Top 10 Christmas Markets in the World 2025
It all begins with an idea.
Where Magic, Mulled Wine & Wanderlust Collide. Let us walk you through our top 10 favorite Christmas Markets.
The twinkling lights. The scent of roasted chestnuts. The joyful hum of carolers echoing through snow-dusted squares. There’s something undeniably magical about Christmas markets — where travel and nostalgia meet in the glow of the holiday season. At The In-Fluence Travel Club, we believe the holidays are best spent exploring the world’s most enchanting destinations, each with its own take on festive charm. Whether you crave alpine romance or fairy-tale cities wrapped in lights, here are our top ten Christmas markets to experience at least once in your lifetime. Ask us about our favorite River Cruise options that help you experience the best of the best across Europe.
1. Vienna, Austria – The Classic Dream
Few places capture the season like Vienna. The Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz transforms the city hall square into a glowing wonderland of handmade ornaments, hot punch, and choirs singing under Gothic towers. Add in horse-drawn carriage rides and classical concerts for the ultimate old-world Christmas.
💡 Travel Tip:
When you book through The In-Fluence Travel Club, guests at Hotel Sacher can enjoy perks like daily breakfast, $100 hotel credit, and VIP welcome treats — perfect for pairing with a slice (or two) of history.
2. Strasbourg, France – The Original Christmas Market
Dating back to 1570, Strasbourg’s Christkindelsmärik is Europe’s oldest — and perhaps the most atmospheric. Half-timbered houses sparkle with lights while the scent of cinnamon and bredele cookies fills the air. It’s pure Alsatian magic.
3. Prague, Czech Republic – A Fairytale Come Alive
The market in Old Town Square sits beneath the Týn Church’s spires, surrounded by pastel baroque facades. Try trdelník (warm pastry with sugar and walnuts) while sipping mulled wine — and don’t miss the astronomical clock striking on the hour.
4. Berlin, Germany – Urban & Unforgettable
Berlin hosts over 80 markets, from the traditional Gendarmenmarkt to the cool, design-forward Lucia Market in Prenzlauer Berg. Think artisanal crafts, fire pits, and live jazz beneath the city’s iconic TV Tower.
5. Zurich, Switzerland – Luxury Meets Tradition
Inside the Zurich Main Station, one of Europe’s largest indoor markets glitters beneath a Swarovski crystal tree. Outside, the Old Town Marktgasse offers fondue, raclette, and lakeside lights — a Swiss holiday done right.
6. Nuremberg, Germany – The Quintessential Market
Known for its Christkindlesmarkt, Nuremberg delivers the full gingerbread fantasy. Red-and-white stalls fill the medieval square, serving spicy Glühwein and Nürnberger sausages. Locals say no market captures the Christmas spirit better.
7. Copenhagen, Denmark – Nordic Glow
The Tivoli Gardens Christmas Market blends Danish hygge with fairy-tale magic. Picture snow-covered rides, hot chocolate with rum, and thousands of lanterns shimmering across the frozen lake.
8. London, England – Festive Sophistication
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is London’s glittering playground, complete with an ice bar, Bavarian village, and luxury chalets for sipping champagne. Combine it with holiday shopping at Harrods for the perfect December escape.
9. Bruges, Belgium – Chocolate & Charm
Cobblestone streets, canals, and a market square lit by hundreds of fairy lights — Bruges feels like stepping inside a snow globe. Try Belgian waffles, local beer, and handmade lace while carolers serenade the crowd.
10. New York City, USA – The Global Icon
From the Bryant Park Winter Village to the Union Square Holiday Market, New York transforms into a Christmas movie set. Shop artisan stalls, skate under the skyline, and finish with hot cocoa. And, why not live your Kevin McCallister dreams and stay at The Plaza Hotel- think limo ride, hotel cheese pizza, and an epic ice cream sundae… another preferred hotel, more Perks for you!
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Let us design your perfect winter itinerary — from Vienna’s market lights to Zurich’s snowy streets.