Christmas Market Breaks & Holidays 2025
Take your winter break in Europe and discover why it really is the most wonderful time of the year. With the smell of cinnamon in the air and the sound of the choirs singing carols, Christmas market breaks are the best way to get yourself into the festive spirit. Sip on warming mulled wine, enjoy a sneaky mince pie or two, and browse the tinsel-tousled stalls for gifts for friends and family.
Aside from choosing what you’re going to buy for whom (make sure you check out our top tips for saving money at Christmas markets), the hardest decision you’ll have to make is which Christmas market you’re going to visit. Here’s our guide to the best Christmas markets 2025 has to offer.
And if you still need more inspo, check out these Christmas holiday breaks!
Last minute Christmas market breaks
Krakow Christmas Markets
Krakow Christmas market is always popular and often remains open into January. With a dusting of snow almost guaranteed, you’ll feel as though you really are walking through a winter wonderland. Well known as one of the best Christmas markets in Europe, with plenty of tempting shops nearby too, this is a spectacular place to shop for presents. Expect snow-crusted spires and buildings draped in twinkling fairy lights, while in the market you can enjoy the spectacle of the world-famous Christmas Crib Contest.

Hotel Alexander
Poland, Krakow
1095 reviews

Best Western Plus Krakow Old Town
Poland, Krakow
1361 reviews

Grand Ascot Hotel
Poland, Krakow
678 reviews

New Port Hotel
Poland, Krakow
30 reviews

Antique Apartments - Plac Szczepanski
Poland, Krakow
1976 reviews

Hotel Unicus Krakow Old Town - Destigo Hotels
Poland, Krakow
817 reviews

Qubus Hotel Krakow
Poland, Krakow
2104 reviews

Radisson Blu Hotel, Krakow
Poland, Krakow
3973 reviews

Hotel Santi
Poland, Krakow
885 reviews

Holiday Inn Krakow City Centre by IHG
Poland, Krakow
1659 reviews

Golden Tulip Krakow City Center
Poland, Krakow
1129 reviews

Aparthotel Pergamin
Poland, Krakow
681 reviews

Wyndham Grand Krakow Old Town
Poland, Krakow
648 reviews

Hotel M29
Poland, Krakow
258 reviews

Wyspianski Hotel
Poland, Krakow
2046 reviews
Budapest Christmas Markets
Budapest boasts two Christmas markets: one held in Vorosmarty Square and the other by the Basilica. Both are set among beautiful architecture, adding that little extra bit of magic to the proceedings. They’re also famous for sumptuous street food and live Christmas music. For something extra special, head to the Basilica market as dark falls, where you’ll be treated to a spectacular laser display on the side of this impressive church.

Buda Castle Hotel
Hungary, Budapest
1231 reviews

Grand Jules Boat Hotel Budapest
Hungary, Budapest
275 reviews

Prestige Hotel Budapest
Hungary, Budapest
3622 reviews

Charm Hotel Budapest (formerly Boutique Hotel Budapest)
Hungary, Budapest
1326 reviews

Hotel Museum Budapest
Hungary, Budapest
2878 reviews

Continental Hotel Budapest
Hungary, Budapest
5893 reviews

City Hotel Matyas
Hungary, Budapest
1013 reviews

Lord Residence
Hungary, Budapest
552 reviews

Hotel Clark Budapest - Adults Only
Hungary, Budapest
2029 reviews

Corinthia Budapest
Hungary, Budapest
9704 reviews

D8 Hotel
Hungary, Budapest
1021 reviews

Impulso Fashion Hotel
Hungary, Budapest
271 reviews

Novotel Budapest Danube
Hungary, Budapest
2333 reviews

Mercure Budapest Castle Hill
Hungary, Budapest
168 reviews

Hotel Moments Budapest
Hungary, Budapest
4706 reviews
Berlin Christmas Markets
Christmas shopping breaks don’t mean you’re limited to just one market – Berlin has over 50! Hop from market to market or immerse yourself in the one nearest to your hotel; the choice is yours. Berlin offers the chance to sample some delicious, festive food, such as Bratwurst, sweet, flaky pastries and local Gluhwein. You’ll find plenty of Christmas markets, both large and small, in which to hunt out that perfect gift for that special someone.

