Planning to spend this Christmas abroad? If you’re looking for a unique mix of adventure, culture, and history, a trip to Europe’s famous Christmas markets could be the perfect way to spend the holiday season.

Every November and December, Europe’s Christmas markets come to life. The streets sparkle, stalls overflow with handcrafted gifts, and festive cheer fills every corner. There’s nothing quite like exploring these markets, and what better way to experience it than with your close friends or family.

So, what’s on offer? Here’s our list of the Top 10 Christmas Markets to visit with friends in 2025.

Christkindlmarkt, Vienna

Dates: 14th November to 26th December 2025

Step into Vienna’s Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz and you’ll immediately feel the city’s festive spirit. There’s wooden stalls packed with ornaments, leather goods, and local crafts galore. Plus, we couldn’t forget the iconic smell of the bratwurst sausages and Kaiserschmarrn desserts.

Nearby, there’s a chance to take a stroll through St Stephen’s Cathedral and witness its stunning Gothic architecture. Alternatively, you might even catch a performance at the Vienna State Opera. On the more peaceful side, take a trip to the Schönbrunn Palace Gardens, which is known for its Baroque landscaping.

Schönbrunn Palace Market, Vienna

Dates: 6th November 2025 to 6th January 6th 2026

At Schönbrunn Palace, the Christmas market is framed by grandeur and charm. Ice skaters glide beneath the star-topped tree, while stalls of wooden toys and artisanal candles encourage a relaxed, playful pace.

In terms of activities beyond the market, there’s the Palm House and Desert House showcase exotic plants, and the Schönbrunn maze and labyrinth to tempt visitors with a gentle challenge.

Old Town Square Market, Prague

Dates: 29th November 2025 to 6th January 2026

The Old Town Square Market in Prague feels like stepping into a holiday painting. A towering Christmas tree sparkles amid the glow of a nativity scene, while stalls offer Trdelník pastries and hand-blown glass ornaments that draw visitors in with every turn.

Of course, Prague itself is an incredibly beautiful city. Historic highlights such as the Astronomical Clock and Charles Bridge make wandering between stalls even more captivating. Take a stroll through cobbled streets lined with cafés, or simply get absorbed by the market energy and city charm.

Wenceslas Square Market, Prague

Dates: 29th November 2025 to 6th January 2026

Vibrant and sprawling, Wenceslas Square Market is alive with performers, craft stalls, and the scents of seasonal delicacies. Browsing souvenirs and sipping mulled wine, the experience flows naturally, encouraging exploration without hurry.

The National Museum anchors the square, while nearby shops and restaurants provide cultural and culinary variety. Here, the festive buzz blends seamlessly with Prague’s historic spirit.

Striezelmarkt, Dresden

Dates: 26th November to 24th December 2025

Dresden’s Striezelmarkt has a rich heritage, dating back centuries, and the atmosphere is steeped in tradition. Stalls filled with Stollen cakes, wooden ornaments, and gingerbread create a sensory celebration, and it’s easy to get caught up in the rhythms of the crowd.

Nearby, the Frauenkirche impresses with baroque elegance, and the Zwinger Palace offers gardens and galleries for those seeking a cultural interlude. The combination of history and holiday cheer keeps the day lively and varied.

Leipzig Christmas Market, Leipzig

Dates: 26th November to 23rd December 2025

Leipzig’s market has a charming mix of festive spectacle and historic touches. Over 250 stalls and a lively nativity scene with live sheep invite visitors to linger, exploring handcrafted Ore Mountain toys, lacework, and pottery.

For cultural contrast, St Thomas Church connects to Bach’s musical legacy, while the Leipzig Museum of Fine Arts adds artistic depth. The combination of tradition, craftsmanship, and culture keeps each step of the day fresh and engaging.

Christkindlesmarkt, Nuremberg

Dates: 28th November to 24th December 2025

Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt brims with old-world character. Bratwurst, gingerbread, and handcrafted ornaments fill the senses, while the carolers and lights create a naturally festive rhythm.

The Nuremberg Castle towers above the market, offering city views, and the Toy Museum provides a nostalgic peek into the local craft tradition. The market’s charm pairs effortlessly with these nearby cultural gems.

