As the holiday season approaches, Europe’s charming Christmas markets come to life, offering visitors a magical experience filled with festive cheer and unique gifts. Europe is home to some of the most magical Christmas markets in the world. While popular markets in cities like those in Germany and France draw large crowds every year, there are hidden Christmas markets waiting to be discovered.
These hidden Christmas markets are Europe’s best-kept secrets and should definitely be on your holiday travel bucket list. The lesser-known markets offer unique experiences that combine traditional holiday elements such as mulled wine, delicious food, and beautifully decorated Christmas trees. From hidden alleys in small towns to Christmas markets in caves in remote villages, the best-kept secret Christmas markets across Europe offer an authentic and enchanting holiday atmosphere that is sure to delight any traveler seeking a truly special seasonal experience.
Join us as we explore some of the best hidden Christmas markets around Europe and learn about the rich traditions that make them so special.
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Madrid, Spain
Christmas season in Madrid is a magical time to experience the Spanish capital. The city is beautifully decorated with light displays, Christmas trees, and Christmas markets, bringing a festive feel to the city. Unlike many other European cities, Madrid celebrates the holiday season until January, allowing visitors to enjoy New Year’s Eve celebrations and fireworks in addition to the Christmas markets. Therefore, this makes the last week of December the best time to visit Madrid’s Christmas markets.
The main and most popular Christmas market in Madrid is the Plaza Mayor Christmas Market, officially known as the Mercado Tradicional Navidad de la Plaza Mayor. This market is the oldest Christmas market in Spain, dating back to the 19th century. It operates from November 28 until New Year’s Eve, with free entry. Located in the heart of the city, the Plaza Mayor Christmas Market is easily accessible, with the Sol metro station nearby. You can even get a room overlooking the Christmas market, at
Pestana Plaza Mayor, one of the ‘best hotels in Madrid’.
The balconies surrounding Plaza Mayor are decorated with candle-shaped lights, and a huge white conical Christmas tree illuminates the plaza with its iconic 104 small red stalls. As you wander through the festive stalls, you’ll find not only typical Christmas decorations but also Nativity Scene ornaments and unique joke toys sold for the Día de los Santos Inocentes, the Spanish equivalent of April Fool’s Day, celebrated on December 28.
Recommended by Alina Kaplanov of The Luxury Travelers
Lisbon, Portugal
It might snow at some European Christmas markets, but it certainly won’t in Lisbon. If you fancy the Christmas festivities in the sun, the Portuguese capital is a great choice! The decorations light up at the end of November and last until the start of January. One of the highlights is the huge Christmas tree at Praça do Comércio.
There are also Christmas markets in Lisbon, and Wonderland Lisboa is one of the largest! You can easily reach the market by the blue metro line to Marques de Pombal Station. Wonderland Lisboa is located at Parque Eduardo VII, one of the largest parks in the city.
Wonderland Lisboa is great for families as you can visit Santa, come to the ice skating rink or enjoy a spin on the Ferris Wheel. There is no entrance fee, and you’ll easily spend a few hours here. There are many stalls where you can eat and drink, and the atmosphere is lovely. When returning to downtown Lisbon, walk down Avenida da Liberdade to enjoy the beautiful Christmas decorations in the streets!
Recommended by Marga of Discover Portugal
Milan, Italy
Located in the heart of Milan adjacent to the spectacular Piazza del Duomo, the Christmas market has one of the most magical spots in Europe. But before you hit the market on the street, start inside with the dazzling Christmas Tree in the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, it may well be the most beautiful in all of Italy. When you exit, you’ll be at the market, and it’s free to enter.
As with most events in Italy, the Milanese cuisine is a large part of the market celebration. You may know Panetone comes from Milan and you will find them everywhere. However, from sweets to savories, there is much more to try. As you stroll through, foodies will want to snack on delicious treats like candies, pastries, paninis, sausages, and more.
