When most people are getting into pumpkin spice mode, I’m already dreaming of sipping hot cocoa heaped high with mountains of Chantilly cream at a magical Christmas market. Since launching my blog, I have been on a mission to visit all of the major European Christmas markets.
It’s a daunting task and I probably went overboard at the beginning by trying to visit markets in four cities over a long holiday weekend. Thankfully, high-speed train networks in Central Europe connect some of the most popular Christmas market destinations.
In this post I’m excited to share my guide to the best European Christmas Markets you should visit this holiday season!
1) Cologne, Germany
German Christmas markets are considered among the best in Europe and Cologne boasts arguably the best one in all of Germany. In fact, there are seven different Christmas markets within the city.
The market located at the imposing gothic Cologne Cathedral is at the heart of the celebration. Here, you can warm up with some mulled wine and find vendors selling everything from handmade German wooden toys to ceramics and sweet treats.
Ironically, the nearby Neumarkt Christmas Market is the oldest of Cologne’s Christmas markets. It is famous for the “Angels” who dress up and spread Christmas cheer.
The city also boasts a Christmas market called “Christmas Avenue”. My opinion of Cologne is also swayed by its Lindt Chocolate Museum on the Rheinau harbour near the old town. Several small Christmas stalls flank the entrance, but inside you can sign up for courses and chocolate tastings. I highly recommend indulging in one of the decadent cakes and mint-flavoured hot chocolate on offer at the museum’s Grand Cafe.
Market Dates: November 26 – December 23 and more information.
Where To Stay In Cologne, Germany
Luxury Cologne Hotels
- Hotel Mondial am Dom Cologne – This luxury hotel offers guests access to a full-service spa, a buffet breakfast and a free daily manager’s reception.
- Cologne Marriott Hotel – Located just a short walk from the Cologne Cathedral and the Chocolate Museum this is a great centrally located hotel, ideal for staying at when visiting a Christmas Market.
- Eden Hotel Früh am Dom – With 78 rooms, this hotel is a great place to stay for a couples, girls or families for Christmas Market getaway. The hotel is also located close to Wallraf Square and Hohe Strasse.
Mid-Range Cologne Hotels
- Dorint Hotel am Heumarkt Köln – This riverfront Cologne hotel is located in Innenstadt, a neighbourhood in Cologne, with the shopping district and on a river.
- Urban Loft Cologne – Located close to Neumarkt and Chocolate Museum and within walking distance of shops, restaurants and art galleries.
- Pullman Cologne – This luxury family-friendly hotel is located near the Wallraf-Richartz Museum and Palladium. The hotel has 275 rooms with premium comforts and a buffet breakfast option.
Budget Cologne Hotels
- Steigenberger Hotel Köln – Located close to Neumarkt and City Hall, this hotel has a bar, a health club and a restaurant.
- CityClass Hotel am Dom – This hotel has 81 rooms with premium bedding and thoughtful touches. The hotel also has a buffet breakfast, a bar and a restaurant.
- CityClass Hotel Alter Markt – Located in Innenstadt, a great neighbourhood in Cologne. This hotel is located near a metro station and a boardwalk/promenade.
2) Bruges, Belgium
Bruges is pretty magical any time of year, but the medieval city is all decked out in sparkles for the holidays. To add to the attractions of its Christmas markets, Belgian railways usually runs a Christmas shopping promotion for free day trips on the weekends in December – allowing you to save your Euros for splurges at the markets.
During the holidays, Bruges city centre is transformed into a winter wonderland with a massive ice rink. The Belfry of Bruges, a landmark that will be familiar to fans of the movie In Bruges, serves as the backdrop for the main market.
When in Bruges, leave some time to stroll along the cosy cobblestone alleyways and take a boat tour of the picturesque canals. Definitely stop by the Chocolate Line, which is honoured as the number one chocolate in the world!
For a unique take on Belgian waffles, head to Gofrebe, a shop that is gaining notice for its artisanal waffles on a stick. The waffles are hand dipped in your choice of melted chocolate and toppings—my favourite is dark chocolate covered in speculoos.
Market Dates: November 23 to January 1 and more information.
