Christmas celebrations have already begun in some European cities, while others are about to start soon. I decided to create a detailed post featuring the best Christmas markets in Europe, in collaboration with travel bloggers from around the world. This way, you’ll get to read recommendations from different people about their favorite cities to visit during the holiday season, and also find out where they suggest staying nearby.
The post will be updated throughout November as more recommendations come in.
I have to admit, I’m not an expert on European Christmas markets since we usually travel to warmer destinations in East Asia during these months to escape the cold. Still, we’ve spent Christmas time here in Cyprus, and while it’s not your typical European Christmas market experience, I’ll also be sharing what the Christmas villages in Cyprus are like later in the post. Colmar, France
By Vega López at Her Asian Adventures
Colmar’s Christmas markets are some of the most famous in Europe, and they absolutely deserve their reputation. This charming Alsatian town turns into one big festive village every December, with six markets scattered through its cobbled streets. Each has its own focus: Place des Dominicains for handmade crafts, Place Jeanne d’Arc for regional food and wine, and Petite Venise for families and picture-perfect canal views.
Petite Venise ended up being my favorite. The canals are lined with colorful houses, the air smells like cinnamon and mulled wine, and something is happening at every stall, whether it’s locals selling bredele cookies or visitors crowding around for a slice of hot tarte flambée. I must’ve spent hours just wandering, eating, and people-watching.
That said, Colmar gets very busy. Even midweek, the main squares were packed by late afternoon. If you prefer a calmer experience, try to visit early in the day or stay overnight once the day-trippers head back to Strasbourg. It’s only a 30-minute train ride, but staying in town really lets you enjoy the lights and atmosphere at your own pace.
I stayed at James Boutique Hôtel Colmar Centre, a modern and cozy hotel just a short walk from the old town. It was quiet, comfortable, and perfectly located for exploring everything on foot.
If you’re planning a Christmas trip to Alsace, Colmar is a great choice, walkable, festive, and genuinely beautiful during the holiday season. 
Montreux, Switzerland
By Katie at Where’s Katie Now
Set on the banks of Lake Geneva in Switzerland, with snow-covered mountains as a backdrop, the Montreux Christmas Market is easily one of the most beautiful in Europe! Wooden chalets selling artisan Swiss gifts line the lakeside promenade, and when the fairy
lights reflect on the water after sunset, the whole setting feels even more magical. My favourite moment from my visit was watching the world-famous Flying Santa glide across the sky at dusk, with the snowy mountains fading behind him.
But what makes Montreux Noël so special is how much it embraces its picturesque lakeside setting. It’s not just one market, but a whole festive experience spread throughout the town. You can take the cogwheel train to Rochers-de-Naye to meet Santa in his mountain grotto,
walk to the medieval Château de Chillon, or enjoy spectacular views from the top of the Ferris Wheel. Everywhere you walk, the atmosphere feels festive without being overwhelming! The food is another highlight of this Christmas Market. You’ll find bubbling raclette, delicious local sausages, and Swiss chocolates that make perfect gifts to take home, all washed down with steaming vin chaud that smells like Christmas in a mug!
For somewhere to stay, I recommend the Fairmont Le Montreux Palace, a beautiful and luxurious lakeside hotel, just a few steps from the heart of the market. If you’d like my full guide and tips for visiting this magical market, you can check out my Montreux Christmas Market review. 
Edinburgh, Scotland
By Moumita at Chasing the Long Road
Although Edinburgh looks magical at any time of the year, during the festive season, the Scottish capital turns into a winter wonderland. And at the centre of it is the Edinburgh Christmas Market. What makes this market special is its spectacular settings. Nestled in Princes Street Gardens, the market stretches beneath the mighty Edinburgh Castle and the charming historic buildings of the Old Town.
The beautifully decorated chalet-style stalls sell an array of handmade gifts and traditional crafts. You can enjoy a glass of homemade mulled wine and indulge in festive foods like waffles, German bratwurst, chimney cake, crepe and various traditional Scottish dishes. It is also the perfect place for shopping. You will find everything from handmade jewellery and woollen scarves to intricate ornaments and local artisan crafts.
