Finest Christmas Markets in Europe 2022

That is your final information to the perfect Christmas markets in Europe! I’ve traveled to tons of of Christmas markets to deliver you the perfect locations for Christmas Markets in Europe for 2022.

Image this: You’re strolling the traditional cobblestone streets, on both facet heat lights of cafes and retailers beckon you inside, you might have a slight chill regardless of your heat winter coat. You see a fortress within the mist on the hill forward of you. Might right this moment get any higher? Sure, sure it may.

As you flip the nook you’re first hit with the scent. It’s a mix of true merriment: candied nuts roasting in sugar, mulled wine being poured right into a tall espresso mug, and roasted meats over the open fireplace.

Subsequent you’re hit with the noise. Christmas carols sung in German, laughter of all ages, and other people greeting one another on the prime of their lungs.

You spherical one other nook and there it’s, shimmering and glittering because the solar units: 1000’s of twinkle lights strewn alongside contemporary lower pine timber. Hand carved picket stalls promoting meals, drinks, and handmade trinkets line the road, every yet one more adorned than the following.

It’s Christmas Markets in Europe and it’s essentially the most joyful place on earth!

I like to consider myself as a Christmas market knowledgeable having lived in Germany, the place Christmas markets actually began, I spent years going repeatedly to Christmas markets throughout Europe and writing about my discovering.

One issues for certain: it’s value it. I do know that many don’t take into consideration visiting Europe throughout the vacation season, however I discover it actually sensational. It’s such a way of neighborhood and pleasure, everybody on the town will get collectively, regardless of the chilly climate to rejoice Christmas and share their handmade wares and scrumptious household recipes of conventional meals.

I am sharing the perfect of the European Christmas markets so you may guarantee to profit from your time.

Finest Christmas Markets in Europe 2022

I’ve tons of guides to Christmas markets in Europe! From itineraries, maps, and particular person guides to every place! I hope to make planning your Christmas market journeys a breeze. For all my posts on Christmas markets in Europe click on right here.

Strasbourg, France

Strasbourg, France positively deserves its nickname because the “Capital of Noel”! This metropolis has among the best Christmas markets in all Europe and it is an extremely festive place to go to throughout the vacation season. With fantastically adorned stalls and open on daily basis from November twenty fourth to December twenty fourth, you may end up surrounded by twinkling lights and decorations galore. The Strasbourg cathedral towers over the market and there is even an actual 30 meter tall tree within the sq.!

The streets are BURSTING with decor, from the teddy bear half-timbered lodges, the lit up Notre Dame Cathedral with angels that line the streets, and naturally vin chaud- mulled wine! Plenty of nice meals, drinks, and hand crafted presents. Take your time right here, there are markets all through the town. There are over 300 stalls so that you’re in for a deal with!

PRO TIP: When you have time, head into the Vosges mountains, the place the massive tree of Strasbourg is grown, and go to some Christmas markets there! The cities of Ribeauvillé, Kaysersberg, Eguisheim and Riquewihr are completely magical for Christmas! You may see my full information to those Alsace villages at Christmas right here.

Starsbourg Christmas Market Dates for 2022: November twenty fifth by December twenty sixth, 2022.

See my full information to the perfect Christmas markets in France. Or, my full information to Strasbourg, France at Christmas.

Cologne, Germany

Cologne, Germany is without doubt one of the hottest Christmas markets in Europe and for good purpose! With seven markets, all with totally different themes, all through the town, you may discover no scarcity of issues to see and do right here. Giant, lavishly adorned Christmas markets sparkle all through the town.

A few of my favorites are the Cologne Cathedral Market, that is the most important and taked place outdoors the spectacular cathedral with reside music, an enormous tree, and gluwein (scorching, mulled wine!). I additionally adore the Angels’ Market the place you may discover it in Neumarkt Sq. and is without doubt one of the authentic markets that options ladies wearing angel costumes handing out sweets to kids. There’s additionally a fantastic carousel and beautiful mugs which might be good to take dwelling as souvenirs. I like the one within the Outdated City as a result of it is crammed with what seems to be like gnomes, but it surely’s a lot extra! The Alter Markt calls itself the Residence of the Heinzelmännchen (who have been little creatures from a Cologne legend who used to do all of the house responsibilities till they have been irritated by an inquisitive housewife).

