Merry markets: The best Christmas markets from around the world

Explore the world’s most magical Christmas markets around the world

Christmas markets around the world are currently springing to life, sparkling with festive lights, seasonal treats, and handcrafted gifts. From joyful traditions to magical holiday experiences, these markets bring the spirit of the season to life, offering unforgettable moments for families, friends, and travellers alike.

Here are some of best Christmas markets from around the world

Christkindlmarkt – Vienna, Austria

Vienna’s Christkindlmarkt is often hailed as the world’s best Christmas market thanks to its unbeatable mix of tradition, atmosphere, and festive flair. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Rathaus, the market transforms the city into a glowing winter fairytale filled with twinkling lights, cosy wooden stalls, and the smell of roasted chestnuts in the air. Visitors can browse beautifully crafted gifts, sip warm punch, and enjoy classic Austrian treats as choirs and street performers add to the charm. With its postcard-perfect setting and truly magical vibe, Christkindlmarkt captures the spirit of Christmas like nowhere else.

@thechristkindlmarket

Christkindelsmärik – Strasbourg, France

Strasbourg’s Christkindelsmärik is often called the Capital of Christmas and it’s easy to see why. The city’s charming half-timbered houses and cobblestone streets provide a storybook backdrop for the festive market. Visitors can explore dozens of stalls selling handcrafted gifts, decorations, and seasonal treats. A towering Christmas tree in the main square adds to the magical atmosphere, while carol singers and festive lights bring the holiday spirit to life. With its rich history and enchanting vibe, Strasbourg’s market is a must-visit for anyone looking for a truly unforgettable Christmas experience.

christmas.alsace

*What’s On Festive Guide*

Bryant Park – New York City, New York

New York City’s Bryant Park Winter Village is a festive wonderland that perfectly captures the magic of the holiday season. The market features over 170 beautifully designed stalls, offering everything from unique gifts to seasonal treats, while a bustling ice rink in the centre adds classic winter charm. Twinkling lights, cosy bars, and the “Overlook” lounge create a picture-perfect setting for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re sipping warm mulled wine, skating under the city lights, or hunting for handcrafted treasures, Bryant Park delivers a quintessential New York Christmas experience. Its combination of lively atmosphere and festive elegance makes it a must-visit stop on any holiday market tour.

@bryantparknyc

Old Town Square Christmas Market – Prague, Czech Republic

Prague’s Old Town Square Christmas Market is a truly enchanting holiday destination, set against the city’s stunning Gothic and Baroque architecture. The market is famous for its towering Christmas tree, glowing lights, and traditional wooden stalls filled with handcrafted gifts, ornaments, and delicious Czech treats like trdelník and mulled wine. Carols, live performances, and the scent of roasted chestnuts fill the air, creating a warm and festive atmosphere. Visitors can wander through the historic square, soaking in the romantic, old-world charm that makes Prague so unique at Christmas. With its magical setting and timeless holiday vibe, this market is a must-visit for anyone seeking a classic European Christmas experience.

@cityofprague

Frankfurt Christmas Market – Frankfurt, Germany

The Frankfurt Christmas Market is one of Germany’s oldest and most popular festive events, with a history spanning over 600 years. Set against the charming backdrop of Römerberg and St Paul’s Square, the market is famous for its historic half-timbered buildings and bustling holiday atmosphere. Visitors can explore hundreds of stalls offering traditional crafts, seasonal decorations, and delicious treats like bratwurst, gingerbread, and mulled wine. A towering Christmas tree stands at the heart of the market, beautifully adorned with sparkling lights, while carol singers and live performances add to the festive cheer. Whether you’re shopping for gifts, sampling local delicacies, or simply soaking up the magical ambiance, the Frankfurt Christmas Market offers a quintessential German holiday experience.

@visitfrankfurt

Christkindlesmarkt – Nuremberg, Germany

The Christkindlesmarkt in Nuremberg is an iconic Christmas market, attracting millions of visitors each year with its festive charm and centuries-old tradition. Set in the city’s historic Hauptmarkt, the market features hundreds of wooden stalls brimming with handmade ornaments, gingerbread, and seasonal treats, while the iconic Christkind – Nuremberg’s angelic Christmas messenger – opens the festivities with a traditional prologue. The enchanting atmosphere is heightened by twinkling lights, festive music, and the scent of mulled wine and roasted almonds drifting through the air. Visitors can also explore the nearby medieval streets, making it easy to combine holiday shopping with sightseeing. Whether you’re hunting for unique gifts, sampling local delicacies, or simply soaking up the holiday spirit, the Christkindlesmarkt offers a magical, quintessentially German Christmas experience.

@christkindlesmarkt.nuernberg

Grote Markt – Bruges, Belgium

The Bruges Christmas Market at Grote Markt is a charming winter wonderland set against the city’s medieval guild houses and the iconic Belfry tower. As part of the Winter Glow festival, the market features wooden chalet-style stalls offering Belgian chocolates, waffles, mulled wine, and handcrafted festive gifts. A sparkling ice skating rink adds fun for families and friends, while twinkling lights and festive decorations create a magical atmosphere. Running from late November to early January, the market is perfect for leisurely strolls and capturing memorable holiday photos. Whether you’re shopping for unique gifts or simply soaking up the fairy-tale ambiance, Bruges’ Grote Markt offers a quintessentially Belgian Christmas experience.

@brussels.travel

Barfüsserplatz and Münsterplatz – Basel, Switzerland

Basel’s Christmas market on Barfüsserplatz and Münsterplatz is considered one of the most captivating and largest markets in Switzerland. While you’re enjoying an evening stroll through the stands, don’t miss your chance to take a short walk to the Pfalz, where you can enjoy your Christmas delights, including Basel Läckerli, a speciality gingerbread, traditional Swiss raclette or delicious grilled sausages. Tuck into some delicious cuisine against a stunning backdrop of the Rhine River and the glowing lights of the city.

Vörösmarty Square – Budapest, Hungary

Budapest’s Vörösmarty Square transforms into a festive wonderland every holiday season, hosting one of the city’s most popular Christmas markets. Wooden chalets line the square, offering traditional Hungarian crafts, decorations, and seasonal treats like chimney cake, sausages, and mulled wine. A large, beautifully decorated Christmas tree and twinkling lights set the scene, while live music and stage performances add to the vibrant atmosphere. Families can enjoy a children’s train and other kid-friendly activities, making it a perfect outing for all ages. With its combination of historic surroundings, local flavours, and festive cheer, Vörösmarty Square provides a quintessentially Hungarian Christmas experience.

@vorosmartyxmas

Images: Getty Images and Instagram