As the festive season approaches, Europe transforms into a winter wonderland with Christmas markets full of holiday cheer, unique gifts, and delicious treats. These markets are perfect for a long weekend getaway or an extreme day trip, where you travel to and from a foreign country in a single day, saving on accommodation costs.

If you’re not sure where to head for some festive cheer, we’ve put together a list of the best 8 European Christmas markets to visit this winter.

Don’t forget to get your Travel Insurance, even for the shortest breaks! Protect yourself and your loved ones against medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost or stolen baggage and much more. You can find out more at the bottom of this blog.

1. Germany: Cologne and Aachen

Germany is renowned for its Christmas markets – and Cologne and Aachen are two of the best. Cologne boasts several markets, each with its own charm. The market at Cologne Cathedral is particularly magical, with its stunning backdrop and over 150 stalls offering crafts, food, and drinks. Aachen’s market, set around the town hall and cathedral, is famous for its festive atmosphere and delicious ‘Aachen Printen’ gingerbread.

2024 dates include: 

• Cologne: 18^th November to 23^rd December
• Aachen: 22^nd November to 23rd December

Average Flight time from UK: 1 hr 15 minutes

2. Prague, Czech Republic

Prague’s Christmas markets are a feast for the senses. The Old Town Square market is the most famous, with its towering Christmas tree, live nativity scenes, and a variety of stalls selling traditional Czech crafts and foods. Don’t miss the chance to try trdelník, or ‘chimney cakes’ – a sweet pastry cooked over an open flame.

2024 dates include:  30^th November 2024 – 6^th January 2024

Average flight time from UK: 1 hr 50 minutes

3. Vienna, Austria

Vienna’s Christmas markets are legendary. The Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz is one of the largest and most beautiful, featuring over 150 stalls, an ice rink, and a magical Christmas tree.

Imagine fresh strudels, hot punch and chocolate covered fruit. The market at Schönbrunn Palace offers a more intimate setting with handmade crafts and traditional Austrian treats.

2024 dates include: 

• Viennese Dream Christmas Market: 16^th November – 26^th December
• Christmas Village Belvedere Palace: 15^th November – 23^rd December
• Maria Theresien Square: 13^th November – 23^rd December
• University  of Vienna: 15^th November – 23^rd December
• Schonbrunn Palace: 8^th November – 6^th January

Average Flight time from UK: 2 hrs 5 minutes

4. Warsaw, Poland

Warsaw’s Christmas market, located in the UNESCO listed Old Town Market Square, is one of the best in Europe. The market features beautifully decorated stalls offering traditional Polish crafts, foods, and drinks. Be sure to try some pierogi, a popular Polish dumpling, and the surroundings of the historic square.

2024 dates include:  25^th November to 6^th January (Note – some stalls won’t open until early December)

Average Flight Time from UK: 2 hours 15 minutes

5. Budapest, Hungary

Budapest’s Christmas markets are a must-visit, with the market at Vörösmarty Square being the most popular. Here, you’ll find a variety of traditional Hungarian crafts like glass blowing, wood carving and fine leather work. These make gorgeous gifts for loved ones. The market at St. Stephen’s Basilica is also worth a visit for its stunning light shows and festive ambiance.

2024 dates include: 

Vorosmarty Square – 16^th November 2024 – January 1^st 2025

St. Stephen’s Basilica – 17^th November 2024 – 31st December 2024

Average flight time from UK: 2 hours 15 minutes

6. Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen’s Christmas markets are steeped in beautiful illuminations, and hygge (a Danish word for coziness). The festive market at Tivoli Gardens is a highlight as it has an amusement park surrounding it, so you can enjoy rides along with stalls offering Danish crafts and foods. The city itself also has colourful houses, canals and historical landmarks to enjoy.

2024 dates include: 

15^th November 2024 – 5^th January 2025

Average flight time from UK: 1 hour 45 minutes

7. Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh’s Christmas market, located in East Princes Street Gardens and West Princes Street Gardens, right under the view of the beautiful Edinburgh Castle. The market features a variety of stalls selling Scottish crafts, foods, and drinks, as well as an ice rink and a Ferris wheel. There are other events that accompany the market like The Castle of Light, which features immersive displays, interactive installations and music at the castle.

2024 dates include: 

15^th November 2024 – 4^th January 2025

Average flight time London to Edinburgh: 1hr 20 minutes

8. Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn’s Christmas market, set in the historic Town Hall Square was awarded the title of Best Christmas Market in Europe in 2019. The market is known for its beautiful medieval setting, traditional Estonian crafts, and delicious foods like black pudding and gingerbread. The highlight is the towering Christmas tree, which has been a tradition since 1441 – that’s nearly 600 years!

2024 dates include: 

22^nd November 2024 – 27^th December 2024

Average flight time from UK: 2 hrs 50 minutes

(All dates and timings should be checked prior to booking).

The Importance of Travel Insurance

When planning your festive getaway, don’t forget to book your travel insurance. Here’s why it’s essential:

• Medical Emergencies: Travel insurance can cover medical expenses if you fall ill or get injured while abroad, ensuring you receive the necessary care without the financial burden.
• Trip Cancellations: If your trip gets cancelled or interrupted due to unforeseen circumstances, travel insurance can help you recover non-refundable costs.
• Lost or Stolen Belongings: Travel insurance can provide compensation for lost, stolen, or damaged luggage and personal items, giving you peace of mind.

Whether you’re looking for unique gifts, delicious treats, or simply want to soak up the festive atmosphere, these European Christmas markets offer something for everyone. Plan your visit, buy your travel insurance, and experience the magic of the holiday season in some of Europe’s most beautiful cities.

Need a bit of warming up? Check out our round up of 5 of the best winter sun holidays.

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