Best Christmas Markets in Europe 2025 – Dates, Locations & Magical Winter Tips
The Origins of the Christmas Markets
Christmas markets, which I personally love so much, have a rich history that dates back centuries. The tradition is believed to have originated in Germany in the Late Middle Ages, and the first Christmas market took place in Dresden in 1434. Initially, these markets were an opportunity for locals to stock up on supplies before the long winter months. Over time, they evolved into celebrations of the holiday season, featuring stalls selling handmade crafts, delicious food, and festive decorations. In this updated 2025 guide, you’ll find the most charming Christmas markets across Europe — with opening dates, festive tips, and cozy travel inspiration. On this article I’ve prepared a list with Best Christmas Markets in Europe and their opening dates.
🎄 2025 Update: What’s New This Year
This winter, Europe’s Christmas markets are opening earlier than ever — with festive lights, mulled wine, and magical city squares coming alive from mid-November 2025. From Vienna’s elegant Rathausplatz to Tallinn’s snow-covered Town Hall Square, the 2025 season promises a perfect mix of tradition, local flavors, and cozy winter vibes.
Below, you’ll find updated opening dates, local tips, and travel inspiration for some of the most charming Christmas markets across Europe.
Screenshot this is you are in a rush!
- Vienna Christmas Market -> 14 Nov 2025 – 26 December 2025
- Prague Christmas Market -> 29 November 2025 – 6 January 2026
- Salzburg Christmas Market -> late November 2025 – 1 January 2026
- Budapest Christmas Market -> 29 November 2025 – 24 December 2025
- London Christmas Market -> 12-14 November 2025 – 1 January 2026
- Tallinn Christmas Market -> 21 November 2025 – 27 December 2025
- Bratislava Christmas Market -> 21 November 2025 – 31 December 2025
✨ Why Visit Europe’s Christmas Markets
Europe’s Christmas markets are not just about shopping — they’re about celebrating warmth, light, and community in the heart of winter. Picture twinkling lights, the scent of cinnamon, carol choirs, and wooden chalets selling handcrafted gifts and hot drinks.
Whether you’re looking for romantic destinations, family-friendly markets, or photography-perfect squares, every European market tells its own festive story. It’s the ideal way to experience winter magic!
Christmas Market Opening Dates 2025
| City | Country | Opening Dates (2025) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| London | United Kingdom | 12–14 November 2025 – 1 January 2026 | Hyde Park Winter Wonderland with rides, ice rink, and festive markets. |
| Vienna | Austria | 15 November – 26 December 2025 | Iconic Rathausplatz market, classic Christmas décor. |
| Budapest | Hungary | 15 November 2025 – 1 January 2026 | St. Stephen’s Basilica, light projections, local food. |
| Strasbourg | France | 22 November – 24 December 2025 | Known as “Capital of Christmas”, oldest market in Europe. |
| Tallinn | Estonia | 22 November 2025 – 6 January 2026 | Medieval Town Hall Square, fairy lights, mulled wine. |
| Bratislava | Slovakia | 21 November – 31 December 2025 | Main Square Christmas Village, traditional Slovak food and crafts. |
| Prague | Czech Republic | 29 November 2025 – 6 January 2026 | Old Town Square tree lighting & carols. |
Vienna Christmas Market
Opening date: November 15, 2025 till December 26, 2025
When it comes to European Christmas markets, Vienna is undoubtedly a top contender. The Austrian capital is known for its opulent architecture, classical music, and refined tastes, making it the perfect backdrop for a magical winter wonderland. The city’s main market, the Vienna Christmas World, is located in front of the City Hall and offers an enchanting atmosphere. Visitors can browse through over 150 stalls selling unique gifts, traditional handicrafts, and mouthwatering treats.
There are also a lot of other smaller Christmas markets which, in my opinion, definitely are worth a visit. PRO TIP : Don’t miss the chance to try a warm mug of Glühwein (mulled wine) as you soak in the festive ambiance.