Park Inn by Radisson Berlin Alexanderplatz
Germany, Berlin
12635 reviews

Adina Apartment Hotel Berlin Hackescher Markt
Germany, Berlin
5031 reviews

ibis Berlin Mitte
Germany, Berlin
2015 reviews

H4 Hotel Berlin Alexanderplatz
Germany, Berlin
2865 reviews

Hilton Berlin
Germany, Berlin
6396 reviews

Leonardo Royal Hotel Berlin Alexanderplatz
Germany, Berlin
2748 reviews

Holiday Inn Express Berlin - Alexanderplatz by IHG
Germany, Berlin
639 reviews

The Social Hub Berlin
Germany, Berlin
450 reviews

Hotel Berlin Potsdamer Platz by Leonardo Hotels
Germany, Berlin
1507 reviews

Best Western Hotel Kantstrasse Berlin
Germany, Berlin
444 reviews

Melia Berlin
Germany, Berlin
7209 reviews

Best Western Hotel am Spittelmarkt Berlin
Germany, Berlin
2176 reviews

Hotel Riu Plaza Berlin
Germany, Berlin
1889 reviews

Classik Hotel Alexander Plaza
Germany, Berlin
89 reviews

TITANIC Comfort Berlin Mitte
Germany, Berlin
2089 reviews
Prague Christmas Markets
It doesn’t get much more festive than drinking mulled wine and listening to carols being sung in Wenceslas Square. Book your Christmas weekend breaks to Prague, and you’ll find there are plenty of markets, although this one tends to be the most popular. As well as steaming mulled wine and traditional Czechian food such as ‘braided cake’, this is the place to come for traditional, handmade toys. You’ll find offerings from carpenters and blacksmiths, as well as delicate gifts made from glass.

Iron Gate Hotel & Suites Prague by BHG
Czech Republic, Prague
1670 reviews

Royal Court Hotel
Czech Republic, Prague
1202 reviews

Hotel Bologna
Czech Republic, Prague
352 reviews

Don Giovanni Hotel Prague - Great Hotels of the World
Czech Republic, Prague
3639 reviews

Grand Majestic Hotel Prague
Czech Republic, Prague
4882 reviews

Post 120 Suites
Czech Republic, Prague

Central Hotel Prague
Czech Republic, Prague
1115 reviews

Metropolitan Old Town Hotel - Czech Leading Hotels
Czech Republic, Prague
1906 reviews

Grandium Hotel Prague
Czech Republic, Prague
3273 reviews

Panorama Hotel Prague
Czech Republic, Prague
2527 reviews

Michelangelo Grand Hotel Prague
Czech Republic, Prague
491 reviews

Grandior Hotel Prague
Czech Republic, Prague
6072 reviews

Hotel Élite Prague
Czech Republic, Prague
1292 reviews

Green Garden Hotel
Czech Republic, Prague
1599 reviews

Hotel Royal Prague
Czech Republic, Prague
401 reviews
Vienna Christmas Markets
Vienna really comes into its own at Christmas time. Christmas markets are a long-standing tradition in Vienna, dating back as far as the 13th century. Although there are plenty of markets to enjoy, if you really want to get into the swing of things, set some time aside to visit the one held on Rathausplatz, in front of the City Hall. As well as over 100 stalls, there's an enchanting ice skating trail, fairground rides and magical lights in the neighbouring park.

Leonardo Hotel Vienna Hauptbahnhof
Austria, Vienna
903 reviews

Hotel Stefanie
Austria, Vienna
2744 reviews

Austria Classic Hotel Wien
Austria, Vienna
2356 reviews

Steigenberger Hotel Herrenhof
Austria, Vienna
4541 reviews

Ambassador Hotel
Austria, Vienna
851 reviews

Best Western Plus Amedia Wien
Austria, Vienna
1161 reviews

Hilton Vienna Plaza
Austria, Vienna
2712 reviews

ibis Wien Mariahilf
Austria, Vienna
2732 reviews

Hotel Am Konzerthaus - MGallery Collection
Austria, Vienna
301 reviews

Ruby Lissi Hotel Vienna
Austria, Vienna
2111 reviews

Sans Souci Vienna
Austria, Vienna
2789 reviews

Living Hotel Kaiser Franz Joseph
Austria, Vienna
719 reviews

The Social Hub Vienna
Austria, Vienna
821 reviews

Austria Trend Hotel Europa Wien
Austria, Vienna
1005 reviews

ibis Styles Wien Messe Prater
Austria, Vienna
259 reviews
Cologne Christmas Markets
A great choice for winter city breaks, Cologne’s Christmas markets are renowned for their festive spirit, sumptuous street food and live music. Climb the tower of the Gothic cathedral for breathtaking views of the seasonal scene and the city’s panorama. If you're searching for something truly extraordinary, make your way to Heinzels Winter Fairytale, with its ice skating rink and handicrafts stalls. The kids can look out for the brownies – these fairytale characters have a reputation for secretly helping out lazy crafters at night. In Cologne it’s socially acceptable to drink many glasses of Kölsch (the local beer) – as the traditional serving size is only 200ml.

