Strasbourg, France
Originally christened the “Christkindelsmärik” (market of the Infant Jesus), Strasbourg’s Christmas Market is France’s oldest Christmas Market. It dates back to 1570. Strasbourg’s Christmas market is spread across the city. It comprises 12 different themed markets and is held outdoors each year from late November until December 31. While many Christmas markets have been canceled due to COVID, Strasbourg’s will take place. Imagine walking in a fairyland of twinkling lights, amongst elaborately decorated stucco homes and shops.
The Ille River flows through Old Town Strasbourg (known as Petite France”). It is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Grand Christmas Tree is illuminated each night at Place de Kleber, which has been a tradition since 1605. A red and green illuminated sign proclaims Strasbourg as Capitale de Noel at Place Gutenberg. At night colorful Christmas illuminations trace the outlines of the historic buildings. There are over 300 wooden stalls (known as chalets). Vendors sell wool sweaters, embroidered tablecloths, hand-dipped candles, wooden toys, and Christmas ornaments.
I think people come to eat as much as shop at the Christmas market. I will never forget the taste of a chocolate-covered marshmallow bonbon. And of course, the only way to warm up is to order the hot mulled wine. It must be accompanied by a salty bretzel (pretzel) coated with Dijon mustard. My favorite Alsatian food is Tarte flambee, which is a thin flatbread covered with Fromage blanc, crème Fraiche, yellow onions, and thin strips of bacon. If you are an American traveling to Europe to experience the outdoor Christmas markets, bring an extra suitcase.
Recommended by: Terri at Female Solo Trek
Alsace, France
There is just no better place on the planet to experience the Christmas market spirit than in the Alsace region of France. Christmas festivities go to the next level as all of the towns in the area decorate their squares with all things Christmas. From stalls that sell Vin Chaud (mulled wine) to traditional Alsace cuisine, there is just so much to experience at these amazing markets. Tourists flock all year round to the Alsace region for the fairy tale buildings, world-class wine, and stunning scenery and this is all made so much better with a Christmas market.
You can visit places like Colmar, Strasbourg, and Mullhouse for large Christmas Markets teeming with tourists from all over the world and locals alike. At these markets, you will find many of the same foods, styles of souvenirs, and large companies that produce local wines. They are Christmas Markets that aren’t to be missed and if they are the only ones you can get to then you are still in for a treat. It is out in the smaller towns like Ribeauville, Riquewihr, and Eguisheim where you will get an even better experience.
These towns have an atmosphere that is second to none. The town is alive with singing, dancing, smaller stalls with homemade delicacies, small-batch Vin Chaud, and tiny stores open until late for unique, beautiful souvenirs. More locals attend these markets which adds to the spirit and the festivities with many greeting each other so happily. Wandering any town in the Alsace that has a Christmas Market is an experience like no other. The amazing feeling you get at these Markets is one you will not forget.
Recommended by: Bec at Wyld Family Travel
Colmar, France
The Christmas market of Colmar is one of the best Christmas Markets in Alsace. Colmar is one of the main cities in the Grand Est region in Eastern France, well known for its picturesque streets, the pretty architecture of half-timbered houses, and excellent wines.
During the month of December, Colmar becomes a fairytale place thanks to the Christmas market and decorations. In Colmar, the market is split into different locations, and each site is dedicated to a different theme. There is a path of light that connects all the markets so you can visit all the places without the help of a map.
The Christmas market in Colmar is a great place to buy last-minute Christmas gifts, Christmas lights, and decorations and taste some local delicacies like pretzels, tarte flambée, bredeles (gingerbread men), and other traditional sweets. There’s also mulled wine, perfect for the coldest nights browsing the different stalls.
Colmar is easy to reach by train from Paris or Strasbourg. Book two nights on site, ideally in the old town, so you have the time to visit the different places and the city’s main attractions. For your stay in Colmar Hotel Le Colombier is a charming property, ideally located in the district of Little Venice.
Recommended by: Elisa at Travel France Bucket List
South Bank, London
South Bank Christmas Market London is also known as South Bank Winter Market London. It’s located in the South Bank by the River Thames and is free to get there. There are two ways to get there by tube, Waterloo tube station or Westminster tube station. It’s only a few minute’s walk from the tube station. Also, near is the West End Walk.
If you prefer to go by bus, feel free, it’s cheaper but longer depending on where you’re staying. There are many hotels scattered around this area, from Doubletree by Hilton, Guomans Tower Bridge, various AirBnBs near Trafalgar Square and the South Bank area, Bed and Breakfast, 2 – 4-star hotels. Check out the Airbnb website for more information. South Bank Christmas Market overlooks the London Eye, Big Ben, and Parliament and it’s better to visit there in the evening when the sun goes down. You can even sit in the beer garden and enjoy the view of the River Thames.
