Christmas markets are a time-honored European tradition that combines the festive spirit with a taste of local culture, cuisine, and craftsmanship. From the enchanting lights along Budapest’s Danube River to the alpine allure of St. Moritz, there’s no better way to experience Europe in the winter. Let’s explore some of the continent’s most captivating Christmas markets to add to your holiday bucket list.

Budapest, Hungary

Hungary’s capital transforms into a festive wonderland each winter, with its most iconic market unfolding on Vörösmarty Square from November 15 to December 31, 2024. Here, under twinkling lights and cozy stalls, you can browse over 100 vendors selling handcrafted gifts, artisanal food, and local treats. Don’t miss the chimney cakes (sekler cakes) and the steaming cups of mulled wine, perfect for warming up after a boat ride along the Danube. This city is especially magical at night when you can enjoy illuminated views of the Chain Bridge and the grand Parliament Building. For a luxurious stay, book a room overlooking Fashion Street at the Kempinski Hotel Corvinus—a central spot to enjoy all the winter festivities.

Munich, Germany

In the heart of Bavaria, Munich hosts one of Europe’s most historic Christmas markets at Marienplatz, where Münchners have gathered to celebrate the season since the 14th century. This market, open from November 25 to December 24, 2024, is filled with Bavarian delights like bratwurst, lebkuchen (gingerbread), and steaming mugs of glühwein. Families will love the Christmas village at the Residenz Palace—complete with puppet shows and activities for little ones. For a serene escape, head to the English Garden, where horse-drawn carriages and lantern-lit paths offer a fairytale experience. Stay at the Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Kempinski for a taste of Bavarian luxury during the holidays.

Dresden, Germany

For a truly classic German Christmas market, Dresden’s Striezelmarkt is an unbeatable choice. Located in Altmarkt Square and dating back to 1434, this is Germany’s oldest Christmas market, featuring a record-breaking 14.6-meter Christmas pyramid and a charming candle arch. From intricate lace to handmade wooden toys, it’s a shopper’s paradise with 240 stalls open until Christmas Eve. Local favorite, the rahmklecks—a bread roll stuffed with ham, cheese, and sour cream—makes a delicious snack as you stroll. Stay at the recently renovated Hotel Taschenbergpalais Kempinski for a mix of historic grandeur and contemporary luxury, right in the heart of Dresden’s holiday magic.

Berlin, Germany

Germany’s capital offers over 100 Christmas markets across the city, making it a top destination for holiday enthusiasts. From November 22, 2024, to January 12, 2025, you’ll find everything from traditional markets at Charlottenburg Palace to a massive fair at Spandau. Charlottenburg Palace offers marching bands, live animals, and charming rides, while Spandau’s cobbled streets boast a live nativity scene and a lively atmosphere. For a touch of Berlin’s local flavor, visit the Art Deco neighborhood near Brohan Museum on December 7-8, where local artisans display handmade crafts. Stay in luxury at the Hotel Adlon Kempinski, right by the Brandenburg Gate, for a central and historic holiday experience.

St. Moritz, Switzerland

St. Moritz is a sophisticated winter wonderland, known for its palatial hotels and upscale Christmas market. Arriving here by the Glacier Express through Alpine scenery feels like entering a snow globe. In St. Moritz’s heart, you’ll find luxurious pop-up markets where celebrities and royalty browse high-end jewelry and unique local goods. Take a ride up the Grand Hotel des Bains Kempinski cable car and stay amid the snow-capped peaks, where you’ll feel like you’re in a holiday fairytale.

Riga, Latvia

Riga’s Old Town Christmas Market in Doma Square is one of the most atmospheric markets in Europe, running from November 29, 2024, to January 2, 2025. Set against a UNESCO-listed backdrop of medieval architecture, visitors can enjoy traditional Latvian treats like black balsam, a potent herbal liqueur, and piragi, savory buns filled with bacon and onions. Grand Hotel Kempinski Riga provides a stylish place to stay just steps from the festivities, with views of the Latvian National Opera House for an added touch of holiday magic.

Salzburg, Austria

Known as the birthplace of Mozart and home to the famous Sound of Music film, Salzburg feels like a storybook come to life. From November 24, 2024, to January 1, 2025, the city’s main Christmas market takes over Cathedral and Residenz Squares, where choirs and wind ensembles serenade visitors. Just a 30-minute drive away, the Kempinski Hotel Berchtesgaden offers sweeping mountain views for a peaceful retreat after a day spent exploring Salzburg’s holiday charms.

Sofia, Bulgaria

Though a newer player in the European Christmas market scene, Sofia impresses with its unique blend of traditions at the Deutscher Weihnachtsmarkt in City Garden. Running from November 15 to Christmas Eve, the market celebrates both German and Bulgarian customs, from mulled wine to locally crafted goods. Two nearby markets—Christmas Fest at the National Palace of Culture and Christmas Park on Slaveykov Square—offer live performances and local specialties. For a truly magical experience, head to the Kempinski Hotel Grand Arena Bansko, located in the scenic Pirin Mountains, for a snowy escape from the city.

Whether you’re enchanted by the medieval lanes of Riga, the alpine elegance of St. Moritz, or the royal ambiance of Dresden, European Christmas markets offer an unforgettable blend of history, culture, and festive cheer. If you’re dreaming of a holiday filled with twinkling lights, cozy treats, and artisanal gifts, add these destinations to your travel list for a winter experience you’ll never forget.