V8 Hotel Köln at MOTORWORLD
Germany, Cologne
90 reviews

Leonardo Boutique Hotel Düsseldorf
Germany, Düsseldorf
97 reviews

Adina Apartment Hotel Cologne
Germany, Cologne
271 reviews

Holiday Inn Express Köln-Mülheim by IHG
Germany, Cologne
485 reviews

Pullman Cologne
Germany, Cologne
2399 reviews

Leonardo Hotel Köln
Germany, Cologne
645 reviews

Mercure Hotel Köln Belfortstraße
Germany, Cologne
613 reviews

Wasserturm Hotel Cologne, Curio Collection by Hilton
Germany, Cologne
169 reviews

Flandrischer Hof
Germany, Cologne
615 reviews

Hotel Indigo Düsseldorf - Victoriaplatz by IHG
Germany, Düsseldorf
762 reviews

CityClass Hotel Alter Markt
Germany, Cologne
688 reviews

Hilton Cologne
Germany, Cologne
330 reviews

Maritim Hotel Köln
Germany, Cologne
1599 reviews

Steigenberger Hotel Köln
Germany, Cologne
1907 reviews

Holiday Inn Express Düsseldorf – Hauptbahnhof by IHG
Germany, Düsseldorf
75 reviews
Copenhagen Christmas Markets
Copenhagen, the charismatic Danish capital, is a symphony of enchantment year-round, but during the Christmas season, it oozes “hygge”. Watch illuminated kayaks parade down the canals, glide on the ice at Broens, or do like the locals, and dip into the icy waters of the harbour. The main events of course, are the Christmas markets. Tivoli Gardens is a must-see, decorated with over 70,000 baubles and 1,000 illuminated trees, fun fair rides and 60 market stalls. Julemarked on Højbro Plads is the popular German market in the Old Town. And the one in Christiana is as unique as this alternative-living freetown.

Hotel Mayfair
Denmark, Copenhagen
2003 reviews

Tivoli Hotel
Denmark, Copenhagen
6668 reviews

Absalon Hotel
Denmark, Copenhagen
4890 reviews

Ascot Hotel
Denmark, Copenhagen
2199 reviews

Savoy Hotel
Denmark, Copenhagen
1178 reviews

Scandic Palace Hotel
Denmark, Copenhagen
3506 reviews

Andersen Boutique Hotel
Denmark, Copenhagen
4293 reviews

Comfort Hotel Vesterbro
Denmark, Copenhagen
2074 reviews

Admiral Hotel Copenhagen
Denmark, Copenhagen
6812 reviews

The Square
Denmark, Copenhagen
4002 reviews

Villa Copenhagen
Denmark, Copenhagen

Imperial Hotel
Denmark, Copenhagen
13 reviews

71 Nyhavn Hotel
Denmark, Copenhagen
1917 reviews

Scandic Kødbyen
Denmark, Copenhagen
660 reviews

Hotel Hans
Denmark, Copenhagen
1451 reviews
Bratislava Christmas Markets
If you love a quiet old-timey town, you’ll adore Bratislava. Nestled in the heart of Slovakia's charming capital, the Christmas markets may be small, but they’re oh-so-cosy, easy to get around, and perfect for families! The city’s medieval streets are illuminated by a thousand twinkling lights, and lined with stalls selling unique gifts and Slovak woollies. Plus, your taste buds are in for a treat! Try the traditional Lokša (savoury pancakes), and classic poppy strudels – all washed down with a boozy grog (spicy rum). Chin chin! While you’re here, make sure to visit the impressive castle, offering breathtaking views of the Old Town.

Crowne Plaza Bratislava by IHG
Slovakia, Bratislava
1054 reviews

ibis Bratislava Centrum
Slovakia, Bratislava
2011 reviews

Hotel Saffron
Slovakia, Bratislava
477 reviews

Clarion Congress Hotel Bratislava
Slovakia, Bratislava
2170 reviews

Mamaison Residence Sulekova Bratislava
Slovakia, Bratislava
547 reviews

Hotel ANTARES
Slovakia, Bratislava
157 reviews

Garni hotel Matysak
Slovakia, Bratislava
120 reviews

Vienna House Easy by Wyndham Bratislava
Slovakia, Bratislava
389 reviews
Salzburg Christmas Markets
On the northern fringe of the Alps you'll find the picturesque setting of the beloved film 'The Sound of Music.' Opening on the 1st Sunday of Advent and running through to New Year, Salzburg's Christmas Markets have a unique charm and religious theme, complete with music and readings. The city's also home to the infamous Krampus parades around 6th December, said to scare away evil spirits – a thrillingly novel experience to complement your cosy Christmas shopping trip to Austria! And make sure you try the Mozart marzipans, named after Salzburg's most famous son.

