As the festive season approaches, European Christmas markets take centre stage, transforming cities into enchanting winter wonderlands filled with twinkling lights and joyful melodies.
To help you plan your seasonal adventures, we've curated a list of exciting markets to explore in 2024. Discover where you can find the most magical experiences this Christmas season across Europe!
Munich, Germany
When do Munich Christmas Markets Start 2024? Wondering when the Christmas markets start in Germany in 2024? The festive lights of Munich's Christmas markets will shine from 25 November 2024, until 24 December 2024. Don’t miss the main market at Marienplatz, famous for its ornate decorations and the backdrop of the City Hall. Must-Try Foods:
Weißwurst (white sausage)
Schmalzkuchen (fried pastries)
Glühwein (mulled wine)
Strasbourg, France
When do Strasbourg Christmas Markets Start 2024? The world-renowned Strasbourg Christmas market will commence 27 November 2024 to 27 December 2024. Often referred to as the "Capital of Christmas," Strasbourg hosts a charming market located in its picturesque old town. Must-Try Foods:
Bretzel (pretzel)
Choucroute (sauerkraut)
Vin Chaud (hot spiced wine)
Copenhagen, Denmark
When do Copenhagen Christmas Markets Start 2024? Copenhagen's Christmas spirit begins on 17 November 2024, and wraps up on 31 December 2024. Tivoli Gardens turns into a fairy-tale setting with enchanting lights and rides - glide across the sparkling ice rink or meet Santa in his charming grotto. Must-Try Foods:
Æbleskiver (puffed pancakes)
Gløgg (spiced mulled wine)
Roasted almonds
Zurich, Switzerland
When do Zurich Christmas Markets Start 2024? Immerse yourself in the festive cheer of Zurich from 21 November 2024, to 24 December 2024. The main market in the train station is home to a dazzling Christmas tree decorated with Swarovski crystals. Must-Try Foods:
Rösti (crispy potato dish)
Zopf (Swiss bread)
Hot Chocolate
Brussels, Belgium
When do Brussels Christmas Markets Start 2024? Brussels lights up its Christmas market starting 29 November 2024, and runs until 5 January 2025. The Grand Place becomes the heart of the festivities, adorned with festive decorations and a magnificent Christmas tree.
Must-Try Foods:
Belgian Waffles
Speculoos (spiced biscuits)
Churros
Prague, Czech Republic
When do Prague Christmas Markets Start 2024? Prague's Christmas markets begin on 30 November 2024, and run until 6 January 2025, set in the historic Old Town and Wenceslas Square. This enchanting city transforms into a winter wonderland, captivating visitors with its stunning architecture and festive cheer. Must-Try Foods:
Trdelník (chimney cake)
Svařák (mulled wine)
Klobása (Czech sausage)
Tallinn, Estonia
When do Tallinn Christmas Markets Start 2024? Tallinn's market will kick off on 1 December 2024, and continue through 7 January 2025. Nestled in the medieval Old Town, this market radiates charm with traditional crafts and festive treats. Must-Try Foods:
Kama (traditional flour mixture)
Mulgipuder (potato and groats porridge)
Mulled Wine
Lille, France
When do Lille Christmas Markets Start 2024? Lille’s Christmas market starts on 23 November 2024, and concludes on 30 December 2024. Situated in the heart of the city, this market features a delightful blend of French traditions and local craftsmanship. Must-Try Foods:
Welsh (cheese and beer dish)
Pomme de terre au lard (potatoes with bacon)
Chocolat chaud (hot chocolate)
Vienna, Austria
When do Vienna Christmas Markets Start 2024? Vienna's Christmas markets start on 11 November 2024, and continue until 26 December 2024, at Rathausplatz. Known for its iconic Christmas tree and beautifully decorated stalls, this market offers a blend of traditional customs and modern festivities. Must-Try Foods:
Apfelstrudel (apple strudel)
Käsekrainer (cheese-filled sausages)
Punsch (mulled punch)
Bruges, Belgium
When do Bruges Christmas Markets Start 2024? Bruges’ Christmas market kicks off on 22 November 2024, and runs through 5 January 2025. The medieval city transforms into a winter wonderland, with festive lights illuminating the historical buildings and a picturesque ice rink adding to the charm.
Must-Try Foods:
Brugse Zot (local beer)
Chocolate Pralines (famous Belgian chocolates)
Beignets (fried pastries)
Krakow, Poland
When do Krakow Christmas Markets Start 2024? Krakow's Christmas market opens on 29 November 2024, and continues until 1 January 2025. Set in the heart of the historic Main Market Square, this market is renowned for its charming wooden stalls and beautiful decorations, presenting an enchanting atmosphere perfect for holiday shopping and exploration. Must-Try Foods:
Obwarzanek (traditional braided bread)
Pierogi (Polish dumplings filled with various ingredients)
Grzaniec (hot spiced wine)
Berlin, Germany
When do Berlin Christmas Markets Start 2024? Berlin's festive markets will open their doors from 27 November 2024 to 31 December 2024. Known for its vibrant and diverse market scene, Berlin offers over 70 markets, each providing a distinctive holiday experience. From traditional wooden stalls at Gendarmenmarkt to the modern flair at Potsdamer Platz, Berlin captures the spirit of the season with its unique blend of culture, history, and festive cheer. Must-Try Foods:
Bratwurst (grilled sausage)
Lebkuchen (gingerbread)
Glühwein (mulled wine)
With destinations like Munich, Strasbourg, and Berlin offering unique holiday experiences, there's no better time to explore these winter wonderlands. Pack your bags, gather your loved ones, and set sail to Europe’s Christmas markets with DFDS!
