The 3 best Christmas markets in Europe

With the festive season quickly approaching, a Christmas market is a fantastic way to enjoy the festivities and spend quality time with family and friends. There is something truly special about the twinkling lights, the chill in the air, and the softly falling snow around you if you’re lucky.

There is no better place to immerse yourself in the Christmas spirit than by visiting a European Christmas market. Over the years, their reputation has grown, and they are now one of the most popular pre-Christmas getaways. You can try some of the best traditional European foods, hunt for trinkets, buy gifts for your loved ones, and experience the magic of Christmas.

Why not combine your visit to Europe’s Christmas markets with renting a car and exploring the region?

Here is a list of some of the most well-known European Christmas markets that you must experience for yourself.

Budapest Advent and Christmas Fair – Hungary

Called the Advent Basilica, the market takes place against the impressive backdrop of St. Stephen’s Basilica and runs from late November to January 1st in Budapest.

The market offers a wealth of attractions with around 200 events, 80 craft vendors, and a delicious selection of Hungarian and international cuisine. To keep the children happy, there is free entry to a beautiful ice skating rink in the center of the market.

When day turns to night, the real magic begins. The largest 3D light show in Europe is projected onto the walls of the Basilica, and a truly impressive display of Christmas short films is presented for market-goers to watch and enjoy.

In addition to providing you with a wonderful Christmas experience, the Advent feast at the Basilica is known for being one of the most eco-friendly markets in Europe. The Basilica market creates a huge community spirit. Concerts are held, and Hungarians go to great lengths to preserve the environment by using eco-friendly cups and cutlery throughout the fair, as well as ensuring that leftovers are recycled.

Vienna, Austria

Why not visit one of the most beautiful cities in Europe? Every November and December, Vienna showcases its expertise in creating a magical pre-Christmas atmosphere. Called “Vienna Magic of Advent,” Vienna’s Christmas markets are some of the most traditional in all of Europe.

Vienna’s most beautiful squares transform into magical Christmas markets, where the streets are filled with the delightful aroma of warm bakery treats for sale.

The town hall square becomes a winter wonderland where you’ll see tree decorations, Christmas gifts, sweets, and winter warmers to keep you cozy. There is also a wide variety of craft workshops available for children to participate in and plenty of family fun on the carousel. For a great photo opportunity, check out the trees surrounding the town hall park, which are decorated with a sea of lights.

You should also visit another key point of interest in Vienna: the cultural and Christmas market that takes place in front of Schönbrunn Palace. Set against a stunning imperial backdrop, it turns into a New Year’s market after Christmas. This beautiful fairy-tale location offers a wide variety of traditional crafts, handmade Christmas decorations, Christmas concerts, entertainment, and activities for children.

Metz – France

This Christmas market takes place from mid-November to late December and is one of the 10 most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe.

Famous for activities that can only be found in the city of Metz, such as the lantern trail in the Boufflers Garden, which takes you on a fairy-tale walk through the Arctic forest illuminated by 400 lanterns, this is a charming attraction.

The market also features a Ferris wheel and beautifully decorated chalets selling many local products. Metz at Christmas is a warm and welcoming winter paradise that attracts not only travelers but also creative minds, designers, and innovative artists.

Lose yourself in the magic of Christmas in Metz, whether skating along the ice road, enjoying the taste of the finest gingerbread, or warming up with a cup of hot chocolate or mulled wine. Metz is undoubtedly a great place to visit if you’re looking for a Christmas getaway.

If you’re already starting to get excited about the upcoming festive period, why not try something different this year and visit one of Europe’s top Christmas spots? You’ll find plenty of souvenirs, gifts, and beautiful decorations to take home.

This is the perfect opportunity to take a short break and rent a car to discover more of Europe as well.