Dorint City-Hotel Salzburg
Austria, Salzburg
1240 reviews

Holiday Inn Salzburg City by IHG
Austria, Salzburg
952 reviews

Villa Carlton - Adults Only
Austria, Salzburg
943 reviews

Leonardo Boutique Hotel Salzburg Gablerbräu
Austria, Salzburg
846 reviews

Best Western Plus Amedia Art Salzburg
Austria, Salzburg
673 reviews

Radisson Blu Hotel Altstadt
Austria, Salzburg
1484 reviews
Nuremberg Christmas Markets
Nuremberg's Christkindlesmarkt dates all the way back to the 16th century and today it’s one of the largest – renowned as one of the best in Germany, in fact! Grasp a mug of glühwein as you discover the beautifully crafted ornaments and toys housed in traditional wooden huts. Let your nose guide you towards the sizzling bratwursts (sausages) and delectable gingerbread treats. You can also explore Nuremberg’s historic walled Old Town - home to a castle and medieval squares. Along the River Pegnitz you’ll find numerous attractive bridges, providing the perfect place to snap a selfie.

Sofitel Munich Bayerpost
Germany, Munich
5143 reviews

Eurostars Park Hotel Maximilian
Germany, Regensburg
458 reviews

H+ Hotel München
Germany, Munich
735 reviews

K+K Hotel am Harras
Germany, Munich
1107 reviews

Ruby Lilly Hotel Munich
Germany, Munich
2663 reviews

Hampton by Hilton Munich City West
Germany, Munich
516 reviews

HYPERION Hotel München
Germany, Munich
184 reviews

Mercure Hotel Muenchen am Olympiapark
Germany, Munich
731 reviews

harry’s home München Moosach hotel & apartments
Germany, Munich
280 reviews

Aparthotel Adagio Access Muenchen City Olympiapark
Germany, Munich
326 reviews

Hotel Bayerischer Hof
Germany, Munich
1910 reviews

Adina Apartment Hotel Nuremberg
Germany, Stein
1287 reviews

H2 Hotel München Messe
Germany, Munich
853 reviews

AMERON Neuschwanstein Alpsee Resort & Spa
Germany, Schwangau
323 reviews

Ibis Styles Muenchen Perlach
Germany, Munich
Basel Christmas Markets
As well as being a melting pot of different cultures, Basel offers a delightful selection of Christmas markets. Head to Barfüsserplatz for handcrafted festive ornaments and gifts, or explore Münsterplatz for a traditional market experience against the backdrop of the majestic Basel Minster, where you'll discover artisanal crafts and seasonal treats. Be sure to explore the city's rich cultural heritage, including the Kunstmuseum (the oldest art collection in the world). And no trip to Switzerland would be complete without sampling the gorgeous chocolates.
Seville Christmas Markets
Spain for Christmas treats, anyone?! This Andalucian gem may not be well known for its festive atmosphere, but it actually boasts several delightful Christmas markets! Head to Feria del Belén for handcrafted nativity figures, while Alameda blends tradition with kid-friendly fun like Disney characters and pony rides. And there are present-buying opportunities galore at the others too, including jewellery, ceramics and wooden toys. While in Seville, don’t miss the chance to visit the stunning Royal Alcázar. And when you need a sweet treat, Confitería La Campana is the go-to place – it’s been serving delicious cakes and sweets since 1885.

Hotel América Sevilla
Spain, Seville
664 reviews

abba Sevilla
Spain, Seville

H10 Casa de la Plata
Spain, Seville
825 reviews

H10 Corregidor Boutique Hotel
Spain, Seville
1393 reviews

Vincci La Rabida Hotel
Spain, Seville
2987 reviews

Casa Romana Hotel Boutique
Spain, Seville
934 reviews

Hotel Sevilla Center
Spain, Seville
3613 reviews

Melia Sevilla
Spain, Seville
5359 reviews

Vincci Molviedro
Spain, Seville
426 reviews

Exe Sevilla Macarena
Spain, Seville
3152 reviews

Las Casas de la Juderia
Spain, Seville
4034 reviews

Hotel Las Casas de El Arenal by Casas y Palacios
Spain, Seville
778 reviews

Hotel Patio de la Alameda
Spain, Seville
913 reviews

Catalonia Santa Justa
Spain, Seville
1189 reviews

Sercotel Las Casas de los Mercaderes
Spain, Seville
824 reviews
Zagreb Christmas Markets
Croatia is not just a summer destination - its capital boasts a fantastic Christmas market scene. Ban Josip Jelačić Square is transformed into a winter wonderland with stalls offering handcrafted goods and regional delicacies. Don’t miss out on the Štrukli (cheese pie) or the local mulled wine recipe. While you're in Zagreb, you must visit the historic Upper Town, home to the famous St Mark’s Church with its colourful roof representing the arms of the Tripartite Kingdom.

