Exploring the Magic of European Christmas Markets: Opening and Closing Dates

By Travel Content Creator and chief Gluewien taster Mr Plane Guy

As the holiday season approaches, the enchanting charm of European Christmas markets comes to life. These festive markets, with their twinkling lights, delicious treats, and unique crafts, offer an unforgettable experience. From cozy wooden stalls to the scent of mulled wine wafting through the air, each market has its own magic. Here’s a guide to some of the most popular Christmas markets across Europe, along with their opening and closing dates to help you plan your festive adventure.

1. Christkindlmarkt, Nuremberg, Germany

One of the oldest and most famous Christmas markets, the Nuremberg Christkindlmarkt is a must-visit. It features traditional wooden stalls selling handcrafted gifts, gingerbread, and the famous Nuremberg sausages. (Unless your vegetarian or flexitarian like me)

Opening Date: November 24, 2024

Closing Date: December 24, 2025

2.Copenhagen, Denmark (Tivoli Gardens)

Copenhagen's Christmas markets are a delightful blend of festive cheer and Scandinavian charm. One of the most popular markets is located in Tivoli Gardens, where twinkling lights adorn the amusement park, creating a magical atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy traditional Danish treats like æbleskiver (puffed pancakes) and gløgg (mulled wine.)

Here is my guide to 24 Copenhagen and here is a great cost effective place to stay in Copenhagen.

Opening Date: November 17 , 2024

Closing Date: January 01, 2025

3. Strasbourg Christmas Market, France

Known as the "Capital of Christmas," Strasbourg’s market boasts over 300 stalls, offering a range of local delicacies, crafts, and festive decorations. The breathtaking backdrop of the Strasbourg Cathedral adds to the market’s charm.

Opening Date: November 24, 2024

Closing Date: December 24, 2025

4. Prague Christmas Markets, Czech Republic

Prague's markets are split between the Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square, both brimming with holiday cheer. Indulge in trdelník (a traditional pastry) and warm mulled wine as you soak in the festive atmosphere.

Opening Date: December 2, 2024

Closing Date: January 6, 2025

5. Berlin Christmas Markets, Germany

Berlin hosts numerous Christmas markets, each with its own unique flair. Popular ones include the market at Gendarmenmarkt and the nostalgic market at Spandau. Enjoy a variety of foods, drinks, and handmade gifts.

Opening Date: November 27, 2024

Closing Date: December 31, 2025

6. Brussels Winter Wonders, Belgium

Brussels’ Christmas market is a festive wonderland featuring a dazzling light show, an ice rink, and a Ferris wheel. Explore stalls offering Belgian chocolates, waffles, and crafts, all set against the stunning Grand Place.

Opening Date: December 1, 2024

Closing Date: January 7, 2025

Here is my guide to 24 hours in Brussels

7. Stockholm Christmas Market, Sweden

The oldest Christmas market in Sweden takes place in Gamla Stan, Stockholm's old town. With its picturesque cobblestone streets, the market is filled with traditional Swedish crafts, glögg (mulled wine), and festive treats.

Opening Date: November 18, 2024

Closing Date: December 23, 2025

8. Edinburgh Christmas Market, Scotland

Edinburgh's Christmas Market is a vibrant celebration set in the heart of the city. Visitors can enjoy a magical atmosphere with festive stalls offering artisan crafts, delicious Scottish treats, and warm drinks, all set against the stunning backdrop of Edinburgh’s historic architecture and the iconic castle. I visitied Edinburgh last Christmas and I have to give it 10 out of 10!

Here is my full guide to Edinburgh Christmas Market

Also this is an amazing hotel to stay at for the Edinburgh Christmas Markets The Roseate.

Here is a Travel Tip

if your heading to Edinburghs Christmas Market's,

Don't forget to follow!

Opening Date: November 17 , 2024

Closing Date: January 7, 2025

9. Vienna Christmas Market, Austria

Vienna’s Christmas markets are renowned for their stunning settings, especially in front of the City Hall (Rathaus). Enjoy hot chocolate, roasted chestnuts, and beautiful artisanal crafts while strolling through the twinkling lights.

Opening Date: November 17, 2024

Closing Date: December 26, 2025

10. Brugge's Christmas Market, Belgium

Bruges' Christmas market is a picturesque winter wonderland set against the backdrop of the city’s medieval architecture. Running from late November to early January, the market features charming wooden stalls selling Belgian chocolates, handcrafted gifts, and seasonal treats like mulled wine and warm waffles. The enchanting atmosphere is enhanced by twinkling lights and festive decorations, making it a perfect spot to soak in the holiday spirit while exploring the cobblestone streets of this fairy-tale town.

Now I wasn't a big fan of Brugge's, check out this post! but I think it might be spectacular at Christmas!

Opening Date: November 24, 2024

Closing Date: January 01, 2025

Tips for Visiting Christmas Markets

• Plan Ahead: Check the specific dates and times as they may vary each year.

• Dress Warmly: Winter temperatures can be chilly, so wrap up to fully enjoy the outdoor atmosphere.

• Try Local Treats: Don’t miss out on regional specialties—each market has its own unique offerings.

Check out flights with Trip.com they have some amazing cheap flights to European Cities, so far this year I've flown to Morocco for £13, Rome for £20 Amsterdam for £25 and Paris for £17!

Other Christmas Market Dates in Europe

Vienna, Austria - Nov 16 to Dec 24

Strasbourg, France - Nov 27 to Dec 30

Prague, Czech Republic - 30 Nov to Jan 6

Berlin (Gendarmenmarkt), Germany - Nov 25 to Dec 31

Cologne, Germany - Nov 18 to Dec 23

Copenhagen,Denmark (Tivoli Gardens) - Nov 17 to Jan 1

Budapest, Hungary - Nov 17 to Jan 1

Munich, Germany - Nov 27 to Dec 24

Tallinn, Estonia - Nov 21 to Dec 26

Krakow, Poland - Nov 29 to Dec 26

Dresden, Germany (Striezelmarkt) - Nov 27 to Dec 24

Stockholm, Sweden (Skansen) - Nov 30 to Dec 23

London, UK (Hyde Park) - Nov 21 to Jan 5

Edinburgh, Scotland - Nov 17 to Jan 5

Zurich, Switzerland - Nov 23 to Dec 24

Gothenburg, Sweden (Liseberg) - Nov 17 to Dec 23

Helsinki, Finland - Dec 1 to Dec 22

Luxembourg City, Luxembourg - Nov 23 to Dec 24

Bruges, Belgium - Nov 24 to Jan 1

Riga, Latvia - Dec 1 to Jan 6

Amsterdam - 15 Nov - 5th Jan

Visiting Christmas markets in Europe is a delightful way to celebrate the holiday season. Whether you’re savoring traditional treats or shopping for unique gifts, these markets provide a festive experience that captures the essence of Christmas. It is acceptable time of year to have baileys hot chocolate for breakfast!

Mark your calendar, grab your warmest coat, and get ready for exploring the magic of European Christmas markets: Opening and Closing Dates

Hello I’m Paul a Travel and flight expert, I spent most of my career working in and around planes with 15 years providing top-notch service with a London-based airline. I became an expert in travel after soaring across the Atlantic up to 10 times a month!

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