The Best Christmas Trees and Markets in Europe
Christmas is coming, magical lights are already decorating the trees, and snow is expected in many of Europe's most beautiful cities. Every European destination promises the best festive trees, bright lights and Christmas markets.
Whether you are going to take part in festive parades or visit a real Christmas market, you will have great memories for the whole next year and bring home the best traditional Christmas gifts. This trip will be an unforgettable part of your Christmas holidays in Europe. All you have to do is choose a destination.
Ukraine, Kyiv
From 19 December 2024 to 10 January 2025
This festive season, Kyiv shines brighter than in previous years thanks to its Christmas tree, a symbol of resilience and hope during the ongoing Russian war, now in its third year. Located in the heart of the city on Sofiyivska Square, the Christmas tree was beautifully lit on 6 December, creating a breathtaking sight that captures the spirit of Christmas as a beacon of hope and renewal. Ukraine now celebrates Christmas on 25 December, in line with Europe. This major change reflects the resilient spirit of the nation in the face of a full-scale Russian invasion. This transition not only marks a new tradition, but also symbolises a collective desire for light and renewal. The Christmas tree is a testament to this resilience, reminding us all of the joy and warmth that the Christmas season brings, even in the darkest of times. This year's tree was awarded the title of ‘Most Beautiful Christmas Tree in Europe’, an award that has only been given twice in the last decade. Join us in sending Christmas wishes to Kyiv, Ukraine and the world.
Poland, Gdansk
From 22 November to 23 December 2024
Discover one of the most beautiful places in Europe - the Gdansk Christmas Market, where fabulous illumination, delicacies, original gifts and a festive atmosphere are waiting for you. It is also home to one of the most beautiful Christmas parades in Europe, where lovers kiss under the mistletoe. In 2024, the Christmas Market in Gdansk took first place in the Best Christmas Markets competition organised by Europe's Best Destinations portal. Located in the historic centre of Gdansk, the Christmas Market is like a fairy tale that captivates both visitors and locals. The wonderful atmosphere of the Christmas market in Gdansk is created by unique decorations, traditional gastronomic and shopping areas, where handmade products of the exhibitors are very popular. Magic-filled theatrical animations and performances will transport adults and children to a world where creativity knows no bounds.
Romania, Craiova
From 15 November 2024 to 5 January 2025
Visit this year's Craiova Christmas Market, which has been voted one of the best Christmas markets in Europe three times, and discover one of the best Christmas parades. This year, the event will cover a larger area than before, and in the sky of Craiova you will be able to see a reindeer-drawn sleigh with Santa Claus, who will personally come to see the most beautiful festive market in Romania. The Santa's Village will have many attractions: skating rinks, roller coasters, houses with goodies and souvenirs, carousels, and breathtaking installations. At other locations, you can see a nativity scene, Star Wars-inspired decorations, and Beauty and the Beast dances. For the first time in Romania, these characters will be brought to life with the help of light and artificial intelligence.
Hungary, Budapest
From 15 November 2024 to 1 January 2025
Budapest is one of the most beautiful cities in Christmas Europe at any time of the year. Every year, the city invests in decorating its most beautiful monuments and public spaces. But at Christmas, Budapest is especially magical. So, if you are looking for an authentic place where you can still feel the true spirit of Christmas, forget London and Paris and come to Budapest. The magnificent Christmas tree in front of the Hungarian parliament is the perfect starting point for walking around the festive city and admiring the beauty of the Hungarian capital's markets and illuminations. The Advent Basilica, winner of the Best Christmas Market in Europe 2020-2021-2022 award, is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe.
Czech Republic, Prague
From 30 November 2024 to 6 January 2025
Prague is romantic and welcoming during Advent. Here you will find Czech artisans making, for example, Christmas decorations, nativity scenes, hand-decorated gingerbread or the world-famous Včelovina mead, and mulled wine made from Czech grapes. Come to Prague to enjoy open-air concerts, the Christmas market and take a photo in front of the magnificent Christmas tree near the Cathedral. The Christmas decorations on the main Christmas tree are made of blown glass pearls. This unique craftsmanship is included in the UNESCO Intangible Heritage List. This year, handmade wooden nativity scenes from a well-known family-run company were also included in the Prague Christmas markets. Give yourself an unforgettable holiday and experience the family magic of Christmas in Prague.
Croatia, Zagreb
From 30 November 2024 to 7 January 2025
Zagreb is undoubtedly one of the best Christmas holiday destinations in Europe. Travellers from all over the world have voted Zagreb the best Christmas market in Europe three times in a row. The Advent programme in the Croatian capital has been rapidly expanding to cover all corners of the city, with a rich programme of events, concerts, gastronomy, ice skating, children's entertainment and more. The Christmas celebrations in Zagreb are in full swing in December. The magnificence of the holiday is emphasised by the magical ice rink on King Tomislav Square. This wonderful place is not only a favourite for families, but also serves as a romantic meeting place for couples, offering a magical backdrop for a winter romantic encounter. Music and the arts are at the heart of Zagreb's festive spirit, with an extremely busy programme of concerts and exhibitions planned for this year's Advent, adding to the magical atmosphere.
Estonia, Tallinn
From 22 November to 27 December 2024
Snow for Christmas in Estonia is guaranteed by the weather forecasters, and the Tallinn Christmas Market is one of the most famous Christmas markets in the region. Discover Estonia's most famous Christmas tree, surrounded by small snowy houses selling food, drink and handicrafts - a tradition that goes back over 580 years! In the centre of the Christmas market on the Town Hall Square this year, an almost 16-metre tall spruce tree was installed, which arrived in the capital from Saku. The tree is decorated with thousands of Christmas lights, and the warm and cold glow of the light chains creates a magical atmosphere of the traditional Tallinn Christmas Market, where you can buy Christmas goods and enjoy Christmas flavours at the stalls around the tree. The Christmas market in Tallinn's Old Town has a wonderful photo house where everyone can take great Christmas photos.
For more Christmas inspiration, discover the best winter holiday destinations in Europe and the most magical ski resorts.