Of course, the market also has loads of holiday trinkets, ornaments, candles, and plenty of holiday items that make great souvenirs and gifts.
The Milan Christmas market runs from December 1st through January 5th.
Recommended by Denise from Chef Denise
Tbilisi, Georgia
If you are looking for non-touristy Christmas Markets in Europe, consider spending this holiday season and Christmas in Tbilisi, the capital of the country Georgia. The Christmas Market in Tbilisi is one of the hidden Christmas markets in Europe but it is definitely worth visiting.
Being an Orthodox Christian country that observes the Julian Calendar, every religious celebration here is celebrated 13 days later than in the countries following the Gregorian Calendar.
Therefore, Christmas in Georgia falls on January 7, but the festivities begin in mid-December when the city gets wrapped in decorations and Christmas Markets pop up on the main avenues and squares.
The date of the Christmas Market changes each year and is usually announced a few weeks ahead. It ranges from December 16 until January 7.
The central Christmas Market happens at Deda Ena Park and Obeliani Square, where you can try mulled wine made from Georgian Saperavi red wine, try a Christmas honey-walnut snack called Gozinaki, and shop for local handmade souvenirs, to name a few.
If you are traveling with kids, you can find Christmas-themed activities at these markets, too. Last year, we even had a small ice rink for children.
These markets are free to attend and host concerts throughout the day so that you can listen to local performers singing modern Georgian songs and international covers.
Recommended by Baia from Red Fedora Diary
London, United Kingdom
London truly comes alive during the festive season, so if you’re looking for that perfect Christmas vibe, this city has it all. Starting in late November, London is decked out in holiday lights, with sparkling Christmas markets, open-air ice rinks, and endless festive activities filling the streets.
When it comes to Christmas markets, Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland is a must-visit, especially for families, offering everything from thrilling rides and an ice kingdom to wooden chalets filled with holiday treats and live shows. Entry is ticketed, so it’s worth planning if you want the full experience. Meanwhile, Southbank’s Christmas Market serves up seasonal treats like mulled wine and roasted chestnuts with scenic views of the Thames.
Leicester Square’s market is another gem, with artisan stalls nestled between London’s theatre lights and impromptu street performances — perfect for picking up unique gifts. Don’t miss Covent Garden, either; it’s decked out in dazzling lights and has a giant Christmas tree that’s perfect for photos. The market here is a mix of high-end and artisan, so you can find everything from boutique gifts to festive bites. Plus, there’s often live music and even snow showers to complete the holiday scene.
Getting around London’s Christmas market is simple, with each market just a tube ride away, making it easy to hop between them. The markets run until early January, so you have plenty of time to soak in London’s festive magic. A quick tip: wrap up warm and visit at dusk for the best views of the twinkling lights.
Recommended by Goya Galeotta
Strasbourg, France
Strasbourg’s charming Christmas market is the oldest in France, dating back to 1570. Blending French and German cultures, Strasbourg calls itself the capital of Christmas and hosts one of the best Christmas markets in Europe.
In the decorated streets of downtown, the festivities center around a giant Christmas tree. At a minimum of 30 meters in height, the tree co-exists beautifully with the tall medieval cathedral, an architectural landmark of the city. The tree is sourced from the region and decorated with miles of shining lights.
The festivities in Strasbourg start in late November and continue for a month. There are about 300 wooden huts dotted around downtown, each with an assortment of gifts and food. Happily, the market is free to enter, making it a great place to wander to get into the holiday spirit.
As Strasbourg has a mix of French and German culture, foodie highlights include vin chaud (mulled wine), pain d’épices (traditional gingerbread), and flammkuchen (pizza with cream sauce).
Major airports close to Strasbourg include Zurich (87 miles), Frankfurt (130 miles), and Paris (260 miles), and Strasbourg can be reached by train from each of these cities.
