The Ultimate Guide to the Top Christmas Markets of 2023 Worldwide

Nothing compares to a merry market in awakening the Christmas cheer within individuals. Although the origins of these gatherings can be traced back to Vienna, with the city's inaugural December market dating back to 1298, this tradition has since transcended borders and found its way into various corners of the globe throughout the centuries.

Coveted destinations all over the world, from Germany and Switzerland to Singapore and New York, boast impressive annual advent markets that have transformed into major tourist attractions.

Heres our rundown of some of the top Christmas markets that are taking place around the world this year.

Wiener Christkindlmarkt, Austria

Vienna's enchanting Christmas extravaganza combines reindeer rides, a colossal Ferris wheel, and a timeless nativity scene, captivatingly embodying the holiday spirit.

Among the array of approximately 20 Christmas markets in the Austrian capital, Wiener Christkindlmarkt, or Rathausplatz, stands out as one of the oldest and most revered celebrations, steeped in tradition.

The event, called Viennese Dream Christmas Market, takes place in front of City Hall. It includes a 150-square-meter ice rink for children, and visitors particularly love the Tree of Hearts, a massive maple tree adorned with sparkling hearts. This tree is a popular attraction for photos. Additionally, there are numerous stalls where visitors can indulge in delicious treats such as Austrian sausages, gingerbread cookies, and homemade Christmas punch.

Wiener Christkindlmarkt runs from November 10 to December 26.

Basel Christmas Market, Switzerland

Basel Christmas Market is made up of decorated stalls selling Christmas spices, decorations and candles.

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Its hard to find a destination that does Christmas better than Switzerland.

During this time of year, festive markets dominate most Swiss towns and the ambiance is truly remarkable. However, the Basel Christmas Market surpasses them all as the largest and potentially the finest.

The market is divided into two sections, namely Barfusserplatz and Munsterplatz, and boasts over 150 elaborately adorned stalls where one can find an array of Christmas spices, decorations, and candles.

The Christmas fairytale forest at Munsterplatz offers a range of family attractions, including fun activities like gingerbread and candle decorating, a star workshop, and a festive train.

For breathtaking views of the illuminated old town, attendees can climb up the stairwell of St. Martins tower. Alternatively, they can enjoy a warm cup of mulled wine at the 13-meter high Christmas pyramid located on Barfusserplatz.

Basel Christmas Market opens on November 23 and is scheduled to run until December 23.

Strasbourg Christmas Market, France

Strasbourg, one of Europe's oldest Christmas markets, originated in 1570 and has since undergone significant transformations.

Spanning across over 10 different areas, including a portion of the UNESCO world heritage site of Grande Île, this highly sought-after market illuminates the city with countless shimmering Christmas lights and decorative ornaments.

The festive market, which attracts over two million visitors annually, showcases numerous wooden chalet stalls offering a diverse range of decorations, presents, and local Alsatian wine. Among the market's highlights is Place Klebe, which is renowned for its spectacular Great Christmas Tree.

Visitors will delight in an abundance of enchanting scenes as they meander through the city's charming squares and narrow alleyways. The Strasbourg Christmas Market commences on November 24th and concludes on December 24th.

Brussels Winter Wonders, Belgium

This annual festive event has been lighting up the Belgium capital for over 20 years.

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During Christmas time, Brussels truly comes alive with Winter Wonders, an event that resembles a festival rather than a market. This annual extravaganza, one of the largest and most beloved in Belgium, spans across various locations including the Bourse, Place de la Monnaie, Grand Place, Place Sainte Catherine, and Marche aux Poissons.

Experience the magic of Christmas vacations with a plethora of delightful activities to indulge in. Delight in a captivating light and sound show, embrace the thrill of ice skating, and revel in the excitement of fairground rides. Immerse yourself in the festive spirit as you explore the charming chalets offering a wide array of treats such as glühwein, Belgian beers, and mouthwatering waffles. Don't forget to be awe-struck by the majestic Christmas tree standing tall in the heart of Grand Place.

Brussels Winter Wonders will run from November 24 to December 31.

Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square Christmas markets, Prague, Czech Republic

To say the city of Prague goes all out at Christmas is something of an understatement.

The Czech capital is the very definition of a winter wonderland during the festive period.

The city is packed with markets, but the primary ones are located in Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square, which are conveniently just a few minutes' walk away from each other. This allows visitors to easily explore both in one day.

