at the Opera house was full of small businesses, with well-made artisan gifts. I wish we had had more luggage space! 

London, England

London isn’t as well-known for their Christmas markets, but we hadn’t been to the city yet, and the flight options mainly included a layover in London on the way home, so we decided to stay for a few days before flying back. 

If you haven’t been to London, or if it’s a city you really want to visit, I think it’s a great city to include in your itinerary. If you have been before, I think it’s safe to skip for this trip. 

Luxembourg 

We unfortunately missed out on this country due to some transportation changes while we were in Germany. If I had realized this in advance, it would have been a great day trip option to see another country and experience a few more markets. 

Everything You Need To Know About The Christmas Markets 

Is it just me or have Christmas markets been a huge focus of travelers over the last few years?

I think it goes along with decorating for Christmas the day after Halloween. We all want a little more joy in our lives, and Christmas markets are the perfect option! 

Every city has its own unique spin on Christmas markets, whether it’s the food, the drinks, the decorations, or the entertainment.

Having only visited five cities, I also know there are endless markets throughout European cities, and if a city didn’t have markets before a few years ago, I am sure they will start popping up all over the city in no time. 

Planning a visit to European Christmas markets is like prepping for a festive treasure hunt, where timing and a bit of strategy can make all the difference.

You want to catch the markets at their twinkliest and tastiest without feeling swamped by the crowds, which means understanding when the best time to go is and how to organize your itinerary to make the most of the wintry wonderland vibe.

Tips & Tricks

• Start Early or Late in the Season: Visiting right when markets open or a week or two before they close often means fewer crowds and fresher stock on the vendor stalls. You’ll likely get better photos and more relaxed browsing without elbowing your way through a sea of people.  
• Weekdays Are Your Friends: If you can swing it, aim for weekdays; weekends tend to be jam-packed since everyone’s off and eager for holiday cheer. Plus, weekday visits often mean shorter lines for eating, entertainment, or rides.  
• Check Market Dates & Hours: Each market has its own schedule, sometimes closing early on certain days or shifting dates yearly. Be sure to take an extra look right before traveling to avoid any disappointment. This was a big one for us when we realized the markets in Cologne were closed for a holiday on the day we planned to spend 12 hours at the markets. Unfortunately, we didn’t realize until 11am- so make sure you check everywhere you can to see opening dates and times AND check the local holidays. None of the market websites included that the markets would be closed on that day, but a look at the country’s holidays would have helped a lot. 
• Book Accommodation in Advance: Hotels near popular markets fill up fast by November, so locking in your stay early can save money and stress. Sometimes opting for a nearby neighborhood offers better deals and a more local vibe.  
• Layer Up Smartly: Planning your timing goes hand-in-hand with weather prep – European winters can be a mix of chilly, damp, or even snowy. Dress in breathable layers you can peel off during crowded indoor spaces or add when you head outdoors. The full guide to packing for Europe in the winter explains exactly how I thought through our layers.

Another note specific to market schedules. Check multiple times leading up to your trip to see when markets will open in a specific city. I had a trip fully planned for us in May, 6 months before travel, to then replan our trip because the market schedules changed. Keep checking!

The Food and Drinks

If Christmas markets had a flavor, it would be a cozy mix of spices, roasted nuts, caramel, and mulled wine, plus champagne and oysters, depending on where you are, that warm hug of tastes that stays with you long after the visit.

Trying local festive foods and drinks is a delicious way to experience both the culture and the holiday spirit, one bite or sip at a time.