Where To Stay In Bruges, Belgium
Luxury Bruges Hotels
- Hotel Prinsenhof – Located in the Historical Center Bruges, this hotel has a full spa, restaurant and bar. With just 26 rooms, this hotel is small but individually decorated.
- Four bedroom holiday home – Diephuys 14A is located in the city’s historical centre close to the canals, museums, and boutique shops. The house has four bedrooms and two bathrooms, comfortably sleeping up to eight guests.
- Hotel Relais Bourgondisch Cruyce – Located in a shopping district in Historical Center Bruges. Nearby attractions include the Church of Our Lady and the Historic Centre of Brugge.
Mid-Range Bruges Hotels
- Hotel de Orangerie by CW Hotel Collection – Located close to Basilica of the Holy Blood and Bruges Belfry, this hotel is within walking distance of lots of the city’s main attractions. The hotel also has a terrace, a bar and a buffet breakfast.
- Hotel Dukes’ Palace Bruges – This luxury Bruges hotel has a full-service spa and is located in the Historical Center of Bruges.
- Grand Hotel Casselbergh Bruges – This riverfront hotel is located in the Historical Center of Bruges and has a full-service spa, a fireplace and free wifi.
Budget Bruges Hotels
- NH Brugge Hotel – This eco-certified hotel has a terrace, a garden and a breakfast buffet. The 149 rooms in the hotel all have premium comforts and coffee/tea-making facilities.
- Dukes’ Academie – Located within walking distance of Bruges Market Square, Bruges Christmas Market and the Historic Centre of Brugge. The hotel offers rooms that sleep single travellers and up to four people.
- Hotel Navarra Brugge – This hotel has 94 rooms, a mix of rooms with one bed and two twins. The hotel also has an indoor swimming pool, a terrace, a garden and a sauna.
3) Vienna, Austria
The Habsburg splendour of Vienna only gets better at Christmas. There are over 25 Christmas markets to explore in the city. The most popular are the ones located next to historic landmarks such as the Christmas Village at Belvedere Palace or the Christmas and New Year’s Market at the Schönbrunn Palace.
You’ll find festive market stalls in Vienna serving up handcrafted gifts as well as freshly baked traditional Christmas cookies such as vanillekipferl (Austrian crescent-shaped cookies flavoured with almonds and vanilla). You can also try your hand at crafting your own gifts at the market by the City Hall, which offers Christmas cookie-baking and candle-making sessions.
Of course, Vienna is renowned for its classical music and you’ll be treated to the melodious Christmas carols of visiting international choirs.
Market Dates: Dates vary, but the markets generally run from November 17 to December 26. More information can be found here.
Where To Stay In Vienna, Austria
Luxury Vienna Hotels
- Hotel Imperial – Located close to Vienna Music Society and Albertina, this hotel has 138 rooms with a mix of twin rooms, king rooms and one-bedroom suites.
- Austria Trend Parkhotel Schönbrunn – This hotel is located in the Hietzing neighbourhood of Vienna, close to the Schönbrunn Zoo, Schönbrunn Palace and Mariahilfer Street.
- SO/ Vienna – This family-friendly luxury hotel is close to St Stephen’s Cathedral and the Hofburg Imperial Palace.
Mid-Range Vienna Hotels
- Hilton Vienna Plaza – This hotel is ideal for those wishing to visit the Vienna Christmas Market and explore the city. The hotel offers room options, which include king beds, family connecting rooms, twin beds and penthouses.
- InterContinental Vienna – This central hotel is within walking distance of the Vienna State Opera, St. Stephen’s Cathedral and Hofburg Imperial Palace. The hotel also has a coffee shop, a garden, a hair salon, and an onsite restaurant.
- Austria Trend Hotel Savoyen Vienna – Located in the Landstraße, in the neighbourhood of Vienna, this hotel has 309 rooms with a mix of twin and double rooms.
Budget Vienna Hotels
- Leonardo Hotel Vienna Hauptbahnhof – Located in Favoriten, connected to a shopping mall, this hotel offers a buffet breakfast and over 300 rooms.