And Nikolausdorf or “NicholasVillage” in Rudolfplatz can be properly definitely worth the cease! Many half-timbered constructions make this really feel like an actual village. It is at all times superb to me that it will come down come January!

Cologne Christmas Market Dates for 2022: November twenty first by December twenty third 2022.

See the perfect Christmas markets in Germany right here.

Vienna, Austria

Since 1296 Vienna has hosted a tremendous Christmas market- one of many first ever! You will see attractive buildings decked out in bows and ribbons. However you additionally get unimaginable Christmas markets! I have been to markets all all through Europe and I can inform you, those in Vienna are among the greatest.

There are a number of giant markets situated across the metropolis, every with their very own distinctive really feel. The preferred might be at Rathausplatz in entrance of the attractive City Corridor. With over 150 chalets, this is without doubt one of the largest in Europe. It is good for choosing up presents and grabbing a chunk to eat. The Glühwein right here is among the greatest I’ve ever had!

If you need a extra conventional really feel, then head to the Spittelberg Weihnachtsmarkt market (Weihnachtsmarkt means Christmas in German). That is situated in a pedestrian zone within the Spittelberg district and is made up of small, particular person chalets. This market has a extremely cozy really feel and is ideal for a romantic stroll.

And eventually, my favourite market in Vienna is the Altwiener Christkindlmarkt at Freyung. This market is situated in a beautiful park and has a extremely relaxed and charming environment. It is the right place to seize a cup of scorching chocolate and a slice of Sachertorte (a chocolate cake that could be a Vienna specialty!)

Vienna Christmas Market Dates for 2022: November twelfth by December twenty fourth, 2022.

Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn seems to be like a snow globe come to life! Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, is a medieval metropolis with a fairytale really feel. And through Christmastime, it is much more magical! With twinkling lights, snow-dusted rooftops, and Christmas carols within the air, Tallinn looks like one thing out of a storybook.

The primary market is situated in City Corridor Sq., in entrance of the attractive medieval City Corridor. This is without doubt one of the largest markets in Tallinn and is ideal for choosing up presents and souvenirs. You will discover handmade Estonian crafts, decorations, and loads of locations to seize a chunk to eat. The gluwein right here can be wonderful! It is a excellent place to select up a hand-crafted wool sweater, and stick round for reside music and leisure at night time.

For those who’re in search of one thing a little bit totally different, try the Rotermann Quarter. This market is situated in an previous salt storage constructing that has been transformed into a shopping mall. It is a actually distinctive setting for a market, and you will find loads of nice presents and souvenirs right here.

I extremely suggest taking a strolling tour* to get a really feel of the historical past in Tallinn! We went on a themed strolling tour and it was a spotlight of my time in Tallinn. See my full information to Tallinn at Christmas right here.

Tallinn Christmas Market Dates for 2022: December 1st by January seventh, 2023.

Basel, Switzerland

Basel, Switzerland is a captivating metropolis situated on the river Rhine and is thought for its stunning Outdated City, medieval structure, museums, and naturally Christmas markets! This metropolis has one of many longest working Christmas markets in Europe because it dates again to 1521.

The primary market is situated in Munsterplatz and is crammed with stunning handcrafted items, a big collection of food and drinks, and twinkling lights. Make sure to strive the scrumptious Basler Läckerli, a spiced gingerbread-like biscuits which might be an area specialty. I additionally love the mulled wine right here, it is among the greatest I’ve ever had!

There are additionally a number of different markets situated all through the town together with one within the sq. in entrance of Basel’s stunning purple sandstone cathedral. It is a excellent place to do some Christmas buying as you may discover the whole lot from jewellery to picket toys.