Also, thrill seekers can enjoy several rides here. The enormous Big Wheel and the Star Flyer will take you up in the sky. From there, you will get an awe-inspiring panoramic view over the city skyline and the market below. Put on your skating shoes to take a spin on the magical Alpine ice rink. For kids, the Christmas Tree Maze and Santa’s Grotto are a must-visit.
The Rutland Hotel and Apartments would be an excellent choice for spending the night in Edinburgh. You would get an amazing view of the castle. Also, it’s very close to the Christmas markets. 
Dublin, Ireland
By Gill at Secret Sussex living near Lewes East Sussex
Dublin is finally catching up with its European counterparts, with Christmas markets worth visiting. The Dublin Castle Christmas Markets are just the most magical, festive place to visit when you are in the fair City in December.
These Christmas markets give visitors a warm and welcoming feel. With tonnes of festive cheer, merriment all in the backdrop of the stunning and iconic Dublin Castle. Although the markets are not huge, there is a real festive buzz about them, so definitely worth a visit this time of year.
If you are looking for a traditional Bavarian-style market, then “Christmas at the Castle” are the one. Located on the grounds of the historic and iconic Dublin Castle, the grounds are festively decorated with beautiful fairy lights, and the entrance is lined with tens of beautifully decorated Christmas trees.
Each year, the markets host talented musicians, such as the Dublin Gospel Choir and other local talent. There are a number of vendors selling a range of unique art, crafts, gifts and trinkets. Visitors can also enjoy a range of hot food and drinks to counteract the cold bite of the Irish weather. I can totally recommend the crepe box, which hit the spot for me.
Dublin Castle is just a short walk to Temple Bar, which is a beautiful cobbled area of Dublin City Centre that is usually adorned with sparkling lights.
I will always recommend staying at The Dean Hotel in Dublin. It is a boutique hotel in the heart of the City with stylish rooms and a beautiful rooftop bar. Dublin is a very walkable City and will be lit up with festive lights and elaborate shop window displays throughout the festive season. 
Vienna, Austria
By Or at My Path in the World
The Austrian capital, Vienna, is a perfect city to visit for Christmas markets, with more than 10 scattered across different areas, stunning illuminated streets, and a joyful festive atmosphere that will get you into the holiday spirit.
It’s easy to recommend the largest Christmas market in Vienna, the Rathausplatz Christkindlmarkt in front of its city hall, as it features about 150 stalls, illuminated displays, parades, an ice skating rink, and even a Ferris wheel. It’s a popular spot for obvious reasons, but it’s worth the hype and makes you feel like a kid in a candy store.
For something more intimate and cozy, the Spittelberg quarter’s Christmas market is an absolute gem. This tiny neighborhood is charming all on its own, but its small yet magical market makes it even better. You’ll find even more Christmas markets in Stephansplatz near the famous cathedral, the Belvedere Palace, and the Schönbrunn Palace.
Their styles vary, but they all offer wintertime treats, Christmas decorations, handcrafted gifts, and much more. My favorite things to try were hot apple cider served in themed cups and kartoffelpuffer, a crispy fried potato pancake.
There are a few good areas to stay in Vienna for Christmas markets, including Innere Stadt (the heart of the city center) and the Spittelberg Quarter, with 7th HEAVEN Vienna Center Apartments being a good accommodation option in terms of location and amenities. 
Gosau, Austria
By Lisi at Escaping worlds
The Christmas market in Gosau is located in the middle of the Austrian Alps. In the shade of the Gosaukamm mountains, you can find the quaint market surrounded by wooden huts. The atmosphere of the market is very special, as it is far from any big city and next to a forest. The lights and the decoration contribute to the romantic mood. As it is in the alpine area of Austria, it is important to take a good layer of clothing with you, but don’t worry, you can even marvel at the hand crafts of the exhibitors inside the warm huts.
Of course, you can also heat yourself with a warm beverage or at the bonfire. At the unique Christmas market of Gosau you can find bits to eat, from traditional snacks to chestnuts, potatoes, ginger bread, cake and sausages. A program keeps you entertained, here is live music, a horse carriage tour, handicraft for children and for animal lovers, you can pet some donkeys.
