Greatest Christmas Markets in Europe 2022

That is your final information to the most effective Christmas markets in Europe! I’ve traveled to a whole lot of Christmas markets to convey you the most effective 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 have got a slight chill regardless of your heat winter coat. You see a fortress within the mist on the hill forward of you. Might immediately get any higher? Sure, sure it might.

As you flip the nook you’re first hit with the scent. It’s a combination 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 high of their lungs.

You spherical one other nook and there it’s, shimmering and glittering because the solar units: hundreds of twinkle lights strewn alongside recent lower pine bushes. Hand carved wood stalls promoting meals, drinks, and handmade trinkets line the road, every another embellished 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 skilled 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 price 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 have fun Christmas and share their handmade wares and scrumptious household recipes of conventional meals.

I am sharing the most effective of the European Christmas markets so you’ll be able to guarantee to benefit from your time.

Greatest 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 undoubtedly deserves its nickname because the “Capital of Noel”! This metropolis has probably the greatest Christmas markets in all Europe and it is an extremely festive place to go to throughout the vacation season. With superbly embellished 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 resorts, the lit up Notre Dame Cathedral with angels that line the streets, and naturally vin chaud- mulled wine! A lot of nice meals, drinks, and hand crafted presents. Take your time right here, there are markets all through town. There are over 300 stalls so that you’re in for a deal with!

PRO TIP: When you’ve got time, head into the Vosges mountains, the place the large 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’ll be able to see my full information to those Alsace villages at Christmas right here.

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

See my full information to the most effective 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 town, you may discover no scarcity of issues to see and do right here. Giant, lavishly embellished Christmas markets sparkle all through town.

A few of my favorites are the Cologne Cathedral Market, that is the most important and takes place outdoors the spectacular cathedral with dwell music, an enormous tree, and gluhwein (sizzling, mulled wine!). I additionally adore the Angels’ Market the place you may discover it in Neumarkt Sq. and is without doubt one of the unique markets that options girls wearing angel costumes handing out sweets to kids. There’s additionally an exquisite carousel and beautiful mugs which might be good to take house as souvenirs. I am keen on the one within the Previous City as a result of it is full of what seems like gnomes, however it’s a lot extra! The Alter Markt calls itself the Dwelling of the Heinzelmännchen (who had been little creatures from a Cologne legend who used to do all of the house responsibilities till they had been aggravated by an inquisitive housewife).

And Nikolausdorf or “NicholasVillage” in Rudolfplatz can be properly well worth the cease! Many half-timbered buildings make this really feel like an actual village. It is all the time wonderful to me that this can come down come January!

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

See the most effective 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 beautiful buildings decked out in bows and ribbons. However you additionally get unbelievable Christmas markets! I have been to markets all all through Europe and I can inform you, those in Vienna are a number of the greatest.

There are a number of massive markets positioned 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 selecting up presents and grabbing a chunk to eat. The Glühwein right here is a number of 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 positioned in a pedestrian zone within the Spittelberg district and is made up of small, particular person chalets. This market has a very cozy really feel and is ideal for a romantic stroll.

And at last, my favourite market in Vienna is the Altwiener Christkindlmarkt at Freyung. This market is positioned in a beautiful park and has a very relaxed and charming ambiance. It is the right place to seize a cup of sizzling chocolate and a slice of Sachertorte (a chocolate cake that may be a Vienna specialty!)

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

Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn seems 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 seems like one thing out of a storybook.

The primary market is positioned in City Corridor Sq., in entrance of the beautiful medieval City Corridor. This is without doubt one of the largest markets in Tallinn and is ideal for selecting 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 glorious! It is a excellent place to choose up a home made wool sweater, and stick round for dwell music and leisure at evening.

If you happen to’re searching for one thing somewhat totally different, try the Rotermann Quarter. This market is positioned in an outdated 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 way of January seventh, 2023.

Basel, Switzerland

Basel, Switzerland is an enthralling metropolis positioned on the river Rhine and is thought for its lovely Previous City, medieval structure, museums, and naturally Christmas markets! This metropolis has one of many longest operating Christmas markets in Europe because it dates again to 1521.

The primary market is positioned in Munsterplatz and is full of lovely handcrafted items, a big number of food and drinks, and twinkling lights. You’ll want to attempt the scrumptious Basler Läckerli, a spiced gingerbread-like biscuits which might be a neighborhood specialty. I additionally love the mulled wine right here, it is a number of the greatest I’ve ever had!

There are additionally a number of different markets positioned all through town together with one within the sq. in entrance of Basel’s lovely purple sandstone cathedral. It is a excellent place to do some Christmas procuring as you may discover all the things from jewellery to wood toys.

