A Trip to the World’s Most Popular Christmas Markets

The magic of Christmas markets has been enchanting people worldwide for centuries. Originating in Germany during the 14th century, these markets have become a beloved global tradition. As December approaches, cities across the world come alive with the festive spirit. Locals and tourists alike flock to these markets to celebrate the joy of the holiday season. We explored some of the world’s most popular Christmas markets where you can fully experience the New Year’s spirit. Let’s take a trip to these markets just a few days before we welcome 2024.

Wiener Christmas Market – Vienna, Austria

Vienna’s Wiener Christmas Market is one of the most important markets and is particularly known for its New Year’s events, which are great for families and children. The event features street theatre, choirs, street artists in traditional costumes, and entertainment programs that appeal to everyone. In addition, there is a 3,000-square-meter ice rink located around the Habsburg Palaces. As you stroll through the narrow streets of the city, you’ll find stalls selling handmade soaps, perfumes, and freshly baked pretzels that will make your head spin with their delightful fragrance.

Aachener Christmas Market – Aachen, Germany

Aachen Christmas Market, set up around the Aachen Cathedral, always takes its place on the list of Europe’s top 10 Christmas markets. The decorations and light installations are carefully made, and preparations begin months in advance. Every year, stage shows with unique concepts attract not only local visitors but also foreign ones. You can enjoy these shows with a cup of hot wine and try the region’s famous gingerbread cookies called printen.

Basilica Christmas Market – Budapest, Hungary

The Basilica Christmas Market has been crowned the best Christmas market in Europe for the second time in 2022, and it truly deserves the honour. The market is situated in front of the magnificent St. Stephen Basilica, one of Hungary’s tallest and most prominent churches, creating a unique and unforgettable atmosphere. The square holds different light shows, open-air musicals, and concerts every year and features a large ice rink. Hundreds of handicraft and food stalls showcase local Hungarian products, including the Szaloncuko, a unique Hungarian confectionery explicitly made for Christmas time. It can be a perfect gift alternative to bring back to your loved ones after the holidays.

Grande Place Chrismas Market – Brussels, Belgium

The city of Brussels is home to the most spectacular link of the Plaisirs D’Hiver festival chain, also known as Winter Wonders. The Grande Place Christmas Market, spanning 2 km, is situated in the square where the Chocolate Museum is located. It is the most remarkable Christmas market in the city. While exploring Brussels’s historical and modern texture, the delightful scent of chocolate will spin your head. Additionally, video-mapping shows transforming historical buildings into moving works of art, street performances, concerts, and family events are all waiting for you to enjoy.

Old Town Square Christmas Market – Prague, Czech Republic

The Old Town Square Christmas Market is one of Prague’s most enjoyable Christmas markets, established by the Tryh Praha organization. The market is situated around the Astronomical Clock Tower, considered the heart of the city and surrounded by houses from the Middle Ages. The square transforms into a movie set during Christmas time with a 25-meter Christmas tree decorated with lights that blend into the city’s gothic texture. You can find a wide variety of gift options at dozens of wooden stalls, including hand-embroidered tablecloths and traditional Czech wind instruments.

Tallinn Christmas Market -Tallinn, Estonia

The Tallinn Christmas Market, which won the Best Christmas Market in Europe award in 2019, is located in Raekoja Plats Square in the capital city of Tallinn. It offers visitors a wonderful experience of the New Year spirit with its magical atmosphere, complete with carousels, wooden chalet-like stalls, a Winter Cave, and Santa Claus’ House. Adjacent to the Historic City Hall stands a Christmas tree that has been decorated every year since 1441. This tree attracts a lot of attention from visitors as it is the first Christmas tree ever exhibited in Europe. You can also indulge in Nordic-inspired street food while shopping for handmade local accessories and souvenirs at the surrounding stalls.