Best Christmas Markets in Europe

New Year holidays take on a special atmosphere in Europe's cities — illuminated squares, the scent of mulled wine, and traditional food come together to create an unforgettable mood. Europe has many Christmas markets, each with its own character and traditions. Below you'll find six of the most famous destinations for Christmas markets and holiday magic — from France to Austria, Denmark, and Finland.

Strasbourg — The "Capital of Christmas" in France

Strasbourg calls itself the "Capital of Christmas" (Capitale de Noël), and it truly is one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe — its history dates back to 1570. The market spreads across the entire old town, around Strasbourg Cathedral and Place Kléber, where one of Europe's largest and most famous Christmas trees is set up every year. At the market you can taste Alsatian specialties — bredele cookies, mulled wine, and flammekueche — and it's also worth strolling through the old half-timbered houses of La Petite France.

Where to stay: Hotel Calamus - 4 Sterne Superior is located in the old town, within walking distance of the cathedral.

Vienna — A Christmas Market at Rathausplatz

Vienna's Christkindlmarkt is one of the most famous and historic in Europe — its tradition dates back to 1298. The market is held in front of the Rathaus (city hall), where a giant, illuminated Christmas tree stands and an ice-skating rink is set up. You can also taste Viennese sweets and mulled wine here. Besides the market, you can enjoy ice skating on the Wiener Eistraum — Vienna's famous ice trail that winds through the city center.

Where to stay: Hotel Urania is a family-run hotel with uniquely themed rooms, near the Danube Canal and well connected to the city center by tram and metro.

Prague — A Christmas Market in the Old Town Square

Prague's Christmas market is held in the Old Town Square, against the backdrop of the Astronomical Clock and a giant Christmas tree. The market is known for the traditional Czech pastry trdelník and mulled wine, and the illuminated square is considered one of the most atmospheric spots in Europe in winter. It's worth climbing the Old Town Hall Tower for a bird's-eye view of the market, and catching traditional folk music and dance performances held throughout the season.

Where to stay: Deminka Palace is a hotel just a few minutes' walk from the Old Town Square.

Budapest — A Christmas Market and Thermal Baths

Budapest's Christmas market is held at Vörösmarty Square, while an additional light-and-music show takes place at St. Stephen's Basilica. At the market you can try traditional Hungarian kürtőskalács (chimney cake) and mulled wine, and afterward it's worth visiting the city's famous thermal baths, such as Széchenyi. At the market itself, you can join craft workshops and skate at the ice rink set up on Vörösmarty Square.

Where to stay: Full Moon Budapest is a design hotel near the Parliament building and the Danube, centrally located and close to public transport.

Copenhagen — A Christmas Market in Tivoli Gardens

Copenhagen's Christmas market is special because it's held in Tivoli Gardens — one of the world's oldest amusement parks, decorated with thousands of lights in winter. There's also a Christmas market at the historic Nyhavn harbor, where you can feel the Danish "hygge" atmosphere against the backdrop of colorful houses. In Tivoli Gardens you can also enjoy festive rides and an ice rink, while fireworks light up the night sky during the season.

Where to stay: Ibsens Hotel is located in the center, close to Tivoli Gardens.

Lapland — Christmas Magic in Finland

Lapland is Finland's northern region and one of the most popular Christmas destinations in the world — it's here, in Rovaniemi, that you'll find Santa Claus Village, sitting right on the Arctic Circle. You can meet Santa Claus himself, cross the Arctic Circle, and spend time watching the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). Highlights include reindeer and husky sleigh rides, snowmobile tours, and a visit to an ice hotel.

Where to stay: Arctic Circle Holiday Homes II offers self-catering apartments with a private sauna, just a short walk from Santa Claus Village — a great option for families or groups.

Whichever Christmas market you choose — Strasbourg's title as the Capital of Christmas, Vienna's or Prague's regal atmosphere, Budapest's thermal waters, Copenhagen's Nordic coziness, or Lapland's Arctic Christmas magic — with Travelfy you can book flights, hotels, and transfers all in one place, so you can focus on the trip