Recommended by Melanie of Postcards and Places
Colmar, France
Colmar, in France’s Alsace region, transforms into a Christmas fairytale from late November through December. With six charming Christmas markets scattered across the city’s historic centre, each within walking distance, Colmar offers a free, festive experience for all. The markets, set against a backdrop of half-timbered houses and cobblestone streets adorned with twinkling lights, create a truly magical atmosphere.
Each market has its own personality. Place des Dominicains, the largest, is ideal for holiday gifts and decorations, while Place Jeanne d’Arc specializes in Alsatian treats like tarte flambée, mulled wine, and bredele (traditional cookies). For families, there’s Petite Venice—a market just for kids, with adorable toy stalls and a charming carousel. And if you’re into trying regional goodies, the Gourmet Market on Rue de la Montagne Verte has you covered.
Getting to Colmar is a breeze with direct trains from Strasbourg taking under 30 minutes, or by car from EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg in about 45 minutes, making it a convenient destination for a festive getaway to enjoy France’s rich Christmas tradition.
Recommended by Goya Galeotta
Valkenburg, Netherlands
Valkenburg is a town in the south of the Netherlands and its Christams market is one of the hidden Christmas markets in Europe.
There are several Christmas markets in Valkenburg in caves. On these markets they sell Christmas trinkets, clothes and food. These markets are special since they are held inside caves.
There are 2 caves which have Christmas markets inside them, the Fluweelengrot and the Gemeentegrot. Especially during the weekend there can be long lines to enter the caves. Both caves have an entrance fee to enter them, it’s €10 each per cave per person.
A unique souvenir to buy at these Christmas markets are the Christmas nativity scenes and candle holders made from marl. The caves are quarries, which came to be by removing marl. This happened for years, which led to all these caves. There are more caves in Valkenburg than these 2, in Mergelrijk the Christmas story in miniature is on display.
The whole town is decorated and illuminated during this period. Arrive early in the morning to avoid the long lines when visiting on Saturday or Sunday.
From Monday till Friday the markets will be less crowded. The markets are open from November 15th 2024 till December 29th 2024.
Contributed by Cosette from KarsTravels
Tallinn, Estonia
If you’re looking for a winter wonderland destination, Tallinn has one of the coziest and hidden gem Christmas markets in Europe. It’s set in Town Hall Square surrounded by the city’s charming architecture.
The market is relatively small, but that combined with its location and frequent snowfall adds to its storybook charm. Plus, it has everything from a giant Christmas tree and mulled wine to wintry artisan goods and Estonian cuisine.
It’s easy to see why Christmas in Tallinn is a magical time to visit!
The Market is free to enter and is particularly lively on the weekends. You can visit the Tallinn Christmas Market anytime from November 22nd until December 27th, 2024.
Recommended by Christa of The Spirited Explorer
Budapest, Hungary
The Budapest Christmas Markets are some of the most magical in Europe. The first Christmas Market started as a local market for sellers to stock up for winter in the 1700s. Once the Soviets left in the early 1990s, the local market transformed into more of a traditional Christmas Market.
On the Pest side of the city and along the banks of the Danube – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – near the Parliament building and the Széchenyi Chain Bridge, you will find markets in Vörösmarty Square and the square outside of St. Stephen’s Basilica.
Both of these markets, which are free to visit and are located less than ½ mile apart, combine the wonderful Hungarian holiday traditions and handiworks with the traditional European sparkle.
With these two markets open mid-November and past Christmas day, visitors can enjoy warm mulled wine, roasted nuts, and delicious chimney cakes while browsing the Hungarian embroidery and ceramics.
The market at St. Stephen’s Basilica is best visited after dark so you can see the dazzling lights projected onto the front of the church. It also has an ice rink for children and a huge Christmas tree twinkling with lights.
Recommended by Audra of The Nerd Traveler
Prague, Czech Republik
The Christmas Market in Prague dates back to the mid-1200s, when Havel Markets in Old Town were set up for vendors to sell fresh fruits and vegetables.
Today’s Christmas Market in Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has the traditional treats of the European Christmas Markets, including the warm mulled wine, roasted nuts, and chimney cakes surrounded by buildings, some dating back to the 1300s.
