Europe has some of the most enchanting Christmas markets in the world. Each city has its own special atmosphere for this festive season. From Vienna to Strasbourg many Christmas markets earned their place among the best.
Yet, it’s overwhelming. With more cities to choose from, you need a helping hand. That’s where our AI Travel Guide comes in. With Piri’s AI Travel Guide, you can create your perfect trip in seconds. No more endless hours of planning. Just download Piri Guide! Pick any of these Christmas markets and as many as you like and plan your trips with your personal travel guide.
1. Vienna, Austria
Vienna has one of the most famous Christmas markets in Europe, and the Christmas season suits this magical city. The main event during this season is the Christmas market on Rathausplatz. To bring out the magic of this time of year, the City Hall is lit up with festive lights and a big Christmas tree is planted. All of this adds to the lovely atmosphere of the Christkindlmarkt am Rathausplatz. There’s even an ice rink running.
There are lots of other great Christmas markets in Vienna, including Karlsplatz, the Spittelberg and the Schönbrunn market. You can wander around stalls full of crafts, decorations and tasty treats. When you’re in Vienna, you’ve got to try some traditional Austrian food. Some of the dishes you should try are Ofenerdäpfel, which is a potato with cheese, Mohnnudeln and Suppe, which is a soup and warm Bread Soup.
When do the Christmas markets in Vienna open? Most of them are open from 15 November to 27 December. You can find the opening dates here.
2. Cologne, Germany
Cologne’s Christmas market scene is legendary, with seven markets scattered throughout the city. They are all will be open from 25 November to 23 December.The most famous one is held at Cologne Cathedral, which is one of the tallest Gothic cathedrals in the world. However, the markets vary in size and atmosphere, with some being more quiet and others buzzing with activity. Just a heads-up: Cologne has a Christmas train. You can get to all four of these markets by train. They’re all within walking distance, but it’s a fun little experience.
If you’re travelling with kids, they’ll love the Heinzelmännchen market, which is themed around the city’s mythical gnomes and features fun rides and puppet shows. Some of the most popular dishes include reibekuchen (crispy potato pancakes) with applesauce or mustard, käsespätzel (German mac n’ cheese) and for dessert lovers, leckuchen (gingerbread).
While you’re in Cologne, don’t forget to take a stroll around the city – it’s one of the most unique places to visit. Your personal AI Travel Guide can plan your ideal itinerary in seconds, including where to visit and where to find the best food.
3. Strasbourg, France
Strasbourg has the title of “Capital of Christmas” for a reason. Strasbourg is home to one of Europe’s oldest Christmas markets. The city is always decked out in Christmas lights. That’s why it’s one of the most popular cities in France. The main attraction of the city during this season is the famous Chrìstkìndelsmärik in Alsatian that takes place in Broglie Square.
You should also check out Kleber Square, which has one of the tallest Christmas trees in Europe. The Big Christmas Tree is on display from the end of November until the end of December. It’s about 30 metres tall. When you visit, try some vin chaud (spiced wine) to warm up, and treat yourself to traditional bredele cookies or kugelhopf (a sweet, bundt-shaped cake).
4. Basel, Switzerland
Basel’s Christmas markets are up there with the best in Switzerland, with stalls set up on Barfüsserplatz and Münsterplatz. While it has fewer markets than some of the other cities on the list, these two can easily outshine some of them. The biggest of the two markets is the one in Barfüsserplatz, which is home to the famous Christmas Pyramid. As an added bonus, both of these markets are within walking distance of each other.
While you’re there, why not jot down your wishes in the Basel Wish Book? The traditional Basel Wish Book will be available to everyone in the inner courtyard of the City Hall, where you can write down whatever you want. You should also try Swiss raclette, which is a deliciously gooey dish served with pickles and potatoes, and nibble on Läckerli, a spiced gingerbread from Basel.
When do the Christmas markets in Basel open? The Christmas markets in Basel will be open from 28 November to 23 December 2024.
5. Tallinn, Estonia
If you’re looking for something a bit off the beaten track, Tallinn is the place to go. The Christmas tree is the main attraction this season. It’s been set up in Town Hall Square since 1441, which makes it the first Christmas tree ever displayed in Europe. The market has a relaxed, intimate atmosphere and is often less crowded, offering a peaceful yet festive experience.
The market is also a great place to find some unique items that you won’t find at most European Christmas markets. Each stall has something special to offer, from traditional food and drinks to handmade crafts all special to Estonia. While you’re there, be sure to try some traditional Estonian food like sauerkraut and blood sausage, or enjoy a glass of glögi (hot spiced wine).
If you are looking for more travel inspiration, here are some of the hidden gems in Europe.
