8 Amazing European Christmas Markets for Christmas Magic

Last updated on October 24th, 2022 at 01:18 pm

Having lived in Europe for many years, I can say that Christmas is my favorite time of the year. There is an ethereal magic that exists here that cannot be compared to any other Christmas experience outside of Europe. It’s like walking straight into a postcard picture of yesteryear: the lights, the smells, the booths filled with hand crafted creations, the sweet taste of warm, mulled wine. If you are also a big fan of the Christmas season, then keep reading! In this post, I will share with you some of my personal favorite European destinations for Christmas markets.

An Important Note to Christmas Market Visitors

European Christmas markets are typically open air markets which are free to enter by the public. Even if you aren’t interested in spending any money on trinkets, it is always a lot of fun to walk around and see the various items for sale. If you do decide you might want to buy some things, I recommend having both cash and credit card options. (Having cash is especially important in Germany!)

Also, because winters in Europe tend to be quite drizzly, snowy, and dreary, it is important to be sure to come properly clothed/prepared. I recommend that at a minimum, you pack waterproof shoes, a waterproof coat, and an umbrella in addition to your regular winter garments.

Don’t let the weather deter you. Instead remember this wise Norwegian saying:

“Det finnes ikke dårlig vær, bare dårlig klær!” Which means: “There is no bad weather, only bad clothes!”

Please note that you will often have to pay a deposit if you decide to get a Glühwein (mulled wine). This is to cover the cost of the mug in the case that you choose not to return it. Typically, the deposit (Pfand) is just a few Euros. If you return the mug, you will receive the deposit back, or you can choose to keep the mug as a souvenir. I myself have a small collection of little Christmas mugs from my travels. 😉

Also, be sure to check the restrictions and regulations for entry into each country as well as any activity you wish to participate in before booking any part of your journey. Throughout the post, I have included links to each of the different countries corresponding to the various markets.

1. The Most Magical European Christmas Market: Colmar, France

Pink Colmar House Decorated for Christmas

Colmar is one of the absolute best European cities to visit for Christmas markets. Even outside of Christmas, it is one of the most charming and colorful medieval cities I have ever visited. It’s no wonder it allegedly became the inspiration for Belle’s village in Disney’s cartoon version of Beauty and the Beast.

One of the best things about the village of Colmar is how intricately decorated it is. Every home is decked out from top to bottom with garlands, stuffed animals, stars, tinsel, and every kind of Christmas adornment you can imagine. Even the canal-ways are adorned with decorative arches, Christmas balls, and various other items. Walking into the old town is like stepping straight into Santa’s Christmas village.

Don’t Miss These Things at the Colmar Christmas Market

Altogether, Colmar’s Christmas celebration is composed of 6 separate “Christmas markets”. Each of these has its own specialty. I highly recommend going to all of them, but pay extra special attention to these three:

1. If you are a foodie like me, you will NOT want to miss is the Gourmet Market at Place de la Cathédrale. Yes, there are food options throughout the other locations, but mostly it will be more fair-like food. If you are looking for something truly special to eat, be sure to head to the Place de la Cathédrale.

2. The other market that you won’t want to miss is the Indoor Craft Market. Here, you will find local handicraft works and last year, we got to admire some of them most intricately decorated gingerbread houses I have ever seen in my life! (see pictures below)

3. If you have kids, you won’t want to miss the Christmas Market Place des Six Montagnes Noires. Here, you will discover a mechanical Nativity scene, a gigantic Santa’s Letter Box where you can drop off your letter for Santa, and all kinds of booths selling items that will delight children.

For Further Information

For your reference, this is the link for the official Colmar Christmas Market website. Here, you can find necessary information about the opening dates/hours, locations of the markets around the city, and more. Additionally, you can check out their event calendar here.

You can also check for the most up to date rules and regulations concerning entry into France on their official website.

Parking for the Colmar Christmas Market

The Lacarre parking garage in Colmar is the absolute best. I mean, who doesn’t love free parking (especially in Europe)?! Be aware that there are two entrances and one is not free. Look for the “Gratis” sign to guarantee you won’t have to pay. Additionally, it has a bathroom that you can use free of charge (but you have to get the key from the garage attendant).

2. Bernkastel-Kues, Germany

Bernkastel-Kues is an adorable village along the Moselle River in Germany. This, in addition to its exquisite red and white medieval architecture, is what makes it one of the most beautiful European Christmas markets. Be sure to grab yourself a cup of Glühwein (mulled wine) to help keep your hands warm as you wander through the narrow streets. You are sure to be delighted by the variety of local items for sale.

Don’t Miss This at the Bernkastel-Kues Christmas Market

One of the best traditions at Berkastel-Kues Christmas Market, is the tradition of transforming the windows of the Adler Apotheke into a giant Advent Calendar. Every evening, a worker turns the corresponding board around to reveal a picture. This is generally accompanied by a small Christmas artistic performance.

