Visiting a Christmas market is one of the most popular activities to do during the Christmas season. Walking around the markets can be a magical experience for everyone to enjoy! It is the perfect blend of great food, fun stalls, unique bars and beautiful scenery.
While you may be familiar with some of the UK’s biggest Christmas markets, such as Manchester, London and Edinburgh, what are considered to be the best Christmas markets across the rest of Europe? We at Quidco have got you covered with some of the best Christmas markets in Europe 2022.
European Christmas markets
Budapest, Hungary
Named ‘The Advent Feast at the Basilica’, Budapest’s uniquely beautiful Christmas fair hosts one of the best Christmas markets in the whole of Europe. It was voted the ‘Most beautiful Christmas market in Europe’ in 2020 and 2022, and it is definitely worth the hype!
It hosts an eccentric festive atmosphere with over 120 domestic craft exhibitors and plenty of authentic food stalls. Visitors can also see the spectacular light show that is accompanied by amazing musical performances from local bands. There are a variety of different things you can see or do while at the Feast, such as visiting the interactive selfie-point, the 12-metre-tall Christmas tree, the manger of Bethlehem, and the skating rink that guarantees fun for all ages.
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Basel, Switzerland
Often described as Switzerland's most beautiful city, Basel is host to one of the most unique Christmas markets in Europe. The warm Christmas lighting that covers the city’s old town during this time gives it a magical feel and is truly a sight to behold. The Basel Christmas markets were voted the best in Europe in 2021.
There is a certain charm about the Basel Christmas markets that other European markets don’t have, as the city sits on the Rhine and has a plethora of beautiful scenery and structures to take in. Therefore, while you explore the markets, you should be sure to take a quick walk to the Pfalz, where you can take in the full spectacle on the Rhine.
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Prague, Czech Republic
One of Europe's most beautiful and grand cities is also home to one of the best Christmas markets in Europe. The Czech capital is a very popular tourist destination, and there is even more of a reason to go during the Christmas season, as you’ll witness the beautifully lit markets.
There is a very festive atmosphere at the markets, as there are folk groups and school choirs that perform on the main stage. There is also a wholesome petting zoo that houses sheep, goats and donkeys, which gives the markets a very unique feel. Also, for those alcohol enthusiasts out there, the Prague Christmas markets have plenty of choices to try, including mulled wine, mead, punch, beer and grog.
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Nuremberg, Germany
Germany is somewhat famous for its Christmas markets, and this is in fact where the tradition of decorating a Christmas tree began. The Nuremberg Christmas markets are definitely the most famous Christmas markets throughout Europe and also one of the best, with the history of the markets dating back to the 1500s!
The glowing lights that add an enchanting feel to the area make the medieval city look spectacular during the Christmas season. There is plenty to indulge in with the Nuremberg markets, and perhaps the most important element is the bratwurst sausages that are cooked fresh on a number of stalls and you can also enjoy a nice glass of punch or gluhwein at the same time. It is safe to say that the Nuremberg market is one that is hard to walk away from empty handed.
Metz, France
Considered to be the most beautiful Christmas market in France, the Metz Christmas markets are different from most other European markets with their unique colours and eye-catching decorations. With everything considered, it is one of the top Christmas markets in Europe.
Metz offers a variety of activities, including a lantern trail, a ferris wheel, ice road skating, and much more! While you’re there, be sure to taste the finest gingerbread France has to offer and wash that down with a nice cup of hot chocolate. The Metz Christmas markets are a must visit for anyone looking for something unique from their Christmas markets, and you will definitely not be disappointed!
Salzburg, Austria
The hometown of Mozart and The Sound of Music is also home to a beautiful Christmas market. While it is not the biggest Christmas market in Europe, it definitely emphasises quality over quantity, with the market stalls being full of character. The aura of the Salzburg markets is so festive and will be sure to get you well into the Christmas spirit!
To further add to this, there is a free daily concert at the markets from 5pm in front of the cathedral, and carol singalongs on Tuesdays from 6pm to 8pm! So why not book a trip to Salzburg this Christmas? Jet2holidays are offering £40 cashback for new customer holiday bookings through Quidco!
Christmas market FAQs
Will there be Christmas markets in Europe in 2022?
Yes, there are Christmas markets all across Europe every Christmas season, with some of the most beautiful countries in the world housing high quality Christmas markets for everyone to enjoy.
What month do Christmas markets start in Europe?
The Christmas markets throughout Europe usually begin in November and run until Christmas Eve. This should give people plenty of time to choose the best Christmas market for them and make the trip to create memories that will last a lifetime.
What is the most unique Christmas market in Europe?
There are a multitude of unique Christmas markets in Europe. However, Pilatus Kulm, the highest Christmas market in Europe, might take the award. The market is located on top of Mount Pilatus in Switzerland, which is the highest peak of the Lucerne Pre-Alps. As well as being unique, it is also one of the most beautiful markets in all of Europe.
