4 of the Best Christmas Markets in Europe and Nearby Festive Attractions
Experience the magic of Europe’s top Christmas markets with nearby activities and luxurious hotel stays.
The holiday season in Europe comes alive with charming Christmas markets that transform cities and small towns into winter wonderlands. From traditional treats to handcrafted gifts, these markets capture the spirit of Christmas and make for fun destinations in the cold months. Here’s a guide to four of Europe’s top Christmas markets, along with nearby activities and hotel recommendations, perfect for travelers seeking both festive fun and luxury stays.
Christkindlesmarkt – Nuremberg, Germany
Why Visit:
Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt is one of the oldest and most famous Christmas markets in Europe, dating back to the 16th century. Located in the city’s medieval Old Town, the market features over 180 wooden stalls selling handmade toys, Christmas ornaments, and delicious gingerbread (lebkuchen).
Nearby Activities:
Nuremberg Castle: Just a short walk from the market, Nuremberg Castle offers breathtaking views of the city.
Germanisches Nationalmuseum: Explore Germany’s cultural heritage in the largest museum of German art and culture.
Toy Museum: A fun stop for families, showcasing a vast collection of toys from ancient times to today.
Where to Stay:
Hotel Drei Raben: Centrally located in Nuremberg’s Old Town, this boutique hotel is a part of Virtuoso’s preferred partner program, offering personalized service and charming themed rooms.
Le Méridien Grand Hotel Nuremberg: Located close to the main train station and the Christmas market, this hotel offers luxurious rooms and a festive atmosphere during the holiday season.
Vienna Christmas Market – Vienna, Austria
Why Visit:
Set against the stunning backdrop of Vienna’s City Hall, the main Christmas market (Wiener Christkindlmarkt) is a dreamy experience filled with ice skating, festive lights, and the scent of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine. The city offers numerous other markets to explore, including Schönbrunn Palace and Belvedere Palace.
Nearby Activities:
Schönbrunn Palace: Visit this grand palace and find an imperial market with handmade goods.
St. Stephen’s Cathedral: Take in a Christmas concert or simply admire the Gothic architecture of this city icon.
Ice Skating: Glide through the Rathausplatz Ice Rink for a magical skating experience surrounded by twinkling lights.
Where to Stay:
The Ritz-Carlton, Vienna: A luxury hotel on Vienna’s famous Ringstrasse, offering spacious rooms, an on-site Christmas market, and exclusive amenities like spa services.
Hotel Sacher Vienna: Stay at one of Vienna’s most iconic hotels, located just steps away from the city’s top attractions and the famous Sacher Café, perfect for enjoying a slice of the original Sacher-Torte.
Strasbourg Christmas Market – Strasbourg, France
Why Visit:
Known as the “Capital of Christmas,” Strasbourg’s market is one of Europe’s largest and most enchanting. With its half-timbered houses draped in festive lights and the market’s centerpiece Christmas tree, this Alsatian city creates an irresistible holiday wonderland.
Nearby Activities:
Strasbourg Cathedral: The Gothic masterpiece stands tall in the center of the city, and a visit to the cathedral is a must during the holidays.
La Petite France: Wander through this historic district lined with picturesque canals and adorned in festive decor.
Wine Tasting: Strasbourg is located in the heart of Alsace’s wine region—perfect for sampling local wines at nearby vineyards.
Where to Stay:
Hotel Cour du Corbeau Strasbourg – MGallery: A beautifully restored 16th-century building, this luxury hotel is within walking distance of the Christmas market and offers a blend of history and elegance.
Sofitel Strasbourg Grande Île: This centrally located hotel offers modern rooms and a cozy atmosphere during the holiday season, perfect for enjoying Strasbourg’s festive markets.
Prague Christmas Market – Prague, Czech Republic
Why Visit:
Prague’s Old Town Square transforms into a fairytale setting during the holiday season, with towering Christmas trees, glowing lights, and vendors offering handmade crafts and traditional Czech treats like trdelník (a sweet pastry). The nearby Wenceslas Square also hosts a lively market, creating a festive stroll through the heart of the city.
Nearby Activities:
Prague Castle: Explore one of the largest ancient castles in the world, offering panoramic views of the city and a festive Christmas atmosphere.
Charles Bridge: Stroll along this iconic bridge, adorned with holiday lights, and take in views of the Vltava River.
Old Town Hall: Visit the famous Astronomical Clock, which is especially magical during the Christmas season.
Where to Stay:
Four Seasons Hotel Prague: Located along the Vltava River, this luxury hotel provides a peaceful retreat with exceptional views of Prague’s historic skyline.
Mandarin Oriental, Prague: Nestled in the city’s Malá Strana district, this historic hotel offers modern luxury and is just a short walk from Prague Castle and the bustling Christmas markets.
Visiting Europe’s Christmas markets offers festive shopping, beautiful backdrops, and an opportunity to explore historic cities and enjoy wintertime activities. Whether you’re sipping mulled wine under twinkling lights or strolling through a snow-dusted palace garden, these destinations promise an unforgettable holiday experience. Reach out for more tips for planning a European holiday adventure!