Cathedral Christmas Market, Cologne

Dates: 17th November to 23rd December 2025

Cologne’s market is dramatic and inviting, set beneath the city’s Gothic spires. Stalls overflow with crafts and treats, and the lively buzz makes the whole experience immersive without feeling rushed.

Visiting the Cologne Cathedral is a must, with its soaring architecture, while the Chocolate Museum adds a playful and delicious twist. Together, these attractions turn a festive day into something full of variety and delight.

Christkindelsmärik, Strasbourg

Dates: 26th November to 24th December 2025

Strasbourg’s Christkindelsmärik feels like a fairytale come to life. Twinkling decorations, fragrant biscuits, and artisanal stalls draw visitors through winding streets, creating a gentle flow of festive excitement.

The Strasbourg Cathedral impresses with intricate architecture, and wandering through La Petite France offers charming canals and half-timbered houses. The mix of market bustle and scenic streets encourages relaxed exploration.

Bruges Christmas Market, Bruges

Dates: 22nd November 2025 to 5th January 2026

Bruges turns its medieval square into a sparkling festive hub. Ice skating, chocolates, and waffles blend seamlessly into a storybook atmosphere, and the historic streets invite wandering and small adventures.

The Belfry of Bruges rewards visitors with sweeping views, while the Canal Quarter offers illuminated waterways for a scenic stroll. Together with the market, these highlights make Bruges feel like a city made for exploration.

Tivoli Gardens Christmas Market, Copenhagen

Dates: 19th November 2025 to 2nd January 2nd 2026

Tivoli Gardens combines traditional market charm with amusement park excitement. Rides, lights, and Danish treats such as æbleskiver and gløgg keep the day lively, creating a sense of continuous discovery.

Nearby, the colourful harbourfront of Nyhavn and the regal Rosenborg Castle provide a picturesque and cultural contrast, adding depth to the festive adventure.

Beautiful traditional Christmas decorations

Vörösmarty Square Market, Budapest

Dates: 15th November to 31st December 2025

Budapest’s Vörösmarty Square Market is vibrant, filled with crafts, hearty food, and music. Enjoying chimney cakes, goulash, and folk performances makes strolling through the market feel both relaxed and immersive.

A walk along the Danube promenade or a visit to St Stephen’s Basilica adds scenic and architectural interest, allowing the festive energy to blend naturally with the city’s charm.

Why Christmas Markets make for the perfect Group Trip

Shared Atmosphere

Festive lights, music and the bustle of the crowd all feel more vibrant when you are with friends. Exploring together heightens the sense of celebration and makes the market atmosphere even more memorable.

Something for Everyone

From local delicacies to handmade gifts and skating rinks, there is plenty to keep every personality entertained. Travelling as a group means each person can follow their interests without anyone feeling left out.

Easy on the Budget

Most markets are free to enter, and the joy comes as much from soaking up the setting as it does from spending. Splitting accommodation and meals helps keep costs down, making it a smart option for groups looking for value.

Social by Nature

The very design of a Christmas market lends itself to groups. Live performances, bustling food stalls and lively conversations blend together, creating a relaxed space where friends can move at their own pace and still come together.

Lasting Memories

Markets are full of traditions, whether it is tasting regional treats, picking out ornaments or joining in carols. Sharing these small but special moments helps to create stories and memories that stay with you long after the trip is over.

Make this Christmas one for the books

Ready to experience the magic of Christmas in Europe? With Ross Tours, you’ll explore Vienna’s festive markets, Prague’s charming Old Town, Dresden’s enchanting lights, Leipzig’s historic beauty, Nuremberg’s iconic Christkindlesmarkt, and Munich’s Bavarian charm. Enjoy seasonal treats and unforgettable holiday cheer on this festive tour.

What better way to spend the holiday season than at these wonderful markets full of magic, warmth, and festive delight? Along the ride, you’ll be led by Julia Zaetta, a highly knowledgeable tour leader and former editor-in-chief of Better Homes and Gardens.

Read all about our one-of-a-kind Christmas Market tour here!