Discover the Biggest Christmas Markets in Europe for 2024: Top Festive Destinations
Europe’s Biggest Christmas Markets to Visit in 2024
As a frosty blanket descends over Europe once more, the continent transforms into a magical wonderland, with an unmistakable festive spirit that infiltrates the lives of even the grumpiest humans.
Throughout late November and into December, the European Christmas markets open up once more. The air fills with the scent of mulled wine, spiced gingerbread, and roasting chestnuts as villages, towns and cities light up with twinkling lights and Christmas trees.
From the grand courtyards of Vienna to the historic plazas of Germany, Christmas cheer spreads from north to south. Below are some of the biggest Christmas markets in Europe and a quick guide to help you choose which destination is right for you.
The history of Christmas markets
The Christmas markets in Europe go back to medieval times when German territories were spread across the continent. The first evidence of a Christmas market that historians can confirm is Dresden's market, which opened for just one day on Christmas Eve in 1434. Since then, the Christmas markets in Germany have continued to be some of the biggest and the best.
However, it's important to note that some claim Vienna to be the birthplace of Christmas markets, although many historians say these winter markets were not Christmas-influenced at all.
So the truth is, Christmas markets are German in origin, but they quickly spread into France and Italy and, more recently, across the rest of Europe. Even countries we think of as warm, balmy destinations, such as Croatia, have some fantastic Christmas offerings throughout December.
Christmas markets are now a nostalgic affair, with traditional German stalls being erected amongst gingerbread like squares and plazas. It is said there are over 2000 Christmas markets across Europe, and Germany is home to more than any other nation.
Which is the biggest Christmas market in Europe?
Many people from across the world visit Europe just for their Christmas markets, and they want to head to the biggest. The reality is, the biggest doesn't always mean the best, so on this list I have included the biggest AND the best Christmas markets in Europe.
Vienna Christmas World on Rathausplatz
Vienna undergoes one of the biggest festive transformations throughout winter, and is rightly one of the most visited European Christmas markets, but did you know the Vienna Christmas World on Rathausplatz is also the biggest?
Vienna is a storybook city year-round, but there is something even more special about it during winter. The whole city embraces Christmas like no other.
At the city's heart is 'Wiener Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz', mostly known in English as 'Christmas World on Rathausplatz'. Visitors walk through a twinkling arch to find over 150 wooden stalls selling beautiful handmade crafts, Christmas decorations, hot chocolate, sweets, and other delicious delights!
Christmas lovers can glide across the City Hall Park skating rink whilst kid's can delight in the golden horse carousel. Couples should definitely make their way over to the Tree of hearts.
Horse-drawn carriages filled with merry tourists pass you as horses clip-clop along the cobbled streets, sometimes dusted with light snow. This is the perfect time to indulge in Austrian delicacies, like krapfen and fluffy vanilla kipferl, as well as marvelling at Vienna's world-famous architecture.
Christmas in Cologne
Cologne Christmas market is not only the most famous Christmas market in Europe, but the biggest!
This year, the Cologne Christmas Market runs from 18 November to 23 December. Don't underestimate Christmas here; there isn't just one Christmas market in Cologne, but many spread all across the city. The scale of events here can be overwhelming for some, so if you have a short amount of time, I recommend taking a Christmas market walking tour with a local guide.
The main Christmas market sits under the shadow of Cologne Cathedral and it's a seriously magical affair, this is known as Weihnachtsmarkt am Kölner Dom. A huge Christmas tree overlooks traditional Christmas market stalls and a stage programme with over 100 free events.
If you are looking for a family-friendly Christmas market, look no further. Tuesdays to Thursdays see a special children's programme offering Punch and Judy shows, face painting and other family activities.
Make your way to Rudolfplatz, located close to the Belgian Quarter, where you can find the quaintest Christmas market in Cologne. Nicholas’ Village Christmas Market if another family-friendly affair, with candy floss, stage shows, and a life-size crib.
