21 Best Christmas Markets in Europe to Visit

The European Christmas market tradition dates back to medieval times when townspeople were allowed to shop for a day or two at a local market to stock up on food, supplies, and other household goods to prepare for the long-awaited winter. Cushy, right?

The first true Christmas market, (Striezelmarkt), was first held in 1434 in Dresden, Germany. Since then, Germany welcomes nearly 85 million people every year to its iconic Christmas markets.

Since those early years, villages and shopkeepers have continued the tradition of annual markets with seasonal food and festive merchandise. In the early 1800s, local families began setting up stalls and selling handmade items, gifts, baskets, toys, almonds, roasted chestnuts, and gingerbread to make extra money and help their neighbors.

In the 19th and 20th Centuries, European Christmas markets began popping up in cities big and small. The markets vary in cuisine, gifts, and local music and entertainment.

The one thing that rings true at every Christmas market around the world — they are designed for community, sharing food with friends and family, and enjoying the holiday season in your hometown or anywhere around the world.

Keep reading for your European best Christmas markets to visit this holiday season. From the sparkling Christmas lights to the hot mulled wine, we know your trip will be made complete by experiencing the magic of the holiday season in Europe. Buckle up for a grand tour of the European holiday market!

Best Christmas Markets in Europe to Visit

The best European Christmas markets can put you in the festive spirit while experiencing some of Europe’s most historic holiday traditions. Here are the must-see Christmas markets in Europe.

1. Budapest, Hungary

Address: St. Stephen’s Basilica in Budapest, Hungary

Budapest, Hungary is home to one of the most magical Christmas markets in Europe….