Parking at the Christmas market of Gosau is limited, but there is a shuttle service from and to the bigger parking ground. But you can also choose a sustainable transportation like the public bus, it stops directly at the market (the bus stop is called Gosauseestraße). You can stay in the Gosau Valley, depending on your budget either at the Landhaus Koller or COOEE alpin. Keep in mind that the Christmas market in Gosau is only open during two Advent weekends. 
Munich, Germany
By Sonia at Carey On Travels
Few places capture the spirit of the holidays better than Munich, with its classic Bavarian Christmas Market experience. The city’s crown jewel is the Marienplatz Christmas Market (Christkindlmarkt), one of Germany’s oldest and most traditional markets. It’s set beneath the Gothic towers of the New Town Hall, and exudes Bavarian charm. Shop the wooden stalls with traditional hand-carved ornaments, nativity figures, while live holiday music is performed from the Town Hall balcony. Don’t miss the mulled wine, sausages, Käsespätzle (cheesy noodles), Kartoffelpuffer (potato pancakes), and spiced nuts.
Just a short walk away, the Viktualienmarkt, Munich’s famous food market, is decorated for the holidays. It’s the perfect place to sample holiday specialties, such as Lebkuchen (gingerbread), roasted chestnuts, or a steaming mug of Feuerzangenbowle, a Munich classic consisting of mulled wine topped with a rum-soaked sugarloaf set aflame.
For a different twist, the Medieval Christmas Market at Wittelsbacherplatz transports visitors into the Middle Ages with costumed vendors, mead served in clay mugs, and torchlit evenings that transport visitors back in time.
To stay a short walk from the festivities, consider the Hotel Törbrau. Despite being one of the oldest hotels in Munich, it offers modern amenities, great service, and an ideal location.Whether you prefer historic squares, gourmet treats, or medieval flair, Munich’s Christmas markets offer one of the most magical holiday experiences in Europe. 
Berlin, Germany
By Angela at Where Angie Wanders
Berlin is known for its Christmas Markets, of which there are many, but for me, one stands out, and that is the market at Charlottenburg Palace. This Christmas market is set up in the shadow of the Royal Palace and is a feast for the eyes, with sparkling fairy lights and Christmas illuminations projected on the palace itself.
The wooden stalls are decorated with festive fir branches and sell a range of gifts, from fine jewellery and pottery to German tree decorations, including glass baubles, nutcracker figurines, and snow globes. The Christmas market is great for families, groups of friends and couples. A Christmas carousel is perfect for children to ride, and musicians play festive tunes to entertain the adults as they wander around, enjoying the food and drink on sale.
We tucked into flammlachs (wood-fired roasted salmon) and flammkuchen (thin flatbread pizza) on our visit and washed them down with a glass of warm Lillet (a French aperitif sold at most German Christmas markets). What made this market unique for us among the others we visited in Berlin was its location. Charlottenburg Palace is beautiful, and seeing it lit up at Christmas is a joy. As we sat enjoying our warming festive drinks, we watched the projections of candy canes, stars and gingerbread men on its frontage and agreed it was exceptionally magical.
We stayed at the Wilde Aparthotel at Checkpoint Charlie, which we found to be a good central base for the Berlin Christmas markets. 
Nuremberg, Germany
By Anna & Anne at Germany things to do
The Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt in Germany is a place we keep returning to, and we fully admit we’re a bit biased. We grew up in the region, so this market has always felt like the start of the Christmas season for us. Locals love to point out that it dates back to the 16th century and is considered one of the oldest Christmas markets in Germany.
What makes the market truly unique is the Christkind. She’s a local young woman elected every two years, wearing a long golden robe and a crown. She officially opens the market on the first Advent from the balcony of the Frauenkirche. If you can time your trip for that moment, do it. The whole crowd falls quiet, the bells ring and it feels like the entire city eases into the season. You might even see her walking through the market on certain days, greeting visitors.
Food plays a big role in the experience. You have to taste the original Nuremberg Lebkuchen. They’re soft, spiced and nothing like the packaged versions. We usually buy a few from different stalls and compare them as we walk. And if you’re not vegetarian like us, try the Nuremberg Rostbratwürstchen. They’re smaller, full of herbs and usually eaten three-in-a-bun with mustard.We recommend staying at the SORAT Hotel Saxx right on the main square. Waking up next to the Schöner Brunnen (Beautiful Fountain) and stepping straight into the market each evening made the trip feel even more special. 
