The end of the year is approaching, and with it comes the time of lights, coziness, St. Nicholas and Christmas markets. Are you still looking for a nice place for a city break in December? In the following cities you can find the best Christmas markets (according to Team Vakantiebeurs). Enjoy your ultimate Christmas experience in one of these places!
1. Vienna, Austria (Nov. 10, 2023 to Jan. 4, 2024)
The Christmas market in Vienna has been a centuries-old tradition, dating back to the Middle Ages. The best Christmas markets in Vienna are the Christmas market in front of Schönbrunn Palace and the Christmas market at Rathausplatz, the Wiener Christkindlmarkt.
2. Düsseldorf, Germany (Nov. 23, 2023 to Dec. 30, 2023)
The Christmas markets in Düsseldorf are wildly popular among Dutch people. You travel here easily by train or car. There are no less than seven Christmas markets, each with a different theme. Handy; all the Christmas markets are within walking distance of each other!
3. London, England (Nov. 17, 2023 to Jan. 1, 2024)
The Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is an absolute must-see for any Christmas market fan! Here you will find besides all the nice market stalls (over 200!) a big Ferris wheel, ice rink, circus and various Christmas shows. Besides this market, London has a number of other Christmas markets. Do I need to say more!
4. Prague, Czech Republic (Nov. 25, 2023 to Jan. 6, 2024)
Prague is a real favorite. The largest Christmas market is the one in Old Town Square. Enjoy live performances and a nice beer. If you go for several days, also check out the Christmas markets at Prague Castle and Republiky Square. Prague is pure romance during December month!
5. Maastricht, Netherlands (Nov. 30, 2023 to Dec. 31, 2023)
Prefer to stay in your own country? No problem! The Christmas market in Maastricht will also surprise you. The theme of the Christmas market says it all, namely; Magical Maastricht. Besides strolling around the Christmas market, you can also enjoy a round of ice skating on the big ice rink on the Vrijthof!
6. Copenhagen, Denmark (Nov. 19, 2023 to Dec. 31, 2023)
Christmas in Copenhagen is a magical scene. The entire city is transformed into a winter wonderland and there are no less than (6!) Christmas markets scattered throughout the city. Did you know that Christmas in Tivolo Gardens has its own Christmas tradition? Traditionally, all of Tivoli is decorated for the Christmas season with 1,000 Christmas trees full of lights as well as 70,000 baubles!
7. Budapest, Hungary (Nov. 17, 2023 to Dec. 31, 2023)
Budapest is immersed in a sea of Christmas lights during the December month. The Christmas market on Vörösmarty Square, in the Pest district, is a very famous Christmas market. Here you can enjoy typical Hungarian pastries, mulled wine ánd you can shop the cutest handmade Christmas gifts. Extra fun, there is often a layer of snow during December!
These 7 Christmas markets promise an amazing experience and introduce you to Europe's diverse Christmas traditions. Book your trip and immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of these magical destinations. Make memories you will cherish forever during the most wonderful time of the year!
