Image of a beautiful Christmas market in a square of the city of Strasbourg
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Strasbourg, France
Who Will Love It: Francophiles looking to visit several Christmas markets in one trip; families with kids
All-Star Attractions: The Grand Sapin Christmas tree; the market stalls around the cathedral; Marché du Carré d’Or at Place du Temple Neuf
What Not To Miss: A stroll down Rue des Orfèvres, one of the most beautifully decorated streets in Strasbourg
Dates: Nov. 27 to Dec. 27, 2024
Where To Stay: Hôtel Les Haras; Regent Petite France; Cour Du Corbeau
Nicknamed “The Capital of Christmas,” the Strasbourg Christmas Market is one of the oldest and best Christmas markets in Europe. Originating in 1570, the event features over 300 wooden chalets spread across numerous squares. Highlights include the nearly 100-foot Christmas tree (Le Grand Sapin), the market stalls around the cathedral and interactive scavenger hunts and workshops for kids. Delicious treats abound, from flambée baguettes and tarts to vin chaud (mulled wine). The best part? Strasbourg is situated near the border of France and Germany, just a two-hour train ride from Paris, making it easy to pair with other Christmas markets in the Alsace region. We also recommend visiting the Christmas market in Colmar (just a 30-minute train ride away).
Where To Stay:
Hôtel Les Haras: About a 10-minute walk from the historic area of Petite France, this hotel offers a chic and modern base for those wanting to stay in a quiet area that’s still close to the action. Don’t miss the spa, which offers a heated swimming pool, sauna and steam room.
Regent Petite France: Housed in a former ice factory overlooking a canal, this 5-star hotel offers views of Petite France’s charming half-timbered houses. The hotel offers valet parking and a Champagne bar and is just a short walk to the market stalls.
Cour Du Corbeau: Set in a series of restored 16th-century buildings, Cour du Corbeau is steeped in history. The property is just a 10-minute walk to the center and offers a picturesque courtyard with festive decorations during the holidays.
Cologne
Panorama view of Cologne cathedral christmas market with illumination, christmas tree and world heritage cologne cathedral.
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Cologne, Germany
Who Will Love It: First-timers looking for a classic German Christmas market experience
All-Star Attractions: The Market of Hearts at the Cologne Cathedral
What Not To Miss: Keeping your festive glühwein mug
Dates: Nov. 18 to Dec. 23, 2024
Where To Stay: Legend Hotel Cologne; Excelsior Hotel Ernst; Hotel Mondial Am Dom Cologne
There’s no shortage of stunning Christmas markets in Germany, but the ones in Cologne are especially dazzling. Make a bee-line to the Cologne Cathedral to experience the Market of Hearts, the city’s famed maze of red-roofed stalls. One of the major highlights is the Christmas stage, which hosts more than 100 free performances, from swing music to puppet shows for kids. Take it all in while sampling waffles, grilled sausages, potato pancakes and glühwein (mulled wine)—with the option to keep your festive mug if you pay a few extra euros. It’s worth staying a night or two to check out the other Christmas markets in Cologne, including The Angels’ Market in the Neumarkt Square and the Nicholas Village at Rudolfplatz. If you have time, tack on an extra day to explore the Christmas market in Frankfurt, just an hour’s train ride away.
Where To Stay:
Legend Hotel Cologne: A five-minute stroll to Cologne’s gothic cathedral, this hotel is conveniently situated for Christmas market-goers. The little touches, from the complimentary afternoon biscuits to the Juliette balconies, make a stay here feel extra special.
Excelsior Hotel Ernst: This 5-star property offers a sumptuous base across the street from the cathedral and main Christmas market. The hotel embraces the holidays with a festive atmosphere, best enjoyed at the cozy piano bar.
Hotel Mondial Am Dom Cologne: Located in the Old Town, this hotel positions guests within five minutes of Cologne’s best Christmas markets. The hotel offers great value, with ultra-comfortable beds, spacious showers and a generous buffet breakfast.