Cologne, Germany
By Lindsey at Abroad Wife
I had a hard time believing all the hype about Cologne, Germany for Christmas markets…until I went there myself. Now Cologne is at the top of my list for best Christmas markets too.
What I love about Cologne is the multitude of different markets throughout the city and that each one felt distinctly different. The main market by the Cologne Cathedral is the show-stopper, with red-roofed booths under a canopy of lights. I loved that there were so many international food options there! I get sick of bratwurst, so I love having different options to try.
The Angel Market felt very sophisticated and chic. Heinzel’s Winter Fairytale Market was really fun and whimsical with the gnome theme. With the old-time booths and vendors in costumes, it really brings the fairytale feeling alive. And there are several more markets beyond that! The Christmas markets don’t get old when each has its own special personality and features.
If you’re out to collect Christmas market mugs, you could easily leave Cologne with five or six different mugs. A must-order drink is the feuerzangenbowle. It is essentially glühwein with a rum-soaked sugar cube that is lit on fire. You’re handed a mug that is literally flaming, so much fun!We stayed at the apartment, Design Apartment Friesenstraße, walkable to both the Angel Market and Cathedral Market. Actually, we walked everywhere because it was so easy (though you could take public transportation or the Mini Christmas Market train) to get around. 
Ravenna Gorge, Germany
By Alex Outhwaite at A life well travelled
Nestled deep in the Black Forest, the Ravenna Gorge Christmas Market is one of Germany’s most atmospheric seasonal experiences. Set beneath the towering stone arches of the Ravenna Viaduct, the market transforms the narrow gorge into a glowing, fairy-tale landscape each December. Wooden stalls line the forest path, offering handcrafted gifts, local Black Forest delicacies, mulled wine, and artisan treats.
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One of the most memorable ways to arrive at the market is on a guided flame torchlit walk from Hinterzarten Kurhaus. As dusk settles, groups set out from the surrounding trails carrying flame torches that illuminate the forest in a warm, flickering glow. The walk winds through snow-dusted trees and over small wooden bridges, making the journey itself as magical as the destination. Guides shared stories and fairytales with us about the region and its traditions as well as singing songs during the walk.The sight of the market’s lights emerging from the darkness of the gorge is unforgettable.The closest nearby town is Hinterzarten and many visitors choose to stay there and walk or take shuttle services into the gorge. Hotel Schwarzwaldhof in Hinterzarten is a fabulous place to stay, offering cosy rooms with wooden features in a pleasingly traditional looking building. 
Frankfurt, Germany
By Chelsea at Adventures of Chels
Frankfurt should be on every European Christmas market itinerary as it’s one of the best there is! Between the beautiful decorations, multiple stalls to shop at, tasty treats and drinks, and overall holiday cheer, there’s truly something for most everyone to appreciate.
The main (and MUST visit) Christmas market in Frankfurt is located right in the historic center of the city. Stroll through the market stalls to find all sorts of clothing items, linens, holiday decorations, food, and more for sale. Be sure to try the famous Bethmännchen pastry which is essential during the holiday season. If you enjoy an adult beverage, be sure to warm up with some hot apple wine. If you’re interested in buying a local souvenir, look for Quetschemännchen. Quetschemännchen are little men and women figurines that are made from dried out plums and nuts, and crafted together with wire inside. They’re meant to bring good luck, which everyone could use going into the new year!
For a clean, comfortable, decently priced place to stay in a great location, consider booking a room at Motel One Frankfurt-Römer. This hotel is a short walk to the historic city center which makes it very easy to visit the Christmas market there.
Enjoy your visit to the beautiful Frankfurt Christmas markets! 
Wroclaw, Poland
By Mal & Robin of Renting A Car In Europe 101
Wrocław is a fantastic place to visit during the festive season. Located in the south-west of Poland, just a short drive from the German border and with an international airport nearby, it’s an easy weekend getaway.
The heart of the city, the beautiful Gothic Market Square, will transform into a winter wonderland from 21 November 2025 to 7 January 2026, with wooden stalls stretching across Rynek, Plac Solny and nearby streets.