PRO TIP: If you happen to’re searching for one thing somewhat totally different, make sure to try the Creation Calendar Home. It is a home with 25 home windows, every with a special shock behind it!

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

Prague, Czech Republic

If you happen to’re searching for 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 ambiance. The markets listed below are a number of the most original in Europe with lovely handmade items on supply.

The primary market is positioned in Previous City Sq. the place you may discover a beautiful Christmas tree and the spectacular Tyn Church within the background. It is a actually fashionable spot, so be ready for crowds, which is why I like to recommend weekdays. However it’s undoubtedly price 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 positioned in additional fashionable areas of town and supply a refreshing change of tempo from the Previous City.

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

Helsinki, Finland

Helsinki, Finland is a singular Christmas market expertise as a result of it is not solely concerning the market stalls, but in addition the ice skating rink that units up in Senate Sq.. It is so festive and beautiful 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 Previous Market Corridor. This is without doubt one of the few markets the place you could find meals indoors, so it is good in the event you’re visiting in colder climate or in the event you simply want a break from the chilly. You will additionally discover handcrafted Christmas decorations, glassware, and textiles.

I beloved the saunas positioned proper by the Christmas market glog stalls (glog is their model of mulled wine.) So that you would possibly 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 way of December twenty second, 2022.

Ribeauvillé, France

This market is small and solely supplied for a pair brief weekends however SO WORTH IT. It is one of the uncommon markets I’ve ever been to in essentially the most charming method. Your entire city clothes up and participates. There are individuals 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 same old Christmas market fare right here like mulled wine, gingerbread, and roasted chestnuts. However Ribeauvillé can be identified for its glorious native wines, so make sure to choose up a bottle or two to take house 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’ll be able to see it is a tremendous brief season however so price 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 positioned in Heidelberg’s outdated city, all through the Hauptstrasse. It is a bit totally different than a number of the different markets, and I discover it a pleasure! You’ll be able to stroll almost a mile and revel in totally different Christmas festivities alongside the way in which. I am biased since I lived in Heidelberg, however with an exquisite sixteenth century buildings, the fortress towering over the skating rink, it is simply magical.

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

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

Heidelberg Christmas Market Dates for 2022: November twenty first by way of 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 positioned within the lovely outdated 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 gentle 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, considered 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 excited about it!

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

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

Budapest, Hungary

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

There’s additionally an exquisite gentle present each night at 7 pm on the facade of the Gerbeaud Home that is undoubtedly price sticking round for. The market is open from November eleventh to January 1st, so you have got loads of time to go to. And remember to attempt some conventional Hungarian dishes like lángos (a deep-fried flatbread) or kürtőskalács (a chimney cake)!

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

Munich, Germany

Munich is famend for its wonderful Oktoberfest celebration, however do you know that it additionally has a number of the greatest Christmas markets in Europe? The markets listed below are massive and vigorous with an ideal ambiance.

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

There are numerous markets in Munich, however make sure to begin on the iconic Christkindlmarkt positioned in Marienplatz. From there, you’ll be able to select from the traditional Neuhausen Christmas market or go for one thing totally different just like the Wintertollwood Pageant held on Oktoberfest grounds.

And in the event you’re searching for an genuine Bavarian eating expertise, make sure to try Hofbräuhaus, considered one of Munich’s most well-known beer halls. It is an ideal place to attempt some conventional German dishes like Weißwurst (veal sausage) and Leberkäse (a sort of meatloaf).

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

Innsbruck, Austria

Innsbruck is an enthralling metropolis positioned within the Austrian Alps and its Christmas market is nothing in need of magical. With over 80 stalls, it is one of many smaller markets on this checklist, however it greater than makes up for it with its beautiful setting. The market takes place within the outdated city sq. towards the backdrop of the snow-capped peaks of the Alps.

What I like most about this market is that it has an actual conventional really feel to it. You will discover all the same old 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 full of jam) and Kernöl (pumpkin seed oil).

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

London, England

I like London for Christmas as all of the shops are decked out and there is a feeling of pleasure all over the place! Whereas London won’t be the everyday spot, Christmas market is unquestionably price 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, an enormous ferris wheel, and a German-style market with over 200 stalls. And in the event you’re feeling actually festive, you’ll be able to even go to Santa’s Grotto!

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

When you’ve got further time, head to Bathtub,a quintessential city in the UK that is additionally bought an exquisite Christmas market!