Content must be rewritten. The markets are scheduled to be open from December 2 to January 6, 2024, offering a wide array of entertainment options at Old Town Square, including live shows, dance performances, and creative workshops. Additionally, Wenceslas Square is the perfect destination for those seeking handmade gifts and indulging in local delicacies such as klobasa (Czech sausage) and mulled wine.

Fira de Santa Llucia, Barcelona

Set around Barcelona Cathedral, Fira de Santa Llucia has been around since 1786.

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Dating back to 1786, Fira de Santa Llucia has transformed from a one-day celebration of Santa Llucia on December 13 to a vibrant three-week fair. Located just outside Barcelona Cathedral, the bustling market is divided into four distinct sections.

Visitors have the opportunity to browse through a variety of nativity scene decorations and figurines in the first section. Additionally, the greenery and plants section offers an array of both natural and artificial trees as well as a diverse selection of plant life.

Imagine the experience of residing on Christmas Island.

The crafts section showcases handcrafted items and jewelry, while simbombes is specifically for musical instruments.

Additionally, visitors can enjoy various festive activities such as storytelling, a Christmas parade, and the caga tio, a large Christmas log resembling a pinata that releases candy and gifts when struck with a stick.

Fira de Santa Llucia will be taking place from November 24 to December 23.

I Mercati Natale, Piazza Santa Croce, Florence

There is plenty to admire at this captivating market, yet nothing surpasses the stunning setting provided by the Franciscan Basilica in Santa Croce.

While this customary fair is brought from Heidelberg, Germany to Florence annually, it embraces the essence of Italy in various ways, with its picturesque backdrop and the abundance of Italian delicacies available for purchase, including panforte.

There is definitely an abundance of gingerbread, strudel, and traditional Heidelberg Lebkuchen cookies available. Visitors who stroll to the nearby Piazza del Duomo can enjoy a breathtaking nativity scene along with a stunning Christmas tree that is illuminated before the Feast of the Immaculate Conception on December 8th.

I Mercati Natale begins on November 18 and runs to December 17.

Advent in Zagreb, Croatia

The Croatian capital stages around 25 markets across the city at Christmas in an event known as Advent in Zagreb.

Zagreb was voted the "best Christmas market destination" in the European Best Destinations online poll for three consecutive years, making it easy to understand why.

Advent in Zagreb, the Croatian capital, unveils a enchanting vista with approximately 25 Christmas markets spanning across its streets. Expect captivating live nativity scenes, intricate ice sculpture carvings, captivating outdoor performances, charming pop-up bars, and a delightful Christmas tram featuring Santa and his elves.

During Advent in Zagreb, there is a dedicated section known as "fuliranje," where joyful celebrants indulge in street food, dance merrily on the streets, and enjoy live performances. Save the dates for Advent in Zagreb 2023, starting from December 2nd until January 7th, 2024.

Christmas in Tivoli, Copenhagen, Denmark

Rumored to be the inspiration for Disneyland, this Danish amusement park and pleasure garden is a dazzling place to visit any time of year.

Tivoli Gardens during the festive season is truly enchanting, making it difficult to find any other place quite like it. The beautifully adorned grounds boast over 1,000 Christmas trees, creating a mesmerizing sight. Additionally, visitors can enjoy a plethora of entertainment options, including fairground rides and a traditional Pixie Band. This winter experience is truly unique and unforgettable.

The annual Lucia procession, which takes place on December 13, is a highly anticipated event in Tivoli. More than 100 girls elegantly make their way through the gardens, holding candles and singing to celebrate St. Lucia's Day. This procession is just one of the many highlights during the Christmas season in Tivoli. The park also hosts spectacular firework displays on December 25, 26, and New Year's Eve. Christmas in Tivoli is a festive extravaganza that runs from November 19 to December 31, providing visitors with a magical experience. Please note that the park will be closed on December 24.

Tallinn Christmas Market, Estonia

Estonia's Tallinn Christmas Market has been held in the Town Hall Square since 1441.

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The annual event in the Estonian capital, known as the Christmas market, is a contemporary European affair. Held in Tallinn's Town Hall Square, it features a wide variety of stalls showcasing traditional Estonian food, artisan bread, and handicrafts available for purchase.

On the entertainment front, there are carousels, a winter grotto and a Santa who rolls up on a sleigh complete with reindeer.