The giant Christmas tree in the Rynek is lit ceremonially on December 6, and the whole square is lit with thousands of lights. Food is definitely a highlight here. My favourite is the smoked mountain cheese called “oscypek” with cranberries. You can also eat here freshly grilled kielbasa, crispy potato pancakes, or pierogi stuffed with sauerkraut and mushrooms.
There’s also mulled wine, hot chocolate, and international treats like Hungarian lángos or Spanish paella. You’ll also find here everything from handmade jewellery and wool sweaters to wooden toys and traditional Polish slippers, ideal for thoughtful gifts.
Stay nearby at PURO Wroclaw Stare Miasto Hotel, just steps from the Market Square – modern, cosy, and perfectly located for making the most of the festive atmosphere right outside your door.
There’s also a second, more open-space “alternative” market at the Partynice horse racing track (6–21 December) for something a bit quieter and family-friendly, offering pony rides, gingerbread workshops, and other festive activities for kids. 
Barcelona, Spain
By Maria Dol at Map and Camera
I was completely surprised by the Port Vell Christmas market in Barcelona. It has a very Mediterranean festive feel to it. Rather than snow-covered wooden huts and mulled wine, you will see palm trees adorned with garlands, sparkling lights reflected in the sea and the scent of roasted chestnuts drifting along the coastal promenade.
Located next to the Columbus Monument and the Maremagnum shopping centre, although it is smaller than typical Central European markets, it is the setting that makes it unique, with glowing Christmas lights against the backdrop of the endless blue sea. It is at its most beautiful at sunset, when the sky turns pink above the yachts, the perfect time for photos.
Among the stalls, you can find traditional Catalan decorations, such as the amusing ‘Caga Tió’, as well as handmade nativity scene figures and local handicrafts. In the food area, you can sample churros with thick chocolate, torrone (nougat) or a botifarra sausage sandwich. If it’s a cooler evening, the warming Caldo de Nadal soup will restore your strength.
Children will be entertained by a large Ferris wheel, a colourful carousel and even an ice rink.
I stayed at the Hotel Duquesa de Cardona, which is right next to the port and just a few minutes’ walk from the market. The roof terrace offers stunning views of the Port Vell lights. It’s one of the best places to experience Barcelona’s seaside Christmas atmosphere before continuing your Spanish adventure, perhaps by following my seven-day Andalusia itinerary! 
Bath, England
By Em at Em’s Globetrotting Gems
Bath’s Christmas Market is easily one of the most charming in England. Nestled among Roman baths, medieval abbeys, and Bridgeton-esque architecture, it weaves history and festive cheer into a truly memorable experience. You’ll find handmade crafts, seasonal treats, and plenty of steaming mulled wine to warm your hands as you browse. While visiting Bath is special at any time of year, Christmas really brings out something magical in this historic town.
My favourite foods included the delicious Black Bomber cheddars that can be found around the south of England. And for a sneaky drink, or to buy a special bottle for Christmas Day, you should absolutely check out the sparkling white wines from the local vineyard, Bluestone. Stay at the Abbey Hotel in central Bath to make sure you’re right in the heart of the action while outside the noise.
The centrepiece of Bath’s Christmas extravaganza is the square hosting the Roman Baths the town is named for, as well as the magnificent medieval Abbey. With the towering Christmas tree glowing beneath the spotlighted Abbey and steam rising from the nearby Roman Baths, it’s like stepping into a festive fairytale. 
Cyprus Christmas villages
Cyprus might not be the first place that comes to mind for Christmas, but it’s a wonderful option for families looking to combine a mild winter escape with festive charm. The weather is pleasantly cool, hotels are much more affordable than in peak season, and there’s a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere across the island.
Each year, eight picturesque villages are selected to host the “Christmas Villages” program, where local streets are decorated with lights, markets, and festive activities. For 2025–2026, the chosen villages are Agros, Deryneia, Fikardou, Kakopetria, Kalopanagiotis, Kyperounta, Statos-Agios Fotios, and Lefkara. These villages will be open for celebrations from 22 November 2025 to 6 January 2026 (on weekends and holidays, and daily from 22 December onwards).