PRO TIP: For those who’re in search of one thing a little bit totally different, be sure you try the Creation Calendar Home. It is a home with 25 home windows, every with a distinct shock behind it!

Basel Christmas Market Dates for 2022: November twenty fourth by December twenty third, 2022.

Prague, Czech Republic

For those who’re in search of a market with a extra medieval really feel, then Prague is the place for you! With its beautiful Gothic structure and cobblestone streets, Prague lends itself completely to a festive environment. The markets listed below are among the most original in Europe with stunning handmade items on supply.

The primary market is situated in Outdated City Sq. the place you may discover a beautiful Christmas tree and the spectacular Tyn Church within the background. It is a actually common spot, so be ready for crowds, which is why I like to recommend weekdays. However it’s positively value braving the plenty to see the attractive decorations and seize some conventional Czech meals.

For one thing a bit extra low-key, try the markets at Wenceslas Sq. and Havel’s Market. These are each situated in additional trendy areas of the town and supply a refreshing change of tempo from the Outdated City.

Prague Christmas Market Dates for 2022: November twenty seventh by December twenty fourth, 2022.

Helsinki, Finland

Helsinki, Finland is a novel Christmas market expertise as a result of it isn’t solely concerning the market stalls, but additionally the ice skating rink that units up in Senate Sq.. It is so festive and wonderful to skate round with the Helsinki Cathedral within the background.

The market itself has Finnish crafts and design, together with conventional meals like reindeer meatballs, which you could find on the Outdated Market Corridor. This is without doubt one of the few markets the place you could find meals indoors, so it is good if you happen to’re visiting in colder climate or if you happen to simply want a break from the chilly. You will additionally discover handcrafted Christmas decorations, glassware, and textiles.

I cherished the saunas situated proper by the Christmas market glog stalls (glog is their model of mulled wine.) So that you may see somebody hop out of a sauna in only a towel, grabbing a mulled mug of steaming wine!

Helsinki Christmas Market Dates for 2022: November twenty seventh by December twenty second, 2022.

Ribeauvillé, France

This market is small and solely provided for a pair brief weekends however SO WORTH IT. It is one of the vital uncommon markets I’ve ever been to in essentially the most charming method. All the city attire up and participates. There are folks dressed up, on stilts, clever males with actual camels, fires in the midst of the streets to heat up and medieval traditions.

This space is well-known for its charming half-timbered homes however the Christmas market makes it really feel such as you’ve entered a very totally different, medieval world.

You will discover all the standard Christmas market fare right here like mulled wine, gingerbread, and roasted chestnuts. However Ribeauvillé can be recognized for its wonderful native wines, so be sure you choose up a bottle or two to take dwelling with you. You will additionally discover loads of handmade items on supply

Ribeauvillé Christmas Market Dates for 2022: December third, 4th, tenth, and eleventh – as you may see it is a tremendous brief season however so value it!

Heidelberg, Germany

The Heidelberg Christmas market is without doubt one of the oldest markets in Germany, courting again to 1398! The primary market is situated in Heidelberg’s previous city, all through the Hauptstrasse. It is a bit totally different than among the different markets, and I discover it a pleasure! You may stroll almost a mile and luxuriate in totally different Christmas festivities alongside the way in which. I am biased since I lived in Heidelberg, however with a fantastic sixteenth century buildings, the fortress towering over the skating rink, it is simply magical.

It is a actually charming place with round 100 fantastically adorned stalls. You will discover loads of mulled wine and conventional German meals like bratwurst and pretzels. The views of the fortress lit up at night time are merely beautiful.

There’s additionally a market in close by Mannheim which I additionally suggest testing in case you have time. It is a brief drive or practice experience away!

Heidelberg Christmas Market Dates for 2022: November twenty first by December twenty second, 2022.

See my full information to Heidelberg’s Christmas markets right here.

