10 Best Christmas Markets in Europe for Families in 2024

Europe’s Christmas markets are the perfect destination for families and couples alike, offering a magical experience that captures the heart of the holiday season. These festive markets, scattered across charming cities like Vienna, Munich, and Prague, are a celebration of tradition, warmth, and joy. From twinkling lights to the scent of freshly baked goods, each market creates an enchanting atmosphere that brings the spirit of Christmas to life. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly adventure or a romantic holiday getaway, Europe’s Christmas markets provide something special for everyone.

For families, these markets are a wonderland of fun, with ice skating rinks, carousel rides, and interactive activities for kids. Couples can enjoy cozy strolls through beautifully decorated stalls, indulge in local delicacies, and sip on mulled wine as they take in the holiday magic. With their picturesque settings, delicious treats, and festive entertainment, Europe’s Christmas markets in 2024 offer an unforgettable way to celebrate the season with your loved ones.

FAQs

1. What are the best Christmas markets for families in Europe?

The best Christmas markets for families include those in Vienna, Prague, Munich, and Edinburgh. These markets feature family-friendly activities like ice skating, rides, and dedicated children’s areas. They also offer plenty of food and craft stalls, creating a festive atmosphere perfect for families with kids.

2. When do Christmas markets in Europe open and close?

Most Christmas markets in Europe open in late November and close in early January. The specific dates vary by city, but generally, they start around the last week of November and last until the first week of January, with peak activities happening in the weeks leading up to Christmas.

3. Are the Christmas markets in Europe accessible for families with young children?

Yes, many Christmas markets in Europe are very accessible for families with young children. These markets offer stroller-friendly paths, kid-friendly rides, and areas with interactive entertainment. Markets like those in Vienna, Munich, and Edinburgh specifically cater to families by providing dedicated children’s areas with rides, games, and holiday-themed events.

4. What types of food can you expect to find at European Christmas markets?

European Christmas markets offer a variety of festive foods such as mulled wine (Glühwein), roasted chestnuts, gingerbread cookies, bratwurst sausages, potato pancakes, and sweet pastries like strudel and marzipan treats. Each market will feature regional specialties, giving you a taste of local holiday traditions.

5. How do I get to the best Christmas markets in Europe?

The best way to reach European Christmas markets is by flying into the major international airports of the cities hosting them. Cities like Vienna, Munich, Prague, and Edinburgh have well-connected airports with easy access to the city center by public transport, including trams, buses, and trains. Many markets are located within walking distance of central attractions, making it easy to explore on foot.

1. Strasbourg, France: The Capital of Christmas

Strasbourg is often referred to as the "Capital of Christmas," and for good reason. This city hosts one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe, dating back to 1570. The market spans several locations, with the central Place Kléber being the focal point. Over 300 wooden chalets offer handcrafted ornaments, local treats like foie gras, and festive mulled wine.

Families will love the enchanting atmosphere created by the dazzling light displays, and kids can participate in fun activities like the giant Ferris wheel and ice skating rink. Special guided tours help visitors learn about the city's Christmas traditions and history, making it a memorable experience for all ages.

Dates: November 29 – December 24, 2024

How to Get There: Take a direct flight to Strasbourg International Airport or train from major cities like Paris or Munich.

Where to Stay: Hôtel Les Haras is centrally located and offers family-friendly rooms. It’s within walking distance of the market and features a cozy atmosphere that suits families.

2. Vienna, Austria: Winter Wonderland

Vienna’s Christmas market at Rathausplatz is a must-visit, offering a stunning combination of tradition and elegance. The market features over 150 stalls selling local crafts, handmade gifts, and delicious treats like roasted chestnuts, gingerbread, and traditional Austrian pastries such as Sachertorte.

For families, the real draw is the ice skating rink located right next to the market, where both children and adults can enjoy skating under twinkling lights. Nearby, Schönbrunn Palace also hosts its own market, which adds to the city's magical charm. The market offers various children’s activities, including crafts workshops, making it ideal for a family trip.

Dates: November 15 – December 26, 2024

How to Get There: Fly into Vienna International Airport and take the U2 subway line to Rathausplatz. The station is a short walk to the market.