- Austria Trend Parkhotel Schönbrunn – This hotel is located in Hietzing and is ideal for visiting a Christmas Market and exploring the city.
- Mooons – Located in Wieden, close to the Belvedere and Konzerthaus local landmarks. The hotel has a rooftop terrace, a garden and an onsite restaurant.
4) Paris, France
The City of Lights always puts on a great show for Christmas. Paris illuminations start mid-November and include lavish decorations along the Champs Elysee and other famous landmarks.
Growing up, I always admired Macy’s holiday window displays in New York City. The Christmas displays at Galleries Lafayette and Printemps bring me home.
The Paris region’s largest Christmas market is at La Defense (located at the end of Metro Line 1) with over 250 stalls spread over 10,000 square meters. Kids love seeing Pere Noel (Santa Claus) and the arctic-themed ice skating rink.
The Christmas markets at the Champs-Elysee are coming back in 2019, but they will be moved to the nearby Tuileries garden next to the Louvre. The market at Quai Branly next to the Eiffel Tower also makes for the perfect Christmas postcard.
Market Dates: Late November to January 1 and more information.
Where To Stay In Paris, France
Luxury Paris Hotels
- Le Cinq Codet is a 5-star hotel on the left bank in Paris, conveniently located close to the Palais les Invalides, the Rodin Museum and the Eiffel Tower.
- The Relais Christine is a 5-star hotel perfectly located on the left bank of Paris. Built on the remains of the Abbey of the Grands-Augustin.
- Treat yourself and stay at the fabulous Four Seasons and enjoy brunch with your girlfriends at Le George restaurant.
Mid-Range Paris Hotels
- Grand Hotel Leveque – This hotel has large rooms which can sleep up to five people with 291 sq ft of living space. There is also triple rooms and suites at this hotel.
- Hotel Britannique – Located within walking distance of Centre Pompidou, the Louvre Museum and the Notre-Dame. This hotel offers connecting rooms, city-view rooms and rooms which can sleep up to four people.
- Hotel Marceau Champs Elysees – This hotel is located on the 8th Arrondissement, close to the Arc de Triomphe, the Eiffel Tower and the Champs-Élysées. With 35 rooms this hotel offers premium bedding and thoughtful touches.
Budget Paris Hotels
- Rayz Eiffel – With 25 individually decorated and furnished rooms, this hotel is one of a kind. Some rooms have balconies and some can sleep up to four people.
- Hôtel Castex – Located in the centre of Paris, this hotel is ideally located to explore the Christmas Markets.
- Hôtel de la Tour Eiffel – This hotel is located in the 7th Arrondissement, close to the Louvre Museum, Champs-Élysées and Palais Garnier. This hotel has 24 rooms and offers a continental breakfast and has a garden onsite.
5) Aachen, Germany
Charlemagne’s cathedral, the first UNESCO World Heritage site awarded in Germany, serves as a backdrop for Aachen’s famous Christmas market. There are over 100 stalls catering to locals and tourists alike. Try out the Aachener Printen, a type of gingerbread cookie served piping hot from the oven.
Make sure to plan some time exploring the cathedral if you are interested in European history. The cathedral (also referred to as the Aix-La-Chapelle cathedral in French and English), is one of the oldest in Europe and is a marvel of geometric design. Until 1531, it served as the site of coronations for German royalty.
To recover from Christmas shopping and exploring Aachen’s historic sites, head off to relax at one of its beautiful hot springs or thermal spas.
Market Dates: November 23 to December 23 and more information.
Where To Stay In Aachen, Germany
Luxury Aachen Hotels
- Best Westen Plus Hotel Regence – Located in the Aachen-Mitte neighbourhood of Aachen, this hotel is within walking distance of some of the city’s main attractions, such as the Aachen Cathedral and North Eifel Nature Park.
- Parkhotel Quellenhof Aachen – This hotel offers three room variations including a classic double room, a classic comfort room and a favourite comfort room. The hotel also features an onsite spa and an indoor pool for guests to enjoy.
- Hotel 3 Könige – Connected to a shopping centre this hotel has a central location close to the Couven Museum and the Ludwig Forum.
