Which European Christmas market to go to?
This time of year, you might find yourself dreaming of which traditional Christmas market to explore to help get you in the festive spirit. As the nights draw in and it gets colder, why not treat yourself to a Christmas getaway? We’ve put together all the details about our top picks to help you decide where to go below…
Basel, Switzerland
Discover some of Switzerland's largest Christmas markets in the heart of Basel. Head to Münsterplatz by the Rhine and view the traditionally-decorated Christmas tree, followed by an evening at Barfüsserplatz sampling the local Basel Läckerli gingerbread. Looking for more than Christmas markets? Visit Theater Basel to watch a new door of the Advent calendar open with a new stage show.
Twinkly lights transform the Old Town into a city-named "magical courtyard" with local sellers in pop-up stalls allowing visitors to take home a piece of Basel. Once you've visited, the crackling fire sounds and mulled wine aroma will linger in your mind every festive season..
Location: Barfüsserplatz and Münsterplatz
Open from: 28th November 2024 – 23rd December 2024
Get to BSL from LTN in 1 hour 40 minutes with easyJet
Berlin, Germany
Germany is the birthplace of the ‘traditional Christmas market’ and so what better place to immerse yourself in the spirit of Christmas? With between 50 and 100 Christmas markets dotted around the city over the festive months, you will be spoiled for choice and will be sure to find a market around almost every corner!
The spirit of Christmas can truly be found in Germany; treat yourself to some tasty lebkuchen (gingerbread) or gluhwein (mulled wine) and admire the authentic, handmade crafts.
Location: Multiple across the city
Open from: Majority from late-November 2024 until the end of December 2024
Get to BER from LTN in 1 hour 50 minutes with easyJet
Sibiu, Romania
Not drowned in consumer culture, this quaint Christmas market is centred on tradition amongst centuries-old Germanic architecture. We truly believe that it’s one of the most underrated cities in Europe – check out our video of our top travel recommendations for visiting Sibiu here.
Ice skate under twinkling lights, marvel at handmade crafts, listen to authentic Romanian carol singers and sip mulled wine in the heart of Transylvania.
Location: Grand Square (Piața Mare)
Open from: 15th November 2024 – 5th January 2025
Get to SBZ from LTN in 3 hours with Wizz Air
Tallinn, Estonia
One of our favourite destinations from LLA, the fairy-tale Tallinn. Held in the Town Hall square (often covered in snow), it makes for a truly stunning Christmas market backdrop.
It’s in keeping with the traditional German style of Christmas markets but with a taste of local culture in the form of Estonian handicrafts and local delicacies, as well as all the usual favourites of mulled wine, waffles and ice skating.
Location: Town Hall Square (Raekoja Plats)
Open from: 22nd November 2024 - 27th December 2024
Get to TLL from LTN in 2 hours 45 minutes with Wizz Air
Wroclaw, Poland
Truly one of the most picturesque cities in Poland, if not Europe. This affordable city boasts sheer beauty and a rich history. The chocolate box buildings that line the Market Square are pretty spectacular whichever season you decide to visit, but there is something particularly breath-taking about witnessing them on a crisp, winter’s day.
You will find plenty of Polish cuisine to get stuck into, including soul-warming stews, pierogi (traditional dumplings) and barbequed sausages. As well as all the classic Christmas treats you can imagine. Yum!
Location: Market Square (Rynek)
Open from: 26th November 2024 - 5th January 2025
Get to WRO from LTN in 2 hours 5 minutes with Wizz Air
Prague, Czech Republic
Prague’s Christmas market is widely regarded as the crème de la crème of Christmas markets in Europe (and for good reason!). It is also one of the oldest – which as you can imagine, adds to its authenticity and charm.
Something that really impressed us was that all refreshments are served in sustainable or compostable materials, as the market strives to be as respectful to the environment as possible.
If you fancy immersing yourself in the local customs and culture of the Czech Republic, you will be pleased to find traditional folklore performances, Czech food and beer, carved wooden toys and decorations and advent concerts.
Location: Old Town Square (Staroměstské Náměstí) & Wenceslas Square
Open from: 30th November 2024 - 6th January 2025
Get to PRG from LTN in 1 hour 55 minutes with Wizz Air
Bratislava, Slovakia
A compact city that is completely walkable and ideal for exploring the Christmas markets on offer, Bratislava is one of Europe’s more affordable cities. Visit for the friendly and chilled-out atmosphere in the run-up to the festive season.
Find a stunning Christmas market in the charming Old Town’s main square brimming with stalls offering local delicacies, beautiful handmade decorations, and huge varieties of mulled wine (Slovakia is known for its great wine regions and vineyards). Try lokša, a potato pancake, for a delicious, hearty snack. And don’t forget to look out for the special tram adorned with twinkling fairy lights for that extra touch of Christmas magic!
Location: Main Square (Hlavné Námestie), Hviezdoslavovo Square and Bratislava Castle
Open from: 29th November 2024 – 23rd December 2024
Get to BTS from LTN in 2 hours 20 minutes with Wizz Air