The 15 Most Magical Christmas Markets in Europe

This year’s guide highlights 15 of the continent’s most atmospheric — including some of the biggest markets in Europe — from lakeside towns in Switzerland to candlelit city squares in the east. Each listing includes practical details on when to visit, what makes it worth the trip, and suggestions for cozy places to stay.

Austria | Czech Republic | Estonia | France | Germany | Hungary | Lithuania | Poland | Spain | Switzerland | United Kingdom

We hope you love the Airbnbs we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.

Austria

Vienna

• When: November 14 – December 26, 2025 (Rathausplatz Christkindlmarkt; other markets run on similar dates)
• Why it’s worth traveling for: Vienna combines centuries of tradition with scale — from the grand market at City Hall to smaller neighborhood fairs, all set against the backdrop of imperial architecture and winter light.

Shop for handcrafted goods between stops for hot punch and roasted chestnuts at the Viennese Christmas markets, and make sure to try freshly baked Vanillekipferl — nutty, buttery crescent-shaped biscuits dusted with vanilla sugar. Vienna’s market tradition dates back to 1298, when Duke Albrecht I granted citizens the right to hold a Krippenmarkt (December market). Today, more than 20 official Christmas markets take place across the city. On Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, international choirs perform carols at City Hall. In 2025, the markets are expected to open in mid-November.

Where to stay near the Viennese Christmas markets

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A winter getaway to Vienna is simply magical. If you want to be close to all the action, there are some excellent centrally located Airbnbs which I can tell you from personal experience are little havens despite being in the heart of the city. If you want something with character, check out this late 19th-century one-bedroom (pictured above), or for a more modern stay, this small townhouse in a very popular area in the 7th district looks charming.

Salzburg

• When: November 20 — January 1, 2026
• Why it’s worth traveling for: Music shapes the atmosphere here, with brass from the towers, choirs in the squares, and the ring of church bells turn Salzburg’s old town into a living Advent performance.

The Salzburg Christmas market takes place beneath the Hohensalzburg Fortress, spreading across Cathedral and Residence Squares in the heart of the old town. The market traces its history back to the 15th century and keeps close ties to Austrian folk traditions. Visitors can hear choirs and wind ensembles performing Turmblasen — brass music played from the towers each evening — see the city’s narrow lanes lit with garlands, and browse stalls selling wooden ornaments, wool scarves, and spiced punch. Parades of Krampus — horned figures from Alpine folklore — add a wilder side to the celebrations, with costumed groups roaming the streets in early December.

Where to stay near the Christmas market in Salzburg

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This top five percent Airbnb (pictured above) has a stunning roof terrace with outdoor dining, a great view of the Hohensalzburg fortress, and sleeps six guests. If you’re a solo traveler or a couple, this historic apartment is in a listed building built in the 13th century in the quiet and romantic Goldgasse, right next to the world-famous Getreidegasse.

Czech Republic

Prague

• When: November 30, 2025 — January 6, 2026
• Why it’s worth traveling for: The view of the tree beside the Gothic towers and the sound of carols echoing through the square make Prague’s market one of the most striking in Europe.

The Christmas market in Prague fills Old Town Square beneath the spires of the Church of Our Lady before Týn. Each December, a towering Christmas tree decorated with Czech glass ornaments stands at its centre. Food stalls serve traditional Czech dishes such as roasted ham, garlic flatbreads, and bramboráky (crispy potato pancakes), along with steaming mugs of svařák (mulled wine). Visitors can watch local choirs perform on the outdoor stage or wander to Wenceslas Square, where a second market focuses on regional crafts and sweets. Children enjoy the small petting zoo near the tree and a view of the lights from the horse-drawn carriages that circle the square.

Where to stay near Prague’s Old Town Square market

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Gone are the days when Prague was cheap to visit, but Airbnbs here are still reasonable and offer bang for your buck. For a stylish stay, check out this Art Nouveau home (pictured above) next to Old Town Square. It has views over the Christmas tree and festive lights below and sleeps up to five guests. For couples or solo travelers, this light-drenched one-bedroom apartment also has a prime location in the historical Vinohrady district. This stunning Airbnb is often booked out, so make sure to reserve in advance.