The Gothic bell tower and spires of the Church of Our Lady before Týn creates a magical background to the stalls selling all sorts of treats, eats, and trinkets such as Bohemian crystal.
On the opposite side of the square from the Church of Our Lady is the Old Town Hall building famous for the Astronomical Clock, dating back to the early-1400s, showing the location of the sun and moon, along with various Catholic saints on each side of the clock. This clock is world famous as the oldest astronomical clock still in operation.
The market in Wenceslas Square is just over ½ a mile away and also has stalls selling Czech treats and keepsakes.
The markets are open from the end of November until early January and are free to visit.
Recommended by Audra of The Nerd Traveler
Zurich, Switzerland
Visiting Zurich’s Wiehnachtsdorf is a must for holiday travelers in Switzerland. The Christmas Village is set in the Sechseläutenplatz with a view of both the opera house and Lake Zurich. This festive market exudes charm with its twinkling lights, 100+ cozy wooden stalls, and bustling holiday ambiance. Browse a range of handcrafted items, from artisan ornaments and Swiss-made goods to delicious regional treats like raclette, gingerbread, and mulled wine.
The market is free to enter, making it a budget-friendly way to enjoy Zurich’s holiday season. Unique attractions include holiday shows and visits from Santa Claus (Samichlaus). For the best photos, visit after sunset when the lights illuminate the entire area. The fondue chalet adds to the experience. Be sure to reserve your seat early to enjoy a fondue dinner with a view over the Christmas Village.
The Wiehnachtsdorf is open November 21 through December 23, 2024, and is open from 11 am – 10 pm Monday-Saturdays, and 11 am – 8 pm Sundays. With easy access via public transport and located steps away from Zurich’s Old Town, this market is both scenic and accessible. Plan to go midweek to avoid the larger crowds.
Recommended by Sonia of Carey On Travels
Copenhagen, Denmark
The seven Christmas markets in Copenhagen are conveniently located close to each other in the city center. All are free to visit, except for Tivoli Gardens and Copenhagen Zoo where you have to pay the entry fees.
Copenhagen during Christmas is magical. The streets are illuminated with lights and the smell of roasted almonds fills the air. You can’t miss trying Gløgg (mulled wine) or Æbleskiver which tastes best when dipped with a fruit jam – Mmm Yummy! The markets are packed with handcrafted items, Christmas trees, ceramics, mittens, winter outfits, handmade delicious chocolates, and more. I can’t wait for the special Christmas treats that only come around this season.
The Christmas season in Copenhagen kicks off in November and wraps up a few days before Christmas, as Danes celebrate the festival with their family. Tivoli Gardens, however, keeps the festive spirit alive until early January. For the best experience, head to the markets after sunset – especially at Kongens Nytorv, where the decorations are simply beautiful.
And yes, if you’re lucky, you might spot Julemanden (Santa Claus) at the Tivoli Gardens!
Recommended by Agalya of Your Denmark Guide
Vienna, Austria
Vienna is one of the most beautiful European destinations to visit in December if you are looking to explore the Christmas markets. The entire city transforms into a winter fairytale, with Christmas markets at every corner, colourful lights and sparkly chandeliers hanging over streets. The main Christmas market in Vienna takes places in front of the Rathaus and it’s huge, including an ice rink and a cheerful trail around the park. Don’t miss the delicious food, from the traditional sausages to the typical Austrian noodles. There is plenty of great food in the Vienna Christmas markets. There is no cost to visit the Christmas markets in Vienna.
Each Christmas market in Vienna focuses on a different theme, so, if you are into artisan gifts for example, you must visit the market in Karslplatz. One of the less touristy markets, which has a very local touch, is the one in Spittelberg. For great food, head over to the Maria Theresien Platz Christmas market.