Colmar, France

Nestled within the Alsace area of France, Colmar is really a fairytale city and its Christmas market doesn’t disappoint. With over 300 stalls, this is without doubt one of the largest markets in France. The setting could not be extra good both, because the market is situated within the stunning previous city, which is stuffed with half-timbered homes, canals, and cobbled streets.

The market itself is extremely festive, with an enormous Christmas tree, a life-sized nativity scene, and a formidable mild show. You will discover all the standard French Christmas Market favorites right here, from vin chaud (mulled wine) to ache d’epices (gingerbread), to baeckeoffe (a scrumptious Alsatian stew). There’s additionally all kinds of handmade presents and decorations on supply.

When in Colmar, certainly one of my favourite French eating places can’t be beat! Winstub de la Petite Venise. This Michelin star restaurant gives a 35 euro plat du jour that makes my mouth water simply enthusiastic about it!

Take a look at my Christmas market highway journey itinerary right here.

Colmar Christmas Market Dates for 2022: November twenty fourth by December twenty ninth 2022.

Budapest, Hungary

Budapest’s Christmas Market is without doubt one of the most stunning in Europe and takes place in Vörösmarty Sq. in entrance of the magnificent Nineteenth-century Gerbeaud Home. With over 100 fantastically adorned stalls, a large ferris wheel, an ice rink, and a nativity scene, it is easy to spend just a few hours right here.

There’s additionally a fantastic mild present each night at 7 pm on the facade of the Gerbeaud Home that is positively value sticking round for. The market is open from November eleventh to January 1st, so you might have loads of time to go to. And do not forget to strive some conventional Hungarian dishes like lángos (a deep-fried flatbread) or kürtőskalács (a chimney cake)!

Budapest Christmas Market Dates for 2022: November 4th by December thirty first 2022.

Munich, Germany

Munich is famend for its superb Oktoberfest celebration, however do you know that it additionally has among the greatest Christmas markets in Europe? The markets listed below are giant and full of life with an excellent environment.

The primary market is situated at Marienplatz within the coronary heart of the town. It is a actually common spot, so be ready for crowds. However it’s positively value braving the plenty to see the attractive Glockenspiel present that takes place on daily basis at 11 am and midday. There are additionally numerous different markets situated all through the town, so that you’re certain to search out one which fits your fancy.

There are a lot of markets in Munich, however be sure you begin on the iconic Christkindlmarkt situated in Marienplatz. From there, you may select from the traditional Neuhausen Christmas market or go for one thing totally different just like the Wintertollwood Pageant held on Oktoberfest grounds.

And if you happen to’re in search of an genuine Bavarian eating expertise, be sure you try Hofbräuhaus, certainly one of Munich’s most well-known beer halls. It is an excellent place to strive some conventional German dishes like Weißwurst (veal sausage) and Leberkäse (a sort of meatloaf).

Munich Christmas Market Dates for 2022: November twenty first by December twenty fourth, 2022.

Innsbruck, Austria

Innsbruck is a captivating metropolis situated within the Austrian Alps and its Christmas market is nothing wanting magical. With over 80 stalls, it is one of many smaller markets on this record, but it surely greater than makes up for it with its beautiful setting. The market takes place within the previous city sq. towards the backdrop of the snow-capped peaks of the Alps.

What I really like most about this market is that it has an actual conventional really feel to it. You will discover all the standard Austrian Christmas Market staples like Glühwein (mulled wine), Lebkuchen (gingerbread), and Maroni (roasted chestnuts). However you may additionally discover some extra uncommon gadgets like Krapfen (fried dough balls crammed with jam) and Kernöl (pumpkin seed oil).

Innsbruck Christmas Market Dates for 2022: November fifteenth by December twenty third, 2022.

London, England

I really like London for Christmas as all of the shops are decked out and there is a feeling of pleasure in all places! Whereas London won’t be the everyday spot, Christmas market is unquestionably value a go to. Situated in Hyde Park, Winter Wonderland is without doubt one of the largest markets in Europe and it is fully free to enter!

