The 10 Best Christmas Markets in Europe

Christmas markets are one of the few places where winter actually feels joyful. Strings of lights, mugs of something warm, music floating in the cold air, and stalls full of things you never knew you wanted until you saw them.

Across Europe, these ten markets deliver that cozy holiday feeling in their own totally charming ways.

The Salzburger Christkindlmarkt, Austria

Salzburg’s Christkindlmarkt turns Cathedral and Residenz Square into an Alpine storybook. Handcrafted ornaments, nativity figures, and Austrian treats glow under baroque towers, while choirs fill the air with carols tied to Salzburg’s “Silent Night” legacy.

Warm up with Glühwein by the cathedral steps and sample Mozartkugeln or fresh gingerbread as snow flurries drift through the lights.

Barfüsserplatz Christmas Market, Switzerland

Old Town charm comes to life with Basel’s Barfüsserplatz Christmas Market’s rows of wooden chalets glowing under winter lights. Swiss artisans showcase handmade ornaments and gifts, while the aroma of raclette and Basler Läckerli drifts through the square.

Visitors gather around tall communal fire pits, swapping warmth and conversation as the season settles in.

Old Town Square Christmas Market, Czech Republic

Prague’s Old Town Square Christmas Market is a dream intro to Europe’s festive season. A glittering tree rises beside the Týn Church, wooden stalls brim with Czech crafts, and the scent of trdelník and roasted ham curls through the winter air.

When the lights switch on at dusk, the whole square bursts into cheerful applause.

Stortorget Christmas Market, Sweden

Sweden’s oldest Christmas market transforms Stortorget Square in Stockholm’s Gamla Stan into a lively winter gathering place. Wooden stalls offer glögg and roasted almonds, while artisans sell candles, toys, and classic Swedish ornaments.

The colorful buildings around the square frame the scene with a bright, unmistakably Scandinavian charm.