Mid-Range Aachen Hotels
- Hotel am Marschiertor – This hotel offers guests a free buffet breakfast along with an airport shuttle service and 50 rooms with home comforts.
- Art Hotel Aachen Superior – Located close to the Aachen Cathedral and North Eifel Nature Park, this hotel offers a variety of room options. Room options include suites, rooms which sleep up to four people and rooms with balconies and terraces.
- Mercure Hotel Aachen Europaplatz – Situated close to the Aachen Cathedral and CHIO Stadium, this hotel is a great place to stay to visit the Christmas Markets.
Budget Aachen Hotels
- Leonardo Hotel Aachen – This hotel is located in the neighbourhood of Laurensberg in Aachen. The hotel has 99 rooms complete with air conditioning and free wifi.
- Hampton by Hilton Aachen Tivoli – Sleeping up to four people in one room, this hotel is a great option for friends or families. There is also a free breakfast buffet and a terrace.
- Motel One Aachen – Located just a five-minute walk from the Aachen Cathedral, this hotel is a great option to explore the Christmas Markets and the city.
6) Florence, Italy
Christmas is one of the best times to visit Florence as the crowds tend to thin out. The main Christmas market is held at the Piazza Santa Croce. It mimics traditional German Christmas markets and you will find a good selection of ornaments, candles, clothing, food, and wine from the Tuscany region.
Every year on December 8, a large Christmas tree is set up at the Piazza del Duomo. Here, you can also check out a life-sized nativity scene with statues made of terracotta. Both the Christmas tree and the Nativity scene are up until January 6 (Epiphany day).
Remember to bring your camera to capture the F-Light festival that runs throughout the city during this period. The best part of the light show is usually at the city’s famed Ponte Vecchio bridge.
If you happen to be in Florence during Epiphany you can also check out the “Cavalcade of the Magi”, a parade that reenacts the journey of the Magi.
Market Dates: Early December to January 1, but check for updated information.
Where To Stay In Florence, Italy
Luxury Florence Hotels
- Sina Villa Medici – This luxury, family-friendly hotel near the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore is a great option for exploring the city. The hotel also has a sauna, Turkish bath and two onsite restaurants.
- Arte’s Boutique Hotel – This upscale Tuscan-style hotel is located close to the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Uffizi Gallery and Downtown. The hotel has plenty of room options for sleeping between two and four people.
- IL Tornabuoni The Unbound Collection – Located in the Duomo, this hotel is close to the district’s best shopping, train stations and the Via de’ Calzaiuoli and Central Market.
Mid-Range Florence Hotels
- The Market Urban Hotel – With a location close to the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Ponte Vecchio and the Uffizi Gallery, this hotel is a great place for a Christmas market trip. It is ideal for exploring the rest of the city.
- Grand Hotel Cavour – Complete with a rooftop with an incredible view, this hotel also has a buffet breakfast, a bar and a gym. The hotel has 100 rooms which can sleep between one and five people.
- Hotel Santa Maria Novella – Complete with a family room that can sleep up to five this hotel has a room configuration to suit every group or family. The hotel is also close to the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella and Salvatore Ferragamo Museum.
Budget Florence Hotels
- II Perseo – Located in the Duomo, this hotel is within walking distance of Downtown, the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella and the Salvatore Ferragamo Museum.
- Art Hotel Villa Agape – Located just outside of the city near Ponte Vecchio, this hotel is close to Piazzale Michelangelo and Boboli Gardens. The hotel offers free self-parking, a rooftop terrace, and an onsite restaurant.
- Globus Urban Hotel – Unlike other hotels this hotel offers standard rooms in addition to apartments with a full kitchen. The hotel also offers bike rental and has an onsite bar.
7) Strasbourg, France
Any serious European Christmas market tour must begin with Strasbourg, which holds the title of the oldest Christmas market in France. Located in the Germanic-influenced Alsace region, these markets have a long history dating back to 1527. Several Christmas markets are centred near the Grand Ile, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
You can begin at the largest market at Place Broglie, the Christkindelsmärik. The Place de la Cathedrale market offers a beautiful backdrop and wooden chalets selling handicrafts and trinkets. Next, head over to Place Kléber to check out the beautifully decorated Christmas tree.