• Mulled Wine (Glühwein / Vin Chaud): This spiced, warm wine is the market’s must-have. Try variations with added fruits or regional twists – some vendors sneak in secret spices, making each cup an adventure in itself. Sip it from traditional mugs that double as souvenirs. Most cities had a “deposit” system where you pay the total cost and if you return the mug you would get a few dollars/euros/pounds back. We opted to keep one mug from each city- they were all so unique! 
• Gingerbread & Lebkuchen: More than just cookies, these spiced treats come in countless shapes and recipes, often decorated with sugar icing or nuts. Buying fresh from market bakers ensures authenticity and mouthwatering freshness.  
• Roasted Chestnuts and Nuts: The smoky aroma of roasted chestnuts straight from open fires is a classic market scent. They’re perfect for snacking on the go while wandering stalls and add a rustic touch to the experience. My favorite spot was Zurich for roasted chestnuts!  
• Regional Specialties: Depending on the market, you might find raclette cheese, bratwurst, stollen cake, or sausages. These dishes provide a hearty counterbalance to the chilly air and offer a taste of local culinary pride.  
• Non-Alcoholic Treats & Hot Chocolates: For those avoiding alcohol, markets offer mulled fruit juices, spiced teas, and rich hot chocolates often topped with whipped cream. These cozy drinks keep kids and designated drivers happy and warm. And they often come in the same mug! 

Transportation & Navigation

Christmas markets often induce images of a few things- adorable twinkly light lit streets, fuzzy gloves with mulled wine, and joyous crowds and also packed cities, tons of people, and festive hustle, we found that both are very true.

Keeping your cool and staying safe in these cheerful towns is key to enjoying the magic without the mayhem. A little bit of street smarts and preparation goes a long way.

• Use Public Transport or Walk: Driving can be tricky due to limited parking and road closures. Opt for trams, buses, or simply enjoy the stroll between markets to avoid hassle and parking fines.   
• Beware of Pickpockets: Crowded markets are prime hotspots for pickpockets, so keep valuables secure and be especially mindful near food stalls or entertainment areas. Use zipped bags worn across your body and avoid flashy displays of cash or gadgets.  
• Plan Meeting Spots: If you’re with a group, agree on a clear meeting point in case anyone gets separated – old fountains, large Christmas trees, or info booths work well as landmarks. It saves precious time and stress if the market feels overwhelming.  
• Stay Hydrated and Rested: Despite the cold, walking and crowding can be exhausting. Take regular breaks at seating areas or cozy cafes to recharge without losing your momentum.  
• Watch Your Step in Icy Conditions: Winter weather can leave streets slippery, so wear boots with good grip and watch out for icy patches, particularly in older cobblestone areas. 

Budgeting for Your Market Visits

Dreaming of waffle treats, twinkling gifts, and warming drinks is delightful, but setting a smart budget ensures those festive fantasies don’t turn into financial headaches. Knowing where to splurge and where to save can keep your Christmas market adventuring joyful from the first sip of glühwein to the last souvenir wrapped under your tree.

• Plan for Food and Drink Expenses: Sampling market foods adds up quickly; estimate about 10-20 euros per person per market for treats without going overboard. Splitting larger platters with companions is a great way to try more foods while keeping costs down.  
• Set a Souvenir Budget: Allocate a specific amount for gifts and crafts to avoid impulse buys – feel free to prioritize smaller and meaningful items over bulky souvenirs that can strain luggage and wallet. I watched a ton of Christmas market reviews on YouTube before our trip, so I had an idea of what I wanted to buy during our travels. 
• Accommodation Costs Can Vary Greatly: Staying just outside market centers or in less touristy neighborhoods typically offers better rates with easy transit access, helping you balance comfort and expense. I knew we wanted to be near the markets, but not right next to the markets. We balanced this really well! I included a roundup of our hotels below! 
• Use Public Transport Passes: As mentioned above, investing in city transport cards or passes covering market zones often saves money compared to taxis or individual tickets. Many passes include discounts on select market attractions.  
• Cash Is Still King: While cards are often accepted, many small vendors prefer cash; keep a budgeted cash stash to avoid unnecessary ATM fees or overspending with cards. BUT, don’t leave your cards at home. There were plenty of places where cards were the only payment option availible as well. 

Finding The Family-Friendly Attractions

If you’re bringing kids or little ones along like we did, you will be happy to hear that Christmas markets transform into magical playgrounds full of lights, sounds, and treats designed to enchant every generation. 

Finding activities and atmospheres that keep the whole family merry takes a little insider insight but promises priceless memories. My daughter had an amazing time during our European Christmas Market trip and it really solidified that fact that Christmas markets can be fun for any age! 