Recommended by Joanna of The World in my Pocket
St. Wolfgang, Austria
The St. Wolfgang Christmas market is one of the hidden Christas markets in Europe. It is located in the picturesque town of St. Wolfgang. You can access the Christmas Market for free. It is reachable by public transportation from Salzburg.
At the Christmas market you can find many stands with locally produced items, such as soap, gin, decoration, warm socks or gingerbread. Of course there are also stands that offer hot beverages or snacks. Make sure you also check out the cute little shops, which also sell handmade products.
In case it gets too crowded you have always the option to hop on a boat and discover the other two Christmas markets on the shore of the lake – St. Gilgen and Strobl. The unique landmark of the Pre-Christmas time at Lake Wolfgang is the 16 meter tall swimming candle on the lake.
Every Wednesday the electric lights are switched off. You can experience the Christmas market by candlelight. An atmospheric brass band plays every night – adding to the magical experience. Throughout Advent, you can discover traditional Austrian celebrations at the market.
The Christmas Market starts on the 22nd of November until the 22nd of December. From Wednesday to Sunday the open hours vary and it is open until 7:30 pm.
Recommended by Lisi of Escaping Worlds
Dresden, Germany
Dresden is home to the oldest Christmas Market in Germany. First opening in 1434, today, it is home to about 250 stalls and attracts a whopping 2.5 million visitors annually.
Aside from the main Striezelmarkt, Dresden is also home to several smaller markets scattered throughout the city. Each market has its own these (li.e. a medieval market and a Finnish market), with most, being within walking distance of one another.
The Striezelmarkt is known for its traditional feel with a Fairyland Forest for kids, a stage for seasonal performances, a HUGE Lighted Christmas Arch, and Germany’s largest Christmas Pyramid.
The Augustusmarkt is popular for its international food and gifts, as well as being home to the Market’s Riesenrad (Ferris Wheel).
But no matter which market you visit, Dresden’s impressive Baroque architecture will provide an impressive backdrop.
And don’t forget to try the iconic Dresdner Christstollen while you stroll through the markets. Germany’s version of Christmas cake is a holiday favourite.
Not only are there strict rules about how it is made, only certain bakers in Dresden (150 to be precise) can put the special stamp on the package and call it Dresdner Stollen!
The Dresden Christmas Markets are usually open from late November until Christmas Eve. However, a couple of the markets are open until the first week of January, so it’s best to check the website for actual dates and times.
Recommended by Marianne of Galavanting the Globe
Lucerne, Switzerland
Lucerne is an amazing and scenic city in Switzerland that should be on everyone’s bucket list. But as pretty as it is during the summer, the city just comes alive during the Christmas season.
Located in Franziskanerplatz, the Lucerne Christmas Market is a little on the small side with only about 70 stalls. But what it lacks in size, it certainly makes up for in ambience.
Not only is this free Christmas Market surrounded by historic buildings, but you also get incredible views of Lake Lucerne. In fact, their giant Christmas tree sits right along the water’s edge.
Inside the main market, you will find typical wooden stalls selling everything from handmade ornaments to candle holders, woollen scarves and hats, Swiss chocolates and cheeses, and of course, Glühwein!
Definitely try the Honey Glühwein, it’s absolutely delicious!
For families, there is an awesome ice skating rink overlooking Lake Lucerne. With food and drink vendors, skate rentals and live music coming from the stage right next to the rink, you have everything you need for a perfect evening under the stars.
The market usually opens in late November and runs through Christmas, with the Ice Magic Skating Rink staying open until January.
Some of the smaller markets may only be open for certain weekends, so it’s best to check the website for exact times and dates.
Recommended by Marianne of Galavanting the Globe
Nuremberg, Germany
Considered one of the oldest and most well known Christmas Markets and located in the Bavarian portion of Germany, the home of the tradition of Christmas Markets, the Christkindlesmarkt started over 400 years ago.
Located in the square in front of Frauenkirche (Our Lady) Church and bordered by Schöner Brunnen (replica of medieval church spire that now functions as a fountain), the Christkindlesmarkt includes so many traditions passed down over the centuries.