Market Dates: November 30 to December 30 and more information.
Where To Stay In Strasbourg, France
Luxury Strasbourg Hotels
- Sofitel Strasbourg Grand Ile – Located only a 5-minute walk from the beautiful Cathedrale and a beautiful terrace to enjoy breakfast!
- Garrigae Villa La Florangerie – This hotel offers a free bike service, making exploring Strasbourg a breeze!
- Hotel & Spa Regent Petit – Set in a 17th Century converted mill, it offers onsite dining and spa experience.
Mid-Range Strasbourg Hotels
- Hotel Hannong – This upscale hotel is located close to Train Station Square, the Strasbourg Cathedral and the Strasbourg Christmas Market.
- Hotel Beaucour – Located in the city centre and near the Alsatian and Strasbourg Museums of Modern and Contemporary Art, the hotel has 49 uniquely furnished rooms that can accommodate between two and four people.
- Hotel Tandem – With double, triple, quadruple and twin rooms this hotel is perfect for everyone from families to individual solo travellers and everyone in between. The hotel is situated near a metro station. Contades Park and Parc de l’Orangerie.
Budget Strasbourg Hotels
- Hotel Arok – Complete with a terrace, coffee shop and sauna, this hotel has all the amenities you need for a great stay, on a budget. The hotel also offers a buffet breakfast and a game room.
- Hotel Kaijoo by HappyCulture – Located just a nine-minute walk from the Strasbourg Christmas Market, this hotel is great for visiting the markets and exploring the city. This hotel has rooms which can sleep up to seven people, with seven and five-person rooms, along with balconies and triple rooms.
- Regent Contades – This upscale hotel is located close to the Strasbourg Municipal Baths and Le Basket Centre. There is also a bar, onsite spa and self-parking.
8) Prague, Czechia
If you are going to celebrate the festive season by visiting Christmas markets, you can’t do much better than Prague, which is located in the heart of Bohemia. The main markets are held at the Old Town Square and at Wenceslas Square, named after the Good King Wenceslas who also has a Christmas Carol named after him.
There are smaller markets held at the nearby Republic Square, at Havel’s Market, and at the fairytale Prague Castle. You can sample the Czech pilsners at the markets and have a trdelnik (a traditionally Slovakian dish of spiralled dough coated in sugar and cinnamon) to go along with it.
Market Dates: December 1 to January 6 and more information.
Where To Stay In Prague, Czechia
Luxury Prague Hotels
- Cosmopolitan Hotel Prague – This hotel can sleep up to four in one room with a mixture of deluxe rooms and suites. Located in the Prague 1 neighbourhood, this hotel is located in the city centre and close to a metro station.
- 18th Century Baroque Residence – Sleeping six guests comfortably in three bedrooms, this house is located in the centre of Lesser Town.
- Eclectic Three Bedroom Loft at Royal Way – With three bedrooms and a king bed, this loft is a great place to stay for a girl’s getaway. With an open plan living, kitchen and dining area, this loft has plenty of space to relax along with its own private elevator.
Mid-Range Prague Hotels
- Art Deco Imperial Hotel – Just a ten-minute walk from Old Town Square, Wenceslas Square and the Prague Astronomical Clock, this hotel is in a great location to enjoy everything the city has to offer.
- Art Nouveau Palace Hotel – This luxury boutique hotel is just a three-minute walk from Wenceslas Square and a 10-minute walk from Old Town Square.
- Hotel Kings Court – Located near Old Town Square, this hotel has a casino, a terrace and an onsite spa. The hotel also features an indoor swimming pool and 138 rooms with premium bedding and pillow menus.
Budget Prague Hotels
- Grandium Hotel Prague – Located close to Mucha Museum and Jubilee Synagogue, this hotel is great for exploring the city and the Christmas Markets. There is a coffee shop, onsite restaurant and onsite car rental service.
