FX.co ★ Best Christmas markets in Europe

Dresden Market (Germany)

The Dresden Christmas Market, or Striezelmarkt, is one of Europe’s oldest and finest, dating back to 1434. Every year, it transforms Dresden into a magical Christmas wonderland, drawing guests from around the world. Over 200 stalls offer unique handmade items, traditional Christmas stollen, and local treats. A major highlight is the world’s tallest Christmas pyramid. The Ferris wheel offers breathtaking views of the festive lights.

Strasbourg Market (France)

Known by many as the “Capital of Christmas,” Strasbourg’s Christmas market has been attracting visitors since 1570. One of the largest in Europe, it spans multiple squares, with its main location at the cathedral square. Here, the giant 30-meter-high Le Grand Sapin tree towers over dozens of wooden chalets selling traditional decorations, handmade crafts, local delicacies, and spiced mulled wine.

Cologne Market (Germany)

Being one of Germany’s most famous Christmas markets, Cologne Market is a must-visit for those seeking an authentic German holiday experience. Located by the iconic Cologne Cathedral, it is a maze of red-roofed stalls centered around a huge festive stage. Visitors can sample traditional German treats—grilled sausages, potato pancakes, waffles, and hot mulled wine—and enjoy a variety of free performances, from jazz concerts to puppet shows for kids.

Vienna Market (Austria)

Vienna’s Christmas market is held in multiple locations, the largest of which is at City Hall, with over a hundred stalls offering Austrian delights like jam-filled Vienna donuts and hot punch. Equally enchanting are the markets by Belvedere and Schönbrunn palaces, where festive cheer meets grand Austrian architecture. For those seeking a quieter atmosphere, Vienna has cozy small markets at Spittelberg and Freyung, the latter held since 1772.

Montreux Market (Switzerland)

Located on the shores of Lake Geneva, Montreux’s Christmas market exudes a unique alpine charm. Over 150 stalls offer Swiss specialties such as fondue, raclette, and rösti with alpine cheese. Every day, visitors can see Santa flying across the sky—a magical sight for kids and adults alike. A train trip to Santa’s house atop the Rochers-de-Naye mountain, near the famous Château de Chillon, adds to the festive experience.

Tallinn Market (Estonia)

Set in Tallinn’s Town Hall Square in the heart of the Old Town, this Christmas market is surrounded by medieval buildings, creating a true fairytale setting. Visitors can sample traditional Estonian treats like hot berry glögi, blood sausage, and beer-braised sauerkraut. A gingerbread village offers beautifully decorated gingerbread cookies for all.

Budapest Market (Hungary)

The main Christmas market in Budapest takes place in Vörösmarty Square, the city’s largest and oldest one. Over a hundred wooden stalls offer handcrafted items and traditional treats such as langos and goulash served in bread bowls. A few minutes from the square is another market at St. Stephen’s Basilica, featuring cozy craft shops, an ice rink, and impressive light projections on the basilica’s facade.

Prague Market (Czech Republic)

Prague’s Christmas market is held in two main locations—Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square—where visitors find cozy wooden stalls and festive treats. The focus here is on Czech cuisine, with smoky klobása sausages, sweet trdelník rolls with sugar and nuts, and palacinky pancakes. Choir performances at the Church of St. Nicholas add a special touch of enchantment to the Prague market.