As with most Christmas markets, there are stalls selling handiworks, food, and drink as well as items specific to Nuremberg. For example, the Zwetschgenmännle are figurines made to resemble people and made from dried fruit (mainly figs and plums) with walnut heads.
Also you will find the delicious Nuremberg gingerbread, Lebkuchen, and a special child selected to be the Christkind dressed in a traditional German fashion – a mix between an angel and royalty – who opens the market with a special poem and walks around spreading Christmas joy and serving as a symbol of the market.
The Christkindelsmarkt is free to visitors and is open starting the Friday before the start of the Advent Season and is open through Christmas Eve.
Recommended by Audra of The Nerd Traveler
Regensburg, Germany
Located in the Bavarian portion of Germany, Regensburg has several Christmas markets dating back to the 1700s.
There are two Christmas Markets located near Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. One is on the plaza near the Neupfarrkirche (Old Parish Church) and the other is near the Stone Bridge and near the Regensburg Cathedral.
Both of these Markets in Old Town open at the end of November and will be open until December 23rd and are free to visit.
Less than ½ a mile to the south and outside of the Thurn and Taxis Palace grounds is another Christmas Market. This market has a magical forest and a petting zoo for children of all ages to enjoy. The palace adds to the majesty of the holiday season.
The Market at Thurn and Taxi Palace will open at the end of November and stay open until December 23rd. Tickets are required and the price varies with the day of the week for the visit.
Each of the Christmas Markets in Regensburg have their own regional specialities, including bratwurst and mulled wine flavored with local blueberries and apples.
Recommended by Audra of The Nerd Traveler
Edinburgh, Scotland
Although Edinburgh looks magical at any time of the year, during the festive season, the Scottish capital turns into a winter wonderland.
One of the main highlights of Edinburgh in December is the famous Edinburgh Christmas Market.It takes place in the Princes Street Gardens with a backdrop of the dramatic Edinburgh Castle. The market is located at the heart of the city centre and is within walking distance from the main bus and train station.
Edinburgh Christmas Market runs from mid-November through early January and doesn’t require an entry fee.
The beautifully decorated chalet-style stalls sell an array of handmade gifts and traditional crafts. Visitors can enjoy a glass of hot mulled wine and indulge in various festive foods.
Also, adventurous travellers can take a ride on the enormous Big Wheel and the Star Flyer to admire the bird’s eye view over the city skyline. Also, kids would love to explore the Christmas Tree Maze, Santa’s Grotto and various rides. Put on your skating shoes to take a spin on the cosy Alpine ice rink.
Recommended by Moumita from Chasing the Long Road
Belfast, Ireland
Belfast is one of the hottest cities to visit these days National Geographic Travel Magazine has declared that Belfast is an absolute “must-see” destination, and I couldn’t agree more.
The free global Belfast Christmas market returns to City Hall Gardens, on November 16th to December 22, its theme is a Victorian Christmas. The market is open from 10am to 8pm Monday to Wednesday, Thursday to Saturday 10am to 10pm and on Sunday from 12 noon till 6pm.
This year you can enjoy the nostalgic charm of Charles Dickens’s world. Stroll through the market alongside characters like Scrooge, Oliver Twist and Miss Havisham. Enjoy storytelling and lively performances that bring his works to life.
Each day you can enjoy an array of dazzling street performances, music, a traditional carousel and slide for the kids and illuminations. There is a wide variety of wooden chalets stuffed with hand-made Christmas goodies from knitted hats to chocolate stuffed muffins and cakes.
The village will offer an array of Christmas fayre, handcrafted goods and artisan products from hand-made ornaments to your favourite puppers doggie treats and outfits. If you fancy a treat, you can feast on exotic meat burgers, French Tartiflette, sip a soothing mulled wine and indulge in some traditional Irish treats such as roasted chestnuts,Yellowman and dulse.