- Grand Hotel Bohemia – The 79 rooms have thoughtful touches throughout, with bathtubs and terraces. The hotel also has an onsite fine-dining restaurant with a great brunch option.
- Mosaic House Design Hotel – Located in Prague 2, this hotel is located in the shopping district close to the Prague National Theatre and New Town Hall.
9) Verona, Italy
Fair Verona, the city of Romeo and Juliet, is the perfect Christmas getaway for lovers. The city is transformed with a dazzling display of Christmas decorations, starting at the historic Arena of Verona and spreading throughout the town via Piazza Bra.
The main market encompasses the Piazza dei Signori, the Old Market Courtyard, and the Tribunal Courtyard. The markets are modelled on the German ones in Nuremberg, and there are many different stalls serving everything from sausages to gingerbread.
There is a beautiful Christmas tree in the square along with many renditions of Christmas carols to set the mood. The annual running of the Santas in mid-December attracts thousands of visitors.
Shakespeare lovers should include a short visit to the much-Instagrammed Juliet’s House for a photo on Juliet’s balcony. Verona also has some of the best high-end shopping anywhere in Italy.
Market Dates: November 11 to January 7 and more information.
Where To Stay In Verona, Italy
Luxury Verona Hotels
- Hotel Indigo Verona – This family-friendly hotel is located within a traditional Italian building. The hotel offers 62 individually furnished rooms, including rooms with queen beds, king beds, courtyard views, terraces and living room areas.
- Relais A Ponte Pietra – This guesthouse is just a 10-minute walk from Piazza delle Erbe and Juliet’s House. The guesthouse provides a free breakfast and thoughtful touches throughout.
- NH Collection Palazzo Verona – Located just a short walk from Piazza delle Erbe, Verona Arena and Juliet’s House, this hotel is in a great location for exploring the city and visiting the Christmas Markets.
Mid-Range Verona Hotels
- Hotel Bologna – Located in the city centre, close to the shopping district, this hotel is in a great walkable area of the city. The hotel also features a buffet breakfast, a bar and an onsite restaurant.
- Hotel Leon d’Oro – This upscale hotel is located close to Loggia del Consiglio and Juliet’s Tomb. The hotel has an onsite Italian restaurant and spa.
- Truly Verona – This quaint hotel has studio, one bedrooms and two-bedroom apartments. All of the apartments. All of the apartments feature kitchen facilities, some also have city views and can sleep between two and five people.
Budget Verona Hotels
- Boutique Hotel Scalzi – Located in the centre of Verona this hotel has a terrace, a garden and a bar. There is also a cooked-to-order breakfast available, and each room has thoughtful touches.
- Best Western Plus Hotel Expo – Located in Villafranca di Verona, this hotel is close to the Museo Nicolis and a 36-hole golf course.
- Opera Relais de Charme – This family-friendly aparthotel has studio apartments and one and two-bedroom apartments. The hotel has valet parking and free wifi in public areas. Each apartment has a kitchenette and everything you need for a perfect stay.
10) Brussels, Belgium
Despite being a late entrant to the European Christmas market scene, Brussels now hosts the largest Christmas markets in Belgium. The main event, called Winter Wonders, takes place around the old town landmarks of Grand Place, the Bourse, the Place de la Monnaie (ice rink), the Place Sainte-Catherine, and the Marche aux Poissons.
The 1.5-mile Winter Wonders route is lined with 270 wood chalets and a Ferris wheel catering to adults and children alike. The Christmas light and sound show at the Grand Place is a major draw.
Market Dates: November 30 to January 6 and more information.
Where To Stay In Brussels, Belgium
Luxury Brussels Hotels
- NH Collection Brussels Grand Sablon – Located close to La Grand Place, this hotel has a bar and a gym, along with a restaurant and a buffet breakfast option.
- Warwick Brussels – This upscale family-friendly hotel is close to La Grand Place, Brussels Christmas Market and Avenue Louise.
- Steigenberger Icon Wiltcher’s – With 267 individually furnished rooms, including rooms which can sleep up to four people, this is a great option for families or groups of friends.
