Although Christmas is still a month away, the warm and sparkling atmosphere of Christmas markets has already spread across European countries. Here are the most beautiful Christmas markets of 2022.
Wiener Christkindlmarkt, Austria
While there are around 20 Christmas markets to choose from in the Austrian capital, the Wiener Christkindlmarkt, Rathausplatz or Viennese Dream are the oldest and most traditional. This magical place features a carousel and over 150 stalls selling food, gifts and decorations. It is also a popular spot for tourists and a great opportunity for taking beautiful photos.
The Christmas market in Austria is one of the city's oldest and most traditional events.
Basel Christmas Market, Switzerland
Most Swiss towns have quite a few festive markets at this time of year and the atmosphere is fantastic. The Basel Christmas Market is divided into two different sections at Barfusserplatz and Munsterplatz.
The Basel Christmas Market has nearly 200 wooden stalls selling Christmas decorations and candles...
There are nearly 200 beautifully decorated stalls selling Christmas spices, decorations and candles. Family-friendly attractions include a Christmas fairy forest at Munsterplatz with activities such as candle and gingerbread decorating, star workshops and a festive train ride.
Strasbourg Christmas Market, France
One of Europe’s oldest Christmas markets, Strasbourg dates back to 1570. The Strasbourg market lights up the city with thousands of twinkling lights and Christmas decorations. Spread over 10 locations, the market has 300 wooden stalls selling everything from decorations to wine.
Dating back to 1570, the Strasbourg Christmas market lights up this French city every year.
Brussels Winter Wonders, Belgium
Brussels really comes alive at Christmas thanks to Winter Wonders, which is more of a festival than a market. Light shows, skating, a flea market… are just a few of the activities to choose from at this fun annual event. Visitors can try stalls selling mulled wine, Belgian beer and all sorts of delicious snacks.
Brussels Winter Wonders will take place from November 25 - January 1, 2023
Wenceslas Square Christmas Market, Prague, Czech Republic
There will be plenty of entertainment in the form of live performances, dance performances and creative workshops. Visitors can shop for handmade gifts and local products such as klobása (a Czech sausage) and enjoy the festive atmosphere of the market.
Decorative items at the market
Tivoli Christmas Market, Copenhagen, Denmark
You’ll be hard pressed to find anything as enchanting as Tivoli Gardens during the festive period. With over 1,000 beautifully decorated Christmas trees adorning the beautiful grounds and everything from fairground rides to traditional Pixie bands providing entertainment, it’s a winter experience like no other. This includes thousands of dazzling lights, fairgrounds and Santa’s grotto…
This Danish amusement park and garden is even more enchanting at Christmas time.
This year, you will be able to admire thousands of bright lights, market squares... Among them, a giant Christmas tree will be erected on Tivoli Lake.
Advent Christmas Market in Zagreb, Croatia
The Croatian capital has been voted “best Christmas market destination” by the European Best Destinations travel portal for several years in a row thanks to this event, which features ice sculptures, outdoor shows, brightly lit bars, and more. You can also see dancing, enjoy some street food, and listen to live entertainment.
Croatia's capital is bustling with activity for Christmas, which is undoubtedly the city's highlight event of the year.
