Kissing under the mistletoe in Gdańsk, Poland, home to one of the most romantic Christmas markets in Europe.
Visit Gdansk – European Best Destinations
This ranking of the Most Romantic Christmas Markets in Europe, based on the votes of thousands of travelers from 142 countries, offers unique experiences for those seeking a fairytale holiday getaway.
Why not take a detour from tradition and consider a lovely holiday trip that everyone will remember for years to come?
From picturesque settings and medieval surroundings to jolly festive festivals, this survey by the European Best Destinations organization (EBD) has something for everyone looking for a cozy, romantic experience to never forget.
The top 10 destination in the ranking and the dates of their markets are:
10. Bruges, Belgium, from November 22, 2024, to January 5, 2025;
9. Rothenburg, Germany, from November 29 to December 23;
8. Gdansk, Poland, from November 23 to December 22;
7. Mulhouse, France, from November 22 to December 24;
6. Madrid, Spain, from November 29 to December 31;
5. Bath, U.K., from November 28 to December 15;
4. Vienna, Austria, from November 13 to December 23;
3. Geneva, Switzerland, from November 21 to December 24;
2. Zagreb, Croatia, from November 30 to January 7;
1. Asti-Govone, Italy, from November 11 to December 17 (weekends).
Asti Govone, Italy; one of the most romantic Christmas markets in Europe
European Best Destinations
1. Asti & Govone, Italy
For the second consecutive year, the Italian Piemonte region leads this ranking with the Asti & Govone Christmas Markets, crowned as the Most Romantic Christmas Villages in Europe.
Nestled in the picturesque Piemonte region, the two villages offer an idyllic setting, cozy boutique hotels, fine local cuisine, renowned wines and their “Magical Christmas Village” festivities.
Atop one of the scenic Roero hills, Govone becomes a whimsical Christmas wonderland starting November 16. Adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations, it hosts shows, lively entertainment, unique exhibitions all in a magical holiday atmosphere.
Nearby, Asti’s Christmas market features more than 130 beautifully decorated wooden huts. “The air filled with the delightful aromas of roasted chestnuts, mulled wine, and hot chocolate, invites you to savour romantic moments,” EBD writes.
The market runs from November 11 to December 17 (weekends).
Zagreb, Croatia; among Europe’s most romantic Christmas markets
European Best Destinations
2. Zagreb, Croatia
Coming in second, Zagreb’s Advent charms travelers with its festive lights and vibrant holiday spirit. What better way to enter the romantic spirit of the holidays than walking through the Christmas markets, discovering local hand-made decorations and gifts while sampling local delicacies of the Croatian capital?
A highlight of Zagreb’s Christmas celebrations is the ice skating rink on King Tomislav Square, a favorite for families and a romantic meeting point for winter romance.
The festive spirit spreads throughout the city with a rich program of music concerts and art exhibitions.
From November 30 to January 7.
Geneva, Switzerland
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3. Geneva, Switzerland
The elegant city of Geneva offers a refined experience at its “Noël au Quai,” market.
Set against the stunning backdrop of Lake Geneva along Quai du Mont-Blanc, this destination, according to EBD, “is perfect for couples seeking a sophisticated holiday experience, with luxurious stays in boutique hotels and indulgent Swiss chocolates at every turn.”
“The festive atmosphere of the Christmas markets, enhanced by antique carousels, transforms the place into a holiday paradise with unique gifts crafted by talented local artisans, culinary treats and street food like hand-warming raclette, mulled wine, and the romantic fondue to share.”
Beyond the market, Geneva invites exploration of a range of charming experiences including a dip in invigorating winter waters followed by a soothing sauna, participation in watch-making workshops, enjoyable brunch at the Grand Théâtre, and total immersion in Geneva’s vibrant cultural scene, fine dining and sporting activities. Whether you seek festive cheer or unique adventures, Geneva promises a winter escape like no other.
From November 21 to December 24.
Vienna, Austria
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4. Vienna, Austria
For a classic romantic Christmas, Vienna, with its timeless charm and its celebrated Christmas Markets, is “a must for romantics,” according to EBD.
Boasting beautiful architecture, horse-drawn carriage rides and festive concerts, this city delivers a magical holiday experience.
Vienna shines as the best Christmas market in Austria and ranks among the most romantic Christmas Markets in Europe year after year.
One of its highlights is the traditional “Vienna Magic of Advent,” that transforms City Hall Square into a sparkling fairytale land with the surrounding trees twinkling with festive lights.
Delightful chocolate tastings, candy apples, warming drinks, a treasure trove of Christmas gifts and tree decorations offer the perfect ambience for romance.
To adventure a bit farther, take a Christmas Road trip to visit markets near Vienna, including Bratislava Christmas Market (30 minutes by car) and Budapest Christmas Market (two hours by car).
From November 13 to December 23.
Bath, U.K.
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5. Bath, U.K.
For a touch of old-world charm and romance, the Christmas Market in Bath offers a medieval setting that transports visitors back in time in this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Hailed as one of the U.K.’s top events of the holidays, the 18-day Bath Christmas Market nestles in the picturesque streets surrounding Bath Abbey, creating a magical setting.
Stunning lights, charming wooden chalets adorned with festive decorations, handcrafted gifts, a tempting mix of independent shops and designer boutiques and all in an atmosphere filled with the scent of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts create a perfect backdrop for holiday romance.
From November 28 to December 15.
See all 10 Best Romantic Christmas Markets here
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Publish date : 2024-10-15 02:45:00
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