• Kid-Centric Rides and Activities: Many markets feature carousels, mini train rides, or ice skating rinks tailored for younger visitors, creating joyful breaks from shopping, sipping and eating. Check ahead for age recommendations and ticket requirements. It’s also fun to turn the experience into a game. For us, that includes trying the fries in every market, always taking a spin if there was an ice rink to compare, and looking for special characters that we may not have in our traditional Christmas celebrations- think trolls, or other characters. 
• Santa’s Cottages and Storytimes: Special areas where children can meet Santa, hear festive tales, or decorate cookies bring traditional holiday magic alive. These often require advance booking but are worth it for truly magical experiences. 
• Family-Friendly Food Options: Markets often have stalls with milder-flavored treats, hot chocolate, and allergy-friendly snacks which cater to picky eaters or kids with dietary needs. I personally can’t eat pork, and I found something in every market, so if you have picky eaters, don’t fret! Bringing snacks is of course always a good idea though! 
• Interactive Craft Workshops: Hands-on craft booths teaching ornament-making or candle decorating keep kids engaged and let them bring home their creations as souvenirs. Booking early is advised for popular workshops.  

Insider Secrets & Hidden Gems

Beneath the well-trodden paths of famous Christmas markets lie tucked-away spots and stories that few tourists discover – these hidden gems add secret sparkle to your European market adventure and may turn into some of your favorite memories. 

• Explore Side Streets and Smaller Borough Markets: Often just a short walk from the main square, these markets tend to be less crowded and more focused on local artisans, origins, and unique goodies. Walking a bit off the beaten path pays dividends in charm and quiet.  
• Early Morning Visits Reveal a Different Market: Vendors setting up, quiet ambiance, and the first smell of fresh pastries creates a peaceful, reflective experience away from the evening crowds. Sunrise shots and fewer people make it a delightful secret time. I really loved the times when we were wandering through a market that wasn’t quite open yet. We had the few stalls that were open to ourselves and could really take in the atmosphere. 
• Local Taprooms and Hidden Food Stalls: Look beyond market booths to nearby tiny pubs, cafes or street corners for local drinks, seasonal specialties, and secret recipes known only to residents. 
• Specialty Workshops and Artisan Meetups: Some markets host “behind the scenes” sessions where you can meet craftsmen, learn about ancient techniques, and even try your hand at making ornaments or culinary treats. 
• Evening Market Light Shows & Soundscapes: Not every market’s light show is front and center – some incorporate subtle installations in alleyways or parks nearby, offering an enchanting surprise for the curious explorer. 

More Tips For The Best European Christmas Markets Experience

• Use local city websites or Instagram pages for real-time updates and insider tips on market openings and special events.  
• Aim to see a variety of markets. We loved various markets in bigger cities as well as those in the smaller towns. Each one had it’s own level of charm. 
• Check the sunrise and sunset times! Much of Europe has a significantly different daylight schedule compared to the US, so this will help with planning. 
• Create a flexible itinerary to make the most of last-minute charming pop-up markets you discover along your route. This one is so important- you are for sure to find smaller markets throughout the city and it’s worth the time to stop and take a look around. It’s also well worth it to slow down and enjoy the live music, festive spirit amongst the locals (and travelers!) and fully take in the charm of the beautiful European countries you opt to visit. 
• Opt for centrally located accommodations to minimize transit time between multiple markets in bigger cities.  
• Spend the money to get the right footwear! I had two pair of shoes on our trip and they were perfect! I highly recommend these waterproof sneakers and these waterproof boots. Both were amazing for lots of walking on cobblestone streets and comfortable enough to wear every day.
• Consider skipping the stroller. It would have been difficult to navigate the cobblestone streets and crowded markets with a stroller. If you have a little one who can’t walk throughout the day, consider carrier options or lots of breaks! 
• Try mulled wine in every city if you are interested in wine. It was vastly different depending on the region! 
• Purchase multi-day transit passes that cover markets and city attractions for making the most of your budget and time.  
• Plan routes with apps that show real-time transit schedules and market entrances. We are huge fans of Google maps. I love how accurate the timing is, and how easy it is to understand the train routes and transfers. 
• Explore markets on foot at off-peak times to enjoy quieter strolls and easier access.  
• Combine market visits with train travel through scenic routes connecting festive towns. I really wish we had done more of this! Especially in the beautiful snow-covered locations. 
• Research market websites for family event calendars and kid-specific activities.  

