7 Christmas Markets You Simply Can't Miss

Whether you count down to Christmas all year long or try to avoid the holiday rush as much as possible — once December arrives, there’s no escaping it. Cities light up, festive music fills the streets, and the scent of mulled wine drifts through the air. The best place to experience this magic? A Christmas market.

Christmas markets turn cold winter nights into something warm and cozy. Picture twinkling lights, steaming mugs of hot chocolate, delicious street food, and skating rinks right in the city center. Europe is packed with them — and here are seven of the very best.

Dresden (Germany)

The Striezelmarkt in Dresden is legendary. First held in 1434, it’s the oldest Christmas market in Germany. From late November until Christmas Eve, the Altmarkt square transforms into a winter wonderland with stalls, a Ferris wheel, a towering Christmas tree, and tasty treats like currywurst and traditional stollen. Each year, a 3,000-kilo stollen is baked and cut in a festive ceremony.

Budapest (Hungary)

Budapest hosts several markets, but the Advent Basilica is the most magical. Right in front of St. Stephen’s Basilica you’ll find Hungarian crafts, festive foods, and a small ice rink surrounded by lights. Don’t miss kürtőskalács (chimney cake) for something sweet, or lángos for a savory bite. Beyond the markets, the city offers thermal baths and one of Europe’s most picturesque ice rinks in the city park.

Brussels (Belgium)

From November 29 to January 5, Brussels turns into Belgium’s longest Christmas market, stretching over 2.5 kilometers. The Grand Place is the centerpiece, with a giant tree and a stunning light-and-sound show. Continue to the Ferris wheel at the Fish Market, the ice rink at Place de la Bourse, and of course, stop for a Belgian waffle and a shot of jenever.

Tallinn (Estonia)

Few places feel as cozy as Tallinn’s old town. Since 1441, a Christmas tree has stood proudly on the Town Hall Square, surrounded by wooden stalls and medieval architecture. Tallinn also boasts one of the highest chances of snow in Europe, so you might enjoy a white Christmas. Spend the day skiing just outside the city, then head back to the market for a magical evening.

Vienna (Austria)

Austrian tradition says the Christmas market was born in Vienna — and whether that’s true or not, the city certainly sets the standard. From mid-November to late December, its squares transform into enchanting markets. The most famous is the Wiener Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz, where historic charm, festive food, and endless lights create a fairytale atmosphere.

Gdańsk (Poland)

Colorful facades and cobbled streets make Gdańsk beautiful year-round, but in winter it becomes especially enchanting. At the Targ Węglowy square, 150 stalls sell Polish sausages, handmade gifts, vodka, and holiday decorations. The Dutch-style gabled houses reflect the city’s history of trade with the Netherlands, adding extra charm to the festive setting.

Montbéliard (France)

Near the German and Swiss borders, this small French town offers one of the country’s most picturesque markets. From November 23 to December 24, more than 100,000 lights illuminate the streets around the Saint-Martin church. Over 100 carefully curated stalls sell regional delicacies and artisanal products of high quality.