Estonia

Tallinn

• When: November 21 — December 27, 2025
• Why it’s worth traveling for: Set against the Gothic towers of Tallinn’s Old Town, the market’s mix of song, food, and candlelit stalls captures the city’s long-held Christmas traditions.

The Christmas market in Tallinn, Estonia, has one remarkable tradition: every year since 1441, a Christmas tree has stood in the city center, said to be the first publicly displayed tree in Europe. The market fills Town Hall Square with wooden stalls selling Estonian favorites like black pudding, sauerkraut, roast duck, and hot pastries. Children can post letters to Santa at the town hall and watch folk-dance performances on the small open-air stage. Vendors pour steaming cups of glögg — mulled wine flavored with local berries such as blueberry and blackcurrant — and the market’s wool stalls are a highlight, offering hand-knit mittens, socks, and blankets made from Estonian sheep’s wool.

Where to stay near the Christmas market in Tallinn

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Tallinn has some beautiful Airbnbs. Again, in the center of town, near the markets, there are more apartments than larger homes, but they are pretty roomy. This four-bedroom, for instance, sleeps seven and features high-end interior design, a sauna, a billiard table, a charming terrace, and indoor fireplaces. There’s also this two-bedroom, which is in a quiet courtyard near the city’s creative hub, Kultuurikatel, and the Old Town.

France

Kaysersberg

• When: November 28 — December 21, 2025 (Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays)
• Why it’s worth traveling for: The market fills Kaysersberg’s medieval streets with light and music, turning the small Alsatian town into one of the most atmospheric holiday settings in France.

The Kaysersberg Christmas market festivities take place along the town’s historic ramparts — including a watchtower that was once part of the Château de Kaysersberg. Craftsmen’s wooden chalets line the cobbled streets, selling wooden toys, pottery, and Christmas decorations made from blown glass, wood, fabric, and other traditional materials. Save room for Alsatian holiday treats like bredeles (a spiced biscuit made with almonds, nuts, anise, chocolate, or vanilla), kougelhopf (a yeasted cake baked in a tall ring mold), hot chocolate, and mulled wine. The Alsatian town of Kaysersberg, fully decorated with lights, wreaths, and pine garlands, hosts the Christmas market every weekend — Friday through Sunday — during the Advent season.

Where to stay near the Kaysersberg Christmas market

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Many of the Airbnbs in Kaysersberg mirror the town’s beautiful historic architecture. If you’d like to stay in a classic timber home, this 18th-century house (pictured above) sleeps six guests and is ideally located in the center of town. Or, if you need more space, this four-bedroom chalet has excellent reviews and faces Kaysersberg Castle, which overlooks the city. Last but not least, this apartment is situated within a 15th-century Alsatian house and is within the top five percent of Airbnb listings on the site.

Strasbourg

• When: November 26 — December 24, 2025
• Why it’s worth traveling for: The cathedral square, the towering fir on Place Kléber, and the blend of French and German traditions make Strasbourg feel like the heart of Christmas in Europe.

For a true holiday extravaganza, head to the Strasbourg Christmas market — the oldest in France and among the oldest in Europe. First held in 1570, the market spreads through the UNESCO-listed Grande-Île, filling the historic center with roughly 300 wooden chalets. Much of it takes place near the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Strasbourg, a 15th-century Gothic landmark. The air is scented with mulled wine, kougelhopf (a light yeasted cake baked in a tall ring mold), and pain d’épices (spiced gingerbread). Each year, a different “guest country” is featured at Place Gutenberg, where visitors can try regional food and browse imported crafts.

Where to stay near The Strasbourg Christmas market

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You can literally step out the door of this one-bedroom Alsatian apartment (pictured above) into the Christmas market. It’s that close. Facing the Cathedral (one of the oldest buildings in Strasbourg), this historic Airbnb has exceptional reviews. For something a little more modern, check out this central and elegant one-bedroom on Grand’ Ru or this beautifully decorated apartment on Place Kléber, the main square in the city center.