Why Dresden is Europes capital of Christmas

Visitors are also treated to regular performances by dance troupes and choirs.

But as with many such markets, the Christmas tree is the main event. Tallinns tree has been displayed here since 1441.

Tallinn Christmas Market 2023 is due to take place from December 1 to January 7, 2024.

Skansens Christmas Market, Stockholm

Stockholm has no shortage of Christmas markets, but none quite match the traditional charm of Skansen. Located on the island of Djurgarden within the world's oldest open-air museum, it offers a delightful showcase of Swedish culture, enhanced by a touch of festive enchantment.

The museum showcases historical houses adorned with vibrant decorations for the event, while the tables inside are beautifully arranged for a festive Christmas dinner.

Guests have the opportunity to create their own decorations in Christmas workshops, witness live craft demonstrations, or engage in lively dancing games around the tree at Bollnäs Square, the main location of Skansen.

Skansens Christmas Market is open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from November 24 until December 17.

Tuomaan Markkinat, Helsinki

Tuomaan Markkinat -- the oldest outdoor Christmas market in the Finnish capital.

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This wonderfully Scandinavian Christmas market is held in Helsinkis Senate Square, near the Emperor Alexander II statue.

The main attraction of Tuomaan Markkinat is a vintage carousel, however, the event also features numerous vendors selling traditional Christmas delicacies, glogi (Finland's version of mulled wine), and handicrafts, which are equally popular among visitors.

For children, there is a Santa Claus cabin where they can meet Santa and participate in joyous activities such as decorating Christmas cookies.

The markets food court is particularly impressive, with a host of top eateries to choose from.

Tuomaan Markkinat is set to run from December 1 to December 22.

Vörösmarty Square and St. Stephens Basilica Christmas Market, Budapest, Hungary

Budapest has two main festive markets - St. Stephens Basilica Christmas market, or Advent Bazilika, and Vorosmarty Square Christmas market.

The first event occurs in the vicinity of the renowned basilica, attracting a multitude of spectators who gather to witness the breathtaking 3D light displays illuminating its magnificent exterior.

Furthermore, the area boasts approximately 150 stalls manned by vendors offering delectable confections, exquisite wine, and a variety of captivating arts and crafts.

The Vorosmarty Square market, located in the city's center, draws more than 800,000 visitors each year. A major attraction of the market is a colossal advent calendar that unveils a fresh window display every day from December 1 to 23. Additionally, the market is renowned for its delectable Hungarian delicacies, such as langos and chimney cake.

The markets will open on November 17 and close on January 1, 2024.

Christkindlesmarkt and Gendarmenmarkt, Germany

Gendarmenmarkt is one of Berlin's most enchanting annual festive markets.

Germany is renowned for its open-air winter street markets, boasting some of the oldest and most popular festive markets in Europe.

Berlin, the capital city, boasts approximately 80 options to select from, although Gendarmenmark stands out as its most prestigious choice. Situated amidst the Franzosischer Dom and Deutscher Dom, this enchanting location consists of a labyrinthine arrangement of charming wooden huts. Visitors can indulge in delectable Bratwurst, warm mulled wine, and irresistible gingerbread, all while perusing an array of distinctive Christmas presents.

Visitors can enjoy evening concerts featuring dance and musical performances. Nuremberg, Bavaria's second-largest city, is home to the renowned Christkindlesmarkt, which has been operating since the 16th century.

Every Christmas season, approximately 200 booths are set up in the central market square of the city, creating a lively atmosphere throughout the entire area.

With an annual attendance of approximately two million visitors, the market is undoubtedly one of the notable highlights of Nuremberg.

Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt 2023 kicks off on December 1 and ends on December 24.

Gendarmenmarkt opens on November 27 and is set to close on December 31.

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, London

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is one of the most highly anticipated winter events in the UK capital.

The annual holiday event, which started in 2005, attracts large crowds each year due to its extensive selection of over 200 rides. Highlights include a towering 70-meter-high Ferris wheel, various mulled wine stations, and the UK's largest outdoor skating rink.

In addition, visitors have the opportunity to participate in ice sculpting workshops, enjoy performances by a circus troupe, experience live music at the vibrant Fire Pit bar, or indulge in the diverse culinary options available at the Street Food Village.

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is scheduled to open on November 17 and will continue until January 1, 2024

Krakow Christmas Market, Poland

Krakow Christmas market, held in Rynek Glowny near St. Mary's Basilica, draws in big crowds every year.

