Europe’s best Christmas markets in 2023
As the festive season approaches, Europe transforms into a winter wonderland adorned with twinkling lights, festive decorations and the enticing aroma of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts. European Christmas markets are renowned for their charm, offering a unique blend of tradition, culture and holiday spirit. In this guide, we'll take you on a journey through some of the best Christmas markets to visit in 2023.
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Copenhagen, Denmark
Set against the backdrop of the city's picturesque streets and historic landmarks, Copenhagen’s Christmas markets are a true Nordic delight. The Tivoli Gardens Christmas Market, with its strings of lights and charming stalls, offers a whimsical experience, complete with thrilling rides and seasonal treats. Stroll through the Christmas Village at Nyhavn, where wooden huts overflow with Danish handicrafts and mulled wine warms the soul. Don't forget to explore the Christmas market in the heart of the old town at Højbro Plads, where the scent of roasted almonds mingles with the sounds of carolers. Copenhagen's Christmas markets are the perfect way to immerse yourself in Danish holiday traditions and create lasting memories in 2023.
Strasbourg, France
Known as the ‘Capital of Christmas’, Strasbourg boasts one of the oldest and most iconic Christmas markets in Europe. The city's historic centre, with its timber-framed houses and stunning cathedral, is beautifully illuminated during the holiday season. Explore the market's countless stalls offering handmade crafts, traditional Alsatian treats and exquisite ornaments. Don't miss the Grande Île and its breathtaking Christmas tree!
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Vienna, Austria
Vienna's Christmas markets offer a mix of elegance and tradition. The city is strung with sparkling lights and festive decorations, creating a magical atmosphere in Austria’s capital. Visit the market in front of City Hall for ice skating, explore the romantic stalls at the Belvedere Palace and savour Austrian delicacies like Sachertorte and Wiener Schnitzel. Vienna's unique charm shines brightly during the holiday season.
Cologne, Germany
Cologne boasts several Christmas markets scattered throughout the city, but the one in front of the Cologne Cathedral is a must-visit. Admire the stunning backdrop of the cathedral as you shop for handcrafted gifts, ornaments and local delicacies. Warm up with a mug of Kölsch (local beer) or mulled wine and enjoy the festive ambience.
Tallinn, Estonia
Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, offers a medieval Christmas market in its picturesque Old Town. The cobblestone streets and historic buildings provide a timeless backdrop to this charming market. Taste Estonian holiday dishes, shop for handicrafts, and enjoy medieval-themed entertainment. The Christmas tree in Town Hall Square is a sight to behold.
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Budapest, Hungary
Budapest's Christmas markets are a delightful blend of Hungarian tradition and holiday spirit. Vörösmarty Square hosts the main market, where you can savour chimney cake, mulled wine and local crafts. The scent of traditional Hungarian dishes fills the air as you browse the unique gifts and decorations. Be sure to soak in the festive atmosphere while taking a dip in one of the city’s many thermal baths!
Prague, Czech Republic
Prague's Christmas markets add an extra layer of magic to this already fairy-tale city. The Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square come alive with festive decorations, wooden stalls and a giant Christmas tree, and the markets are the perfect places to indulge in Trdelník (a sweet pastry), browse for Czech glass ornaments and enjoy the music and nativity scenes that add to the holiday spirit.
Rovaniemi, Finland
For a truly unique Christmas experience, head to Rovaniemi in Lapland, where you can visit Santa Claus himself. This Arctic Circle village is home to Santa's official post office, where you can send holiday greetings before exploring the Christmas Village, going husky-sledding and taking a reindeer sleigh ride in the winter wonderland of the North.
European Christmas markets are a treasure trove of holiday traditions, delicious treats and festive cheer. Whether you're wandering through medieval streets or enjoying some European elegance, these markets offer a chance to immerse yourself in the magic of the season. Plan your 2023 holiday adventure to one (or more) of these enchanting destinations, and make this year's Christmas that little bit more festive.