Colmar

• When: November 25 – December 29, 2025
• Why it’s worth traveling for: Colmar feels like a Christmas postcard come to life — six walkable markets set among medieval streets, with local food and wine tying everything to Alsace’s traditions.

Each of the six mini villages making up La Magie de Noël à Colmar, which runs from late November to late December, has its own character. In total, about 180 stalls fill Colmar’s cobbled squares and canalside lanes, all surrounded by half-timbered houses trimmed with fir garlands and lights. The markets focus on Alsatian produce — foie gras, Munster cheese, honey, gingerbread, and local wines — alongside crafts, ornaments, and winter textiles. The Children’s Christmas Market on Little Venice’s Quai de la Poissonnerie is especially atmospheric, with a carousel and tiny wooden cottages decorated by local schoolchildren.

Where to stay near Colmar’s Christmas market

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You’ll need to book a stay in Colmar in advance. The town is not big, and Airbnbs will be snapped up quickly, especially around the holidays. This one-bedroom (pictured above) has views over the canal, so you can watch the lights from the balcony. Or this beautiful serviced apartment is another great find in the city’s medieval part, a stone’s throw from the Maison des Têtes and the Unterlinden Museum.

Germany

Leipzig

• When: November 25 — December 23, 2025
• Why it’s worth traveling for: Leipzig’s mix of centuries-old customs and small-town warmth — from the brass music floating across the square to the spectacle of the flaming Feuerzangenbowle — creates a distinctly Saxon kind of Christmas magic

Dating back to 1458, Leipzig’s Christmas market is one of the oldest in Germany and among the largest, with around 300 stalls — including a popular medieval market — spread across six locations in the historic city center. The magic of a Leipzig Christmas is found in the simple pleasures: nibbling on local gingerbread (Pulsnitzer Pfefferkuchen) as traditional trombonists perform from the balcony of the Old Town Hall each evening. Don’t leave without finding a Feuerzangenbowle stand; the traditional drink involves setting a rum-soaked sugarloaf on fire and letting it drip into mulled wine.

Where to stay near Leipzig’s Christmas market

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When it comes to where to stay, you are spoilt for choice for the city center. That said, you’ll be looking at apartments with three bedrooms maximum in this area. There’s a style for all, but if you like natural colors and mod-cons, check out this centrally located three-bedroom (pictured above) or this top five percent Airbnb near downtown. If you’d rather be out of town and prefer a more rural stay, have a look at this beautiful detached house in Schwarz-Bunt (about 15 minutes from the city center).

Dresden

• When: November 26 — December 24, 2025
• Why it’s worth traveling for: The Striezelmarkt keeps Dresden’s centuries-old craft traditions alive — wooden toys, candle pyramids, and fruit bread made to recipes that haven’t changed in generations.

The Striezelmarkt in Dresden is among Germany’s oldest documented Christmas markets, first recorded in 1434. Set in Altmarkt Square, it’s instantly recognisable for its towering wooden Christmas pyramid, a traditional Erzgebirge structure with carved figures that slowly spin in the candlelight. The market’s 200-plus stalls sell regional crafts from the Ore Mountains, including hand-turned wooden ornaments and candle arches known as Schwibbögen. Visitors can sample stollen — the city’s signature fruit bread — especially during the annual Stollenfest parade, when an enormous loaf is carried through the streets and shared among the crowd. Alongside roasted almonds and mulled wine, there’s a children’s railway, a Ferris wheel with views over the Elbe, and daily stage performances.

Where to stay near Dresden Striezelmarkt

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Personally, I prefer an Airbnb with a little history when staying in Europe, and in Dresden, there’s a lot to choose from. For couples and solo travelers, you can’t beat this one-bedroom tiny house (pictured above) with a rooftop terrace and a fireplace. For more space, check out this two-bedroom historic home with a Jacuzzi to warm you up after an evening in the markets or this centrally located five-bed with space for seven guests.

Hungary

Budapest

• When: November 14 — December 31, 2025
• Why it’s worth traveling for: Budapest’s markets turn two of the city’s most beautiful squares into open-air festivals — music, light, and food coming together beneath the glowing dome of St. Stephen’s Basilica.