When you’re inside, you may discover an array of sights like an ice rink, a large ferris wheel, and a German-style market with over 200 stalls. And if you happen to’re feeling actually festive, you may even go to Santa’s Grotto!

Winter Wonderland is open from late November till early January, so you might have loads of time to get pleasure from all of the enjoyable. And once you’re prepared for a break from the chilly, head to certainly one of Hyde Park’s many cafes for a cup of tea or some conventional English fare.

When you have further time, head to Bathtub,a quintessential city in the UK that is additionally received an exquisite Christmas market!

London Christmas Market Dates for 2022: November 18th by January 2nd, 2023.

Nuremberg, Germany

Nuremberg is a fantastic medieval metropolis situated within the German state of Bavaria – since 1313. It is best recognized for its conventional Christkindlesmarkt, which is without doubt one of the oldest and largest markets in Germany.

The market is unfold out throughout the town middle with over 180 stalls, so there’s lots to see and do. You will discover all the standard German Christmas Market staples like Glühwein, Lebkuchen, and Maroni. However you may additionally discover some extra uncommon gadgets like Nürnberger Christstollen (a sort of fruitcake) and Nürnberger Rostbratwurst (a grilled sausage).

For those who go to Nuremberg Christmas Market on the primary Friday earlier than Creation there’s a tremendous opening ceremony with performances and reside music.

Nuremberg Christmas Market Dates for 2022: November twenty fifth by December twenty fourth, 2022.

Metz, France

Metz is a fantastic metropolis situated within the northeast of France, near the border with Germany. It is best recognized for its giant Christmas market, which is without doubt one of the largest in Europe.

The market is unfold out throughout the town middle with over 200 stalls, so there’s lots to see and do. You will discover all the standard French Christmas Market staples like vin chaud, ache d’épices (gingerbread), and goodies. However you may additionally discover some extra gormet meals like foie gras, tarte flambée (a sort of pizza), and quiche Lorraine.

Cathedral Saint-Étienne de Metz dates again to the eleventh century has a beautiful Christmas market simply outdoors the doorways full with a ferris wheel. Inside are stunning stained glass home windows that have been constructed by well-known artists like Marc Chagall and Jean Cocteau. Metz has loads of different locations value visiting as properly – Notre Dame d’Auschwitz, the trendy artwork middle Centre Pompidou-Metz, and Le Temple Neuf is a fantastic church that appears extra like a fortress.

Metz Christmas Market Dates for 2022: November Nineteenth by December thirtieth, 2022.

Trier, Germany

Trier is a fantastic metropolis situated within the southwest of Germany, near the border with Luxembourg. Trier is thought for it is romantic setting and with the Christmas market’s backdrop of the attractive cathedral, it is a beautiful spot.

This system on the Trier Christmas Market adjustments each day, providing a wide range of leisure for the entire household. From historic puppet theater to star tenor and songsmiths, there’s something for everybody to get pleasure from. With scrumptious food and drinks on supply, plus arts and crafts from all over the world, the Trier Christmas Market attracts guests from far and vast.

To get a view from above like I did right here, head to the DE retailer proper earlier than you enter the market.

Trier Christmas Market Dates for 2022: November 18th by December twenty second, 2022.

See the perfect Christmas markets in Germany right here.

Bruges, Belgium

Bruges is a fantastic metropolis situated within the northwest of Belgium. It is best recognized for its canals, cobbled streets, and medieval structure. The Christmas market is situated within the historic metropolis middle and is without doubt one of the most atmospheric markets in Europe.

You will discover all the standard Belgian Christmas Market staples like Belgian chocolate, waffles, and beer. However you may additionally discover gadgets like gingerbread homes, candles, and handmade picket toys. Yearly Grote Sq. is remodeled to Bruges’ largest Christmas market and within the middle you may discover a skating rink. You may as well head to Stevin Sq. for much more Christmas festivities.