My personal favorites are Kakopetria and Lefkara. Kakopetria is an enchanting mountain village with stone houses, rivers, and cozy cafés, perfect for a winter day trip. Lefkara, famous for its lacework and silver crafts, has a magical atmosphere during Christmas. If you decide to stay overnight, I highly recommend Archontiko Kiverniti, a charming boutique hotel 10 minutes walk from the heart of the village.
To explore all eight villages comfortably, it’s best to rent a car, winter rates are low, and the scenic mountain drives are part of the charm. 
Óbidos, Portugal
By Marga at Discover Portugal
Christmas in the sun is always special, but the Christmas Village in Óbidos is like a dream come true! Óbidos is located just one hour north of Lisbon, and it’s a historical medieval town! You can even sleep in the castle, which now houses a pousada! Did you know the castle was once a wedding gift? First, it was a gift for Dona Urraca in 1210. Later, it was King Dinis who gifted the castle to Dona Isabel back in the 13th century.
Óbidos is a popular day trip from Lisbon all year round, but from late November until early January, you can visit Vila Natal, the much-loved Christmas Village. It’s especially suitable for families and kids, with numerous activities to enjoy. There is an ice skating rink, you can visit Santa, and there are many family-oriented activities. Kids can have their faces painted, there are fun workshops, and you can even slide down an ice slope.
However, the town itself is also worth visiting during the Christmas season.
Walk along the castle walls, enjoy a medieval meal and try a ginjinha! Ginja de Óbidos is a cherry-like liquor which is served in small chocolate cups. A match made in heaven! And besides the ginjinha, Óbidos is also famous for its chocolate! The town is beautifully decorated during the festive season, making it a place well worth seeing this Christmas. 
Lisbon, Portugal
By Ana at We travel Portugal
Lisbon is one of the best destinations in Europe during the festive season. It offers mild winter weather, magnificent sights, and of course Christmas markets unlike anywhere else on the continent. As early as mid-November, Lisbon lights up with a great mix of both more traditional and modern Christmas markets serving up a great variety of local treats.
The largest is Wonderland Lisboa, situated on a prime spot with incredible views over the entire city. It features a giant Ferris wheel with spectacular views over Lisbon and the Tagus River, an 800 m² ice rink, Santa’s village, and dozens of charming wooden stalls offering artisan goods. As well as this, lots and lots of local food and drinks, with a Portuguese twist, like double-decker stalls from some of Portugal’s biggest wine producers.
For a more traditional, and perhaps a lower-key Christmas market, the month-long market in Praça Dom Pedro IV is your traditional variety right in the centre of the city. Rows of stalls selling a good mix of local food and drink, and Christmas treats. Just five minutes away in Praça da Figueira is Figueira Christmas Gourmet, a Christmas market with a focus on gourmet food and drink. At all of these markets, visitors can enjoy traditional Portuguese holiday treats, such as farturas (Portugal’s churro-like pastry), rabanadas (Portuguese French toast) and bolo-rei (king cake), as well as the typical food and drink from Lisbon, like Bifanas, Pastéis de Nata, and Ginjinha. 
Prague, Czech Republic
By Erin at Take the Kids Everywhere
While it’s magical any time of year, Prague in December feels like something straight out of a fairy tale. The Old Town Square is home to the city’s main Christmas market, with stalls clustered around a giant tree, the Gothic Church of Our Lady before Týn as a dramatic backdrop, and carollers adding to the festive atmosphere. It can get busy, but it’s worth climbing the Old Town Hall Tower for a bird’s eye view of the market and twinkling lights below.
Wenceslas Square, just a short walk away, is more of a wide boulevard than a square, lined with food stalls where you can try local favourites like trdelník (a sweet pastry), grilled ham, and crispy potato pancakes. Don’t miss a cup of svařák (Czech mulled wine), though note it’s not served in a souvenir mug like in other European markets.
For a quieter but equally charming experience, head to smaller markets like Náměstí Míru, set in front of a neo-Gothic church, or Republic Square near the Powder Tower. All are walkable from the Old Town and make it easy to visit several markets in a day.
We stayed at Hotel Grand Bohemia, just steps from the main square, central, comfortable, and perfect for exploring the festive city on foot. 
