European Christmas markets are magical places that turn cities into glowing winter wonderlands. From fairy lights in Vienna to snowy rooftops in Tallinn, each market has its own charm. If you’re ready for mulled wine, festive music, and unique gifts, this guide will help you find the best spots to visit.
At Jamie Wake Travel, we offer tailor-made trips that match your style and budget. Whether you want a cosy weekend or a longer Christmas escape, we’ve got options for everyone.
Strasbourg, France – The Capital of Christmas
Dates: 28 November – 30 December 2025
Strasbourg is where it all began. The city’s Christkindelsmärik dates back to 1570 and is one of the oldest European Christmas markets. Its timber-framed houses and snowy squares make you feel like you’ve stepped into a storybook.
There are over 300 stalls across the city, with the most iconic ones around Place Broglie and Place de la Cathédrale. You’ll find hand-carved nativity figures, mulled Alsatian wine, and sweet bredele biscuits.
Stay at Hotel Cour du Corbeau, a restored 16th-century inn full of charm and character.
Hotel Cour du Corbeau
12th December to 15th December
Bed and Breakfast Board Basis based on 2 people sharing
Direct Flights from London
£936 per person*
*Priced on 14th April 2025
Want to see our latest Strasbourg offers? Get in touch for exclusive deals.
Vienna, Austria – A Classical Christmas
Dates: 15 November – 26 December 2025 (main market at Rathausplatz)
Vienna doesn’t do Christmas by halves. The Austrian capital lights up with more than a dozen markets, but the most famous is in front of the grand City Hall at Rathausplatz.
Expect classical concerts, traditional wooden toys, and mugs of spicy punch. The smell of roasted chestnuts fills the air while choirs sing carols in the background. It’s an experience you won’t forget.
For a luxury stay, Hotel Sacher Wien is a timeless favourite known for its Sachertorte and elegant rooms.
We can tailor your Vienna trip—ask us about our festive packages.
Prague, Czech Republic – A Fairytale Festive Scene
Dates: 29 November 2025 – 6 January 2026
Prague’s Christmas market is set in the heart of Old Town Square, beneath a huge sparkling tree. Every corner glows with lights, and there’s a festive buzz in the air.
Try a trdelník (a cinnamon-sugar pastry), sip some hot honey wine, and shop for hand-blown glass ornaments. Local choirs and folk dancers perform daily, adding to the magical vibe.
Book a room at Hotel Kings Court, close to the market and full of character.
Hotel Kings Court
26th to 29th December
Bed and Breakfast Board Basis based on 2 people sharing
Direct Flights from London
£788 per person*
*Priced on 14th April 2025
Check out our Prague packages for a unique seasonal break.
Cologne, Germany – Markets with a Cathedral View
Dates: 25 November – 23 December 2025
Few things are more festive than Cologne’s main Christmas market with its dramatic cathedral backdrop. Over 160 stalls fill the square, offering handcrafted gifts, traditional German foods, and plenty of glühwein.
If you have time, visit the smaller markets too, like the Harbour Market by the Rhine or the medieval-themed one at the Chocolate Museum.
Excelsior Hotel Ernst is a top pick, located right by the cathedral with five-star service.
Ask about our Cologne hotel deals and holiday options.
Budapest, Hungary – A Festive Mix of Culture and Comfort
Dates: 15 November – 31 December 2025
Budapest blends old traditions with modern flair. The main market at Vörösmarty Square is packed with Hungarian craft stalls and hearty winter food like lángos and goulash served in bread bowls.
Don’t miss the light show on St Stephen’s Basilica or a soak in one of the city’s thermal baths—perfect on a chilly December day.
Stay at Aria Hotel Budapest, offering rooftop views and a warm welcome.
We’ve got Budapest covered—get in touch for seasonal offers.
Bruges, Belgium – Cosy, Charming, and Very Chocolatey
Dates: 22 November 2025 – 5 January 2026
Bruges feels like it was made for Christmas. Its medieval streets sparkle with lights, and Market Square hosts a lovely little Christmas market and ice rink.
Sip hot chocolate, pick up lace gifts, and take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the cobbled lanes. It’s ideal for a romantic trip or a quiet escape.
Treat yourself to a stay at Hotel Dukes’ Palace, a former residence with regal charm.
Let us help you find the best Bruges breaks this Christmas.
Tallinn, Estonia – A Magical Nordic Setting
Dates: 22 November 2025 – 7 January 2026
Tallinn’s market is set in the old Town Hall Square and offers a smaller but no less stunning Christmas experience. The medieval architecture, cosy chalets, and snowy streets feel like a fairytale.
Try Estonian black pudding, warm apple cider, and browse the handmade woollens and woodwork. Tallinn also claims the first-ever public Christmas tree—dating back to 1441!
Book Hotel Telegraaf, a former post office turned luxury boutique hotel.
Discover our Tallinn holidays for a truly unique winter escape.
Copenhagen, Denmark – Christmas at Tivoli
Dates: 15 November – 31 December 2025 (Tivoli Gardens)
Copenhagen is all about hygge—the Danish art of cosiness. Nowhere does this better than Tivoli Gardens at Christmas. The amusement park turns into a festive haven of lights, food stalls, and themed rides.
You can also visit other markets around the city, like the one in Nyhavn, which looks even prettier in the snow.
Stay at Nimb Hotel, located inside Tivoli and known for its style and warmth.
We’ll craft the perfect Copenhagen getaway for you—just ask.
Edinburgh, Scotland – A Festive Treat Close to Home
Dates: 16 November 2025 – 4 January 2026
You don’t have to leave the UK to get the full Christmas market experience. Edinburgh’s market takes over East Princes Street Gardens with a Ferris wheel, ice rink, and festive food from around the world.
There’s also a Christmas tree maze and Santa’s Grotto, making it perfect for families. The view of the castle makes it feel truly magical.
Stay at The Balmoral Hotel, an Edinburgh icon with views across the city.
Contact us for exclusive Edinburgh packages that fit your schedule.
BONUS: More European Christmas Markets Worth Visiting
Looking for more ideas? Here are a few extra markets worth considering:
- Kraków, Poland (29 November – 26 December 2025): Famous for its wooden toys and spiced vodka.
- Helsinki, Finland (1 December – 22 December 2025): Small but authentic, with reindeer rides and Nordic crafts.
- Barcelona, Spain (29 November – 23 December 2025): Unique Catalan traditions and warm winter sun.
Let us know if you want help putting together a multi-city trip to these European Christmas markets – we can plan it all for you.
Jamie says: “Experiencing European Christmas markets isn’t just about what you buy—it’s about the atmosphere, the traditions, and the memories you make along the way. We love helping our clients experience that magic in their own way.”
Ready to Plan Your Festive Getaway to European Christmas Markets?
Whether you’re dreaming of mulled wine in Vienna or hot chocolate in Bruges, Jamie Wake Travel can help you plan your perfect trip to visit one of the magical European Christmas markets. As an independent UK agency, we offer a personal service and access to a wide range of travel suppliers and tour operators.
We’ll take care of the details so you can focus on making festive memories.
Call us on 01495 400005
or
Use our holiday enquiry form to get started
