The top Christmas markets to visit worldwide in 2024

Few things capture the Christmas spirit like a traditional holiday market.

Though the origins of these markets can be traced back to Vienna – with the first recorded December market in 1298 – the festive tradition has since spread around the globe.

From Germany and Switzerland to Singapore and New York, it’s hard to find a popular destination that doesn’t host a spectacular Christmas market. Some markets have even become major tourist attractions in their own right.

Here’s a roundup of some of the most iconic Christmas markets around the world this year, curated by Dinogo Travel:

Wiener Christkindlmarkt, Austria

With reindeer sleigh rides, a towering Ferris wheel, and a classic Nativity scene, Vienna’s Wiener Christkindlmarkt is a vibrant celebration of Christmas magic.

Although Vienna boasts around 20 different Christmas markets, the Wiener Christkindlmarkt (or Rathausplatz) stands out as one of the city’s oldest and most beloved holiday traditions.

The market, also known as the Viennese Dream Christmas Market, features a 110-square-meter ice skating rink for children and is set in front of the grand City Hall. Visitors love the iconic Tree of Hearts, a massive maple adorned with sparkling hearts, making it a perfect spot for photos.

Countless stalls offer festive treats like savory Austrian sausages, gingerbread cookies, and warm homemade Christmas punch to delight your senses.

The Wiener Christkindlmarkt runs from November 16 through December 26.

Basel Christmas Market, Switzerland

Switzerland is undoubtedly one of the best places in the world to experience Christmas magic at its finest.

During the holiday season, festive markets take over many Swiss towns, creating an enchanting atmosphere. However, the Basel Christmas Market stands out as the largest and arguably the best of them all.

Divided between Barfüsserplatz and Münsterplatz, the market features around 150 beautifully decorated stalls offering a variety of Christmas spices, ornaments, and candles.

Family-friendly highlights include the Christmas fairytale forest at Münsterplatz, where visitors can enjoy decorating gingerbread, crafting candles, attending a star workshop, and riding a festive train.

Visitors can also climb to the top of St. Martin’s tower for stunning views of the festive lights illuminating the old town, or relax with mulled wine by the 13-meter-tall Christmas pyramid at Barfüsserplatz.

The Basel Christmas Market will kick off on November 28 and is set to run until December 23, offering a holiday experience like no other.

Strasbourg Christmas Market, France

As one of Europe’s oldest holiday markets, Strasbourg has been celebrating Christmas since 1570, and has undergone remarkable transformations over the years.

Spanning more than 10 locations, this beloved market bathes the city in the glow of thousands of sparkling Christmas lights and festive decorations.

Attracting over 2 million visitors annually, the market boasts hundreds of wooden chalet-style stalls offering a wide range of items, from ornaments and gifts to local Alsatian wine.

The heart of the market is Place Kleber, where the magnificent Great Christmas Tree stands. However, visitors are sure to discover numerous enchanting sights as they explore the charming narrow alleys and picturesque squares throughout the city.

The Strasbourg Christmas Market runs from November 27 through December 27.

Brussels Winter Wonders, Belgium

At Christmas, Brussels transforms into a vibrant wonderland thanks to Winter Wonders, an event that captures the city's festive spirit in full force.

One of the largest and most beloved events in Belgium, this grand celebration spans across several iconic locations including the Bourse, Place de la Monnaie, Grand Place, Place Sainte Catherine, and Marche aux Poissons.

The festivities feature a spectacular light and sound show, ice skating, thrilling fairground rides, and over 200 charming chalets offering mulled wine, Belgian beers, waffles, and a view of the stunning Christmas tree towering in Grand Place.

Brussels Winter Wonders will take place from November 29 to January 5.

Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square Christmas Markets, Prague, Czech Republic

Prague truly embraces the Christmas season, transforming into a picture-perfect winter wonderland that captivates all who visit during the holidays.

Though the city boasts numerous markets, the main attractions are located in Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square. Fortunately, these two locations are just a short walk from one another, allowing visitors to easily explore both in a single day.

