European Christmas Markets 2025

Europe in December turns into one huge open‑air fairytale, and the continent’s best Christmas markets in 2025 will once again be the highlight of winter travel. From Austria’s elegant palaces to medieval old towns and lakeside villages glowing under thousands of lights, this is the season when Europe feels the most magical.

Try visiting one (or more) of these cities

Vienna – Elegant, atmospheric, timeless
Vienna does Christmas like it was invented there. You get multiple markets within walking distance, all with a slightly different vibe. The Rathausplatz Christkindlmarkt is the big, sparkling one; the Spittelberg market is cozy and artsy; Schönbrunn Palace has the classy version with great food stalls. It’s polished, magical, and perfect if you want that classical Europe vibe. Read more about Vienna on the official Vienna website.

Prague – Fairytale vibes
Prague’s Old Town Square market is one of Europe’s most photographed for a reason — the combination of the Christmas tree, the square, and the astronomical clock is basically unfair. Expect crowds, but the atmosphere is unbeatable. Grab a “trdelník”, head to the smaller market at Náměstí Míru, and enjoy the whole city glowing. Official city page about markets will tell you details.

Zurich – Refined, cosy, perfectly Swiss
Zurich’s markets aren’t the biggest, but they’re some of the prettiest. The one inside the Hauptbahnhof has the famous Swarovski Christmas tree; Niederdorf offers the old‑town charm; and the market at the Opera House is ideal for food. Add the lakefront lights and the city instantly becomes a winter postcard.

Munich – Classic Germany
Munich balances tradition and fun. The main market around Marienplatz feels straight out of a storybook, while Tollwood Winter Festival mixes food stalls, concerts, and eco‑friendly gifts. Don’t miss a mug of feuerzangenbowle or a plate of käsespätzle.

Colmar & Strasbourg
The Alsace region basically wins December. Colmar’s markets look like someone built a Christmas village for a movie set, while Strasbourg calls itself the “Capital of Christmas” — and honestly, it earns it. Think timber houses, warm wine, and every square filled with lights.

Hallstatt

Small, stunning, and beloved by Asian travellers Hallstatt isn’t a huge Christmas‑market destination — but the village itself becomes ridiculously atmospheric in December. Snowy rooftops, the lake, the mountains, and the tiny market area make it a dream spot for photos. It’s especially popular with Japanese and Korean visitors, and it’s perfect as a winter day trip from Salzburg.

Tips for enjoying European Christmas markets in 2025

Go earlier in the day if you want fewer crowds. Evenings are better for photos and ambience. Bring a bit of cash — some stalls still prefer it. And don’t over‑plan: half the magic is wandering.

The Christmas markets will finish before we launch — but your future trips won’t. From January, Travanio starts offering curated itineraries across Switzerland and the rest of Europe, designed to make your next winter or summer getaway smoother, easier, and far more enjoyable.