Berlin Christmas Markets
A Berlin Christmas is a spectacular Christmas, is is also the city with the most Christmas markets out of any other in Europe, no surprise Germany takes the crown once again!
The Berlin Christmas market dates spread from 25 November to 30 December 2024, and offer almost a hundred Christmas markets scattered across the city.
Gendarmenmarkt Christmas Market is the biggest and most visited Christmas market in Berlin, set against the beautiful backdrop of Gendarmenmarkt Square. Visitors can explore rows of wooden stalls where artisans showcase handcrafted ornaments, intricate glassware, and festive decorations.
Make sure you come with your bellies empty, as there is a lot of delicious food on offer, from gourmet sausages and freshly baked pretzels to warming bowls of Kartoffelsuppe (potato soup).
Expect live choirs, Christmas carols, dancers, and even circus acts taking the stage. Keep your hands toasty round a mug of spiced Glühwein as you watch the performances under a canopy of stars and lights.
To experience the best of Berlin's Christmas lights, hop on a bus tour taking you around the most festive spots in the city!
Nuremberg Christmas Market
Every December, Nuremberg transforms into a winter wonderland that feels as if it was pulled straight from the pages of a fairy tale. The city's medieval architecture, cobbled streets, and Bavarian charm come alive, creating one of Germany's most famous Christmas markets.
The Christkindlesmarkt, the biggest Christmas market in Nuremberg, takes over the main square, filling it with Christmas lights, music and cheer. Dating back to the 16th century, the Nuremberg Christmas Market is among Europe’s oldest Christmas markets and this year it is running from 29 November to 24 December.
The Christkindlesmarkt opens with a tradition that’s unique to Nuremberg. On the first Friday of Advent, a young woman dressed as the Christkind (Christ Child) appears on the balcony of the Church of Our Lady and recites the beloved prologue, officially opening the market.
The Christkind, adorned in a shimmering golden gown and crown, symbolises the spirit of Christmas and embodies the market’s deep-rooted heritage. It’s an emotional moment for locals and visitors, as her words invite everyone into the festive season with warmth and joy.
Strasbourg Christmas Market, the capital of Christmas
Known as the “Capital of Christmas” due to its incredible Christmas offerings, the French city of Strasbourg dresses from head to toe in Christmas decor each December.
Strasbourg’s Christmas markets are some of the oldest and most famous in Europe, dating back to 1570, and each year triomph as some of the most popular Christmas markets in Europe.
The centrepiece of Strasbourg’s Christmas celebration is the Christkindelsmärik, held in the city’s historic Place Broglie. With nearly 300 wooden chalets spread across the city centre, this market is one of the largest and most beloved in Europe. Stalls brim with handcrafted ornaments, traditional Alsatian pottery, and festive trinkets.
The Strasbourg Christmas market dates in 2024 stretch from 27 November to 27 December. The city’s towering Christmas tree is located in Place Kléber, decorated with lights and ornaments that capture the spirit of Alsatian folklore.
A visit to Strasbourg at Christmas wouldn’t be complete without a short journey to the nearby towns of Alsace, where the Christmas spirit feels almost tangible. Just 30 minutes away, Colmar is a must-visit, often described as a “living Christmas card”.
FAQ: Europe’s Biggest Christmas Markets to Visit in 2024
1. When do Europe’s Christmas markets usually open?
Most Christmas markets across Europe open around the end of November and continue until just before or shortly after Christmas. In 2024, many markets will begin in late November and run until around December 24th or 26th. Some, like Berlin and London's Christmas markets, may remain open until early January to accommodate New Year’s visitors.
2. What is the best way to get around these cities during the Christmas season?
Public transport is the easiest and most efficient way to navigate these cities, especially during the bustling holiday season. Each of these cities has well-connected metro, tram, and bus systems. For a more scenic option, walking allows you to explore festive decorations and smaller market stalls along the way.
Alternatively, check out Get Your Guide which offers Christmas market walking tours in many destinations.