Where to Stay: Hotel Beethoven is located near the cultural heart of Vienna and offers family suites and easy access to major attractions.

3. Cologne, Germany: Majestic Christmas by the Rhine

Cologne’s Christmas market is set against the magnificent backdrop of the Cologne Cathedral, making it one of Europe’s most breathtaking. With more than 150 market stalls, visitors can shop for traditional German Christmas decorations, wooden toys, and local delicacies like bratwurst and gingerbread cookies. For children, there is a magical Santa’s Village, complete with a carousel, fairy tale characters, and interactive shows.

The market also features an ice rink where families can skate together. Cologne is also home to several smaller themed markets that add to the festive atmosphere, such as the Medieval Market in the Old Town.

Dates: November 25 – December 23, 2024

How to Get There: Cologne’s main train station, Köln Hauptbahnhof, is just a few minutes walk from the Christmas market. You can also fly into Cologne Bonn Airport and take a train into the city center.

Where to Stay: Hotel Lyskirchen is a family-friendly hotel located near the cathedral and major attractions, offering spacious rooms for families.

4. Prague, Czech Republic: A Magical Experience

Prague’s Old Town Square becomes a winter wonderland during the holiday season, with the grand Christmas tree at the center surrounded by dozens of stalls. Visitors can shop for hand-carved wooden toys, intricate glass ornaments, and delicious Czech pastries like trdelník (a sweet pastry rolled in sugar and cinnamon). The market features live nativity scenes and performances, which kids will particularly enjoy.

Families can take part in festive workshops and craft activities. The charming streets surrounding the market are also filled with light displays and Christmas music, enhancing the magical atmosphere of the city during the holidays.

Dates: December 2, 2024 – January 6, 2025

How to Get There: Fly into Václav Havel Airport Prague and take the bus or metro to the city center.

Where to Stay: Hotel Kampa-Garden is a family-friendly hotel located just a short walk from the market, with spacious rooms and a welcoming atmosphere for families.

5. Copenhagen, Denmark: Tivoli Gardens’ Christmas Market

Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens transforms into a spectacular Christmas market, drawing visitors from all over the world. The historic amusement park is adorned with millions of lights, making it a festive haven for families. The market offers Danish holiday treats like æbleskiver (Danish pancake balls) and gløgg (mulled wine), while visitors can shop for unique Christmas gifts at the charming wooden stalls.

For kids, there are festive rides, a giant Ferris wheel, and the chance to meet Santa. Tivoli Gardens also hosts various concerts, ballet performances, and live nativity scenes, creating an unforgettable family experience.

Dates: November 18 – December 31, 2024

How to Get There: Fly into Copenhagen Airport and take a direct metro ride to Tivoli Gardens.

Where to Stay: Tivoli Hotel is located just next to the Tivoli Gardens, providing easy access to the market and family-friendly amenities.

6. Budapest, Hungary: Vörösmarty Square and More

Budapest’s Christmas market at Vörösmarty Square is famous for its beautiful setting and vibrant atmosphere. The market is known for its Hungarian handicrafts, traditional foods like chimney cakes, and mulled wine. Kids will enjoy the large ice skating rink and the 3D light show at St. Stephen’s Basilica, just a short walk from the market.

Families can also hop aboard the festive streetcar, which is decorated with Christmas lights and offers a unique way to explore the city. The market is smaller than some others but has a cozy, welcoming vibe that families will love.

Dates: November 17 – December 31, 2024

How to Get There: Fly into Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport and take the metro to Vörösmarty Square.

Where to Stay: Hilton Budapest is located near the market and offers spacious rooms, perfect for families looking for comfort and convenience.

7. Brussels, Belgium: Winter Wonders

Brussels’ Winter Wonders market is a spectacular holiday experience for families, with the city’s Grand Place serving as a backdrop to the festivities. The market features more than 200 stalls, offering everything from handmade crafts to mouthwatering Belgian treats such as waffles, chocolate, and hot chocolate. Children will enjoy the large Ferris wheel, ice skating rink, and Santa’s Village, where they can meet Father Christmas and participate in holiday workshops.