Old Town Square offers an abundance of live entertainment, including performances and creative workshops, while Wenceslas Square is the perfect spot for picking up handcrafted gifts and indulging in local delicacies like klobasa (Czech sausage) and mulled wine.

The markets will be open from November 30 to January 6.

Fira de Santa Llucia, Barcelona

What began in 1786 as a one-day event honoring the feast day of Saint Lucia on December 13 has grown into a three-week-long fair.

The market, situated right outside the iconic Barcelona Cathedral, is divided into four distinct sections.

The first section, Nativity and Figurines, offers a wide selection of Nativity decorations and figurines. The Greenery and Plants area is filled with both natural and artificial trees, along with a variety of plants.

The Crafts section is home to handmade goods and unique jewelry, while the Simbombes area focuses on musical instruments.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of festive activities, including storytelling, a Christmas parade, and the famous Caga Tió – a giant piñata-style Christmas log that dispenses sweets and gifts when struck with a stick.

Fira de Santa Llucia will run from November 29 to December 23.

I Mercati Natale, Piazza Santa Croce, Florence

This charming market has plenty to offer, but nothing compares to the stunning backdrop of the Santa Croce Franciscan Basilica.

While this classic fair, also known as Weihnachtsmarkt, is inspired by German street markets, it carries a distinctly Italian flair, with breathtaking scenery and a variety of local Italian specialties like panforte.

That said, you’ll still find an abundance of gingerbread, strudel, and traditional Heidelberg Lebkuchen cookies to enjoy.

A short stroll to the nearby Piazza del Duomo will reward you with a beautiful nativity display and a grand Christmas tree, illuminated in celebration of the Feast of the Immaculate Conception on December 8.

I Mercati Natale kicks off on November 23 and runs through December 22.

Advent in Zagreb, Croatia

Zagreb's Christmas market experience is so enchanting, it’s no wonder the city was named the 'best Christmas market destination' by European Best Destinations for three years in a row.

Spanning about 25 different markets throughout the city, Advent in Zagreb transforms the Croatian capital into a winter wonderland.

Expect to encounter live Nativity scenes, intricate ice sculptures, outdoor concerts, pop-up bars, and a festive Christmas tram complete with Santa and his merry elves.

A unique section of Advent in Zagreb is dedicated to “fuliranje” (fooling around), where visitors can enjoy street dancing, delicious food, and lively entertainment in the heart of the city.

Advent in Zagreb 2024 is set to run from November 30 through January 7.

Christmas in Tivoli, Copenhagen, Denmark

Tivoli Gardens, a historic amusement park and pleasure garden, was frequently visited by Walt Disney before he created Disneyland. It's a magical destination year-round.

However, during the holiday season, Tivoli Gardens truly becomes a wonderland that’s hard to match anywhere else.

With over 1,000 exquisitely decorated Christmas trees and an array of attractions ranging from fairground rides to a lively Pixie Band, Tivoli offers a festive experience like no other.

A key highlight of Tivoli's Christmas celebrations is the annual Lucia procession on December 13, where over 100 girls, carrying candles and singing, parade through the gardens in honor of St. Lucia's Day. The festivities are further enhanced by fireworks between December 25 and 26, and on New Year’s Eve.

Christmas in Tivoli is running from November 15 through January 5.

Tallinn Christmas Market, Estonia

Tallinn’s annual Christmas market stands out as one of the more contemporary holiday events in Europe.

Nestled in Tallinn’s picturesque Town Hall Square, the market is brimming with stalls offering traditional Estonian delicacies, handmade bread, and local crafts.

On the entertainment side, visitors can enjoy carousels, explore a winter grotto, and meet Santa arriving in style on a sleigh drawn by reindeer.

The market also features live performances by local dance groups and choirs, adding to the festive spirit.

Like many Christmas markets, the centerpiece is the majestic Christmas tree, which has been a part of Tallinn’s traditions since 1441.

The 2024 Tallinn Christmas Market is scheduled to run from November 22 through December 27.

Skansen Christmas Market, Stockholm

While Stockholm is home to many Christmas markets, none offer a more authentic experience than the one at Skansen.