Our Exact European Christmas Market Itinerary 

As mentioned above, while it’s controversial, we aimed to see as many countries, cities and towns as possible on our market trip. Because we had already been to a few of these places, we were comfortable hopping around rather than spending several days in one location. For us, this was perfect. 

There is often an argument of why slow travel is better, but I am a strong believer in doing what’s best for your specific circumstance, travel party, and goals. We wanted to see as much as we could in 24-48 hours, and that’s what we did! 

Here is our itinerary for a 11-day trip over the US Thanksgiving break. For my husband and I, we each took five days of PTO and our daughter had the week of Thanksgiving off of school so she only missed two days. 

Day 1: Leave the East Coast of the US in the evening. We prefer non-stop flights that leave later in the evening, around 7 or 8pm, in order to sleep as much as possible. However, it’s a bit harder now that we have moved from the Baltimore area, where we had 3 international airports, to Northern Florida, where the closest international airport is 2+ hours from us. We had a layover in Amsterdam on the way to Denmark, but a nonstop flight home. 

Day 2: Arrive in Copenhagen, Denmark and explore with the Copenhagen Card 

Day 3: Tivoli Gardens, explore markets, and more again with the Copenhagen Card

Day 4: Early am flight to Cologne, Germany and have dinner at the Cathedral Christmas Market

Day 5: Explore the Cologne Christmas Markets- there are several different markets and they have a unique theme! 

Day 6: Take an early am train to Luxembourg to see the country, experience the markets and enjoy another country before taking a late afternoon train to Colmar (this is optional! It’s a long day for a day trip, and unfortunatly we didn’t get to do it due to some schedule conflicts in Cologne, but I really wish we would have!) The Cologne train station is big, so arrive early, no matter where you go next. 

Day 7: Explore the Colmar markets. This town has my Christmas heart. It was a favorite for all of us! They have great markets for kids, charming side streets, and all-around beautiful buildings. Many of the markets were smaller, so there wasn’t a main market, but it was well worth it to see them all. 

Day 8: Take an early am train to Zurich. Zurich is one of my absolute favorite places I have ever been, I couldn’t be within a few hours and not make the journey there. 

Day 9: Book an early flight to London. Explore the markets, popular historical sights and take a ride on a boat. 

Day 10: Explore more of London, enjoy a tea experience and spend the evening in Hyde Park at their giant Christmas market. Get tickets in advance! 

Day 11: Fly back to the USA

Where We Stayed For Our Christmas Market Trip

Our Hotel In Copenhagen

The Huxley Hotel

Cost: $150-$200 per night

Rating: 4.5 stars 

The location was perfect, a quick walk from the train station, almost right on the water, and only a few minutes from Nyhvan. The accommodations were big enough for the three of us, there was a paid-for breakfast availible, as well as bikes to explore the area.  

Our Hotel In Cologne 

Maritim Hotel Köln

Cost: $175-$245 per night

Rating: 3.8 stars 

This is a beautiful and large hotel. It was nicely decorated for Christmas and extremely close to a tram stop and Christmas Market, which gave it a festive atmosphere. It would have been nicer to be a bit closer to the Cathedral, like at this hotel that was sold out during our dates, because we found ourselves in that area often, and that’s where the main train station is, but it was a really great option for a good price. 

Our Hotel In Colmar 

Novotel Suites Colmar Centre

Cost: $180-$220 per night 

Rating: 4.5 stars 

​A great location to be able to walk from the train station (around 20 minutes) and be less than 10 minutes from Little Venice in Colmar. It was a magically beautiful walk too. We were completely happy with this hotel, loved that they had snack options in the lobby and breakfast with some stay options as well. I very much enjoyed a bath after our long day in the Christmas Markets, while my husband and daughter went to pick up a late-night snack! 