Recommended by Faith of Xuy and Beyond
Manchester, United Kingdom
The Manchester Christmas Markets are a great experience, taking place from November to December in several vibrant locations throughout the city, including among others Piccadilly Gardens, Exchange Square, and King Street. One of the highlights of the Manchester Christmas Markets is the incredible selection of food and drink available. Guests can savor traditional festive treats such as bratwurst sausages, Yorkshire pudding, and sweet treats.
For those planning a visit to the markets, getting to Manchester is quite convenient, especially with Manchester Airport serving as the nearest major airport. A direct train from the airport to Manchester Piccadilly station takes about 20 minutes, making it easy for travelers to reach the heart of the city.
Once there, the markets are within walking distance or accessible via public transport, allowing visitors to explore the festive scene effortlessly. If you’re in search of luxurious accommodations close to the enchanting Christmas markets in Manchester, you might want to explore the offerings at CitySuites Aparthotel or Hotel Gotham.
Recommended by Paulina from the UK Every Day
Sofia, Bulgaria
For a long time, Sofia had just one Christmas market, and it’s still the most popular one in town — the German Christmas Market. Set in front of the National Theatre, this is the best Christmas market to visit in Sofia, with the smell of mulled wine and German sausages filling the air, lights twinkling above, and cheerful music setting the vibe. It’s located in the very heart of the city, so you can easily walk here if you’re anywhere downtown. Parking next to the National Theatre is also possible, though keep in mind that it’s a paid zone.
This Christmas market really has it all, from bratwursts and burgers to potato fries and sweet treats. The market also stands out for its variety of souvenirs — you’ll find handmade candles, Christmas ornaments, and other festive gift options. The stalls have German names, adding to the traditional feel, and there’s even a little eating area with barrel tables, so you can enjoy your food right there.
Entry is free, though it does get crowded, especially on weekends. The market is open daily from mid November until just before Christmas (December 22), from 11 am to 10 pm, so there’s plenty of time to experience the holiday cheer if you’re in Sofia during the season.
Recommended by Lyubomira of Bulgarian On The Go
Hamburg, Germany
Hamburg looks beautiful at any time of the year, but during the festive season, Germany’s second largest city turns into a magic wonderland with its over 30 Christmas markets.
The central Christmas market is called Rathausmarkt and is located in front of the town hall. Over 80 stalls offer visitors handmade Christmas toys, decorations and Christmas treats. You must try the famous German sausages and warm yourself with mulled wine. The market is open from 25.11 to 23.12, admission is free.
Weisserzauber or White magic is a scenic Christmas market along Jungfernstieg Boulevard. The stalls are located in enchanting white tents alongside Hamburg’s Binnenalster lake. A grand Christmas tree graces a petite island in the middle of the lake.
Santa Pauli is the first erotic Christmas market in the world. It is located in the ‘red light’ district in Hamburg and markets itself as the ‘horniest Christmas market’ in the city.
Other markets you can visit are the HafenCity market, St. Petri Christmas Market, Gänsemarkt and many more.
Recommended by Elena of My Places to Visit
Europe’s most beautiful and lesser known Christmas markets offer a unique and enchanting holiday experience that is not to be missed. From the charming ornate squares and boulevards to the Christmas markets in caves, all of them provide a magical setting for visitors to immerse themselves in the spirit of the season. With their lights, decorations, delicious treats, and handmade crafts, these famous and hidden gem markets are sure to create lasting memories for all who venture to explore them. So this festive season, why not stray off the beaten path and, in addition to the most popular ones, discover the best-kept secret Christmas markets in Europe? You won’t be disappointed.
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3 comments
This s probably the 10th post I am reading about Christmas markets in Europe in the last 10 days. I think the browsers are reflecting my desires.
I love Christmas markets! Really want to go to the one in Vienna someday!
What a comprehensive guide! I have visited the Strasbourg Christmas Market which is the oldest in France (and perhaps Europe). I highly recommend.