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As the festive season approaches, there’s no better way to immerse yourself in the festive spirit than by exploring the world’s most enchanting Christmas markets. From the twinkling lights and charming stalls to the smell of mulled wine and freshly baked gingerbread, these markets offer an unforgettable experience for visitors.
This year, some markets stand out for their magical atmosphere, unique offerings, and vibrant traditions. Here's our guide to our favourite Christmas markets, to get you in the festive spirit!
Edinburgh Christmas Market
Scotland’s capital city is home to one of the most picturesque Christmas markets in the UK. Edinburgh’s Christmas Market transforms the city centre into a winter wonderland, set against the backdrop of the historic Edinburgh Castle and the city's famous skyline.
Located on East Princes Street Gardens, this market is known for its charming stalls offering everything from local Scottish crafts to European delicacies. Whether you're sampling a warm glass of spiced cider or browsing for handcrafted gifts, the market's cosy ambience makes it an ideal stop during the festive season. With a spectacular light display, ice skating, and carnival rides, Edinburgh’s Christmas Market is the perfect way to experience the magic of Christmas in Scotland.
Colmar Christmas Market
Colmar’s Christmas markets look like they’ve been lifted straight from a fairy tale. Set among half-timbered houses, cobblestone lanes, and softly lit canals, the town transforms into a magical winter village each December.
Colmar actually hosts several themed markets spread across its old town, each with its own character - from artisan crafts and festive decorations to local Alsatian treats like gingerbread, bredele biscuits, and spiced mulled wine. The warm glow of lights, paired with the storybook setting, makes Colmar one of Europe’s most atmospheric and picturesque Christmas destinations.
Strasbourg Christmas Market
Strasbourg, located in France’s Alsace region, is often referred to as the “Capital of Christmas,” and for good reason. The Strasbourg Christmas Market is one of the oldest in Europe, dating back to 1570. Situated in the city’s UNESCO-listed Grande Île district, the market boasts a rich history and an unrivalled festive atmosphere.
The market features over 300 stalls spread across the city’s historic squares, each offering a variety of crafts, decorations, and delicious Alsatian treats. One of the highlights is the giant Christmas tree in Place Kléber, a symbol of Strasbourg's commitment to preserving the magic of the festive season. Whether you're exploring the cobblestone streets or enjoying the choir performances, Strasbourg’s Christmas Market is truly a magical destination for any traveller.
Cologne Christmas Market
Heading into mainland Europe, the Cologne Christmas Market in Germany is a must-see for festive enthusiasts. Cologne is renowned for hosting numerous markets throughout the city, but the most popular is situated in front of the iconic Cologne Cathedral. This market is renowned for its stunning setting, which adds a touch of grandeur to the festive atmosphere.
Over 150 wooden stalls showcase a wide variety of Christmas goods, from handmade ornaments to gourmet German sausages. Visitors can enjoy live performances, sip on Glühwein (mulled wine), and indulge in regional treats like lebkuchen (gingerbread). With its enchanting mix of tradition and festive cheer, Cologne offers one of the best Christmas market experiences in Europe.
Dresden Christmas Market
Dresden’s Striezelmarkt is one of the oldest Christmas markets in the world, dating back to 1434—and it still captures the charm of a centuries-old German Christmas. Located in the city’s Altmarkt Square, the market is known for its traditional wooden stalls, handmade ornaments, and the famous Dresdner Stollen (a buttery fruit bread that even has its own festival).
Visitors can enjoy a towering Christmas pyramid, glittering lights, and artisan workshops showcasing candle-making, carving, and baking. With its deep-rooted traditions and festive atmosphere, Dresden remains one of Germany’s most iconic and beloved Christmas market experiences.
Vienna Christmas Market
Vienna transforms into a true winter wonderland during the festive season, with several Christmas markets adding to the city’s festive charm. The most famous is the Vienna Christmas Market at the Rathausplatz, set against the magnificent backdrop of Vienna’s City Hall. This market is known for its romantic atmosphere, with glittering lights illuminating the historic square.
More than 150 stalls offer a selection of handcrafted gifts, ornaments, and mouthwatering Austrian delicacies like roasted chestnuts and Sachertorte. There are also fun activities for children, including Christmas workshops and ice skating. Vienna’s markets provide a perfect blend of tradition and Christmas cheer, making them one of the most popular Christmas destinations in Europe.
Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens Christmas Market
Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens Christmas Market is one of the most enchanting experiences in Scandinavia. This historic amusement park is transformed into a magical Christmas setting, complete with fairy lights, festive decorations, and cosy wooden stalls.
Visitors can browse for gifts, enjoy Danish Christmas treats like æbleskiver (pancake puffs), and warm up with gløgg (spiced wine). The Tivoli Christmas Market also features live performances, light shows, and seasonal rides, making it a top choice for families visiting Copenhagen during the festive season.
Gdańsk Christmas Market
The Gdańsk Christmas Fair brings festive charm to one of Poland’s most beautiful Hanseatic Old Towns. Centred around Targ Węglowy (Coal Market), the fair offers wooden stalls selling handcrafted gifts, regional delicacies, and warming Polish classics like pierogi and hot spiced beer.
One of its most unique features is the charming “Fairytale Lane,” where whimsical decorations and illuminations add a touch of magic for families and children. With its blend of medieval architecture, Baltic atmosphere, and growing reputation as one of Europe’s most enchanting festive markets, Gdańsk offers a wonderfully less-crowded alternative to Western Europe’s biggest hotspots.
As you plan your visit to these enchanting Christmas markets, it’s worth making sure you’re prepared for anything the season might bring - especially if you’re travelling with a pre-existing medical condition. Whether you're wandering the festive streets of Edinburgh or soaking up the magic in Vienna, the right travel insurance can help you enjoy every moment with complete peace of mind.
From the twinkling lights of France’s “Capital of Christmas” to the historic charm of Strasbourg, Europe’s markets capture the true spirit of the season. So, which Christmas market will you choose this year? Grab a cup of mulled wine, wander through the twinkling stalls, and let the festive spirit take over.
For more travel inspiration, explore our blog - and if you need advice on choosing the right travel insurance, our guides are here to help.