Where to Spend Christmas in Europe 2025: Magical Christmas Markets You Can't Miss!

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Christmas in Europe is a magical experience—twinkling lights, snowy streets, historic old towns, and world-famous Christmas markets that fill the air with music, cinnamon, and mulled wine. Whether you're dreaming of traditional German markets or romantic French villages, Europe offers endless ways to celebrate the holiday season.

If you’re planning your winter trip, here are the best places to spend Christmas in Europe in 2025 and what makes each destination unforgettable.

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1. Nuremberg, Germany – Christkindlesmarkt

The Christkindlesmarkt in Nuremberg, Germany, is one of the country’s most famous and beloved Christmas markets, running from November 28 to December 24. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., with a shorter schedule on Christmas Eve (10:00-14:00), the market is a vibrant showcase of traditional wooden stalls decked in red and white.

As you wander through the market, you’ll discover an array of handmade ornaments, intricate wooden toys, and one-of-a-kind gifts. For a truly magical experience, take in a bird’s-eye view of the festive scene from the Church of Our Lady or enjoy a nostalgic ride through the beautifully decorated streets in a horse-drawn carriage.

2. Strasbourg, France – The Capital of Christmas

The Christkindelsmärik in Strasbourg, France, runs from November 26 to December 24 and is a true Christmas wonderland. With over 300 wooden chalets scattered across iconic locations like Place Broglie, Place Kléber, and near the Strasbourg Cathedral, the market offers an unforgettable festive experience.

At its heart stands the impressive Great Christmas Tree, towering 98 feet (30 meters) in Place Kléber. Whether you're shopping for nutcracker figurines or simply enjoying the atmosphere, Strasbourg’s market is perfect for those seeking a magical holiday setting.

3. Vienna, Austria – Rathausplatz Christmas Market

The Rathausplatz Christmas Market in Vienna, Austria, runs from November 14 to December 26 and is free to enter. This enchanting market dazzles with festive lights and decorations, set against the backdrop of the stunning Neo-Gothic Rathaus.

The highlight is the towering Christmas tree, a gift each year from a different Austrian province. Nearby, the Tree of Hearts stands out, with around 200 glowing heart-shaped lights adorning its branches, symbolizing love and unity. The market offers 99 stalls, ice skating, and plenty of activities, making it an ideal destination for families and holiday enthusiasts alike.

4. Prague, Czech Republic – Old Town Square Market

The Old Town Square Christmas Market in Prague, Czech Republic, runs from November 29 to January 6, offering a truly magical holiday experience. The highlight of the market is a 78-foot-tall Christmas tree, which dazzles visitors with hourly light displays synchronized to the iconic Vltava by Bedřich Smetana, from 4:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. each day.

Along with the beautiful tree, the market features traditional Czech treats like trdelník (chimney cake), klobása (grilled sausages), cheesy langoš (flatbread), and roasted meats, all best enjoyed with a warm cup of mulled wine or a refreshing Czech beer. The market also offers a charming Gingerbread village and live entertainment, making it a festive destination for all ages.

5. Edinburgh, Scotland – Christmas Festival & Hogmanay

The East Princes Street Gardens Christmas Market in Edinburgh, Scotland, runs from November 15 to January 4 and offers free entry, with ticketed attractions such as the George Street ice rink, Santa’s Stories, and the Christmas Tree Maze.

With around 80 beautifully decorated stalls, the market is filled with handcrafted gifts, Scottish specialties, and festive decorations, making it a great place to pick up unique holiday souvenirs. Families will find plenty of kid-friendly activities, while live music and performances by local artists add to the lively seasonal atmosphere.

Edinburgh also blends its Christmas celebrations with one of the world’s biggest New Year festivals—Hogmanay. Travelers who stay through the end of December are rewarded with the city’s iconic fireworks, making it the perfect destination for those wanting to experience both the charm of Christmas and the excitement of spectacular New Year festivities in a single trip.