Mid-Range Brussels Hotels
- Aris Grand-Place Hotel – Located in the Quartier du Centre – Centrumwijk neighbourhood of Brussels, this hotel is close to the Christmas Market, Avenue Louise and La Grand Place.
- La Bourse Hotel – This mid-range hotel has plenty to offer guests with a buffet breakfast and 37 individually furnished rooms complete with premium bedding.
- Hotel Agora Bruxelles Grand Place – Complete with a four-person family room, this hotel is a great option for a girl’s getaway or a family trip to the Christmas Markets.
Budget Brussels Hotels
- B&B Hotel Brussels Centre Gare du Midi – Located just a short walk from the Manneken Pis Statue, Avenue Louise and La Grand Place, this a great hotel situated in the middle of the city.
- The President Brussels Hotel – Complete with triple rooms, double rooms, quadruple rooms and rooms that can comfortably sleep up to four people.
- Bedford Hotel And Congress Centre – Located in Lower Town, this hotel has easy access to the Christmas Market and Avenue Louise. The hotel also has a buffet breakfast option, a bar and a gym.
11) Luxembourg City, Luxembourg
The Grand Duchy of Luxembourg puts on a fabulous “Winterlights” festival featuring a light show and free holiday concerts. Walking around the compact historic city centre is stress-free, making it very manageable to visit all of the Christmas markets in a day.
Place de la Constitution overlooking the Adolphe Bridge hosts more than 60 wooden stalls selling Christmas trinkets, food, and mulled wine. I am partial to the traditional gromperekichelcher potato pancakes.
Visit Place d’Armes for handmade decorations, clothing, and accessories. The Niklosmaart is a St. Nicholas Day and Advent market at Place de Paris.
Market Dates: November 22 to December 24 and more information.
Where To Stay In Luxembourg City, Luxembourg
Luxury Luxembourg City Hotels
- Sofitel Luxembourg Le Grand Ducal – This luxury Luxembourg City hotel is within walking distance of Sacre Coeur Church, Notre-Dame Cathedral, Luxembourg City Hall and the Grand Ducal Palace.
- Hotel Le Place d Armes – Complete with three restaurants, a terrace, a spa and a garden, this hotel is the perfect place to stay to visit the Christmas Markets and the rest of the city.
- Le Royal Hotels & Resorts – With over 300 sq ft rooms, with a queen bed or two single beds, this hotel is ideal for a couples trip or a solo traveller. The hotel also has the Club Sante spa and two onsite restaurants.
Mid-Range Luxembourg City Hotels
- Grand Hotel Cravat – Located in the centre of the city, this luxury hotel is just a two-minute walk from the city’s main attractions, including the Luxembourg City Hall and the Notre Dame Cathedral.
- Best Western Plus Grand Hotel Victor Hugo – This hotel has 65 individually furnished rooms with a buffet breakfast option, a bar and a gym.
- Melia Luxembourg – This luxury hotel is connected to the convention centre and has a full-service spa and an onsite restaurant. This hotel is eco-certified and has rooms with big windows and city views.
Budget Luxembourg Hotels
- Hôtel Perrin – Located in the Gare neighbourhood of Luxembourg City, this hotel is a great place to stay for visiting the Christmas Market and the shopping district.
- Hotel Grey – Conveniently located close to a train station, this hotel is great if you are travelling to the city by train. The hotel has 29 rooms, with premium comforts such as laptop-compatible safes and thoughtful touches.
- Doubletree by Hilton Luxembourg – Complete with an indoor swimming pool, this Dommelddange hotel is a great place to stay in the city. It is close to the Capucin Theater and the National Museum of History and Art.
12) Venice, Italy
The city of Casanova is a majestic sight at Christmas. The main Christmas market in Venice is held at the Campo Santo Stefano and unlike other traditional Christmas markets, it features locally produced Italian food and crafts. You will find Christmas ornaments and decorations crafted from the world-famous Murano glass, traditional carnival masks, ceramics, and jewellery.
The selection of locally produced foods includes speciality pasta and gourmet treats such as truffle-infused olive oil. The air is filled with the scent of roasted chestnuts – popular throughout Italy in the winter. For a magical panoramic view over St. Mark’s Square and the island, take the elevator up to the top of the clock tower, right before sunset for 12 euros.