Canopy by Hilton Zagreb - City Centre
Croatia, Zagreb
424 reviews

DoubleTree by Hilton Zagreb
Croatia, Zagreb
1641 reviews

Hotel International by Maistra City Vibes
Croatia, Zagreb
999 reviews

Hotel Esplanade Zagreb
Croatia, Zagreb
3858 reviews

Zonar Zagreb by Maistra City Vibes
Croatia, Zagreb
46 reviews

The Westin Zagreb
Croatia, Zagreb
1700 reviews

art’otel Zagreb powered by Radisson Hotels
Croatia, Zagreb
41 reviews

Amadria Park Hotel Capital
Croatia, Zagreb
148 reviews

London Rooms Zagreb Airport
Croatia, Velika Gorica

Doma Zagreb
Croatia, Zagreb
15 reviews
Bruges Christmas Markets
Christmas market breaks to Bruges are especially atmospheric. Rows and rows of houses (which look as though they could have been made from gingerbread) line Market Square (Markt), which as its name suggests, hosts the main market. In addition to a sea of stalls and delicious treats on every corner, there’s usually a huge ice rink where you can practice trying to stay upright. Plus. there are plenty of smaller markets on the smaller, cobbled streets – and don’t forget to sample the delicious Belgian hot chocolate.

Novotel Brugge Centrum
Belgium, Bruges
50 reviews

Martin's Brugge
Belgium, Bruges
3905 reviews

Crowne Plaza Bruges by IHG
Belgium, Bruges
2109 reviews

Grand Hotel Casselbergh Bruges
Belgium, Bruges
5286 reviews

Dukes’ Palace Residence – by Dukes’ Hotel Collection
Belgium, Bruges
2675 reviews

Dukes’ Palace – by Dukes’ Hotel Collection
Belgium, Bruges
4435 reviews

Dukes’ Arches – by Dukes’ Hotel Collection
Belgium, Bruges
1845 reviews

Dukes’ Academie – by Dukes’ Hotel Collection
Belgium, Bruges
3514 reviews

Hotel Acacia
Belgium, Bruges
1157 reviews

Hotel de Castillion
Belgium, Bruges
306 reviews

Hotel Aragon
Belgium, Bruges
1725 reviews

ibis Styles Brugge Centrum
Belgium, Bruges
6 reviews

Bryghia Hotel
Belgium, Bruges
611 reviews

Hotel 't Putje
Belgium, Bruges
330 reviews
Gdansk Christmas Markets
Gdansk, the jewel of Poland's Baltic coast with its colourful facades, cobblestone streets, and seaside location, is a stunning backdrop for Christmas market breaks. The city's medieval gates and walls are ablaze with festive lights, leading to the fairy tale stalls in Targ Węglowy (Coal Market Square) and spilling into the surrounding streets. Ride the Venetian carousel, browse the famous amber jewellery and Baltic textiles, trace rings on the ice rink, meet Saint Nick, and warm up with a traditional Polish hot choccy. Plus, don’t miss the chance to see beautiful Neptune's Fountain and the towering St. Mary’s Church.

Hilton Gdansk
Poland, Gdansk
2392 reviews

Puro Gdańsk Stare Miasto
Poland, Gdansk
2311 reviews

Hotel Admiral
Poland, Gdansk
401 reviews

IBB Hotel Gdansk
Poland, Gdansk
318 reviews

Hotel Sadova
Poland, Gdansk
772 reviews

ARCHE Dwór Uphagena Gdańsk
Poland, Gdansk
64 reviews

HOTEL NUMBER ONE BY GRANO Gdańsk - GRANO LIFE Gdańsk SPA & Wellness
Poland, Gdansk
1291 reviews

Novotel Gdansk Centrum
Poland, Gdansk
1179 reviews

Radisson Blu Hotel, Gdansk
Poland, Gdansk
1822 reviews

Holiday Inn Gdansk - City Centre by IHG
Poland, Gdansk
181 reviews

Stay inn Hotel Gdansk
Poland, Gdansk
402 reviews

MONTOWNIA Lofts & Experience
Poland, Gdansk