Top 10 Cities to Experience Magical Christmas Markets
Tope 10 Cities To Experience Magical Christmas Markets
11/23/202412 min read
Nov 27 - Dec 30
Strasbourg, often referred to as the capital of Christmas, is the perfect destination for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere. The city is particularly well-known for its annual Christkindelsmärik, one of the oldest and most renowned Christmas markets in Europe, which dates back to 1570. The market is located in Grande Île, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and is surrounded by charming half-timbered houses that create a postcard-perfect backdrop for visitors.
Christkindelsmärik: Here visitors will find light displays, concerts, ice rink, stalls filled with handcrafted ornaments, intricate nativity scenes and delicious food! The food options include sausages, pretzels, hearty bowls of choucroute garnie (sauerkraut with sausages, ham and other ingredients), You will also find traditional delicacies such as tarte flambée, spiced wine (known as vin chaud), and delightful gingerbread cookies.
Budget Friendly Accommodation in Strasbourg
Ibis Styles Strasbourg Centre Gare
Location: Just a short walk from the market.
Highlights: Affordable rate, clean rooms and free Wi-Fi..
·Location: Close to the train station and Petite France.
Highlights: Eco-friendly, stylish rooms, and excellent breakfast.
Mid Range Accommodation in Strasbourg
Location: Short walk from the Christmas markets and Petite France.
Highlights: Modern African-inspired décor, high-quality bedding, a fitness room, and an on-site bistro
Location: 5 minutes from the train station and close to Place Kléber and the Christmas markets.
Highlights: Modern amenities, rooftop terrace, and a wine bar.
Luxury Accommodation in Strasbourg
Hotel Cour du Corbeau - MGallery
Location: Close to the Cathedral and historic Petite France.
Highlights: 16th-century building with luxurious rooms and a beautiful courtyard.
Location: 5 minutes from Petite France.
Highlights: Historic architecture, modern amenities, indoor pool, and an excellent brasserie.
Strasbourg,France
Christkindlesmarkt: dates back to the 16th century and is held annually in the Hauptmarkt (Main Market Square). There are 180 stalls where visitors can find anything from handmade ornaments, wooden toys, to traditional gingerbread cookies, known as Lebkuchen, Nuremberg sausage, roasted nuts, mulled wine (Glühwein), and potato pancakes. A highlight is the opening ceremony led by the Nuremberg Christkind, who recites a prologue from the Church of Our Lady's balcony.
Children's Christmas Market (Kinderweihnacht): and a sister cities market offering international crafts and food. These features make the event family-friendly and culturally rich.
Budget Friendly Accommodation in Nuremberg
Location: Close to the main train station, about a 10-minute walk to the Christkindlesmarkt.
Highlights: Affordable rates, private and dormitory rooms, family-friendly.
Location: Central, within walking distance of the market.
Highlights: Modern, clean, and affordable rooms with a social atmosphere.
Mid Range Accommodation in Nuremberg
Location: Just a short walk from the Main Market Square.
Highlights: Comfortable rooms, on site restaurant and great service
Location: Right on the Hauptmarkt, next to the Christkindlesmarkt.
Highlights: Stylish rooms, prime location, and great amenities.
Luxury Accommodation in Nuremberg
Le Méridien Grand Hotel Nürnberg
Location: Close to the train station and a short walk to the market.
Highlights: Historic luxury with elegant rooms and fine dining.
Location: In the city centre, close to the market.
Highlights: Themed rooms, personalized service, and a boutique feel.
Nov 25 - Dec 24
Christkindlmarkt: in the heart of the city at Marienplatz, transforms the square into a winter wonderland, against the backdrop of the Gothic-style New Town Hall. With over 130 stalls, visitors can find everything from handmade ornaments and intricate wood carvings to delicious treats like roasted chestnuts, Lebkuchen (traditional German gingerbread) and spiced Glühwein. Highlights include live Advent music from the town hall balcony and the Krampus Run (usually held in early December), where costumed figures parade through the streets.
The Nativity Market (Kripperlmarkt): a few minutes walk from Marienplatz, close to St Peter's, visitors will find beautifully crafted nativity scenes, with a warm ambience of festive lights and music.
Budget Friendly Accommodation in Munich
Location: Just a short walk from the market.
Highlights: Affordable rate, clean rooms.
The 4You Hostel & Hotel
Location: Just a short walk from the market.
Highlights: Budget friendly, cosy, rooms and fantastic location.
Location: Short walk from Munich train station.
Highlights: Dormitory style and private rooms.
Mid Range Accommodation in Munich
Hotel Metropol by Maier Privathotels
Location: Three minutes from the main train station and about ten minutes from Marienplatz.
Highlights: Cosy and welcoming with modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi and loaner tablets.
