The 15 top Christmas markets across Europe for 2024

If your vision of winter delight includes enjoying gluhwein, exploring countless holiday gift stalls, and immersing yourself in a dazzling display of twinkling lights, make plans to join in the festivities at one of Europe's Christmas markets. These time-honored markets, rooted in history, continue to thrive in various European countries, from France to Estonia.

Indeed, the temperatures can be chilly (and snowy in certain areas). Yet, the aroma of roasted chestnuts, the glow of festive lights, and the overall spirit of joy during the holiday season far outweigh the cold. Many markets kick off in November and extend through December, allowing travelers to find great deals on fall or winter flights, or use off-peak award travel options.

So, wrap up warm and discover our curated list of the finest Christmas markets in Europe, along with advice on transportation and accommodations.

Zurich, Switzerland

Zurich's Wienachtsdorf, running from November 21 to December 23, 2024, stands as one of the city's largest Christmas markets. It's situated at Sechselautenplatz, right in front of the Zurich Opera House and next to Lake Zurich.

This delightful Christmas village features about 120 stalls, primarily operated by local artisans displaying unique jewelry and festive gifts. Visitors can also indulge in a range of culinary delights, from global cuisines to classic Swiss dishes at the Fondue Chalet (reservations are advised).

Stay: Book a room at the Park Hyatt Zurich, located just a 15-minute stroll from the Christmas market. Rates begin at $708 or 35,000 World of Hyatt points per night during November and December.

Arrival: Zurich Airport (ZRH) serves as a major travel hub, offering numerous nonstop flights from the United States. Airlines such as Swiss, United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and American Airlines provide direct service from East Coast cities including New York, Philadelphia, and Boston. From there, it's just a swift 25-minute train ride to the city center.

Copenhagen, Denmark

From November 8 to December 21, 2024, Copenhagen's largest Christmas market, traditionally held at Kongens Nytorv (King's New Square), will be located at Thorvaldsens Plads, only a 10-minute walk away. This square in front of the Thorvaldsens Museum will be transformed into a magical wonderland filled with wooden stalls offering an array of delightful Danish treats, toys, and more. Children can enjoy a photo opportunity with Santa, while adults can relax with a warm glass of spiced wine, or glogg as it’s known here.

Accommodation: The Nobis Hotel Copenhagen offers a peaceful escape just a 10-minute stroll from Thorvaldsens Plads and only a block away from Tivoli Gardens, the historic amusement park that is a must-see during the holiday season. Additionally, this elegant hotel can be booked using Marriott Bonvoy points, with rates starting at $411 or 50,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night during November and December.

Arrival: There are several nonstop flights to Copenhagen Airport (CPH) from the U.S., including routes from New York City, Chicago, Los Angeles, Boston, Miami, San Francisco, and Washington, D.C. Scandinavian Airlines is the primary carrier, but alternatives like Icelandair provide layover options for more affordable fares.

Edinburgh, Scotland

From November 15, 2024, to January 4, 2025, Edinburgh will feature one of the UK's most spectacular and cherished Christmas markets at East Princes Street Gardens, nestled beneath Edinburgh Castle. Imagine over 130 delightful huts, each aglow with festive lights and adorned with decorations, creating a magical ambiance.

These stalls showcase a wide variety of local, handcrafted gifts and an assortment of delicious treats to enjoy. Don't miss the chance to take a thrilling ride on the big wheel for stunning views of the entire festive scene. The festival has something for everyone, including rides for both children and adults, and even a Santa's grotto for an up-close visit with Santa Claus.

Accommodation: For a touch of luxury, consider The Caledonian Edinburgh, Curio Collection by Hilton, located just a 10-minute stroll from the Christmas market, offering splendid views of the castle. Rates begin at $290 or 76,000 Hilton Honors points per night during November and December.

Arrival: Year-round direct flights to Edinburgh Airport (EDI) are available from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) on United Airlines.

Vienna, Austria

Explore over 100 stalls at Vienna's largest Christmas market in Rathausplatz City Hall Square from November 16 to December 26, 2024. Kids will enjoy the ice skating rink, Ferris wheel, and carousel. This year, the market will emphasize sustainability, so look forward to a variety of eco-friendly products and materials.