Bruges Christmas Market Dates for 2022: November twenty fifth by January eighth 2023.

Aachen, Germany

I simply went to Aachen final 12 months for my first time and completely cherished it! Not solely is Aachen stuffed with necessary historical past, it is received an unimaginable Christmas market that is been named one of many prime Christmas Markets in Europe through the years.

Aachen Christmas Market is situated within the historic metropolis middle and is without doubt one of the oldest markets in Germany. It dates again to 1434 making it even older than Nuremberg! You will discover all the standard German Christmas Market staples like Glühwein, Lebkuchen (gingerbread), and Bratwurst.

However what I cherished most concerning the market have been all the Aachener Printen on supply. Printen are a sort of gingerbread that originates from Aachen. They arrive in all types of sizes and styles and are completely scrumptious!

Aachen Christmas Market Dates for 2022: November 18th by December twenty third 2022.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen is the capital of Denmark and is situated on the japanese coast of the nation. Town is stuffed with allure with its canals, cobbled streets, and historic buildings. The Christmas market is situated within the coronary heart of the town at Metropolis Corridor Sq..

You will discover all the standard Danish Christmas Market staples like æbleskiver (a sort of pancake), Gløgg (mulled wine), and Danish Christmas beer. There are additionally loads of stalls promoting handmade Christmas decorations, toys, and presents.

Tivoli Gardens is a well-known park and it is a should for Christmas because it’s arrange like Santa’s village- you may even experience the Polar Categorical! Additionally, Kongens Nytorv is without doubt one of the most stunning squares in Copenhagen and it actually comes alive throughout Christmas time. And do not forget to go to iconic Nyhavn the place you may additionally discover a market.

Copenhagen Christmas Market Dates for 2022: November 4th by December twenty first, 2022.

Zagreb, Croatia

Zagreb is the capital of Croatia and is situated within the northwest of the nation. Town is stuffed with tradition and historical past with a fantastic previous city that is good for exploring. The Christmas market is situated in Tomislav Sq. within the middle of the town.

On the Zagreb Christmas Market, you may discover all the standard Croatian Christmas Market staples like mulled wine, sausages, and pancakes. You may as well discover handicrafts, jewellery, and pottery. Make sure to strive the strukli which is a sort of pastry that is common in Zagreb.

And if you wish to get a birds eye view of the market, be certain that to go to the Zagreb Eye which is a big Ferris wheel situated within the coronary heart of the town.

Zagreb Christmas Market Dates for 2022: November twenty sixth by January seventh, 2023.

Christmas Markets in Europe Map

Here is a map of all my favourite Christmas Markets in Europe. I’ve mapped out not solely the highest 10 Christmas Markets in Europe from this information, however a few of my favorites everywhere in the continent!

Christmas Market Prime Ideas

As your resident knowledgeable on Christmas in Europe, listed below are a few of my prime ideas for profiting from your Christmas market journey!

Which nation has the perfect Christmas Markets? That is clearly up for debate, however the award has to go to Germany! Germany has among the oldest and greatest markets round. The custom runs deep and even small cities and villages take part. See the perfect Christmas markets in Germany right here.

Which nation has the perfect decorations for Christmas? France! France goes all out for decorations. It does not harm that the Alsace area already seems to be like an ideal gingerbread village!

What’s the perfect time to go for Christmas markets in Europe? I believe December is your greatest guess to make sure you see the Christmas markets however many begin in late November. Some markets do go till January as properly.

Listed here are some extra useful guides:

What to Eat and Drink at a Christmas Market

Europe Christmas Market Itinerary and Information

Finest Christmas Markets in Germany

Finest Christmas Market in France

Finest Christmas Markets in Switzerland

So there you might have it, my record of the perfect Christmas markets in Europe for 2022! Which one are you most excited about- in case you have any questions, be at liberty to succeed in out to me on Instagram @heleneinbetween – I reply all my DMs!