Everything really lights up. There’s a merry-go-round and Sky Spinner where they’ll swing you in circles up to 50 meters high. South Bank Christmas Market is the second-best Christmas Market next to Winter Wonderland. Although it’s more peaceful than Winter Wonderland, the stalls sell winter warmers, hand-made Christmas decorations, hot dogs, mulled wine, burgers and chips, bars, and alcohol. South Bank Christmas Market London is a recommendation when you’re visiting Europe.
Recommended by: The London Travellers
Prague, Czech Republic
You haven’t seen what Christmas magic can look like until you’ve visited Prague at wintertime. The joyful Christmas atmosphere under the beautiful light decorations cannot be beaten. Prague has several Christmas markets scattered around the city. The Old Town Square Christmas market is the oldest and the most traditional one of them all. It’s worth a visit, especially since you cannot leave the Old Town Square out anyway, but otherwise, there are many more charming markets to check out.
Prague Castle Christmas market is located within the gates of Prague Castle and thus it’s as enchanting as can be. Other smaller Christmas markets include the Náměstí Míru Christmas market popular with locals and ex-pats, as well as the markets at Tylovo náměstí just a block away. Christmas stalls can be found anywhere in the city center, though. The Wenceslas Square is full of them, and so is the Náměstí Republiky Square just near the Powder Gate.
The best time to come is either at the end of November or in December until the 24th when Czechs celebrate Christmas. The closer you get to Christmas, the more traditions you can observe – such as selling of Christmas trees and live carps. All Christmas markets are free to enter, there’s no fee collected. If you don’t mind alcohol, warm yourself up with mulled wine or hot mead. To eat, go for roasted chestnuts or the uber-popular chimney cake called Trdlo, which is not typically Czech, but has become a tourist symbol of Prague (and it’s delicious). To stay in the city center, opt for the Four Seasons Hotel (luxury), the Mosaic House (mid-range), or the Hostel Downtown (budget).
Recommended by: Veronika at Travel Greekery
Vienna, Austria
Vienna is known for being home to some of the best Christmas markets in the world, from the big and popular Rathausplatz and Schönbrunn Christmas markets to the small and cozy Spittelberg and Stephansplatz markets, anyone can find their ideal spot.
Taking place in the city hall square, start by visiting the largest market in Vienna, the Rathausplatz Christkindlmarkt. With about 150 stalls selling Christmas decorations, handcrafted items, and wintery comfort food and drinks like stuffed potatoes, dumplings, and hot apple cider. It’s also where you can enjoy ice skating, carousels, a Ferris wheel, and a lot more.
Next, head to the smaller markets, which will surely win your heart. These include the authentic Freyung organic farmer’s Christmas market, the enchanting Spittelbeg Christmas market, and the Michaelerplatz Christmas market.
Unlike other Christmas markets in Europe, which only start in December, most of these open in mid-November, when it’s slightly less crowded and chilly (but still very cold). If you still feel the need to escape the weather, you can always warm yourself up at one of Vienna’s cozy cafes or world-class museums.
As far as accommodation, you’ll find plenty of hotels in Vienna’s city center, but if you want to save a bit of money as those can get pricey during this time of the year, check out the colorful and lovely Ibis Styles Wien City.
Recommended by: Or at My Path in the World
Frankfurt, Germany
The Christmas market in Frankfurt, Germany, is not just one of the best Christmas markets in the world; it is also one of the oldest. The first records mentioning it date back to the late 1300s. Today, almost three million visitors enjoy the Christmas market every year. The best place to start your visit is on Römerberg, in the historic Old Town, where you will find lots of traditional food and drinks from the area. Besides mulled wine, which is popular at most German Christmas markets, make sure to try the hot Apfelwein. This local delicacy is similar to cider but heated up and infused with spices. It’s sweet and sticky and guaranteed to warm you up.
If you’re getting hungry, many stalls sell German sausages. You can also try Bethmännchen, almond cookies that traditionally come from Frankfurt. The Christmas market in Frankfurt is an excellent place to shop for Christmas gifts and souvenirs. In front of the Paulskirche, St Paul’s Church, you can find lots of stalls selling traditional handicrafts from the area. The Frankfurt Christmas market usually opens in late November and closes just before Christmas. As many locals love meeting up here after work, it’s best to already arrive in the early afternoon. That way, you can avoid some of the crowds. The market is free to visit, without any fees. A good hotel nearby is the Moxy Frankfurt City Centre. From here, you can walk to the market within a few minutes.