Hotel Amba
Location: Close to the train station.
Highlights: Easy access to central attractions. However, there are mixed reviews for outdated facilities which may not align with customer expectations of mid range accommodation.
Luxury Accommodation in Munich
Location: Close to Marienplatz.
Highlights: Luxury amenities, fine dining and spa.
Location: Close to Marienplatz.
Highlights: Luxurious rooms and suites, fine dining and a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the city.
Munich, Germany
Nov 30 - Jan 6
Prague's charming markets are located in the Old Town and Wenceslas Square. The city's stunning Gothic and Baroque architecture, with cobblestone streets, make the city picturesque.
The Old Town Square Christmas Market (taroměstské náměstí): is the largest and most popular market, featuring a stunning 24m Christmas tree, alongside a beautifully decorated wooden hut village selling handmade crafts and festive treats, from mulled wine to gingerbread cookies. There are also daily tree lighting ceremonies with music and live performances.
Wenceslas Square (Václavské náměstí): is situated in the New Town, just a short walk from Old Town Square. At this market, there is a more contemporary market ambience, complete with local artisans showcasing their crafts and unique gifts.
Prague Castle Market (Pražský hrad): situated within the castle complex, the views over the city are stunning. Here visitors will find unique handcrafted gifts and souvenirs and traditional Czech food and drinks
Budget Friendly Accommodation in Prague
Location: Just a short tram ride from Old Town.
Highlights: A stylish hostel offering dorms and private rooms with modern amenities at an affordable price.
Sir Toby’s Hostel·
Location: Close to public transportation for easy access to the Christmas markets.
Highlights: A charming, affordable hostel with private and shared rooms.
Mid Range Accommodation in Prague
Location: In Prague's Old Town and within walking distance to major Christmas markets.
Highlights: A comfortable hotel with great amenities.
Location: Close to the Charles Bridge within a reasonable distance to the Old Town Square.
Highlights: Modern amenities.
Luxury Accommodation in Prague
Location: In Prague’s Old Town, near the Powder Tower.
Highlights: Known for its Art Nouveau architecture, luxurious rooms, and fine dining.
Location: Close to the Vltava River and Charles Bridge.
Highlights: Luxury amenities, and stunning views of the city.
Prague, Czech Republic
Nov 16 - Dec 24
Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz: is the largest and most famous market, located in front of the Vienna City Hall. It has everything from twinkling lights to a giant ice rink. Visitors can enjoy a cup of mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, giant pretzels and browse through stalls filled with handmade ornaments and gifts.
Maria-Theresien-Platz Christmas Village: Located between the Museum of Natural History and the Museum of Art, this market is popular with visitors of all ages. Vienna's Christmas markets are renowned for their ambience and handmade unique gifts such as ornaments, jewellery and local products.
Budget Friendly Accommodation in Vienna
Hostel Ruthensteiner Vienna
Location: Just a short walk from the market.
Highlights: Affordable rate, clean rooms and free Wi-Fi.
Wombat’s City Hostel Vienna Naschmarkt
Location: Opposite the Strasbourg Cathedral
Highlights: Budget friendly, cosy rooms and fantastic location.
Mid Range Accommodation in Vienna
Location: City Centre, close to the market
Highlights: Comfortable rooms, on site restaurant and great service
Location: Close to popular attractions
Highlights: Comfortable rooms, free minibar, onsite bistrot
Luxury Accommodation in Vienna
Location: Close to the State Opera House.
Highlights: Luxurious rooms, famous for its Sacher Torte
Location: Close to Stadtpark.
Highlights: Rooftop bar with city views, exceptional service
Vienna, Austria
Nov 15 - Jan 5
Aside from the beautifully illuminated canals and historic architecture, Amsterdam is the perfect location to enjoy the festive season. There are a variety of Christmas markets, each with something unique to offer.
The Ice Village: located at the Museumplein, features an ice skating rink, and is surrounded by charming wooden chalets that sell local treats and handcrafted gifts. Visitors can enjoy traditional Dutch treats such as poffertjes (mini pancakes), stroopwafels (syrup waffles), and freshly roasted chestnuts, all while sipping on warm mulled wine. This market not only highlights the local cuisine but also the creative talents of artisan vendors who present a range of goods, from handmade jewellery to festive decorations.
The Winter Paradise: located at the RAI Amsterdam, is a larger event that combines winter sports, live entertainment, and plenty of ambience. Families can engage in various activities, such as snow tubing and ice sculptures. The market features exotic foods and drinks, as well as a distinct selection of international crafts, ensuring that there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Funky Xmas Market: located at Westergasfabriek, is the place to go to find artisanal products, or quirky, one of a kind gifts, homemade sweets and savoury foods.