Located on the island of Djurgarden, within the world’s oldest open-air museum, this market offers a perfect blend of Swedish heritage and festive charm.

The museum’s historic buildings are adorned with vibrant Christmas decorations, and the tables inside are beautifully set for a traditional Swedish Christmas feast.

At Skansen’s Christmas Market, visitors can get creative by making their own festive decorations, attend craft demonstrations, or join in the lively dancing games around the Christmas tree at Bollnäs Square, the market’s main venue.

Skansen’s Christmas Market is open on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from November 29 to December 22.

Tuomaan Markkinat, Helsinki

Set against the backdrop of Helsinki’s Senate Square, this charming Nordic Christmas market is located near the Emperor Alexander II statue.

The heart of Tuomaan Markkinat is its vintage carousel, surrounded by stalls offering traditional Finnish Christmas treats, glögi (mulled wine), and beautiful handicrafts.

Children will love visiting Santa Claus in his cozy wooden cabin and taking part in fun activities like Christmas cookie decorating. The market’s food court also offers a wide selection of top-notch eateries.

Tuomaan Markkinat is scheduled to run from November 29 to December 22.

St. Stephen’s Basilica and Vörösmarty Square markets, Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is home to two major Christmas markets: the Advent Bazilika at St. Stephen’s Basilica and the Vörösmarty Square market.

The Advent Bazilika market is set in front of the iconic basilica, where visitors can enjoy 3D light shows projected onto the building’s facade. The market features around 150 stalls selling delicious treats, wine, and handcrafted goods.

Located in the heart of the city, the Vörösmarty Square market draws over 800,000 visitors each year.

A standout attraction at Vörösmarty Square is its giant Advent calendar, which reveals a new window each day from December 1 to 23. The market is also known for its amazing Hungarian dishes like langos and chimney cake.

Advent Bazilika is open from November 15 to January 1.

The Vörösmarty Square Christmas market will open from November 15 and close on December 31.

Christkindlesmarkt and Gendarmenmarkt, Germany

Germany has a long tradition of open-air winter markets, and the country is home to some of the oldest and most popular festive markets in Europe.

Berlin, the capital city, hosts about 80 Christmas markets, with Gendarmenmarkt being one of the most famous.

Located between the Franzosischer Dom and Deutscher Dom, Gendarmenmarkt is a charming market filled with wooden stalls offering bratwurst, mulled wine, gingerbread, and unique Christmas gifts. In the evenings, visitors can enjoy live concerts with music and dance performances.

Nuremberg, the second-largest city in Bavaria, is home to the renowned Christkindlesmarkt, which has been a tradition since the 16th century. During the holiday season, around 200 market stalls are set up in the city’s main square, creating a lively atmosphere.

The Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt attracts around 2 million visitors each year and is a major highlight of the city’s festive calendar.

Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt 2024 will begin on November 29 and end on December 24.

Gendarmenmarkt will open on November 25 and close on December 31.

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, London

One of the most anticipated winter events in London, Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is a festive spectacle that draws huge crowds every year.

Since its debut in 2005, this beloved winter attraction features over 200 rides, including a towering 70-meter-high Ferris wheel, mulled wine stalls, and the UK's largest outdoor ice skating rink.

Visitors can try their hand at ice sculpting, enjoy performances from circus acts, listen to live music at the vibrant Fire Pit bar, or indulge in a variety of delicious dishes at the Street Food Village.

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland will begin on November 21 and run through January 5.

Edinburgh at Christmas, Scotland

From a lively ice rink to stunning light displays, the heart of Edinburgh is transformed into a festive haven, brimming with markets and attractions throughout the winter season.

In the beloved East Princes Street Garden, visitors can enjoy a charming traditional Christmas market with over 70 stalls and a towering 46-meter Ferris wheel, the largest in the country.

The market offers breathtaking views of the iconic Scott Monument, as well as Edinburgh Castle, where the enchanting Castle of Light experience takes place from late November to early January.