Accommodation: Located just a 12-minute walk from Rathausplatz, the Park Hyatt Vienna epitomizes Viennese luxury, featuring soaring ceilings, an indoor pool, and suites adorned with chandeliers and marble bathrooms. Rates for November and December start at $558 or 30,000 World of Hyatt points per night, though prices rise significantly around Christmas.

Arrival: Austrian Airlines, the flagship carrier for Vienna Airport (VIE), is a member of the Star Alliance. If you have miles with any partner airline, you should be able to secure a seat at a favorable rate. Austrian Airlines offers direct flights from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD), New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), Boston Logan International Airport (BOS), and Washington, D.C.'s Dulles International Airport (IAD).

Germany

Germany is renowned for its Christmas markets, with a festive market in nearly every city. We couldn't choose just one, so here are some of the best:

Accommodation: The JW Marriott Frankfurt boasts 219 rooms and over 200 exquisite hand-painted artworks by German artist Hartwig Ebersbach. Rates start at just $192 or 52,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night from late November through December.

Arrival: Star Alliance partner Lufthansa offers direct flights to Germany from several U.S. airports, including major hubs like New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Charlotte, and Denver.

For a luxurious travel experience, consider one of the most renowned fifth-freedom routes from the U.S., operated by Singapore Airlines between New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and Frankfurt Airport (FRA) in Germany. Premium business-class awards on this route require 81,000 miles each way through the Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer program. You can transfer points to KrisFlyer from all major transferable points programs, including American Express Membership Rewards, Capital One, Citi ThankYou Rewards, and Chase Ultimate Rewards.

France

You can't go wrong with markets in French cities like Lyon and Lille. However, since Strasbourg is dubbed the Capital of Christmas, it's no surprise that Strasbourg's Christkindelsmarkt, located near the city's cathedral, is one of France's most beloved holiday spots for enjoying mulled wine, sampling seasonal treats like tarte flambée and sugary bredele cookies, and browsing the wooden stalls (November 27 to December 27, 2024). With its towering Christmas tree, millions of twinkling lights, and a festive ice rink, Strasbourg can even warm the heart of the biggest Grinch during the holiday season.

Accommodation: Consider staying at one of the city's newer establishments, the Aloft Strasbourg Etoile. This modern and inviting hotel is just a 15-minute walk from the main Christmas market. Rates begin at $154 or 31,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night while the market is active.

Arrival: Strasbourg is a smaller city without nonstop flights from the U.S. Instead, fly to Strasbourg Airport (SXB) from major hubs such as Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG), Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD), or Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS). Alternatively, you can plan a layover to enjoy Munich Airport's Christmas market (see above) before heading to Strasbourg. Additionally, you can take a train from Frankfurt or Paris to reach this charming French city.

Tallinn, Estonia

Savor traditional Baltic holiday dishes like black pudding and gingerbread, complemented by spiced wine at the Christmas market in Tallinn's medieval Town Hall Square (November 22 to December 27, 2024).

The setting is truly breathtaking. Stalls selling Christmas goods and decorations are nestled among historic buildings, many featuring heart-shaped designs, reflecting the Estonian belief that Christmas is a celebration of love, all centered around a grand tree. Kids can enjoy two different carousels and a festive double-decker bus to explore the town.

Accommodation: The Radisson Collection Hotel, Tallinn is just a 15-minute walk from the town square, offering views from the hotel’s outdoor terrace. Rates begin at $102 or 44,000 Radisson Rewards points per night.

Arrival: While there are no nonstop flights from the U.S. to Tallinn Airport (TLL), connecting flights are readily available through hubs like Warsaw Chopin Airport (WAW), Istanbul Airport (IST), Frankfurt Airport (FRA), and Brussels Airport (BRU). If you fly Finnair from the U.S. to Helsinki Airport (HEL), a ferry to Tallinn takes about hours. From various London airports, low-cost airlines like airBaltic, Ryanair, and Wizz Air offer flights to Tallinn.

Brussels, Belgium

While the markets in Antwerp, Ghent, and Bruges offer a more quaint and cozy atmosphere, Brussels' Winter Wonders Market (November 29, 2024, to January 5, 2025) stands out as the largest and most spectacular in Belgium, featuring over 200 stalls winding through the city center.

