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The eight most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe. They were voted by the people who visited them

The eight most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe. They were voted by the people who visited them

Christmas market in Salzburg, Austria. Photo: Izabela 23 | Dreamstime.com

Nine Christmas markets from all over Europe are rated by the site Falstaff as being the most beautiful this year, after the tourism lovers crossed their thresholds.

According to the Falstaff website, a platform visited by more than 26 million readers globally that is dedicated to wine, gastronomy, lifestyle and tourism enthusiasts, the nine most beautiful Christmas markets worth visiting in 2025 are in Germany, France, Croatia, Belgium, Denmark, Austria, the Czech Republic and Hungary.

1. Christmas Market in Dresden (Germany)

Striezelmarkt, Dresden. Photo: Andreas Weihs / imago stock&people / Profimedia

True to its German name, the “Striezelmarkt” is one of the oldest Christmas markets in the world, having been open since 1434. Those who want to visit the Dresden fair can stroll through candle-lit arches, tasty food and drink stalls, and the Erzgebirge pyramid, an impressive 14-meter-high symbol.

2. Strasbourg Christmas Market (France)

Christkindelsmärik, Strasbourg, France. Photo: Roses Nicolas/ABACA / Shutterstock Editorial / Profimedia

Falstaff calls the Strasbourg fair “the capital of Christmas.” This year, Christkindelsmärik offers thousands of annual visitors richly decorated facades, the impressively lit Cathedral and French specialties.

3. Zagreb Christmas Market (Croatia)

Advent Zagreb, Croatia. Photo: DAMIR SENCAR / AFP / Profimedia

During Christmas, Zagreb takes on the appearance of a winter setting, with various themed markets: skating rinks, stages dedicated to concerts, culinary stands with traditional Croatian specialties. The festive lighting in Ban Jelačić Square also creates a special atmosphere.

4. Christmas Market in Brussels (Belgium)

Plaisirs d'Hiver, Brussels, Belgium. Photo: Michael Mulkens | Dreamstime.com

The 240 houses at the Brussels Christmas Market bring together visitors from all over the world. Visitors enjoy both the play of lights in the Grand Place, the ice rink, but also the famous Belgian chocolate.

5. Copenhagen Christmas Market (Denmark)

Tivoli Christmas Market in Copenhagen, Denmark. Photo: Kalina Toteva Dreamstime.com

Located in one of the oldest amusement parks in the world, the Christmas market at “Tivoli” is a special attraction especially for families. The scenery is especially complemented by the frozen lake, typical Scandinavian decorations and lights that take you straight into a winter fairy tale.

6. Colmar Christmas Market (France)

Christmas market in Colmar, France. Photo: Michal Stipek | Dreamstime.com

This fair is located in the medieval town of Colmar, which offers a surrounding setting of traditional wooden houses. Therefore, fans of winter holidays will be attracted here by a unique romantic atmosphere, offered by the city's festive markets.

7. Salzburg Christmas Market (Austria)

Christmas market in Salzburg, Austria. Photo: Calin Stan | Dreamstime.com

The Christmas market between Domplatz and Residenzplatz is one of the oldest in Europe: it dates back to the 17th century, but in its current form it has been around since 1974. One attraction that attracts visitors is the artificial starry sky. Every year, the fair in Salzburg is visited by about one million people.

8. Budapest Christmas Market (Hungary)

Vörösmarty Square Christmas Market, Budapest. Photo: Istvan Balogh | Dreamstime.com

And the Christmas market in Vörösmarty Square has become an increasingly popular destination around the winter holidays. Thanks to its decorated buildings, illuminated boulevards and sparkling garlands, Budapest hosts hundreds of thousands of tourists every year.

9. Prague Christmas Market (Czech Republic)

Christmas market in Prague. Photo: Nataliia Fedori | Dreamstime.com

The stalls at the Prague Christmas market eagerly await their visitors every year: either to take photos in front of them or to buy “trdelník”, the traditional dessert made from leavened dough. Every day, the Old Town Square hosts shows and concerts that bring the festive winter atmosphere to everyone's soul.

Ashley Davis

I’m Ashley Davis as an editor, I’m committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity and accuracy in every piece we publish. My work is driven by curiosity, a passion for truth, and a belief that journalism plays a crucial role in shaping public discourse. I strive to tell stories that not only inform but also inspire action and conversation.

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