30 best Christmas markets in Europe, from Antwerp to Zagreb

The Christkindlesmarkt is all about tradition (with origins tracing back to the 16th century), located in the Old Town of Nuremberg, or “the little city of wood and cloth,” complete with wooden, red, and white coloured booths in front of the steps to the grandiose Church of our Lady, or ‘Frauenkirche.” The booths are adorned with homemade Christmas decorations, many of which sell warm, regionally classic gingerbread and “Spekulatius” almond cookies. There are a handful of self-guided tours recommended by the Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt organisers, all showcasing the heart of the souvenirs and products crafted by locals with creative minds, as well as indulging in even more traditional festive delights including “gluhwein” (a hot, spiced red wine) and the city’s famous bratwurst sausages. You can also kick it old school and ride through the city on a stagecoach tour with live, nostalgic Christmas music by the coachman on his trumpet. An opening ceremony kicks off the start of the season, to which the “Nuremberg Christkind,” a symbol of the Christmas Market for decades (who is formally elected every two years by a jury from the media, associations, and municipal offices) recites a now famous Christmas speech in a white and golden dress. Nearby, the main market in Hauptmarkt is the Sister Cities Market. Here, 12 of Nuremberg’s “sister cities” (selected cities from around the globe) offer a taste of international traditions, bringing in crafts and goods from their towns. There’s also a separate children’s market, or “Kinderwihnacht” for more fun and games – including a carousel and steam train rides. It’s undoubtedly one of the oldest and the world’s most well-known Christmas Markets for a reason.

Where to stay: Le Méridien Grand Hotel Nuremberg is the city’s most in-demand luxury hideout, where the super-glitzy Atelier Bar is the perfect place for a post-market nightcap. For a group escape, it’s easy to see why Studio Ludwig is an Airbnb guest favourite.

• Location(s): Central square of Hauptmarkt; Sister Cities Market; Hans-Sachs-Platz in Nuremburg, Germany
• Dates: 28 November 2025 – 24 December 2025
• Nearest airport: Nuremberg Airport