Vienna
Rathaus and christmas market in Vienna, Austria
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Vienna, Austria
Who Will Love It: History lovers looking to visit several Christmas markets alongside world-class museums and palaces
All-Star Attractions: The markets at the City Hall and Stephansplatz
What Not To Miss: Krapfen, Austrian-style doughnuts with jam
Dates: November 8 to Jan. 6 (dates vary depending on the Christmas market)
Where To Stay: Hotel Imperial; Hotel Sacher Wien; Guesthouse Vienna
From mid-November through to the new year, many of Vienna’s most impressive squares are transformed into Christmas markets, making the city one of the best European destinations to visit during the holidays. The biggest draw is the Viennese Christmas Market, with over 100 stalls set against the stunning backdrop of the City Hall (Rathaus). Other popular markets include the Christmas Market on Stephansplatz, the Christmas Village at Belvedere Palace and the Christmas market in front of Schönbrunn Palace. If you’d like to avoid the crowds, Vienna also has several less-touristy Christmas markets including the eco-conscious Christmas Market at Spittelberg and the Old Viennese Christmas Market at Freyung, which has been held since 1772. Across all the markets, you’ll find scrumptious culinary delights, from traditional punch to baked potatoes topped with cheese to fluffy Germknödel dumplings filled with spiced jam.
Where To Stay:
Hotel Imperial: For an extra magical stay near the Christmas markets, book a coveted suite at Hotel Imperial on Ring Road. The palatial property goes all out for the holidays, with a beautifully decorated lobby and hotel bar that’s perfect for enjoying a festive cocktail.
Hotel Sacher Wien: Located across the street from the Vienna State Opera, Hotel Sacher Wien is ideal for those looking to catch a Christmas concert between market visits. The hotel’s restaurants offer special Christmas and New Year’s menus, adding an extra layer of decadence to a stay over the holidays.
Guesthouse Vienna: Travelers looking for a contemporary base won’t be disappointed by the cozy rooms at this boutique hotel in the heart of Vienna. A stay here feels extra homey, with complimentary minibars stocked with Austrian wine and an on-site brasserie that hosts special dinners for Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve.
For more options, read our guide to the Best Hotels In Vienna.
Dresden
Aerial view of a Striezelmarkt Christmas market in Dresden, Germany.
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Dresden, Germany
Who Will Love It: Those looking to visit one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe; families with kids
All-Star Attractions: Dresden Striezelmarkt; the world’s tallest Christmas pyramid; Advent at the Neumarkt
What Not To Miss: Riding the Ferris wheel for an aerial view of the market
Dates: Nov. 27 to Dec. 24, 2024
Where To Stay: Hotel Taschenbergpalais Kempinski; Hotel Bülow Palais; Hotel Suitess Dresden
Widely considered to be the first Christmas market in the world, the Dresden Striezelmarkt dates back to 1434 and is still going strong today. The multi-day event takes place in Dresden’s Altmarkt, with over 200 stalls and other highlights like the world’s tallest Christmas pyramid. Ride the historic Ferris wheel to see the glittering huts from above, try traditional Christstollen (a cake-like bread filled with candied fruit and nuts) at the showroom bakery, and join in the free workshops for young and old. Don’t miss the other Christmas markets that dot Dresden’s “Christmas mile,” from the Winterlights of Dresden market on the Prager Straße to Advent at the Neumarkt.
Where To Stay:
Hotel Taschenbergpalais Kempinski: Reopened in February 2024 following a complete renovation, this 5-star property is about a five-minute walk to the Dresden Striezelmarkt. It offers a lavish spa and a handful of dining concepts including a delightful pâtisserie.
Hotel Bülow Palais: Those looking for a romantic hideaway in a quieter area will love the Hotel Bülow Palais, a Relais & Châteaux hotel in Dresden’s charming Baroque quarter. Don’t miss the stylish on-site restaurant, Caroussel Nouvelle, which offers multi-course tasting menus.
Hotel Suitess Dresden: Situated just a 10-minute walk to the Striezelmarkt, this property is close to the main sights while still enjoying a quiet location. The property has classically furnished rooms, suites and apartments, as well as a small wellness area with a Jacuzzi and sauna.
Montreux
Entrance to the festive Marché de Noël (Christmas Village) in Montreux, Switzerland.
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Montreux, Switzerland
Who Will Love It: Travelers looking for a lakeside holiday getaway
All-Star Attractions: The flying Santa; Swiss cheese delights; nearby attractions including Chillon Castle and Glacier 3000
What Not To Miss: Arriving or departing via the vintage-style GoldenPass Belle Époque train
Dates: Nov. 21 to Dec. 24, 2024
Where To Stay: Fairmont Le Montreux Palace; Grand Hotel Suisse Majestic; Le Mirador Resort & Spa
You can watch Santa’s sleigh fly in the sky (via zipline) at this Christmas market on the Swiss Riviera. Located just an hour’s train ride from Geneva, the town of Montreux brings together more than 150 vendors, making it one of the largest Christmas markets in Switzerland. You can expect traditional Swiss specialties like fondue, raclette, and rösti with alpine cheese. Ride the Ferris wheel and don’t miss Santa’s flight, which happens every day at 5, 6 and 7 p.m., and 4 p.m. on Saturdays. Families can also visit Santa’s house by taking the cogwheel train ride up to the summit of Rochers-de-Naye. Nearby, the Chillon Castle hosts festive animated shows, storytelling and craft workshops on select weekends.
