Christmas markets in Europe

Berlin

2017 Market dates: 27 Nov - 26 Dec

The German capital’s 60-plus Christmas markets will have something for everyone. From the spectacular WeihnachtsZauber at the Gendarmenmarkt, one of the most popular markets in Berlin, to the wonderful Winter World at Potsdamer Platz. Head to Alexanderplatz Christmas market to see Europe’s largest Christmas pyramid – all under the gaze of the famous TV Tower.

Flights from £41 each-way

Flights + 2 nights hotel from £134 pp

Prague

2017 Market dates: 2 Dec - 6 Jan

Christmas markets in Prague are some of the most beautiful in Europe, and the well-known markets are held in the Old Town Square (Staroměstské náměstí) and the Havelska market (Havelské tržiště). You’ll find the national Christmas tree in the former, amid beautiful baroque architecture. While Havelska market is the oldest in Prague, dating back to the 13th century.

Flights from £38 each-way

Flights + 2 nights hotel from £108 pp

Budapest

2017 Market dates: 10 Nov - 01 Jan

Christmas markets in Budapest are spellbinding, with the oldest and most captivating being on Vörösmarty Square – but don’t miss a trip to the market outside St Stephen’s Basilica too. Gifts like the handmade wooden toys are made in Hungary, ensuring their quality. As autumn becomes winter, you’ll be very glad of the warming mulled wine and cinnamon chimney cakes.

Flights from £44 each-way

Flights + 2 nights hotel from £130 pp

Salzburg

2017 Market dates: TBC

The stunning Cathedral Square is the location for Salzburg’s Christmas market – and with its traditional stalls under the twinkling stars, you’ll find a charming atmosphere like no other. Search out festive cookies, crafts and the unmissable Salzburg school choirs singing popular hymns and carols. Head to Residence Square on a Saturday for the local Turmblasen brass bands.

Zurich

2017 Market dates: 23 Nov - 23 Dec

Christmas markets in Zurich are enchanting, from the 50 foot Christmas tree to the city’s oldest market in the picturesque Niederdorf Quarter. There are several to choose from, like the huge market at Sechseläutenplatz next to the Opera House or the singing tree (tiers of a children’s choir) at the Werdmühleplatz. Grab a mug of hot chocolate and enjoy the festivities for yourself.

Flights from £43 each-way

Flights + 2 nights hotel from £157 pp

Munich

2017 Market dates: 27 Nov - 24 Dec

Munich’s Christmas markets are very traditional, and the market on Marienplatz (St Mary’s Square) is the biggest and the oldest, going back to the 14th century. Revellers can enjoy classical Christmas music and hymns from the balcony of Munich’s Rathaus (town hall) each evening, alongside traditional gingerbread and Bavarian cakes.

Flights from £45 each-way

Flights + 2 nights hotel from £151 pp

Frankfurt

2017 Market dates: 27 Nov - 22 Dec

Venture to Frankfurt’s Old Town to find the traditional Christmas markets, illuminated by thousands of fairy lights. The scents and smells – gingerbread, mulled wine and roasting chestnuts – of the festive season fill the air. Explore the market, especially the 300-year old timber-framed Honey House, assembled every year offering honey-based goods and even delicious honey wine.

Flights from £51 each-way

Flights + 2 nights hotel from £144 pp

Reykjavik

2017 Market dates: TBC

The most northerly capital city in our list, Reykjavík offers arctic festivities at Yule Town on Ingólfstorg Square throughout the Christmas period. With a wide selection of gifts, including handmade knick-knacks and delicious Icelandic treats. Or at the market at Heidmork, you will find designers and craftsmen selling their wares, but only on a few select days, guaranteeing a bespoke item.