Brno, Czech Republic
By Samantha Coveney at Undiscovered Path home
Brno’s Christmas markets may be smaller than Prague’s, but they feel more intimate, more local, and wonderfully atmospheric,perfect for travelers looking to slip into a festive Czech winter without the busy Prague crowds. The city’s holiday season revolves around two main markets: Náměstí Svobody and Zelný Trh, without a doubt two of the most beautiful Czech Christmas markets.
Náměstí Svobody is the lively heart of the celebrations, with glowing wooden stalls, a towering tree, and a steady rotation of live music. What makes Brno special is its focus on local Moravian makers,ceramics, wooden toys, and handmade ornaments that actually feel authentic rather than mass-produced. A standout is Brno’s famous “punč”, a fruit-forward Christmas punch that locals swear by. I especially loved the raspberry punch and the almond-spiced version, both ideal for warming your hands as you wander.
Just a few minutes away, Zelný Trh offers a slightly more traditional vibe with craft stalls, a small nativity, and hearty Czech comfort foods. Don’t miss the roasted sausages (or: klobasa), grilled over open coals, or bramborák, a savoury potato pancake that’s crisp, garlicky, and perfect with mulled wine.For a stay that’s close to everything, I recommend Hotel Grandezza, located right on Zelný Trh. The rooms overlook the market square,so you can step outside and find yourself in the middle of Brno’s Christmas magic. 
Tblisi, Georgia
By Baia at Red Fedora Diary
If you’re after a Christmas experience that feels local and a little different from the usual European holiday crowds, spending Christmas in Tbilisi is a great pick.
Georgia follows the Julian calendar, so Christmas is celebrated on January 7, but the festive season starts in mid-December. Decorations go up across the city, and the central Christmas Market takes over the city center and runs for nearly a month, so you get a much longer window to enjoy it than at most European markets.
Tbilisi Christmas market is relaxed, easy to navigate, and much less crowded than the big-name destinations. You’ll find handmade crafts, local designers, Christmas treats, and plenty of spots serving mulled wine made from Georgian Saperavi wine.
Don’t leave without tasting Gozinaki, a traditional walnut-and-honey sweet made only for the New Year and Christmas season. You’ll also come across artisanal cheeses, small-batch jams, and familiar Georgian dishes in street-food form.
Families will find kid-friendly activities, and some years even a small ice rink. Concerts run throughout the day, giving you a chance to hear local musicians perform both Georgian songs and international covers.
If you want to stay close to the market, base yourself near Rustaveli Avenue or Freedom Square. Ibis Budget Tbilisi Center is an excellent option within a short walk, offering a comfortable, stylish stay with easy access to the Christmas events and all the main sights. 
Ghent, Belgium
By Laura at Lost Between Oceans
One of the most underrated Christmas markets in Europe is the one in Ghent, Belgium. Ghent is one of the best cities to visit in Belgium, and the Christmas market fits perfectly with its medieval look that many people compare to a real-life Harry Potter scene. The medieval streets in the city centre are lined with manor houses, and the Korenmarkt and St. Bavo’s Cathedral are covered in Christmas lights and food stalls.
Even though it attracts a lot of visitors, you still hear mostly Dutch around you, which keeps the atmosphere feeling local and authentic rather than overly touristy. What we like most is sipping glühwein or hot chocolate and then looking up to see the Belfry tower and St. Nicholas Church glowing between all the Christmas lights, food stalls and various Christmas trees.
Something you should not miss are the famous smoutebollen, these are warm Belgian fried doughnuts. They are the perfect snack to eat while walking. And of course, you cannot leave without having at least one Belgian waffle. The food options are endless, and you can find dishes from various European countries, such as raclette from Switzerland and Bratwurst from Germany.
The market is large and fun to explore during the day, when you can take your time without feeling rushed. In the evening, it gets very crowded, so going earlier makes the experience a lot more relaxed. You can still wander the stalls, step into a side street or a café for a break, and everything is close together, making it easy to get around.
We stayed at the Yalo Hotel, which is about a ten-minute walk from the Christmas market. It was convenient, comfortable, and easy to reach by public transport since most city center hotels in Ghent are well connected. Once you are checked in, you can walk to the market without needing a taxi or tram, and it is just as easy to return to your hotel when you get cold or need a break. Staying in the city centre keeps the whole experience simple and relaxed. 
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