Recommended by: Daniel and Ilona at Top Travel Sights
Berlin, Germany
You might not think of Berlin when you think of Christmas markets, but there are so many fantastic Berlin Christmas markets that you could visit a different one every day of your trip. Here are two of the best ones you should check out.
The Gendarmenmarkt Christmas market takes place on the gorgeous Gendarmenmarkt Square. Three historical buildings frame the square, making it a lovely setting for a Christmas market. It has an upscale feel to it, but there’s a cozy atmosphere too. You’ll find traditional and gourmet food as well as delicious mulled wine. Definitely try the Kaiserschmarren, which are Austrian sweet pancakes. Vendors here sell Christmas decorations and quality handcrafted gifts from heated tents. There’s a 1 euro entry fee, but it’s worth it. A good hotel in Charlottenburg is the 25Hours Hotel.
Another Christmas market you shouldn’t miss is the one at Charlottenburg Palace. Located in front of the palace, you couldn’t find a better setting. You’ll find traditional German food like sausages, bread, and potatoes, but also non-German options too, like the Hungarian food hut. While you’re there, go to the viewing platform above the Hungarian stall to see the market and palace from above. Wander through the stalls with mulled wine, or try some interesting hot cocktails. Vendors here sell traditional gifts like Christmas decorations and chocolate in the shape of tools. The entrance is free. A good hotel in Mitte is the Radisson Blu.
Both of these Christmas markets get crowded on the weekends and in the evenings, so if you want fewer people, try weekday afternoons. But they do feel more festive once the sun goes down, which is around 4 pm this time of year.
Recommended by: Ali at Berlin Travel Tips
Valkenburg, Netherlands
The Christmas markets in Valkenburg are in 4 caves, making them very unique. Valkenburg is a town all the way in the South of the Netherlands.
For years marl was dug out of quarries, resulting in an elaborate system of caves with corridors. In November and December, Christmas markets are being held in these caves. The best time to visit them is during weekdays since during the weekend they’re the most crowded. In the caves, there’s a pleasant temperature of 12°C/54°F year-round.
When visiting Valkenburg, Fletcher hotel Valkenburg or Hotel De Burghoeve are good options. Both are close to the Christmas markets.
There are 4 different Christmas markets in the caves: Fluweelengrot, Gemeente grot, Mergelrijk and Winter Wonderland in the Wilhelmina grot. There’s a fee for these markets and tickets can be bought online. The fee for 2021 is not yet been made public. There are combination tickets possible.
Next to Christmas markets, a Route D’Amuse is also being organized. There are 4 different walking routes, and on each one, you stop at 4 restaurants for an amuse. In this fun way, you get to know a bit more about Valkenburg and the excellent restaurants in town.
The Fluweelengrot houses the biggest indoor event in the Netherlands. The Gemeente grot has the oldest underground Christmas market in Europe. Mergelrijk has a 25 meters long Christmas story in miniature. Winter Wonderland has a large illuminated Christmas tree and a cable lift.
Recommended by: Cosette at KarsTravels
New York City, United States
There are several holiday markets in New York City, but the biggest and the best are the outdoor markets at Union Square. There are dozens of stalls set up in rows around the bottom end of the square. The markets are free to enter. Most of the stalls sell hand-made local crafts, so they are a great place to get some unusual and individual gifts for your loved ones.
You can find hand-crafted Christmas tree ornaments, lanterns, and candles, ties and T-shirts with maps of New York City, silk-printed pillows, hand-made jewelry, and much more. A few stalls also sell seasonal snacks like melt-in-your-mouth chocolates, German ginger cookies, and, of course, hot chocolate with melted marshmallows. The Union Square Markets is just one of the many incredible things to do in New York over the Christmas holidays, so after you’ve had your fill of shopping, you can view Christmas trees, see seasonal light shows, watch holiday performances, go ice skating, and much more.
The W New York Hotel is right on the northeast corner of Union Square, so it couldn’t be more convenient. The Hyatt Union Square New York is also just a bloc
k away from the markets. The holiday markets run from mid-November through to Christmas Eve (closed Thanksgiving Day). They are open Monday through Friday 11:00am to 8:00pm, Saturday 10:00am to 8:00pm, and Sunday 11:00am to 7:00pm. Weekdays during working hours tend to be less crowded, though evenings are especially magical.
Recommended by: James Ian at Travel Collecting
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