Be sure to also locate the beautifully carved, wooden nativity scene! (picture above and on the right)

For Further Information

For your reference, this is the link for the Bernkastel-Kues Christmas Market website. Here, you can find necessary information about the opening dates/hours, locations of the markets around the city, and more. Additionally, you can check out their event calendar here.

You can also check for the most up to date rules and regulations concerning entry into Germany on their official website.

Parking for the Bernkastel-Kues Christmas Market

Parking for the Bernkastel-Kues Christmas Market can be a little bit tricky. First of all, it’s important to note that you will not be able to drive in the Medieval center of the village (where the market is located). There are parking lots along the river where you can park, but just go in knowing that it will be more limited. For your convenience, they have a helpful map on from the market’s website which shows where the parking options are.

3. Heidelberg, Germany

Overlook of Heidelberg Altstadt From Heidelberg Castle

Heidelberg is considered to be one of the most romantic cities in Germany. The city is idyllically set along the Neckar River and features beautiful pink sandstone buildings and a Renaissance style castle (which I highly encourage you to visit!). Nothing highlights these beautiful qualities quite like a Christmas Market can. Like most European Christmas markets, the stalls can be found in the squares and plazas throughout the city. This offers the perfect opportunity to explore the Altstadt (Old Town) and admire its unique architecture.

Don’t Miss These Things at the Heidelberg Christmas Market

Heidelberg is where you will find my favorite Glühwein (mulled wine) out of all the European Christmas markets I’ve been to. For me, it is very smooth, not too sweet, and has the perfect balance of spices. If you like it as much as I do, you can even buy a bottle (or two or three) to take home with you. 😉

Another one of the highlights (especially for the younger crowd), is the ice skating rink that is set up in the Karlsplatz each year. You can learn more about it by clicking here.

For Further Information

For your reference, this is the link for the Heidelberg Christmas Market website. Here, you can find necessary information about the opening dates/hours, locations of the markets around the city, and their event calendar.

You can also check for the most up to date rules and regulations concerning entry into Germany on their official website.

Parking for the Heidelberg Christmas Market

I have been to Heidelberg on a number of occasions and my favorite way to get there is with the train. However, if you are hoping to drive, this is the parking garage where I park. I prefer it because it’s very convenient for both the castle and the Altstadt. However, there are many alternative places to park as well.

4. Nürnberg (Nuremberg), Germany

Nürnberg has long been considered one of the oldest and best Christmas Markets in Germany. Being that it’s one of the first markets I ever went to in Europe, it will always hold a special place in my heart. I still remember walking through the Altstadt (Old Town), snowflakes gently floating to earth, the smells of chestnuts and spiced nuts roasting. I remember my awe the first time I saw a giant, spinning pyramid (a German Christmas tradition), and I will never forget my first taste of traditional, white Bavarian sausages. Everything about it was pure magic.

Don’t Miss This at the Nürnberg Christmas Market

Here, you will find Lebkuchen, one of my favorite Christmas treats to eat. Lebkuchen is a traditional baked good from the Bavarian region (Nürnberg is located in Bavaria). While this delicious, spiced cookie can trace its roots back to ancient Egyptian honey cakes, the current version was developed by Franconian monks in the 13th century.

You will find many stalls selling these cakes throughout the market. Oftentimes, they will have samples you can try or you can buy just one at a time. My recommendation is to try a few different ones because there can be a bit of variety between them! Once you’ve found your favorite, be sure to buy a pack or two to take home with you.

For Further Information

For your reference, this is the link for the official Nürnberg Christmas Market website. Here, you can find necessary information about the opening dates/hours, locations of the markets around the city, and more. Additionally, you can check out their event calendar here (although it is unfortunate that the website says it is only available in German).

You can also check for the most up to date rules and regulations concerning entry into Germany on their official website.

Parking for the Nürnberg Christmas Market

Nürnberg is a large city and there are many parking garages located throughout it. You can find a list of carparks on the Christmas Market website.

5. Sankt Wendel, Germany

For being such a small town, Sankt Wendel’s 2-week long Christmas market packs a good punch. Compared to some of the bigger-city markets, this one has a much more rustic vibe to it. Throughout, you will discover a large variety of offerings for adults and children alike. This includes opportunities to learn more about trades such as felting, spinning, weaving, black smithing. And there are even options to throw javelin or show off your archery skills.

Don’t Miss This at the Sankt Wendeler Christmas Market

Each year, the three wise men and their camels make a special appearance at the Sankt Wendeler Christmasmarkt. (See photo above and on the right hand side) There are usually a number of other animals as well that are sure to delight children.

Another exciting part of this market is the Medieval Festival which happens at the same time. This includes a parade with various animals, people in costumes, people on stilts, jugglers, acrobatics, and more. (See photo above and in the middle)

For Further Information

For your reference, this is the link for the official Sankt Wendel Christmas Market website. Here, you can find necessary information about the opening dates/hours, locations of the markets around the city, and more. Additionally, you can check out their event calendar here.

