7 Best Christmas markets in Europe

If you’re dreaming of mulled wine, twinkling lights and cobbled streets lined with festive stalls, you’re not alone. Christmas markets are a big draw for Irish holidaymakers looking to soak up some seasonal magic – and Europe does them better than anywhere.

From fairy-tale towns to buzzing cities, these are some of the best Christmas markets to visit this year. Whether you’re planning a short break or a longer festive escape, we’ve included handy travel tips and reminders to make your trip feel like Christmas came early.

1. Vienna, Austria – Tradition with a touch of elegance

If you’re looking for the picture-perfect Christmas break, Vienna is hard to top. The Austrian capital transforms into a winter wonderland, with over 20 markets dotted across its grand squares. The main event is in front of the majestic City Hall, where you’ll find sparkling trees, choirs singing carols, and stalls selling everything from hand-carved wooden toys to roasted chestnuts.

Wander through Rathausplatz with a hot mug of punch in hand, and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a snow globe. The scent of cinnamon and clove hangs in the air, and every turn offers another festive photo opportunity.

When to go: Mid-November to late December

Travel tip: For a quieter market with the same magical feel, head to the Schönbrunn Palace market – set against the stunning Baroque backdrop of the former imperial residence.

2. Strasbourg, France – The capital of Christmas

Strasbourg isn’t just home to a Christmas market – it is Christmas. The Alsatian city calls itself the “Capital of Noël”, and once you see it lit up, you’ll understand why. The market here has run for more than 400 years, filling the half-timbered streets with over 300 stalls, each more charming than the last.

The towering Christmas tree in Place Kléber is a showstopper, while Place Broglie and Place de la Cathédrale come alive with twinkling lights, mulled wine, and festive music. It’s a city that knows how to do Christmas with heart and heritage.

When to go: 26th November to 24th December

Travel tip: With direct flights and compact city streets, Strasbourg is ideal for a festive city break that feels both traditional and easy to navigate.

3. Cologne, Germany – Six markets, one trip

Cologne is a city that takes Christmas seriously – and joyfully. With six main markets and smaller neighbourhood ones sprinkled throughout, it’s like exploring a festive trail. The most iconic is beneath the city’s colossal cathedral, where a forest of red-roofed huts and a canopy of lights set the mood.

Each market has its own flavour. The Angel’s Market in Neumarkt has glowing white stalls and a fairylike atmosphere. The one on the Rhine has a nautical twist. And for something different, the Nicholas’ Village in Rudolfplatz has a storybook medieval theme that kids will love.

When to go: 17th November to 23rd December

Travel tip: Pick up a collector’s edition Glühwein mug from each market – they’re beautiful, practical, and make lovely keepsakes.

4. Budapest, Hungary – Budget-friendly festive fun

Budapest offers all the magic of a winter city break – without the hefty price tag. The main market at Vörösmarty Square is a feast for the senses: glowing lights, the scent of cinnamon chimney cakes, and traditional Hungarian crafts made by local artisans.

But what really makes Budapest stand out is its blend of old-world charm and modern flair. After browsing the markets, warm up in a thermal bath or take a cruise down the Danube to see the city’s bridges and landmarks bathed in festive lights.

When to go: 15th November to 1st January

Travel tip: Everything from food to accommodation tends to be more affordable than Western Europe – perfect if you’re planning a longer festive break.

5. Brussels, Belgium – Under-the-radar winter wonder

Brussels doesn’t always top the Christmas market lists – and that’s part of the charm. It’s slightly less crowded than the better-known options, but no less magical. The city’s Winter Wonders market spans nearly 3km, winding through the Grand Place and beyond, with food stalls, crafts, and festive fun around every corner.

The city’s UNESCO-listed main square becomes a stage for a nightly sound-and-light show that turns the town hall and historic buildings into a living Christmas card. From ice skating to sipping Belgian hot chocolate, Brussels has a laid-back but lively Christmas spirit.

When to go: 28th November to 4th January

Travel tip: It’s a short flight from Dublin, easy to explore on foot, and perfect for families or couples wanting a mix of tradition and modern city buzz.

6. Prague, Czech Republic – Storybook setting

Prague looks like it was designed for Christmas. Think cobbled lanes, gothic spires, and festive stalls glowing against the backdrop of a medieval square. The Old Town Square market is one of the most beautiful in Europe, with a huge tree flown in from the countryside and traditional wooden huts selling handmade gifts, glass baubles, and Czech pastries.

Warm yourself with a cup of svařák (mulled wine) as local choirs sing carols under the Astronomical Clock. It’s magical, romantic, and packed with old-world charm that feels genuinely timeless.

When to go: 30th November to 6th January

Travel tip: The markets run right into the New Year, so it’s perfect if you want to extend your break and welcome the new year in style.

7. Copenhagen, Denmark – Cosy Scandi Christmas

Tivoli Gardens alone makes Copenhagen worth the trip. This historic amusement park is transformed each year into a glowing Scandinavian wonderland, complete with snow-dusted fir trees, lakeside light displays, and Christmas stalls selling Danish treats like æbleskiver (pancake puffs) and gløgg (mulled wine with raisins and almonds).

Beyond Tivoli, the city’s smaller markets – like those at Højbro Plads and Nyhavn – combine minimal design with heartfelt tradition. Copenhagen is all about the feel – it’s festive without being over the top, stylish yet comforting.

When to go: 29th November to 6th January

Travel tip: Hygge isn’t just a buzzword. Make sure you feel it and experience it in every glowing lantern, woolly blanket, and hot drink shared with locals at a market stall.

Make this Christmas one to remember

There’s something truly special about a Christmas market break. Whether it’s Vienna’s elegance, Cologne’s variety or the heartwarming glow of Prague’s cobbled streets, each destination offers its own unique slice of festive joy.

It’s more than just a holiday – it’s a chance to step into a world of local traditions and delicious winter treats. It’s about reconnecting with the season, whether you're sipping Glühwein by a grand cathedral or finding the perfect handmade gift in a snow-dusted square.

So this winter, don’t just imagine it – plan it. Wrap up, head off, and explore Europe’s most enchanting Christmas markets with all the wonder, warmth and festive cheer you’ve been waiting for. And before you go? Make sure you’ve got the right travel insurance sorted – because even the best trips deserve a safety net.