Our Hotel In Zurich

Boutique Hotel NI-MO

Cost: $280-$340 per night 

Rating: 4.5 stars 

Zurich hotels are expensive. If you are planning a trip to Zurich you will quickly notice that it’s extremely difficult to find a nice hotel under $250 per night. We have stayed in a few locations, but I liked this one the most. It was a very quick walk to the waterfront and Opera house area, which also gets you near public transportation. This is a cute boutique hotel with very friendly staff and breakfast included for most stays. 

Our Hotel In London 

DoubleTree by Hilton London-Victoria

Cost: $250-$300 per night

Rating: 4.1 stars 

London is another expensive city where it’s difficult to find inexpensive hotels. This one was an amazing option though! It was centrally located, directly next to the underground station, and walking distance to many magical places. We had a great stay, enjoyed the breakfast, and found the accommodations to be great. 

Other Popular Christmas Markets To Consider

Before I realized the opening dates and times for each market, I had my list of markets we really wanted to visit. As I mentioned, we were traveling around Thanksgiving in late November, and many markets hadn’t opened yet. If you are going later in the year, consider adding these cities to your itinerary. 

• Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt: Famous for its gingerbread and the Christkind, this Bavarian icon blends tradition with joyous bustle, offering authentic crafts and flavors. 
• Vienna’s Christmas Village: Set against a grand palace, its classical music performances and lofty festive elegance feel like stepping into a holiday postcard. The market balances gourmet treats with artisan gifts, perfect for leisurely sipping mulled wine between booths.  
• Strasbourg Marché de Noël: Known as the “Capital of Christmas,” the Strasbourg Christmas market is an Alsace market that spans the town with over 300 stalls, boasting famous wooden crafts and a dazzling giant tree. Don’t miss the region’s wine and festive Alsatian pastries here. Many will tell you this is one of the best, if not the best, of Europe’s Christmas Markets. 
• Prague Old Town Square Market: This fairy-tale setting with Gothic architecture and cobblestone streets feels like a winter storybook come alive, complete with handmade glass ornaments. A great spot for cozying up with trdelník (a sweet pastry) and hot punch.  
• Budapest Christmas Fair: Famed for its crispy chimney cakes and lively folk art displays, this market sits under grand historic arches, mixing old-world charm with vibrant local creativity. It’s also a prime place to explore Hungarian holiday dishes you may not know.
• Brussels Winter Wonders: Surrounded by a glowing Grand Place light show, this market weaves through the city center with over 200 wooden chalets. Known for waffles, chocolates, and Belgian beer, it pairs whimsical ice rinks with a Ferris wheel view over twinkling rooftops. I was SO sad to miss this one! I absolutely love the charm of Brussels. 
• Salzburg Christkindlmarkt in Austria: Nestled under the fortress and cathedral spires, Salzburg’s market feels steeped in baroque charm. Choirs sing Mozart’s carols where he was born, while stalls are decked out in hand-carved nativity sets and Austrian alpine treats.
• Tallinn Christmas Market in Estonia: Set in a medieval square surrounded by fairy-tale rooftops, Tallinn hosts one of Europe’s most enchanting markets. Famous for its spiced gingerbread and hearty mulled wine, the snow-dusted cityscape adds a real North Pole feel. This was another one we were sad to miss because it hadn’t started early enough for our dates. 
• Dresden Striezelmarkt: Germany’s oldest Christmas market, dating to 1434, is famed for its giant Stollen fruitcake and towering wooden pyramid. 
• Kraków Christmas Market (Poland): Filling the Rynek Główny square, Kraków’s market is known for colorful cribs (szopki), hand-painted ornaments, and hearty Polish pierogi. Folk performances and snow-dusted horse carriages add extra magic.

While anyone who visits Europe during the holiday season will likely tell you their opinion on which is Europe’s best Christmas market, but you almost can’t go wrong in any city. I

t was a hopefully-not once in a lifetime experience for us and I love that we were able to prove that we could travel with backpacks only, show our 6-year old the magic of the Christmas season in Europe and have this quality time together.