In Budapest, the main Christmas fair is held at Vörösmarty Square in the heart of the city. Wooden stalls fill the square with hand-carved ornaments, embroidered textiles, and steaming plates of lángos (fried dough topped with sour cream and cheese). A second market takes place at St. Stephen’s Square, in front of the Basilica, where an animated light show plays across the church’s façade each evening and the smell of forralt bor (mulled wine) hangs in the air. Crowds gather for the light show while folk dancers perform on the main stage and children circle the rink beside the Basilica to the sound of evening bells.

Where to stay near Budapest’s Christmas fair

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You can stay like royalty in Budapest on a mid-range budget. You also need to have a view. For that, check out this two-bedroom apartment (pictured above), which offers spectacular views over Parliament from the living room and master bedroom. The over-the-top opulent rental is in Lipótváros, a central neighborhood known for its Art Nouveau and Gothic Revival architecture. If this option is unavailable, an equally stylish apartment is this two-bedroom on a charming little pedestrian street downtown.

Lithuania

Vilnius

• When: November 29 — December 28, 2025
• Why it’s worth traveling for: Vilnius brings together creativity and tradition. Each year’s tree design transforms Cathedral Square into a new winter scene, set against the Baroque skyline of Lithuania’s capital.

The Christmas market in Vilnius takes place primarily in the historic Old Town, centred on Cathedral Square and spilling into the surrounding streets and squares. The city’s Christmas tree is redesigned every year — recent versions have drawn inspiration from snowflakes and stained glass — and has become one of Europe’s most photographed holiday displays. Around it, wooden chalets sell Baltic woollens, carved wooden ornaments, honey, and traditional sweets like meduoliai (spiced honey cookies). A small Christmas train links Cathedral Square with Town Hall Square, where visitors can skate at the open-air rink or watch a 3D light projection on the Cathedral’s façade that retells a Lithuanian winter folktale.

Where to stay near Vilnius’ Christmas Village

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Airbnbs here are affordable. This one-bedroom is a top-five percent listing, ideal for couples or solo travelers. It dates back to 1736 and has been restored with modern details and natural materials. For a chic stay, have a look at this apartment in the UNESCO-listed Old Town. If you need more space, this old townhouse is a few steps from all the attractions, including the Christmas festivities.

Poland

Gdansk

• When: November 21 — December 23, 2025
• Why it’s worth traveling for: Gdańsk’s market brings the old port’s streets to life with lights, music, and Baltic crafts, keeping a friendly, local feel even at its busiest.

The Gdańsk Christmas market takes over Targ Węglowy in the city’s historic center, its layout designed like a giant Advent calendar with each day revealing a new surprise. The market features charming details — a kissing spot under the mistletoe, a windmill serving grzaniec (Polish mulled wine), and a talking moose that greets visitors in several languages. Children can watch the daily parade of elves, ride the ornate carousel, or test the sleigh simulator, while adults browse stalls selling amber jewelry, hand-carved toys, and gingerbread from nearby Toruń.

Where to stay near Gdansk Christmas market

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Airbnbs in Gdansk are reasonably priced and, in my opinion, nicer than hotels for a similar nightly rate. For solo travelers or a couple, check out this one-bedroom (pictured above) that overlooks the Motława River. If you need more space, this luxury apartment in Old Town has three bedrooms and is minutes from Old Town.

Spain

Madrid

• When: November 22 — December 31, 2025
• Why it’s worth traveling for: Plaza Mayor’s market brings together light, humor, and tradition — a lively reflection of how Madrid celebrates Christmas in its own style.

Located in Madrid’s Plaza Mayor, the city’s oldest square, the signature red stalls of the Madrid Christmas market sell handmade crafts and decorations. The market is best known for its belén figures — nativity-scene figurines found in nearly every Spanish home during the holidays. Nearby, at the Feria Dulces de Navidad in Plaza Isabel II, vendors sell seasonal sweets like turrón (almond nougat) and polvorones (crumbly shortbread). You’ll also find comic “gag gifts” for Día de los Santos Inocentes, Spain’s version of April Fool’s Day on December 28. During the Christmas season, the city’s streets are illuminated with intricate, multi-colored light displays designed by local artists.