A dazzling light-and-sound show at the Grand Place adds to the festive atmosphere. There are also seasonal events, such as ice sculpture exhibitions and live performances.

Dates: November 29, 2024 – January 5, 2025

How to Get There: Fly into Brussels Airport and take a direct train to Brussels Central Station, a short walk from the market.

Where to Stay: Hotel Metropole is a luxurious hotel centrally located near the Christmas market and family-friendly amenities.

8. Rovaniemi, Finland: Santa’s Official Hometown

Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus, offers families an unforgettable Christmas experience. Located in the Arctic Circle, it’s the perfect place to visit if you're looking for snow, reindeer rides, and, of course, Santa Claus himself. Santa Claus Village is open year-round, but December is especially magical. Families can visit Santa, take a ride in a sleigh pulled by reindeer, and even cross the Arctic Circle.

The Northern Lights add an extra dose of magic to the experience. Kids can also try out the Santa Claus Post Office and send postcards to their friends and family from the North Pole.

Dates: Open year-round, but special events occur in December 2024.

How to Get There: Fly into Rovaniemi Airport and take a short taxi ride to Santa Claus Village.

Where to Stay: Santa Claus Holiday Village offers cozy cabins and easy access to Santa’s attractions.

9. Munich, Germany: Traditional Bavarian Christmas

Munich’s Marienplatz Christmas market is a traditional Bavarian holiday experience. The market is renowned for its stunning decorations, hand-carved wooden toys, and traditional foods like sausages and roasted chestnuts. Families will enjoy the Kinderweihnacht market, which features a carousel, puppet shows, and child-friendly activities.

Munich’s historic center is beautifully decorated during the Christmas season, and the nearby medieval-style market at the Residenz Museum offers even more festive charm. The market is set against the backdrop of the famous Munich Cathedral, which makes for a picturesque holiday experience.

Dates: November 27 – December 24, 2024

How to Get There: Fly into Munich International Airport and take a direct train to Marienplatz.

Where to Stay: Hotel Bayerischer Hof offers family-friendly accommodations with spacious rooms and a central location.

10. Edinburgh, Scotland: Christmas Charm in the UK

Edinburgh’s Christmas market is a magical experience set against the stunning backdrop of Edinburgh Castle and the city’s historical architecture. The market stretches across multiple locations, with East Princes Street Gardens being the primary venue, where more than 60 stalls offer festive food, gifts, and traditional Scottish treats like shortbread, mulled wine, and Scottish haggis.

Families will love the winter fairytale atmosphere, complete with a large ice skating rink, the Ferris wheel offering panoramic views of the city, and Santa Land—a dedicated area for children with rides and festive entertainment. Additionally, the St. Andrew’s Square market and George Street offer more stalls and entertainment, creating an immersive holiday experience.

Dates: November 23, 2024 – January 7, 2025

How to Get There: Edinburgh Airport is easily accessible by plane, and from there, you can take a tram or bus to the city center.

Where to Stay: The Balmoral Hotel, a luxury family-friendly hotel near Princes Street, offers spacious rooms and a prime location close to the Christmas market and other attractions.

Conclusion

Europe’s Christmas markets are a celebration of festive traditions, local culture, and holiday joy, making them an ideal destination for families looking to create lasting memories. Each market offers its own unique charm, from the romantic ambiance of Vienna’s Christkindlmarkt to the lively atmosphere of Barcelona’s Fira de Nadal. These markets are not only about shopping for gifts or enjoying local food but are immersive experiences that capture the essence of Christmas.

Whether you’re looking for family-friendly activities, picturesque winter settings, or a taste of local traditions, the 10 best Christmas markets in Europe for families in 2024 are sure to leave you with unforgettable experiences. Visiting these markets in cities like Prague, Munich, and Edinburgh offers the perfect opportunity to embrace the holiday spirit, shop for unique handcrafted items, indulge in local delicacies, and engage in a variety of fun activities for kids.

So, whether you want to ice skate under twinkling lights, take a horse-drawn carriage ride, or sip on hot chocolate as you browse the stalls, these European Christmas markets offer something for everyone in the family. As the holiday season approaches, make sure to add these destinations to your list and immerse yourself in the magical world of Christmas markets.