Where To Stay:
Fairmont Le Montreux Palace: Montreux’s grand dame hotel has long enchanted guests with its Belle Époque architecture, six restaurants and spacious rooms overlooking Lake Geneva. After a day of exploring the market, revive yourself at the spa, complete with a hydrotherapy circuit and treatments using Biologique Recherche and Niance products.
Grand Hotel Suisse Majestic: Another Belle Époque gem, this heritage hotel offers a comfortable base near the train station for travelers looking to pair their Christmas market adventures with day trips around Switzerland. Book a room with a balcony overlooking the lake for a truly memorable stay.
Le Mirador Resort And Spa: Perched on a hillside in the UNESCO-listed Lavaux wine region, this retreat boasts a Givenchy spa, two restaurants and an indoor pool with breathtaking views of the Alps and Lake Geneva. The hotel is just a 20-minute drive from Montreux, making it easy to pop into the city to visit the Christmas market.
Paris
Decorated Christmas trees covered with snow near the Eiffel tower in Paris, France
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Paris, France
Who Will Love It: Foodies and fashion lovers
All-Star Attractions: La Magie de Noël; Marché de Noel Notre Dame; Hôtel de Ville Christmas Market; the lights along the Champs-Élysées
What Not To Miss: Smaller markets including the Montmartre Christmas Market and Saint-Germain-des-Prés Christmas Village
Dates: Nov. 16 to Jan. 5, 2024 (dates vary depending on the Christmas market)
Where To Stay: Hôtel Des Grands Voyageurs; Le Meurice; Hôtel Lutetia
Paris is especially mesmerizing during the holidays, when over a dozen Christmas markets give new meaning to “The City of Light” moniker. Families love La Magie de Noël at Tuileries Garden, which has over 100 chalets, holiday-themed carnival rides and games for kids and a Champagne bar for adults. For the best shopping, make your way to the Marché de Noel Notre Dame, located in Square Viviani. Several stalls offer high-end artisanal goods, from gourmet foods to cashmere scarves to handmade wooden toys. Nearby, the Saint-Germain-des-Prés Christmas Village specializes in high-end goods, like leather-bound notebooks, fine jewelery and gourmet food items like macarons, jams, chocolate truffles, marrons glacés (candied chestnuts) and caviar.
Where To Stay:
Hôtel Des Grands Voyageurs: Modern minimalism meets Golden Age elegance at this design-forward hotel in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés. In addition to the sleek rooms that evoke the spirit of travel in the 1930s, the property offers excellent dining, a speakeasy bar and an art collection with works by Gustav Klimt and Marc Chagall. Read our full review here.
Le Meurice: Overlooking the Tuileries Garden and the Louvre museum, this exquisite palace hotel flaunts elegant rooms with artisan-designed decor. The hotel’s dining experiences, including dinner at the two-Michelin-starred Le Meurice Alain Ducasse and surreal fruit pastries by Cédric Grolet, are not to be missed.
Hôtel Lutetia: The only palace hotel on Paris’s Left Bank, this landmark hotel has been a magnet for discerning travelers (James Joyce and Pablo Picasso included) since 1910. Each year the hotel creates specialty king cakes and yule logs for the holidays—a sweet souvenir that’s almost too pretty to eat.
For more options, read our guide to the Best Hotels In Paris.