Market Dates: Generally throughout December and more information.
Where To Stay In Venice, Italy
Luxury Venice Hotels
- Venetian Historic Residence – This is located within walking distance of the city’s landmarks and restaurants. This Venetian Residence has three bedrooms and some incredible views.
- Casa Veneziana – A real Venetian house in an 800th-century building. This house has three bedrooms that can sleep five people and offers incredible views over the canal of Cannaregio.
- Ca Bonfadini Historic Experience – This hotel is just a few minutes walk from restaurants, bars and the famous Grand Canal. The hotel offers a grand feel and design, with unique furniture and paintings on the walls, offering a luxurious stay.
Mid-Range Venice Hotels
- Hotel L’Orologio Venezia – Located just a 12-minute walk from St Mark’s Square, this hotel has a mixture of two-bedroom connecting rooms, double rooms, suites and canal view rooms.
- Riva del Vin Boutique Hotel – A Venetian guesthouse, this accommodation option has large windows many with canal views and a free breakfast buffet.
- Venice Maggior Consiglio – Located near a train station in Cannaregio, this hotel is in a walkable area of Venice.
Budget Venice Hotels
- Hotel Cavalletto e Doge Orseolo – This upscale hotel is just a minute’s walk from St Mark’s Square and is surrounded by great restaurants and excellent things to do and see.
- San Marco Palace – With rooms that can sleep up to five people, this hotel is superb for larger groups of friends or a family.
- Hotel Montecarlo – This family-friendly hotel is just a short walk from St Mark’s Square, the St Mark’s Basilica and Rialto Bridge.
Bonus Christmas Market: Riga, Latvia
Riga is less popular than some of the other Christmas markets on this list but it shouldn’t be missed! Accommodation in Riga is cheaper than in many other places in Europe and they have some great traditional markets.
For more information on Riga, be sure to read our Complete Guide to the Riga Christmas Market!
Where To Stay in Riga, Latvia
- Pullman Riga Old Town – Set in a former stable from the 18th Century, this hotel is incredibly luxurious. Rooms feature park or atrium views in addition to LED smart TVs, rain showers or bathtubs, and luxury toiletries!
- Grand Hotel Kempinski Riga – Featuring an on-site spa and sauna as well as complimentary bathrobes and slippers, this hotel is only steps away from the Riga Dome Cathedral, an ideal location to explore Riga.
- Grand Palace Hotel – The Leading Hotels of the World – Only a short walk to major sights and shopping centres. The interior decor is simply indulgent and the perfect place for you and your friends to spend time relaxing.
Bonus Christmas Market: Edinburgh, Scotland
Many people flock to London for Christmas and overlook neighbouring Edinburgh in Scotland. Christmas is the perfect time to visit Edinburgh, with several Christmas markets, beautiful decorations, and great restaurants.
For more information, be sure to read our Ultimate Guide to Christmas in Edinburgh!
Where To Stay In Edinburgh, Scotland
- Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh – The Caledonian – This is an exceptional choice with breathtaking views of Edinburgh Castle.
- Kimpton – Charlotte Square – This hotel is decorated so beautifully, and it adds so much to your experience. Every room and detail is so well thought out, it really is one for the bucketlist!
- The Edinburgh Grand – The rooftop terrace provides some of the best views over the city. Apartments are a great choice when away with your friends, with all the amenities this hotel has so much to enjoy.
European Christmas Market Wrap Up
I hope to get further afield to visit some Scandinavian markets and maybe chase the northern lights. There is also a lot of buzz about the Christmas markets in Zagreb.
I hope this article got you in the Christmas spirit! What Christmas markets have you visited?
We hope that this article has inspired you to visit a Christmas market. If you have any questions about the destination please leave these in the comments below.
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Read More About Christmas Destinations
- Poland: 3 Day Itinerary in Krakow and Zakopane
- Complete Guide to the Riga Christmas Market
- Ultimate Guide to Christmas in Edinburgh
We Are Travel Girls Contributor Daleya Uddin of Dolce&Masala.com
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