Top Christmas Markets in Europe

Copenhagen's Christmas market and Tivoli Gardens

Copenhagen’s Christmas market is one of Europe’s most iconic, turning the city into a breathtaking winter wonderland from mid-November to early January. A winter visit to Copenhagen is filled with cozy, heartwarming experiences that capture the essence of the holiday spirit.

Picture yourself strolling along the vibrant Nyhavn Canal with a warm cup of gløgg in hand, surrounded by charming stalls selling handmade goods, and cozy restaurants offering outdoor seating under heated lamps.

The enchanting Julemarked in the old town invites you to explore its log cabin stalls, where the scents of sausages, waffles and freshly made fudge fill the air.

No visit is complete without a trip to Tivoli Gardens, where thousands of twinkling Christmas lights illuminate the park. With festive market stalls, traditional Danish performances, ballet, live music and fun-filled rides for children, Tivoli offers a magical Christmas experience like no other.

Basel Christmas market

The Basel Christmas market is often hailed as the largest and most beautiful in Switzerland, set against the charming backdrop of the historic old town. With over 100 traditional wooden stalls, it’s a festive paradise where locals offer an array of handcrafted treasures and culinary delights. As you wander through the market, the irresistible scents of freshly made waffles, raclette, gingerbread and savory sausages fill the air, while mulled wine keeps you warm.

Don’t miss a visit to Münsterplatz, where the towering Christmas tree sparkles with lights, or try your hand at candle-making in the Rathaus courtyard for a unique holiday activity.

For a special treat, visit the Johann Wanner Christmas House, one of the world’s most famous Christmas decoration shops, to find unique ornaments that will bring the magic of Basel home with you.

Basel’s market perfectly blends Swiss tradition with holiday magic, making it an unmissable destination for anyone looking to embrace the true spirit of Christmas.

Prague Christmas market

Prague’s Christmas market is the crown jewel of the Czech Republic’s holiday season, radiating festive charm and warmth throughout the city. The locals truly bring the magic of Christmas to life with enchanting carolers, traditional stalls selling handcrafted artisan items, live music and a wide range of festive events for both locals and visitors.

Prague offers multiple Christmas markets, with the most famous located in Old Town Square, Prague Castle and Republic Square. At the heart of the Old Town Square market stands Prague’s stunning Christmas tree, towering over 20 meters high and adorned with thousands of twinkling lights.

Be sure to visit the Prague Castle market for breathtaking views of the city, where you can enjoy mulled wine while overlooking the iconic skyline. For a truly local experience, don’t miss the opportunity to watch or even join in with the live nativity scenes in the Old Town Square, bringing the spirit of the season to life. Prague’s markets are a true holiday wonder, blending the city’s historic charm with festive magic.

Copenhagen:

Høst

• Cuisine: Modern Nordic

• Why go: A beautifully designed restaurant with seasonal dishes inspired by Nordic cuisine. The rustic ambiance and creative plates make it a favorite for both locals and tourists.

• Insider tip: Opt for the tasting menu, which offers a multi-course experience paired with wines for a real treat. Book in advance, as it’s often packed during the holiday season.

Torvehallerne Food Market

• Cuisine: International and local street food

• Why go: This vibrant indoor market offers a wide range of food stalls where you can sample everything from Danish smørrebrød to fresh seafood, and delicious pastries.

• Insider tip: Grab a seat at Hija de Sanchez for incredible tacos or stop by The Coffee Collective for one of the best cups of coffee in town.

Vinhanen

• Cuisine: Wine bar

• Why go: A cozy, local wine bar offering affordable wines on tap and small plates. It’s the perfect spot to warm up after exploring Copenhagen’s Christmas markets.

• Insider tip: Bring your own reusable bottle, and you can buy wine straight from the tap to take back to your accommodation!

Basel:

Kunsthalle Restaurant

• Cuisine: Swiss and European

• Why go: Located near Basel's art museum, this elegant restaurant serves a blend of traditional Swiss dishes and contemporary European cuisine in a cozy setting.

• Insider tip: Try their classic Zürcher Geschnetzeltes (veal in cream sauce) with rösti. If the weather permits, sit on the beautiful garden terrace, which is heated during winter.

Walliser Kanne

• Cuisine: Swiss, specializing in fondue and raclette

• Why go: This historic restaurant is a must for traditional Swiss fondue and raclette lovers. It’s been serving authentic Alpine cuisine for over 60 years.

• Insider tip: Ask for a table upstairs for a more intimate dining experience. Try the cheese fondue with a side of Swiss charcuterie for the full experience.

Consum

• Cuisine: Wine bar and small plates

• Why go: This charming wine bar offers a fantastic selection of Swiss and international wines paired with small, artisanal plates like cheese and charcuterie.

• Insider tip: The staff are experts in helping you find the perfect wine, so don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations. The wine tasting flights are a great way to sample multiple varieties.

Prague:

Lokál Dlouhááá

• Cuisine: Traditional Czech

• Why go: A beloved local spot for authentic Czech comfort food like goulash, schnitzels and traditional Czech beer. The no-frills vibe adds to the charm.

• Insider tip: Order the svíčková (beef in cream sauce) and pair it with Pilsner Urquell straight from the tank. It's incredibly fresh and a favorite among locals.

Café Savoy

• Cuisine: Czech and French bistro

• Why go: Known for its stunning art nouveau interior and decadent pastries, Café Savoy is a classic spot for breakfast or an afternoon coffee break.

• Insider tip: Go for their famous eggs benedict or a slice of their house-made apple strudel. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during the holidays.

Hemingway Bar

• Cuisine: Cocktails

• Why go: This cozy, speakeasy-style cocktail bar is famous for its expertly crafted drinks. It’s a hidden gem in Prague’s cocktail scene, perfect for unwinding after a day of Christmas market browsing.

• Insider tip: Their absinthe selection is impressive — ask the bartenders to guide you through the traditional preparation for a unique experience.