Seville
SEVILLA, SPAIN – DECEMBER 20, 2014: Night view of the principal avenue of Seville illuminated with lights for Christmas
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Seville, Spain
Who Will Love It: Travelers looking for an alternative Christmas market experience; those who prefer a milder climate
All-Star Attractions: The Christmas lights and markets around the City Hall and the cathedral
What Not To Miss: The Seville Christmas light walk starting at Calle Feria and ending at Puerta de Jerez
Dates: Nov. 6 to Jan. 7, 2024 (dates vary depending on the Christmas market)
Where To Stay: Hotel Alfonso XIII; Querencia De Sevilla; Hotel Mercer Sevilla
For one of the most unique Christmas markets in Europe, head to southern Spain. The Andalusian capital hosts a vibrant celebration of holiday cheer, with everything from artisan markets decorated with twinkling lights to streetside musical performances. The first signs of Christmas begin in November at the Feria de Belén, a nativity scene market outside the cathedral, where you’ll find hand-carved and painted figurines and Christmas tree ornaments. At the Christmas market at Plaza de la Magdalena, which typically runs the entire month of December, you’ll also find some local treats like churros with chocolate and roasted chestnuts. Later in the month, artisans set up shop in uniquely decorated log cabins outside Nervión Plaza. You’ll also find a range of Andalusian-style ceramics, toys and decorations at Feria de la Artesanía Creativa, which features 70 stands outside the City Hall from mid-December to early January.
Where To Stay:
Hotel Alfonso XIII: Luxury travelers will want to check into this regal property, commissioned by the king of Spain for Seville’s 1929 Expo. Located beside the Royal Alcázar of Seville, the hotels interiors are equally grand, with a mix of Andalusian, Moorish and Castilian decorative styles.
Querencia De Sevilla: Opened in 2023, Querencia de Sevilla is one of the newer hotels in Seville. The spacious rooms flaunt Andalusian-inspired floral motifs, and some have balconies overlooking Avenida de la Constitucion. It’s also a five-minute walk from the Seville Cathedral, making it ideal for first-time visitors.
Hotel Mercer Sevilla: Set in a 19th-century mansion in the bustling El Arenal district, this luxury boutique hotel is well-suited to travelers who appreciate contemporary design. The hotel has just 11 rooms, ensuring an intimate atmosphere, and offers excellent amenities including a pillow menu, complimentary minibar and Molton Brown toiletries.
Tallinn
Christmas market at the Town Hall Square in the Old Town of Tallinn, Estonia.
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Tallinn, Estonia
Who Will Love It: Medieval enthusiasts looking to step back in time
All-Star Attractions: Town Hall Square; Gingerbread World; local glögg (mulled wine)
What Not To Miss: The performances that take place on Fridays and Saturdays from 5 to 7 p.m., and on Sundays from noon to 2 p.m.
Dates: Nov. 22 to Dec. 27, 2024
Where To Stay: Hotel Telegraaf; Schlössle Hotel; Hotel Regent Tallinn
For a good chance of a snowy Christmas market experience, head north to Estonia’s quaint capital of Tallinn, which becomes a winter wonderland in December. Set against the medieval Old Town, the main market in the Town Hall Square brims with festive cheer, twinkling lights, Estonian treats and handcrafted items with an eco focus. Grab a mug of glögg made from local berries and sample traditional blood sausages, seasoned potato dishes and beer-braised sauerkraut. Then, stroll over to the Gingerbread World, a section featuring an array of elaborately decorated gingerbread cookies that make great gifts to take home alongside some traditional knitwear. Families will love the daily music and dance performances, as well as the chance to visit Santa’s house between noon and 5 p.m. Kids who come prepared with a song or poem will get an extra treat from St. Nick.
Where To Stay:
Hotel Telegraaf: This property is ideally situated near the main market, making it ideal for those looking to take in Tallinn’s historic charms. The on-site spa and pool offer a relaxing respite at the end of the day and the French-Russian Tchaikovsky restaurant is ideal for an indulgent meal.
Schlössle Hotel: With just 23 rooms tucked inside a 13th-century building, this luxury boutique hotel immerses guests in Tallinn’s Old Town. The property offers a fantastic breakfast served in a vaulted cellar.
Hotel Regent Tallinn: For a good night’s sleep, you can’t go wrong with this cozy hotel in a 14th-century mansion in the Old Town. Each of the 34 rooms are equipped with Hästens beds, Italian-made furniture and spacious bathrooms.
Budapest
View of the illuminated Christmas Market in Budapest, Hungary.