3. Are the Christmas markets family-friendly?
Yes, Christmas markets in Europe are highly family-friendly! Many markets have dedicated children’s areas with activities like carousel rides, craft workshops, and storytelling. These festive markets offer something for all ages, from food stalls to holiday entertainment.
4. What should I try to eat at the Christmas markets?
Each market has its unique culinary specialities, but popular treats include:
- Vienna: Roast chestnuts, warm pastries, and glühwein (mulled wine).
- Berlin: Currywurst, gingerbread, and candied almonds.
- Nuremberg: Nürnberger Rostbratwurst (small sausages) and lebkuchen (gingerbread).
- Strasbourg: Vin chaud (mulled wine), bredele (Alsatian biscuits), and spiced sauerkraut.
- Cologne: Reibekuchen (potato pancakes), waffles, and stollen (Christmas fruit bread).
5. What should I wear to visit these Christmas markets?
European winters can be chilly, especially in cities like Vienna and Nuremberg. Dress warmly with layers, and don’t forget essentials like gloves, scarves, and comfortable shoes for walking around the markets. Many markets are open-air, so warm clothing will make your visit more enjoyable.
6. Are Christmas markets accessible for people with disabilities?
Most major Christmas markets, especially in major cities like Vienna and London are accessible to visitors with disabilities. Many cities work to ensure that stalls and main pathways are wheelchair-friendly. However, cobblestone streets in older cities like Strasbourg can sometimes be uneven, so some extra care may be needed.
7. Can I use credit cards, or do I need cash?
While credit and debit cards are increasingly accepted at larger stalls, many vendors at Christmas markets still prefer cash, especially for smaller purchases. It’s a good idea to carry some cash (preferably in euros) for convenience, as ATMs nearby can get busy during peak hours.
8. Are there specific Christmas events or performances to watch for at each market?
Yes, many markets host unique events:
- Vienna: Choir performances and ice skating in front of City Hall.
- Berlin: The Charlottenburg Palace market features evening concerts.
- Nuremberg: The Christkind’s prologue and opening ceremony are iconic.
- Strasbourg: Light shows on the cathedral and carol performances throughout the old town.
- Cologne: Each market has its own events; the Cathedral Market often has live music.
9. How can I reach these Christmas markets from major cities in Europe?
Europe’s extensive train network makes it easy to travel between cities:
- Vienna: Direct trains from Prague, Budapest, and Munich.
- Berlin: High-speed trains connect Berlin with cities like Hamburg, Dresden, and Prague.
- Nuremberg: Accessible from Munich and Frankfurt via high-speed trains.
- Strasbourg: Easily reachable from Paris and cities in Germany by TGV and regional trains.
- Cologne: A major rail hub with direct connections to Amsterdam, Brussels, and Frankfurt.
10. What are some nearby attractions to explore around these Christmas markets?
- Vienna: Schönbrunn Palace and the Belvedere Palace are must-visits for history and art enthusiasts.
- Berlin: Brandenburg Gate and the Berlin Wall Memorial are nearby for those interested in the city’s history.
- Nuremberg: The Nuremberg Castle and the Toy Museum add an extra layer of charm.
- Strasbourg: Take a day trip to nearby Colmar, a fairy-tale town with its own beautiful Christmas markets.
- Cologne: Cologne Cathedral is a UNESCO site, and the Chocolate Museum nearby is a hit with families.
11. Are pets allowed at Christmas markets?
While pets are generally allowed at outdoor Christmas markets, it’s best to check specific rules for each city. Keep in mind that markets can get crowded, which might be overwhelming for pets. If you bring a pet, make sure it’s on a lead, and avoid peak hours for a more comfortable experience.
Loved you Christmas markets article. It reminded me of my visit to several of the markets one year. My favorites were the little markets in the small towns. I love that the families were out with their children in the evening, greeting their neighbors and friends. It just felt very festive to be among them.
It's such a beautiful time of year isn't it!