Pure Markt Winter Market: located near Park Frankendael, is where you can enjoy a variety of artisanal and organic foods, with fresh produce.
Budget Friendly Accommodation in Amsterdam
Location: Close to Vondelpark, with easy access to Museumplein.
Highlights: Affordable rate, clean rooms and free Wi-Fi.
Location: In Amsterdam Noord, a short ferry ride from Central Station.
Highlights: Modern facilities, lively atmosphere, and budget-friendly.
Mid Range Accommodation in Amsterdam
Location: Close to public transport, with quick access to city attractions.
Highlights: Stylish rooms, rooftop bar, and excellent service.
Location: Overlooking the Herengracht canal.
Highlights: Chic design, great location, and welcoming atmosphere.
Luxury Accommodation in Amsterdam
Hotel De L’Europe Amsterdam
Location: Along the Amstel River.
Highlights: Luxury rooms, Michelin-starred dining, and a spa.
Conservatorium Hotel Amsterdam
Location: Close to Museumplein.
Highlights: High-end amenities, wellness facilities, and excellent service.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Mulled wine, twinkling lights, the sweet smell of freshly baked goods, roasted chestnuts, artesanal cheeses, wooden stalls overflowing with beautiful hand made gifts..... yes the festive season is upon us! There is no better way to get into the Christmas spirit than a delicious hot mulled wine whilst soaking up the atmosphere at a Christmas market.
Top 10 cities with the best Christmas Markets
Copenhagen, Denmark
Tivoli Gardens: offers a delightful selection of traditional Danish Christmas goods, from handcrafted ornaments to unique gifts. Visitors can enjoy seasonal treats, such as æbleskiver (Danish pancake balls) and warm, spiced gløgg, a traditional mulled wine, and amusement rides and winter-themed attractions. The famous wooden roller coaster, constructed in 1914, is a worth a try.
Nyhavn Christmas Market: Along the harbour with picturesque colourful houses, at this market visitors will find crafts, food, and warm drinks.
Højbro Plads Market: A large market in the city centre with over 100 stalls offering traditional foods, gifts, and holiday concerts.
Budget Friendly Accommodation in Copenhagen
Location: Colbjørnsensgade, approximately 0.3 miles from Tivoli Gardens.
Highlights: Compact and clean rooms, affordable pricing, and proximity to the main train station and Christmas markets.
Urban House Copenhagen by MEININGER
·Location: A short walk from Tivoli Gardens.
Highlights: Hostel-style accommodations with private room options, modern amenities, and an onsite bar.
Mid Range Accommodation in Copenhagen
Location: Rådhuspladsen, 0.2 miles from Tivoli Gardens.
Highlights: Minimalist design, rooftop terrace with views of City Hall Square, and complimentary coffee/tea at the lounge.
citizenM Copenhagen Rådhuspladsen
Location: H.C. Andersens Boulevard, 0.2 miles from Tivoli Gardens.
Highlights: Stylish, modern rooms, friendly atmosphere, and close proximity to the Christmas markets.
Luxury Accommodation in Copenhagen
Location: Bernstorffsgade, within Tivoli Gardens.
Highlights: Luxury amenities, Michelin-star dining, rooms with Tivoli views, and personalized service.
Radisson Collection Royal Hotel
Location: Hammerichsgade, next to Tivoli Gardens.
Highlights: Luxury experience, city views and fitness centre.
Nuremberg, Germany
Nov 30 - Jan 7
Zrinjevak Park: Here visitors will find beautifully decorated Christmas trees and a variety of stalls selling handmade crafts, gifts, festive decorations and traditional Croatian treats like štrukli (a type of pastry), fritule (doughnuts), and glühwein (mulled wine). Adding to the joyful atmosphere are live performances and music and, carollers.
King Tomislav Square: Visitors can enjoy an evening of skating on the outdoor large ice rink and stalls with food, hot drinks and seasonal music. It is the perfect market for families.
Budget Friendly Accommodation in Zagreb
Swanky Mint Hostel
Location: Close to Ban Jelačić Square, within walking distance of several Advent locations.
Highlights: Affordable dorms and private rooms, trendy design, and a rooftop bar.
Chillout Hostel Zagreb
·Location: Close to the city centre and Advent attractions.
Highlights: Clean and budget-friendly, with a communal kitchen and friendly staff.
Mid Range Accommodation in Zagreb
Location: In the city centere near Zrinjevac Park and Ban Jelačić Square.
Highlights: Cosy rooms with modern amenities, a historic charm, and a courtyard café
Canopy by Hilton Zagreb City Centre
Location: Close to King Tomislav Square.
Highlights: Contemporary style, spacious rooms, and excellent breakfast options.