Prague Christmas Market: A Fairytale Setting
Opening dates: November 29, 2025 – January 6, 2026
Prague, often called the “City of a Hundred Spires,” is a fairytale destination year-round, but it truly comes alive during the holiday season. The city’s main Christmas market is held in the historic Old Town Square. Here, you’ll find an array of wooden huts offering traditional Czech handicrafts, handmade ornaments, and delicious Czech pastries. Personally, I LOVE the festive atmosphere that it’s in Prague during the Christmas season.
Salzburg: Mozart and Christmas Charm
Opening Dates: late November 2025 till January 1, 2026
Salzburg, the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, is a city steeped in history, culture, and charm. During the holiday season, Salzburg’s Christmas markets add an extra layer of magic to its already enchanting streets. The main market is held in the historic Cathedral Square, overlooked by the iconic Salzburg Cathedral. Here, what I personally loved the most is that I could browse through a huge variety of stalls offering handmade crafts, traditional Austrian delicacies, and delightful Christmas decorations.
If you are a fan, then you should not miss the opportunity to attend a concert featuring Mozart’s music while in Salzburg, and add a touch of sophistication to the already festive celebrations.
Budapest: A Treasure Trove of Christmas Markets
Opening Dates: November 15, 2025 till January 1,2026
Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is a treasure trove of Christmas markets that captivate visitors with their festive spirit. The city’s main market, the Budapest Christmas Fair, is held in Vörösmarty Square and features over 100 stalls selling unique handicrafts, delicious traditional food and sweets. The market is also known for its lively cultural program, with daily concerts, dance performances, and folklore shows. As you explore the market, be sure to warm up with a cup of spicy mulled wine and sample some chimney cake, a sweet pastry rolled in cinnamon sugar.
London Christmas Market: Winter Wonderland
Opening dates: November 12-14, 2025 till January 1, 2026
London is known for its festive Christmas markets, which pop up throughout the city during the holiday season.
The Christmas season in London is a magical time. The city transforms into a winter wonderland as the streets and iconic landmarks are adorned with dazzling Christmas lights. London’s famous shopping districts, such as Oxford Street and Regent Street, are adorned with elaborate and enchanting displays, creating a breathtaking sight for both locals and visitors. Don’t miss London during holiday season, it’s something MAGICAL.
Tallinn Christmas Market: The Gem on the North
Opening dates: November 22,2025 till January 6, 2026
The market transforms the historic square into a festive “winter wonderland” with wooden stalls selling local handcrafted gifts, Christmas decorations, traditional Estonian treats, and mulled wine (glogi).
If you are lucky to catch some snowy days, i think it would be the perfect atmosphere. I loved the Tallinn Christmas Market, in my opinion it’s worth it, but be prepared with a lot of clothes, because it’s very cold!
Bratislava Christmas Market:
Opening dates: November 21, 2025 – December 31,2025
The Christmas Market in Bratislava features every year traditional Slovak delicacies, handmade gifts, cultural performances, warm drinks, and holiday souvenirs across its stalls. There are 2 main markets, both very beautifully decorated. We had the luck to catch a little snow in the day we left, it was amazing!
Looking for more travel inspiration?
If you’re already dreaming of summer after your winter getaway, don’t miss my sunny guides:
✨ Tips for Visiting Christmas Markets in Europe (2025 Edition)
Planning a trip to Europe’s magical Christmas markets this winter? These practical travel tips will help you make the most of the festive season in 2025 — from timing your visit to finding the best local treats.
- Book early: Flights and hotels in top destinations like Vienna and Strasbourg sell out fast during December.
- Bring some cash: Many small stalls still prefer euros instead of credit cards.
- Dress warm and layered: Most markets are outdoors — gloves, scarves, and waterproof shoes are essential.
- Try local specialties: Taste Austria’s kaiserschmarrn, Germany’s bratwurst, and Estonia’s spiced mulled wine.
- Visit midweek: You’ll avoid crowds and get the best photo opportunities under the market lights.
- Look for eco-friendly markets: Cities like Vienna and Tallinn now host sustainable Christmas market areas with local artisans.
✨ Whether you’re chasing snow, festive lights, or cozy moments with a cup of hot chocolate — Europe’s Christmas markets in 2025 promise the perfect blend of tradition and winter magic.