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Budapest, Hungary
Who Will Love It: Travelers looking for a range of winter activities
All-Star Attractions: Vörösmarty Square; St. Stephen’s Basilica; twinkling tram rides; Széchenyi Thermal Bath
What Not To Miss: Skating on one of the many ice rinks
Dates: Nov. 15 to Dec. 31, 2024
Where To Stay: Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace; Aria Hotel Budapest by Library Hotel Collection; Anantara New York Palace Budapest
Budapest shines even brighter during the holidays, inviting travelers to shop, skate and soak in thermal baths while taking in the festive atmosphere. The city’s largest and longest-running Christmas market is located at Vörösmarty Square, where over 100 wooden huts tout Hungarian crafts and culinary delicacies, from lángos (deep-fried flatbread) to goulash in bread bowls. Less than a 10-minute walk from the square, you’ll find the St. Stephen’s Basilica Christmas Market, which has a more cozy and traditional atmosphere, with artisan stalls, an ice rink and festive animations projected on the basilica. In the evening, take a stroll down “Fashion Street” to see the impressive light displays or take a ride on a tram decorated like a Christmas tree. There are also smaller Christmas markets, including one at Erzsébet Square and the small park in front of the town hall.
Where To Stay:
Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace: For an opulent escape, check into the Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace, located in a historic building with spectacular views of the Danube River, Chain Bridge and Buda Castle. The property offers a heavenly top-floor spa, an infinity-edge indoor pool, an all-day brasserie and a charming bar with excellent craft cocktails.
Aria Hotel Budapest by Library Hotel Collection: Housed in a former 19th-century bank around the corner from the basilica, Aria Hotel Budapest offers luxurious (soundproofed) rooms inspired by musical genres. Guests can enjoy a free happy hour with Hungarian wine and cheese every evening and a rooftop bar with 360-degree views of the city.
Anantara New York Palace Budapest: Old-world elegance fills the interiors of this five-star hotel, housed in a Belle Epoque building that once served as the headquarters of the New York Life Insurance Company. Warm up with a coffee in the frescoed New York Café or an evening cocktail in the historic Poets Bar.
For more options, read our guide to the Best Hotels In Budapest.
Prague
Aerial view of the Christmas market at the Old Town Square in Prague, Czech Republic.
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Prague, Czech Republic
Who Will Love It: Travelers looking for fairytale-esque Christmas markets that extend into the new year
All-Star Attractions: Old Town Square; Wenceslas Square
What Not To Miss: Listening to the choir at St. Nicholas Church
Dates: Nov. 30 to Jan. 6, 2024
Where To Stay: Four Seasons Hotel Prague; Augustine, A Luxury Collection Hotel; Almanac X Alcron Prague
Prague is beautiful any time of year, but it feels especially magical when dressed up for the holidays. The city has two main Christmas markets: a lively market at Old Town Square and a narrower market that runs through the middle of Wenceslas Square—complete with a small ice rink. The main markets are open until Jan. 6, 2024, so those visiting during New Year’s won’t miss out on holiday cheer. While you’ll find some wooden stalls selling handicrafts and decorative items, Czech food is the main focus of the markets. Some of the traditional delicacies on offer include trdelníks (chimney cakes topped with sugar and walnuts); klobása (sausages); and palačinky (crepes). Hot beverages range from mulled wine and hot chocolate to punch and grog (rum, water, lemon and sugar).
Where To Stay:
Four Seasons Hotel Prague: With its River View Suites overlooking the Charles Bridge and Prague Castle, this luxury retreat in Prague’s Old Town is perfect for a magical winter escape. The hotel embraces the Christmas spirit with festive directions, holiday feasts and advent-themed spa treatments.
Augustine, A Luxury Collection Hotel: Tucked inside the 13th-century walls of a former monastery in the historic Malá Strana district, the Augustine is well-suited to history lovers seeking an intimate getaway. From its festively decorated Christmas Suite to exclusive concerts by the Czech Philharmonic Quartet, the hotel marks the season with a slew of joyful offerings.
Almanac X Alcron Prague: Located near Wenceslas Square, this modern and stylish hotel offers a convenient base near Prague’s Christmas markets. Guests can look forward to seasonal cultural programming and an on-site restaurant that’s fit for an indulgent holiday meal.
For more options, read our guide to the Best Hotels In Prague.
About Julia Eskins, Your European Christmas Markets Guide
I have been writing and editing travel and lifestyle content for over a decade, with a focus on luxury hotels, innovative sustainability initiatives, and immersive cultural and wellness experiences. Along the way, I have explored over 50 countries, lived in five (Canada, Portugal, Finland, Germany and Mexico) and have been to several Christmas markets in Europe. In addition to Forbes Vetted, my travel guides, reviews, and feature stories have also appeared in Condé Nast Traveler, National Geographic, Travel + Leisure, Vogue, Bloomberg Pursuits, Lonely Planet, Time, The Globe and Mail, Afar, Elle Canada, BBC Travel, Architectural Digest, and more.
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Publish date : 2024-10-30 07:46:00
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