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Stretched across a huge section of Rynek Glowny, the Polish citys central square, Krakow Christmas Market is among the largest in Europe.

The yearly event, dating back to the early 14th century, is set against the breathtaking backdrop of the historic St. Marys Basilica and the Renaissance Cloth Hall. Attendees can indulge in delicious Polish delicacies including kiełbasa (sausage) and browse through a variety of handcrafted gifts or treats. The festivities are further enhanced by live music performances from folk bands and carol singers.

The Krakow Christmas Market is scheduled to take place from November 24 to January 1, 2024. As part of the festivities, there will be a nativity competition where participants, including school children and local artists, will create miniature nativity scenes known as cribs. These cribs will be showcased at the statue of Polish poet Adam Mickiewicz, located in the square, until a winner is selected.

Christmas Wonderland at Gardens by the Bay, Singapore

Now in its 10th year, Singapores Christmas Wonderland is continuing to grow in popularity.

Located at the renowned Gardens by the Bay nature park, this yearly extravaganza spans over a period of approximately four weeks and encompasses a vast expanse of over 27,000 square meters. The event is categorically divided into three distinct zones - Supertree Grove, Frostys Fairground at The Meadow, and Gingerbread Grove - all brimming with an array of captivating attractions.

With an assortment of fairground rides, a Christmas train, electrifying light and sound spectacles, enticing carnival games, a magnificent life-sized gingerbread house adorned with illuminated candy canes, and captivating live performances, there is an abundance of activities for all to partake in.

Experience the awe-inspiring Spalliera, an impressive construction standing at a height of 20 meters, drawing inspiration from the captivating Mesola Castle in northern Italy. Another notable attraction is the enchanting Walk of Lights, adorned with approximately 75,000 bulbs, creating a breathtaking spectacle.

Mark your calendars for December 1 to January 1, 2024, as Gardens by the Bay welcomes you to embark on a festive journey at the Christmas Wonderland.

The Distillery Winter Village, Toronto

The Distillery District Winter Village in Toronto will kick off with a tree lighting ceremony on November 16.

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Renamed as the Distillery Winter Village, the former Toronto Christmas Market offers a delightful and enchanting twist on the classic European holiday market. Set within the picturesque Distillery District, visitors can browse through outdoor shopping cabins and savor delectable treats from various vendors. The festivities also include cheerful Christmas carol sing-a-longs, an exciting gingerbread hunt, and a magnificent 50-foot Christmas tree.

The Distillery Winter Village 2023 will be open daily, excluding December 25, from November 16 until the New Year, offering a wide range of stalls featuring artisanal food, handcrafted gifts, and delightful festive drinks.

Winter Village at Bryant Park, New York

Each and every year, Manhattans Bryant Park is transformed into a magnificent wonderland for the Winter Village.

The famous outdoor market is a breathtaking sight, featuring more than 150 uniquely designed kiosks. Additionally, there is a spacious 17,000-square-foot open-air rink available for free use, as long as you bring your own skates.

Adjacent to the rink, The Lodge offers a diverse array of dining options within its food hall. The Lodge also boasts an outdoor beer garden and a vibrant cocktail bar, creating a delightful and varied culinary experience.

The Josephine Shaw Lowell Fountain, located outside the Winter Village, is truly exquisite during the winter season as it frequently transforms into a frozen wonderland.

The Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park initiated its opening on October 27th and is planned to continue captivating visitors until March 3, 2024.

Christkindlmarket Chicago

Based on Nuremberg's Christkindlmarket, Christkindlmarket Chicago takes place in three locations around the city.

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First introduced in 1996, Christkindlmarket Chicago draws inspiration from the renowned Christkindelmarkt in Nuremberg, Germany, offering the Windy City a delightful experience of traditional German Christmas markets.

Presently held at three different venues in Chicago, namely Daley Plaza, Gallagher Way at Wrigley Field, and RiverEdge Park in Aurora, this immensely beloved market presents live performances and numerous stalls offering an array of goods, including bratwurst, hot spiced wine, and handcrafted ornaments.

Admission to the Daley Plaza market is free, but for those who want to avoid the crowds, there is an option to buy a $25 fast-entry pass on weekends. Christkindlmarket Chicago takes place from November 17 to December 24.

Information correct at the time of publishing.