At St. Andrew Square Garden, a mesmerizing Christmas tree maze featuring 450 illuminated trees awaits, while ice skating enthusiasts can glide across the rink at George Street, one of Edinburgh's prime shopping areas.

The Christmas market at East Princes Street Gardens, the city’s primary festive market, will be open from November 15 to January 4.

Krakow Christmas Market, Poland

Spanning a vast area of Rynek Glowny, Krakow's central square, this Christmas market is one of the largest in Europe.

Set against the majestic St. Mary's Basilica and the iconic Renaissance Cloth Hall, this festive market has been a tradition since the early 14th century.

Visitors can savor local Polish treats like kiełbasa (sausage), shop for handcrafted goods, and enjoy live music from folk bands and carolers.

The market hosts a unique competition where participants, including local schoolchildren and artists, create small Nativity scenes or cribs. These creations are displayed near the statue of Polish poet Adam Mickiewicz, located in the square, before a winner is selected.

Krakow Christmas Market will take place from November 29 to January 1.

Bratislava Christmas Fair, Slovakia

Spread across several locations in the Slovakian capital, including the Main Square and Franciscan Square, the Bratislava Christmas Fair is a delightful holiday experience.

With stalls offering mulled wine, traditional delicacies, a towering Christmas tree, and live performances, this annual market highlights the best of Slovakian Christmas traditions.

There are several ways to get to the main event, but riding the free Christmas tram, which travels through the city center during the festive season, is undoubtedly the most enjoyable option.

Bratislava Christmas Fair will take place from November 22 to January 6.

Christmas Wonderland at Gardens by the Bay, Singapore

Now in its 11th year, Singapore's Christmas Wonderland continues to gain in popularity.

Held at the iconic Gardens by the Bay, this month-long event spans over 27,000 square meters and is filled with attractions such as fairground rides, a Christmas train, spectacular light and sound displays, carnival games, and live performances.

A major highlight of the event is the 20-meter-tall Spalliera, an awe-inspiring design inspired by Mesola Castle in northern Italy, along with the breathtaking Walk of Lights, which shines brightly with thousands of bulbs.

Christmas Wonderland at Gardens by the Bay opens on November 29 and runs through January 1.

The Distillery Winter Village, Toronto

Previously known as the Toronto Christmas Market, the Distillery Winter Village offers a cozy, charming twist on the classic European holiday market.

Set in the historic Distillery District, this festive gathering features outdoor shopping stalls, food vendors, Christmas carol sing-alongs, a gingerbread hunt, and a towering 50-foot Christmas tree.

Shoppers can discover a wide variety of artisanal foods, handmade gifts, and holiday drinks at the many charming market stalls.

The Distillery Winter Village 2024 will be open on Thursdays through Sundays, from November 12 to December 31.

Winter Village at Bryant Park, New York

Each year, Bryant Park in Manhattan is transformed into a stunning winter wonderland for the Winter Village.

The famous open-air market is a sight to behold, featuring more than 150 unique kiosks and a 17,000-square-foot ice rink that’s free to use if you bring your own skates. Nearby, The Lodge food hall and rinkside bar offer an array of dining options, including an outdoor beer garden and cocktail bar.

Beyond the Winter Village, the Josephine Shaw Lowell Fountain becomes particularly striking in winter, often freezing over to create a picturesque scene.

The Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park began on October 25 and will be open until March 2.

Christkindlmarket Chicago

Launched in 1996, Christkindlmarket Chicago draws inspiration from the famous Christkindelmarkt in Nuremberg, Germany, offering a festive German holiday experience in the heart of Chicago.

This beloved market will take place across two locations: Daley Plaza in Chicago and RiverEdge Park in nearby Aurora. It features live performances and a wide range of stalls selling everything from bratwurst and mulled wine to handcrafted ornaments.

Christkindlmarket Chicago at Daley Plaza will be open daily from November 22 through December 24.

Christkindlmarket Chicago at RiverEdge Park will be open every Thursday through Sunday from November 22 to December 24.

The details in this article were accurate at the time of publication. Be sure to check the event websites for the most up-to-date information before making your plans.