Enjoy a spin on the ice rink, take a ride on the Ferris wheel, or meet Santa himself. The market also features an engaging audio-visual Christmas show, providing a unique way to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit.

Accommodation: Budget-conscious travelers can stay right in the heart of the action at the Holiday Inn Express Brussels — Grand-Place, with rates starting at $140 or 29,000 IHG One Rewards points per night this holiday season.

Arrival: Fly to Brussels with Star Alliance partners from hubs like New York and Washington, D.C. Excellent redemption options include United MileagePlus, Avianca LifeMiles, Air Canada Aeroplan, and Singapore KrisFlyer. Consider enhancing your trip to Brussels by visiting other European cities (or Christmas markets) with the Brussels Airlines pit-stop service. This stopover program allows passengers to stay in Belgium for one to five nights at no additional cost.

If you're flying from the U.S. to London, you can catch a flight to Brussels with British Airways or Brussels Airlines. Alternatively, consider taking the Eurostar train, which connects London and Brussels in just over two hours, with fares starting as low as $66 each way this holiday season.

Prague, Czech Republic

Choosing between Prague's Old Town Square Christmas Market and Wenceslas Square Christmas Market (both open from November 30, 2024, to January 6, 2025) can be tough. Luckily, they are only a 10-minute walk apart, making it easy to explore both. Both markets offer delightful treats like medovina honey wine and traditional Czech crafts, including puppets and dolls, but Old Town Square features live animals like sheep and donkeys for children to interact with.

Accommodation: The Andaz Prague, which opened in 2022 in a beautifully restored 1916 building, is just a 10-minute stroll from Old Town Square. Room rates begin at $320 or 21,000 World of Hyatt points per night during November and December.

Arrive: Unfortunately, Delta's nonstop service from New York's JFK to Václav Havel Airport Prague (PRG) isn't available during the winter months. However, many airlines offer flights to Prague from various European hubs, including Heathrow Airport (LHR) in London, Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS), and Frankfurt Airport (FRA).

Zagreb, Croatia

Zagreb's Christmas celebration is truly enchanting, with the entire city illuminated with festive lights, Nativity scenes, and decorations. While there are many Christmas markets to explore, begin your adventure at the Zrinjevac Park Christmas Market (open from November 30, 2024, to January 7, 2025), where you can indulge in hot strukli, a cheese-filled pastry, or medenjaci cookies, all paired with comforting wine as you browse handmade ornaments and toys.

Next, head to Zagreb Cathedral to see its renowned Nativity scene. Cap off your evening with a few spins around the ice rink at King Tomislav Square or a delightful ride on the carousel in Strossmayer Square.

Stay: Just a short stroll from the festive atmosphere, the Westin Zagreb offers a serene and modern retreat for those seeking relaxation without straying far from the holiday excitement. Rates begin at $122 or 16,500 Marriott Bonvoy points per night during the festive season.

Arrive: Traveling to Zagreb Franjo Tudman Airport (ZAG) requires at least one layover, as there are no direct flights from the U.S. to the Croatian capital. Various European airlines will have you stop in cities such as London, Frankfurt, Istanbul, or Munich before reaching Zagreb. Both British Airways and Croatia Airlines operate flights between London and Zagreb.

Basel, Switzerland

Stroll through over 160 snow-dusted wooden stalls at Basel's Christmas Market, which runs from Barfusserplatz to Munsterplatz (November 28 to December 23, 2024). A warm cup of gluhwein pairs perfectly with classic treats like waffles, gingerbread, and melted Swiss raclette.

Stay: The Basel Marriott seamlessly blends Swiss culture with modern amenities. This holiday season, rates start at approximately $167 or 21,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

Arrive: To reach EuroAirport Basel Mulhouse Freiburg (BSL) from the U.S., you'll need to connect through a European city. While located in France, the airport is just a short drive from both Basel and the German border, making it ideal for visiting three countries in one trip. Alternatively, you can fly Swiss to Zurich and then take a quick train ride to Basel, bookable as a single ticket on the Swiss website.