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

Nuremberg, Germany

Nuremberg is an exquisite medieval metropolis positioned within the German state of Bavaria – since 1313. It is best identified for its conventional Christkindlesmarkt, which is without doubt one of the oldest and largest markets in Germany.

The market is unfold out throughout town heart with over 180 stalls, so there’s loads to see and do. You will discover all the same old 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).

If you happen to go to Nuremberg Christmas Market on the primary Friday earlier than Creation there’s a tremendous opening ceremony with performances and dwell music.

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

Metz, France

Metz is an exquisite metropolis positioned within the northeast of France, near the border with Germany. It is best identified for its massive Christmas market, which is without doubt one of the largest in Europe.

The market is unfold out throughout town heart with over 200 stalls, so there’s loads to see and do. You will discover all the same old 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 lovely stained glass home windows that had been constructed by well-known artists like Marc Chagall and Jean Cocteau. Metz has loads of different locations price visiting as properly – Notre Dame d’Auschwitz, the trendy artwork heart Centre Pompidou-Metz, and Le Temple Neuf is an exquisite church that appears extra like a fortress.

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

Trier, Germany

Trier is an exquisite metropolis positioned 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 beautiful cathedral, it is a beautiful spot.

This system on the Trier Christmas Market adjustments each day, providing quite a lot of leisure for the entire household. From historic puppet theater to star tenor and songsmiths, there’s something for everybody to take pleasure in. With scrumptious food and drinks on supply, plus arts and crafts from around the globe, the Trier Christmas Market attracts guests from far and large.

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 way of December twenty second, 2022.

See the most effective Christmas markets in Germany right here.

Bruges, Belgium

Bruges is an exquisite metropolis positioned within the northwest of Belgium. It is best identified for its canals, cobbled streets, and medieval structure. The Christmas market is positioned within the historic metropolis heart and is without doubt one of the most atmospheric markets in Europe.

You will discover all the same old Belgian Christmas Market staples like Belgian chocolate, waffles, and beer. However you may additionally discover gadgets like gingerbread homes, candles, and handmade wood toys. Yearly Grote Sq. is reworked to Bruges’ largest Christmas market and within the heart you may discover a skating rink. It’s also possible to head to Stevin Sq. for much more Christmas festivities.

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

Aachen, Germany

I simply went to Aachen final yr for my first time and completely beloved it! Not solely is Aachen filled with necessary historical past, it is bought an unbelievable Christmas market that is been named one of many high Christmas Markets in Europe through the years.

Aachen Christmas Market is positioned within the historic metropolis heart 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 beloved most concerning the market had been all the Aachener Printen on supply. Printen are a sort of gingerbread that originates from Aachen. They arrive in all kinds of sizes and shapes and are completely scrumptious!

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

Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen is the capital of Denmark and is positioned on the jap coast of the nation. The town is stuffed with appeal with its canals, cobbled streets, and historic buildings. The Christmas market is positioned within the coronary heart of 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’ll be able to even experience the Polar Specific! Additionally, Kongens Nytorv is without doubt one of the most lovely squares in Copenhagen and it actually comes alive throughout Christmas time. And remember to move to iconic Nyhavn the place you may additionally discover a market.

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

Zagreb, Croatia

Zagreb is the capital of Croatia and is positioned within the northwest of the nation. The town is stuffed with tradition and historical past with an exquisite outdated city that is good for exploring. The Christmas market is positioned in Tomislav Sq. within the heart of town.

On the Zagreb Christmas Market, you may discover all the standard Croatian Christmas Market staples like mulled wine, sausages, and pancakes. It’s also possible to discover handicrafts, jewellery, and pottery. You’ll want to attempt the strukli which is a sort of pastry that is fashionable in Zagreb.

And if you wish to get a birds eye view of the market, be certain to move to the Zagreb Eye which is a huge Ferris wheel positioned within the coronary heart of town.

Zagreb Christmas Market Dates for 2022: November twenty sixth by way of 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 Suggestions

As your resident skilled on Christmas in Europe, listed below are a few of my high suggestions for benefiting from your Christmas market journey!

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

Which nation has the most effective decorations for Christmas? France! France goes all out for decorations. It does not damage that the Alsace area already seems like an ideal gingerbread village!

What’s the most effective time to go for Christmas markets in Europe? I feel December is your greatest wager 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

Greatest Christmas Markets in Germany

Greatest Christmas Market in France

Greatest Christmas Markets in Switzerland

So there you have got it, my checklist of the most effective Christmas markets in Europe for 2022! Which one are you most excited about- you probably have any questions, be happy to achieve out to me on Instagram @heleneinbetween – I reply all my DMs!