Best Christmas Markets In The World You Can’t Miss 2024

From Germany and France to London and New York, nearly every top destination hosts an impressive annual Christmas market. Many of these markets are so popular that they’ve become major tourist attractions.

Here’s Glad Traveler’s guide to the best Christmas markets happening worldwide this year:

Christkindlesmarkt – Nuremberg, Germany

Christkindlesmarkt is one of Germany’s oldest and most cherished Christmas market. Famous for its traditional “Christkind” angel, this market embodies Bavarian charm. Visitors can explore stalls selling handcrafted gifts, local gingerbread, and mulled wine amid the festive decor.

Winter Wonderland – Hyde Park, London, UK

Winter Wonderland transforms Hyde Park into a vast Christmas extravaganza. Known for its lively atmosphere, it offers holiday markets, thrilling rides, live entertainment, and festive food and drink options, drawing locals and tourists alike.

Vienna Christmas Market – Vienna, Austria

Located before Vienna’s City Hall, the Vienna Christmas Market is an iconic experience. This market features classic Austrian treats like hot sausages, roasted chestnuts, and beautiful decorations, blending history with seasonal charm in a stunning urban setting.

Strasbourg Christmas Market – Strasbourg, France

Strasbourg’s market, among Europe’s oldest, is set against the grandeur of the Strasbourg Cathedral. Known as the “Capital of Christmas,” it combines Alsatian food, unique crafts, and illuminated streets, making it a festive attraction for all ages.

Toronto Christmas Market – Toronto, Canada

Held in the Distillery District, Toronto’s Christmas Market is inspired by European traditions. With twinkling lights, wooden stalls, and holiday performances, it’s a vibrant celebration of Christmas spirit, offering a taste of Europe in Canada.

Budapest Christmas Market – Budapest, Hungary

Situated in Vörösmarty Square, the Budapest Christmas Market is known for its historic setting and local food. Visitors can enjoy traditional Hungarian dishes like chimney cakes and mulled wine while browsing unique crafts and decorations.

Plaisirs d’Hiver – Brussels, Belgium

Plaisirs d’Hiver in Brussels features light shows, an ice rink, and Belgian holiday treats. Known for its lively atmosphere, this market draws locals and visitors alike with traditional waffles, chocolates, and seasonal crafts.

Stockholm Christmas Market – Stockholm, Sweden

Stockholm’s Christmas Market offers a Nordic experience with traditional crafts, sweets, and mulled wine. Set in a cozy, wintry landscape, it highlights Swedish holiday traditions, providing an authentic Scandinavian charm.

Winter Village at Bryant Park, New York

Manhattan’s Bryant Park Winter Village transforms into a festive wonderland each year. It features over 150 kiosks, a 17,000-square-foot ice rink (free with your own skates), and The Lodge—a rinkside bar and food hall with diverse dining options. Nearby, the frozen Josephine Shaw Lowell Fountain adds extra winter charm.

This article’s information was accurate at publication. Please check official websites for updates before planning your visit.