This year's Christmas markets in Europe 2025

Glittery lights, the smell of burnt almonds and snow that makes you dizzy. Elves and nutcrackers. There are many things that create Christmas magic, but visiting a market full of crafts, smells and tastes is the absolute best way to find the Christmas spirit. FOREX collects its favorite markets.

1: Cologne, Germany November 17 – January 4

Christmas tree decorated with red baubles and lights in the foreground at an atmospheric Christmas market with decorated market stalls in the background.

The 25-meter-high Christmas tree with thousands of twinkling lights in front of the magnificent Cologne Cathedral brings the holiday spirit to life. But Cologne’s seven Christmas markets all have their own style and charm – from maritime to LGBTQI+ – so there’s plenty to explore.

Buy some traditional German crafts or delicious pastries like stollen and lebkuchen.

Tip: Bring cash (EUR) and cards. Cash is recommended for smaller purchases.


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2: Prague, Czech Republic
November 26 – January 6

Christmas tree and festive stalls at Prague’s Old Town Square with the Church of Our Lady before Týn in the background at night

Prague’s Christmas markets spread their magic across the city’s historic center, with the main markets at Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square. Stroll among beautiful stalls selling Czech crafts, Christmas decorations and vanilla-scented trdelník. The Christmas spirit is enhanced by choir singing under the sparkling Christmas tree.

A walk across Charles Bridge with the city's winter skyline and Prague Castle in the background is a must.

Tip: Cards are widely accepted, but cash (CZK) is needed for small purchases.


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3: Vienna, Austria November 6 – January 6

Crowds enjoying the Vienna Christmas Market at Rathausplatz with illuminated arches, decorations, and the city hall in the background.

In November, Vienna transforms into an idyllic Christmas town with beautifully decorated streets, sparkling lights and 10 fantastic Christmas markets.

One of the most famous, Christkindlmarkt am Rathausplatz, offers fantastic light installations when the sun goes down over the 150 stalls. Take in the spectacle with gingerbread and mulled wine.

Gourmets take the tram to Schönbrunn Palace where small-scale wine producers, glassblowers and fine carpenters offer that little something extra.

Tip: Larger stalls take cards, but small purchases may require cash (EUR).


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4: Strasbourg, France November 26 – December 24

“A narrow street in Strasbourg decorated with Christmas lights, ornaments, and festive shopfront displays at night.

With over two million visitors annually, Strasbourg rightly calls itself the Capitale de Noël, the capital of Christmas. The Christkindelsmärik Christmas market dates back to the 16th century, and the scent of clove and star anise-scented vin chaud wafts over the picturesque squares.

Shop for crafts, decorations and local delicacies from over 300 stalls beautifully framed by half-timbered houses and sparkling lights. Strasbourg is the epitome of European Christmas spirit.

Tip: Cash (EUR) and cards are accepted. Some card payments may have minimum amounts.


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5: Poznań, Poland November 21 – January 6

Poznań Christmas Market with light displays, market stalls, and historic buildings illuminated at dusk.

At Poznań’s largest Christmas market, Betlejem poznańskie, you’re guaranteed to get into the Christmas spirit. Here you’ll find all the treats associated with Christmas in wintry-lit settings.

Ride the Ferris wheel, carousel and ice skates. Or take in a varied stage programme – sing-alongs are promised!

Tip: Many stalls accept cards, but have Polish złoty (PLN) on hand for local vendors who only accept cash.


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6: Edinburgh, Scotland 15 November – 4 January

Edinburgh Christmas Market at night with a large illuminated Ferris wheel and festive lights in the city centre.

The Edinburgh Christmas Market takes place in the city centre, with highlights at Princes Street Gardens and Edinburgh Castle. Over 100 market stalls filled with Scottish crafts and delicacies such as shortbread and haggis create a festive atmosphere while a mulled cider warms the winter chill.

Visit the Royal Mile and Arthur's Seat for fantastic views of the city in its winter splendour.

Tip: Bring your card, the official Christmas market venues are cashless. A small amount of British pounds (GBP) is recommended for a smooth experience elsewhere in the city.


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7: Copenhagen, Denmark
November 14 – January 4

Boats decorated with Christmas lights reflected in the water at Nyhavn harbour in Copenhagen during winter

The Danish capital is home to several Christmas markets, but welcoming Christmas at Tivoli Gardens is a classic Copenhagen tradition. The park is transformed into a winter wonderland with stalls selling festive treats and decorations.

Eat æbleskiver and pebernødder for extra Christmas cheer. The carousels are spinning and Santa is home.

Tip: Cards are widely accepted, but it’s wise to have some cash (DKK) on hand for small purchases.


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