Where to stay near Plaza Mayor Christmas Market

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Madrid has some excellent hotels, but you’re spoilt for choice if you’d rather have a home rental with history and character. This roomy two-bedroom apartment has eight balconies overlooking the bohemian neighborhood of Malasaña (often referred to as the Williamsburg of Madrid). It’s drenched in natural light and has all the mod-cons, including a Netflix projector, so you can watch It’s a Wonderful Life after an evening in the markets. Or for something a little more compact, check out this 19th-century studio right in the center of the city.

Switzerland

Montreux

• When: November 20 – December 24, 2025
• Why it’s worth traveling for: Few markets have a setting like Montreux’s — wooden chalets line the lakeside, the Alps rise behind them, and each evening Santa crosses the sky over Lake Geneva on a flying sleigh.

Switzerland’s Montreux Noël takes place along the shores of Lake Geneva, with live music, light shows, and around 170 illuminated chalet stalls creating a festive promenade across the lakeside quays. Look out for “Flying Santa” — the tradition of Santa Claus gliding over the water on a sleigh each evening between Quai Edouard-Jaccoud and Place du Marché. Nearby, in the covered market next to the train station, try a warm cup of logger’s tea from The Logger’s Cabin or savour fondue-based specialties from Chalet Heidi.

Where to stay near Montreux Noël

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You’ll need a flexible budget for a stay in this region, but if you’re even considering a trip to Switzerland, let’s hope you’ve already got your head around that. Staying in an Airbnb can help with food costs, as you can prepare some meals at home and treat yourself and loved ones to special dinners out. Those traveling as a couple or small group will want to bookmark this two-bedroom suite. With an expansive private terrace offering unparalleled views of Lake Geneva and the French Alps, this Airbnb is another top five percent listing on the site.

United Kingdom

Manchester

• When: November 7 — December 22, 2025
• Why it’s worth traveling for: Manchester’s markets fill the city centre with food and music — the range of stalls and easy layout make it one of the most walkable and sociable Christmas markets in the UK.

The Manchester Christmas markets spread across the city centre, with the main site at Piccadilly Gardens and satellite markets in Exchange Square, St Ann’s Square, and King Street. The stalls sell German-style sausages, Belgian frites, and Yorkshire pudding wraps, alongside handmade gifts and local crafts. The Winter Gardens at Piccadilly include a beer hall, music stage, and covered seating areas for cold evenings. Elsewhere, the Cathedral Gardens market features an ice rink and family attractions.

Where to stay near the Christmas markets in Manchester

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Manchester is a large city, but thankfully, public transportation is excellent, so getting from one neighborhood to another is a breeze. For an Airbnb with color in a historic setting, this two-bedroom (pictured above) has excellent reviews and is in the Deansgate area of the city — home to some of the better restaurants and cultural must-sees. Or this centrally located penthouse in the Northern Quarter, one of Manchester’s trendiest neighborhoods. The New York-style loft has two bedrooms, a large open-plan living space, and an outdoor sitting area.

What is the best Christmas market to visit in Europe?

The best Christmas market in Europe is a subject of debate. Some contend that grand city of Prague holds the most festive market, where visitors can experience elaborate nativity scenes and outdoor concerts. Others bestow the honor to the Christmas market in Cologne, Germany, which hosts multiple Christmas markets throughout the holiday season.

Which is the biggest Christmas market in Europe?

The biggest Christmas market in Europe happens in Vienna, Austria, near the city’s historic city hall, called the Rathausplatz. The Vienna Christmas market receives around three million visitors every year. There also many Christmas markets spread all over Cologne, Germany, adding up to one huge festive celebration.

What are the dates of Christmas markets in Europe?

The dates of Christmas markets in Europe generally run from mid to late November to early January, although some of them close on Christmas Eve. Typically, if you’re visiting Europe during the holiday season, you should have at least a month and half to explore the Christmas markets.

What are the Christmas markets in Europe called?

The Christmas markets in Europe have many different names. In Germany and Austria, Christmas markets are called Weihnachtsmarkt or sometimes Striezelmarkt. In other parts of Europe, Christmas markets are known an Advent Hall.