You can also check for the most up to date rules and regulations concerning entry into Germany on their official website.

Parking for the Sankt Wendel Christmas Market

Personally, I took the train to Sankt Wendel. But, there are multiple options for parking near the old town where the market is held (look near Schlossplatz St. Wendel and Basilica of St. Wendel).

6. Köln (Cologne), Germany

I was amazed at how much I loved this Christmas market. It is one of the largest European Christmas markets. So, my biggest concern was that it was going to be over commercialized and that the rave reviews I had heard/read would turn out to be overhype. But, I was pleasantly surprised with the amount of diversity, local crafts, and classiness I encountered.

Don’t Miss These Things at the Köln Christmas Market

Like many European Christmas markets, it’s a series of multiple Christmas spread out around Köln. Here are a couple of highlights:

The market located at the Kölner Dom (Cologne Basilica) was my personal favorite. Here, we got to explore all kinds of handmade trinkets and foods from around the world. I especially loved the special, handmade pasta from Italy!

In my opinion, the Markt der Engel (Angel Market) has some of the most beautiful Glühwein (mulled wine) mugs out of any of the European Christmas markets.

Also, be sure to check out the market next to the Köln Chocolate Factory! Don’t forget to also take a tour of the museum and have the opportunity to sample the many different chocolates. It is one of our favorite things to do in the city! 😉

For Further Information

For your reference, this is the link for the Köln Christmas Market website. Here, you can find necessary information about the opening dates/hours, locations of the markets around the city, and more. Additionally, you can check out their event calendar and links to the different markets throughout the city here.

You can also check for the most up to date rules and regulations concerning entry into Germany on their official website.

Parking for the Köln Christmas Market

Köln is a large city and there are multiple parking garages throughout the city. No matter where you park, you will either have to take public transport or be committed to walking quite a ways to get to all the sections of the market.

7. Budapest, Hungary

Man Making Chimney Cakes over Open Charcoal Fire at Budapest Christmas Market

Christmas Tree at Christmas Market in Budapest

Budapest is the lively and historical capital of Hungary. It is also a great spot for celebrating the holiday season. With its bath houses, ruin bars, and exciting food scene, this is a fun place for a party.

If you’re interested in learning more about things to do in Budapest, see these two posts:

7 Cool Things to Do on Your Holiday in Budapest
Discover Delicious Food in Budapest, Hungary

Don’t Miss These Things at the Budapest Christmas Market

One thing you absolutely don’t want to miss is the Kürtőskalács (see photo above and on the left hand side). The famed “Chimney Cake” is an absolute must during your visit. As you can see in the photo below, bread is wrapped around a cylinder and baked over a charcoal fire. Once it is finished baking, it is coated in sugar and the toppings of your choice.

For Further Information

For your reference, this is the link for the official Budapest Christmas Market website. Here, you can find necessary information about the opening dates/hours, locations of the markets around the city, the event calendar, and more.

You can also check for the most up to date rules and regulations concerning entry into Hungary on their official website.

Parking for the Budapest Christmas Market

I’ll be honest, we did not have a car in Budapest, so we got around by using public transportation and by foot. That said, there are plenty of options around the city and you can check them out here.

8. Luxembourg, Luxembourg

Luxembourg Christmas Market with Ferris Wheel and Pyramid

Luxembourg is a small country that, unfortunately, many non-Europeans have never even heard of. But, that doesn’t mean that it is lacking in any way, shape, or form. In fact, the capital (of the same name) boasts an incredible European Christmas market full of lights, food, and fun for the whole family. If you have never considered adding Luxembourg to your bucket list, this is the perfect moment to do so. While you’re there, be sure to also check out the fortress and old city center which are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site!

Don’t Miss These Things at the Luxembourg Christmas Market

Parc Kinnekswiss was my favorite section of the Luxembourg Christmas market. Here, you will find an outdoor ice skating rink as well as a beautiful spot for enjoying a delicious meal and drinks.

If you’re looking for an extra boost of excitement, you will want to make your way to the Place de la Constitution. There, you will find a wide selection of international street foods and various fair rides such as a spinning Christmas tree ride and a ferris wheel!

For Further Information

For your reference, here is the website for the Luxembourg Christmas Market. Here, you can find necessary information about the opening dates/hours, locations of the markets around the city, and more.

You can also check for the most up to date rules and regulations concerning entry into Luxembourg on their official website.

Parking for the Luxembourg Christmas Market

If you happen to be visiting the Luxembourg Christmas Market on a weekend or public holiday, Parking Glacis Luxembourg is the best place to park because it is free!! Again, who doesn’t love free?

If you are visiting on a normal weekday, this is still a good place to par, but just know you that will have to pay. Alternatively, you can check out the other options around the city.

In Conclusion

I hope that this post has given you some great insights into some of the most festive European Christmas markets. If you have a personal favorite market, I would love to hear about it in the comments below!

Happy Travels,
<3 Christine