Luxury Accommodation in Zagreb
Location: Close to King Tomislav Square and Zrinjevac Park.
Highlights: Luxury amenities, historic elegance, and renowned dining options.
Location: Overlooking Ban Jelačić Square.
Highlights: Central location, luxurious rooms, and an excellent restaurant.
Cologne, Germany
Nov 18 - Dec 23
Cologne Christmas Market: is set against the stunning backdrop of the Cologne Cathedral. It is located in the heart of the city's Old Town. Here visitors will find more than 150 stalls selling everything from handcrafted ornaments to delicious local treats such as stollen (fruit bread) and glühwein (mulled wine). Other features include festive music, live performances, a towering Christmas tree and a light tent containing up to 50,000 Christmas lights. The market also offers activities for children like the Christmas Bakery.
Budget Friendly Accommodation in Cologne
Legend Hotel Köln
Location: 500 metres from the market.
Highlights: Cosy rooms and fantastic location.
Ibis Köln am Dom
Location: Close to the Cathedral.
Highlights: Affordable rates.
Mid Range Accommodation in Cologne
Hilton Cologne
Location: 200 metres from Cologne Cathedral.
Highlights: Stylish rooms and excellent amenities including spa and fitness centre.
Hotel Mondial at Dom Cologne
Location: Close to the market.
Highlights: 4 star hotel with stylish rooms, spa and restaurant.
Luxury Accommodation in Cologne
Excelsior Hotel Ernst am Dom
Location: Close to the Cathedral.
Highlights: 5 star with luxury amenities, fine dining.
Hyatt Regency Cologne
Location: 15-20 minutes walking distance to the market.
Highlights: Stunning Rhine river views and luxury amenities.
Late Nov - Early Jan
Bryant Park Winter Village: offering a range of winter activities and attractions. You will find a 17,000-square-foot ice skating rink, where visitors can enjoy free admission, rental of skates and free shows and special events on the ice. Surrounding the rink, over 120 holiday shops by Urbanspace Markets feature handmade crafts, jewellery, and gourmet food, perfect for holiday shopping. The Lodge offers a cosy atmosphere with various food and drink options, including a bar and food hall. Visitors can also enjoy live entertainment from local musicians, carollers, and other performers.
Union Square Holiday Market: featuring over 100 stalls selling a wide variety of artisanal goods such as art, jewellery, puzzles, clocks, and candles. In addition to shopping, there are nearly 20 food stalls offering a diverse selection of street food and seasonal treats. The market is full of atmosphere, with beautiful decorations, and the bustling energy of the crowd.
Columbus Circle Holiday Market; with over 100 artisans and designers offering unique goods like specialty foods, handmade jewellery, art, and home items. Visitors can indulge in a variety of delicious food options, from tacos to fancy doughnuts and bratwurst. Located at the southwest corner of Central Park, the market is also just a short walk from the Wollman Rink, making it a perfect stop for holiday shopping and seasonal treats.
Grand Central Holiday Market: an indoor shopping experience located in the beautiful Vanderbilt Hall at Grand Central Terminal. With 36 artisan vendors, the market offers a variety of giftable items, including homemade bath products, knitwear, jewellery, art prints, and homeware. Its convenient location makes it easily accessible for commuters and visitors alike, providing a great spot for holiday shopping in the heart of the city however smaller than the other markets.
Budget Friendly Accommodation in New York
The Marlton Hotel
Location: Close to Union Square.
Highlights: Affordable boutique.
Pod 51 Hotel
·Location: Midtown, central location. Closest to the Bryant Park Winter Village or Grand Central Holiday Market.
Highlights: Pod style rooms.
Hotel 31
Location: In Midtown, close to the Empire State Building.
Highlights: Affordable rate, elegant.
Mid Range Accommodation in New York
The Avalon Hotel
Location: Midtown, close to Bryant Park and the Empire State Building.
Highlights: Comfortable rooms, modern amenities
Hilton New York Times Square
Location: In a central location for Bryant Park Winter Village.
Highlights: Wide range of amenities such as fitness centre and breakfast
The Moxy NYC Times Square
Location: Close to Times Square and Bryant Park Winter Village.
Highlights: Stylish, vibrant hotel
Luxury Accommodation in New York
The Plaza Hotel
Location: Fifth Avenue near Central Park. Closest market is Columbus Circle Holiday Market.
Highlights: Historic charm, opulent rooms
The Pierre
Location: Close to Central Park. Closest market is Columbus Circle Holiday Market.
Highlights: Elegant rooms, fine dining and roof top pool
The Ritz Carlton, New York, Central Park
Location: Close to Central Park. Closest market is Columbus Circle Holiday Market.
Highlights: Spa, fine dining
Zagreb, Croatia
New York City, USA