Helsinki, Finland

Experience Helsinki's Christmas Market (running from November 29 to December 22, 2024) set in Senate Square, with the stunning Helsinki Cathedral providing a beautiful backdrop. This market is the oldest and most beloved in the city, featuring numerous stalls filled with handmade gifts and local delicacies. Don't miss the St. Lucia procession on December 13, a cherished tradition honoring a 4th-century martyr. Santa makes daily appearances, and a free merry-go-round adds a delightful nostalgic experience.

Stay: For a luxurious getaway in the center of Helsinki, look no further than The Hotel Maria. This newly opened hotel, part of Preferred Hotels & Resorts' Legend Collection, features 117 rooms and is located just a 10-minute stroll from Senate Square. Rates start at $330 per night during the holiday season.

Arrive: Reaching Helsinki Airport (HEL) is simple, especially with Finnair offering nonstop flights from New York, Los Angeles, and Dallas. For those traveling from other locations, a connection may be necessary, but major airlines provide convenient stopover options.

Malaga, Spain

From November 25, 2024, to January 5, 2025, the Malaga Christmas market on Paseo del Parque will infuse the sunny south of Spain with holiday cheer, featuring roasted chestnuts and traditional sweets like turrón. Be sure to check out the stunning Christmas lights adorning nearby Larios Street. The Three Wise Men parade on January 5 is a delightful spectacle filled with sugary treats and gifts.

Stay: You'll adore the AC Hotel Malaga Palacio, which offers stunning views of the port and is just a short stroll from both the Malaga Cathedral and the Museo Picasso. Rates are quite reasonable, starting at $177 or 25,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night during the holiday season.

Arrive: Traveling to Malaga from the U.S. is straightforward, as Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP) is accessible with a stopover. For instance, TAP Air Portugal offers a layover in Lisbon from New York City. Once you land, you're only about a five-hour drive from Madrid and two hours from Seville, making it a fantastic base for exploring southern Spain.

Stockholm, Sweden

A visit to the Christmas market at the Skansen open-air museum is essential if you're in Stockholm for the holidays. Taking place from November 29 to December 22, 2024, this market has been a cherished tradition since 1903, brimming with festive spirit. Imagine 70 stalls filled with Christmas treats and handcrafted items, plus delicious waffles and mulled wine to keep you warm. You can also engage in traditional Christmas crafts or wander through the enchanting Winter Lights. It's a cozy and delightful experience — the ideal way to embrace the holiday spirit in Stockholm.

Stay: Located just a four-minute stroll from the closest transit station, the Hilton Stockholm Slussen offers excellent convenience for exploring the city. Rates start at $111 or 29,000 Hilton Honors points per night during the market's opening.

Arrive: Traveling from the U.S. to Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN) is a breeze, as Scandinavian Airlines provides direct flights from Newark (EWR) year-round. If you’re flying from other cities, anticipate a layover in a European hub such as Oslo or London.

Oslo, Norway

The Oslo's Winter Wonderland at Spikersuppa square returns from November 9 to December 31, 2024. Located on Karl Johans Gate — the main street of the city — this festive area features all the classics, including delightful stalls selling gifts, an ice-skating rink, and a Ferris wheel. But the real highlight is the food: indulge in coconut cupcakes, caramel apples, glogg, currywurst, and smoked salmon from the Lofoten Islands. Want to try your luck? Give the chocolate wheel a spin!

Stay: Located in the heart of the city, Sommerro is just a 15-minute stroll from the Christmas market. This 231-room hotel is celebrated for its opulent design and inviting atmosphere, featuring a rooftop pool that's open year-round. Rates begin at $272 per night during the holiday season.

Arrive: SAS provides nonstop flights to Oslo Airport (OSL) from Newark (EWR), while Norse Atlantic Airways offers direct service from Miami during winter. For travelers from other U.S. locations, expect to make a stop in a major European city.

Bottom line

Europe's top Christmas markets provide a delightful way to embrace the holiday spirit, showcasing local delicacies, mulled wine, ice skating, and sparkling decorations. If you’re interested in visiting other European cities, many likely host their own Christmas markets. Cities such as Gothenburg, Sweden; Madrid; Budapest; and Krakow, Poland all have their seasonal festivities.