Spending Christmas in Europe is every traveller's dream. With the colourful lights, festive markets and Christmas cheer all across Europe, you will have the most dreamiest holiday. From sipping hot chocolate in Vienna to wandering through Prague's fairytale squares, Europe feels magical in December.
Snow-dusted streets, glowing decorations and charming wooden stalls create the perfect Christmas atmosphere. Whether you're exploring historic towns, enjoying live music, or shopping for handmade gifts, every moment feels special. Visiting top Christmas markets in Europe is an experience you'll remember for a lifetime
The Best Christmas Markets in Europe
Vienna, Austria
Vienna turns into a glowing winter wonderland every December. The city's famous Christmas Market at Rathausplatz is filled with sparkling lights, handmade gifts, warm candles and hot chocolate. Music fills the air, and every corner feels magical. Vienna is perfect if you want a traditional, elegant and truly heart-warming Christmas experience.
Prague, Czech Republic
Prague's Old Town Square is breathtaking during Christmas. With its giant tree, Gothic towers, and colourful stalls, it feels like a storybook come alive. You can shop for wooden toys, crystal ornaments, and local crafts or warm up with mulled wine and chimney cakes. The view of the market from the Astronomical Clock Tower is unforgettable. Prague is great for travellers who love romance, history and cosy winter nights.
Strasbourg, France
Strasbourg proudly calls itself the "Capital of Christmas", and it truly lives up to the name. The whole city sparkles with lights, garlands, and decorations. Its main market, Christkindelsmarik, is one of the oldest in Europe. You'll find adorable Christmas decorations, candles, sweets, and regional French treats. The atmosphere is friendly and festive - perfect for families or solo travellers wanting a warm and cheerful holiday vibe.
Cologne, Germany
Cologne hosts several Christman markets, each with its own charm. The most famous one sits under the stunning Cologne Cathedral. Here you can shop for handmade craft, glass ornaments and winter clothing. But the real highlight is the food, including sizzling sausages, warm waffles and spicy mulled wine. Each market also has music, performance and plenty of places to relax and enjoy the festive energy.
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest's one of the best xmas markets in Europe, known for their beauty and value. The market at Vorosmarty Square is full of local crafts, colourful lights, and traditional Hungarian dishes, like chimney cake and goulash. An added charm is Budapest's famous thermal baths, perfect for warming up after a long day of exploring. It's an ideal Christmas destination if you want a mix of culture, affordability and festive cheer.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen's Tivoli Garden transforms into a glowing Christmas paradise with rides, light, parades, and cosy food stalls. The Danish concept of hygge, warm, comfortable living, is everywhere. You can enjoy pretty decorations, sweet treats and magical shows. It's a joyful mix of childlike wonder and Scandinavian charm.
Travel Tips to Europe
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Apply for Your Schengen Visa Early: December is peak season, so submit your visa application at least 4–6 weeks before your trip. Keep documents ready: bank statements, booking confirmations, insurance proof and itinerary. Use the official
VFS Global website for appointments.
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Buy Travel Insurance Before You Travel: A visa-compliant travel insurance plan is mandatory. It should cover medical emergencies, trip delays, lost passports and baggage issues all crucial during Europe's winter disruptions.
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Choose Accommodation Near Public Transport: Book hotels or hostels close to metro or tram stations. Areas near the best Christmas markets in Europe fill up early, so reserve in advance for lower prices.
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Use Trusted Apps for Easy Navigation: Download Google Maps,
Citymapper and local transit apps for cities like Vienna, Prague and Budapest. They help you find the fastest routes even during holiday crowds.
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Carry a Universal Adapter & Power Bank: European plug types vary, so an all-in-one adapter is essential. Christmas markets mean long days outdoors, a power bank keeps your phone charged for photos and tickets.
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Stay Warm & Layered: Winters are cold with icy winds. Pack thermals, waterproof shoes, gloves, and scarves for comfort while exploring markets.
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Book Train Tickets in Advance: Use apps like Omio or Rail Europe to book intercity trains early for cheaper rates
Secure Your Christmas Adventure with Reliance Travel Insurance
Exploring Christmas markets in Europe is magical, but winter travel can also bring surprises like delayed flights, lost luggage, or sudden medical issues. Reliance
Travel Insurance ensures your holiday stays joyful and protected. With coverage for medical emergencies, passport loss, trip cancellations and baggage delays, you can travel freely through Europe without worry.
Get quick digital claims through the
Self-i app and rely on 24/7 worldwide support via call, email or WhatsApp. Whether you're strolling through Vienna's festive squares or catching a train to Prague, your trip stays safe and smooth. Make this Christmas unforgettable, choose Reliance Travel Insurance for your European adventures.
FAQs
Is it mandatory to have valid travel insurance while travelling to Europe?
Yes, it is mandatory in most European countries, especially if you are visiting a Schengen country with a Schengen visa. In that case,
Schengen travel insurance offering coverage of at least €30,000 for medical emergencies is mandatory
What is the most Christmassy city in Europe?
Strasbourg, France is the most Christmassy city in Europe. It is also known as the Capital of Christmas for its markets, big trees and charming beauty.