6. Tallinn, Estonia – Medieval Christmas Wonderland

The Town Hall Square Christmas Market in Tallinn, Estonia, runs from November 21 to December 28, offering a festive experience in the heart of the city’s medieval Old Town. A highlight of the market is the towering Christmas tree, a tradition that has been celebrated for over 580 years, making it one of the oldest Christmas tree displays in Europe.

The market is full of local treats, such as sausages, sauerkraut, gingerbread, and glögi (mulled wine), while regular performances by choirs, dance troupes, and musicians keep the festive spirit alive. For children, Santa’s House is a special attraction where they can meet Santa Claus himself.

7. Zagreb, Croatia – Europe’s Award-Winning Advent Festival

Advent in Zagreb, also known as the Zagreb Christmas Market, runs from November 29 to January 7 and turns the Croatian capital into a festive paradise. The market’s centerpiece is a towering Christmas tree at Ban Jelačić Square, setting the perfect festive tone.

For those seeking adventure, the Ice Park at King Tomislav Square, celebrating its 10th anniversary, offers a fun skating experience. Visitors can enjoy classical concerts at St. Mark’s Church or lively DJ performances at Ban Jelačić Square. Kids will love the Merry Christmas Tram, driven by Santa himself, and the new Festival of Lights, debuting in 2024, will light up the city with stunning creative displays. While most events are free, attractions like the Ice Park (€7) and Merry Christmas Tram (€3) require tickets.

Tips for Spending Christmas in Europe in 2025

Most Christmas markets are open from late November through December 24, with some extending into early January. While exploring Europe's top Christmas markets is a truly magical experience, a few practical tips can help enhance your trip even more.

• Book Early: Since Christmas is a peak travel season, flights and accommodations fill up quickly, particularly in high-demand cities like Vienna and Strasbourg. Secure your bookings well in advance to avoid last-minute hassle.
• Visit at the Right Time: To avoid crowds, try to visit Christmas markets on weekdays or in the morning. Early evenings offer a beautiful view of the twinkling lights, but weekends can be packed, especially at popular spots like Nuremberg or Strasbourg.
• Prepare for Cold Weather: With temperatures ranging from –5°C to 10°C, layering is key. Make sure to pack insulated shoes, gloves, a waterproof jacket, and other warm essentials to stay cozy while exploring outdoor markets. For more tips, you can check this packing guide.
• Pack Smart Essentials: Bring a reusable shopping bag for your purchases and a portable charger to keep your devices powered up while you’re out and about. A phone charger is especially useful for navigating the city, sharing photos, or booking tickets on the go. While credit cards are commonly accepted, some traditional market vendors prefer cash for smaller purchases. Bring both cash and cards to ensure you don’t miss out on festive goodies and unique gifts.
• Stay Connected with an eSIM: Staying connected is essential for navigation, translating languages, booking tickets, and sharing your Christmas memories. A eSIM for Europe provides seamless data across Europe without the hassle of swapping SIM cards or paying for expensive roaming.

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FAQs about the Best Christmas markets in Europe

How much do people typically spend at Christmas?

The amount spent at Christmas can vary greatly depending on individual and household circumstances. However, a common guideline is to spend about 1-2% of your annual income on gifts, decorations, food, and travel. This budget may include:

• Gift-giving (presents for family, friends, and colleagues)
• Travel costs (airfare, transportation)
• Food and decorations (holiday meals, tree, lights, etc.)

How many days until Christmas 2025?

Christmas Day 2025 falls on a Thursday, December 25th. If you're planning your holiday activities, it’s never too early to start preparing! Check your Christmas Countdown 2025 here!

Is Christmas Eve a busy travel day?

Yes, Christmas Eve is one of the busiest travel days of the year. The days leading up to Christmas, particularly December 22nd, the weekend before Christmas, and the last Friday before Christmas, see a high volume of travelers. The week between Christmas and New Year’s also experiences heavy travel, with many people heading home after visiting family or taking vacations. If you’re planning to travel around Christmas, it’s best to book early and be prepared for busy airports and highways.

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