Expat's guide to holiday markets: Best Christmas markets in EU capitals and hidden local gems

Christmas in Europe is not Christmas without tasty local food, cute handmade gifts and huge markets. In this article, we’re going to travel from city to city, exploring the best European Christmas markets. Are you ready? Then prepare a cup of hot chocolate and sit comfortably, we’re ready for our trip.

Cologne, Germany

Our first Christmas destination is Cologne. Among German Christmas markets, this is one of the most popular and well-known among tourists. Its history starts in 1820 and continues until today. The best Christmas markets in Cologne can be found here:

The Cathedral Christmas market

Go to this German Christmas market for more than a hundred spots selling mulled wine, pastries, traditional food and toys. The evening atmosphere is immaculate, with all the lights shining bright and people laughing. Here, you’ll get to know what the real European Christmas market is.

Heinzels wintermärchen

During the daytime, visit Heinzels Winter Wonderland for some ice skating and gnomes. Yes, there are gnomes everywhere – on your glühwein mug, on the gates, everywhere! This is the best Christmas market if you want to feel like you’re a part of the winter fairytale.

Berlin, Germany

While we’re in Germany, our next stop in the list of Christmas destinations should be Berlin. The city offers variety, there are more than 80 Berlin Christmas markets. Do you want to make your celebration eco-friendly? Visit the zero-waste market. Do you think that you were born in the wrong century? Go to the medieval market. To find the Berlin Christmas market that suits you the best, explore them all on the offical website of the city.

If you want to travel more across the country, visit the Devil’s Bridge as it is one the top landmarks to visit.

Vienna, Austria

Spending Christmas in Vienna is a dream of thousands of people. Unfortunately, this is why the best Christmas markets in the city are overcrowded. Fortunately, we have some tips on how to spend Christmas in Vienna with pleasure.

• Visit places which are not so popular among tourists, like Karmelitermarkt Advent Market and Altes AKH Christmas Market.
• Go to the opera — after a day of exploring Vienna, there’s nothing better than enjoying professional and unique opera and ballet performances.
• Try local desserts. Sachertorte and apfelstrudel will take a special place in your heart.

So, we believe that everyone should experience the European Christmas market in Vienna! While you’re there, remember to support your loved ones back home with gifts and fast Profee money transfers. The holiday season is for sharing the joy, isn’t it?

Budapest, Hungary

Near Vienna but less crowded Budapest’s Christmas Fair and Winter Festival takes place. It is an enchanting experience that perfectly blends Hungarian tradition with modern flair. The square is adorned with beautifully decorated wooden chalets offering an array of gifts, from hand-painted ceramics to embroidered textiles. Food lovers will rejoice in the authentic Hungarian dishes available, including chimney cakes (kürtőskalács), a sweet, spiral pastry grilled over an open flame, and hearty goulash served in a bread bowl.

One of the highlights is the incredible light show projected onto the facade of St. Stephen’s Basilica, creating a magical ambience that captivates all who see it. Don’t miss the ice skating rink nearby, perfect for families and couples looking to enjoy some active fun amidst the festive backdrop. The Budapest Christmas market is a sensory delight that offers a warm and unforgettable holiday experience of celebrating Christmas in Europe.

Marbella, Spain

When searching for European Christmas markets, Southern countries are definitely not the first to come to mind. However, if you prefer a warm climate, spending Christmas in Spain is worth it. Who could resist drinking a mulled wine with the coastal view? Additionally to this perfect setting, you can expect live performances, workshops and kids activities like visiting Santa's Grotto. Christmas in Spain promises to be fun, vibrant and energetic, like the Spanish culture itself.

While celebrating Christmas in Europe, remember to spend your money wisely so you enter 2025 with a full wallet.

Strasbourg, France

Our next Christmas destination is known as the “Capital of Christmas”. It was first opened in 1570, so they had plenty of time to work on mistakes and create one of the most fascinating European Christmas markets. With over 300 spots spread across the city, you’ll find traditional Alsatian crafts, French wines, and heartwarming bredele cookies. Each market should have a Christmas tree, and the one you’ll see in Place Klébe is giant. Perfect for taking pictures and uploading them to your aesthetic Instagram stories. Our conclusion: Strasbourg deserves to be on the list of the best European Christmas markets.

Tallinn, Estonia

The Tallinn Christmas Market is like stepping into a storybook. Held in the medieval Old Town, it’s famous for its picturesque setting and historic charm. Taste local delights like black pudding and sauerkraut, and don’t forget to check out the unique handcrafted wool products. The market’s cosy vibe makes it one of the best European Christmas markets.

Zagreb, Croatia

Zagreb’s Advent Festival is one of the European Christmas markets worth visiting — it has been named the best Christmas market in Europe multiple times. With live nativity scenes, ice skating, and gourmet street food, it’s a festive paradise. Visit King Tomislav Square for ice skating and Zrinjevac Park for a magical light display.

Gothenburg, Sweden

For a Scandinavian twist, head to Gothenburg’s Liseberg Christmas Market. This market is set in an amusement park, offering over 80 stalls, an ice skating rink, and even Santa’s workshop. Enjoy Swedish delicacies like saffron buns and glögg while soaking in the Nordic Christmas spirit. Celebrate Christmas in Europe in the winter wonderland and enjoy your holiday season abroad. Families will love meeting Santa in his workshop, taking a ride on the Christmas carousel, or enjoying an ice skating show that tells magical winter tales.

Whichever EU city you choose to celebrate Christmas, don’t forget to send some festive spirit to your loved ones – and with Profee, your money transfer will be delivered right on time.

Basel, Switzerland

Basel proudly holds the title of Switzerland’s Christmas capital, hosting markets that exemplify Swiss tradition, charm, and elegance. The Barfüsserplatz Market, set against the backdrop of historic Barfüsserkirche, radiates the warmth and festivity of the Christmas destinations. Over 130 carefully curated stalls offer exquisite handmade goods, from intricate wooden toys to artisanal candles. The aroma of raclette cheese, freshly baked gingerbread, and Swiss chocolates fills the air, tempting every passerby.

A short walk away, the Münsterplatz Market showcases a giant Christmas tree adorned with ornaments crafted by the renowned decorator Johann Wanner. Visitors can indulge in workshops where they can create their own decorations, making memories as well as keepsakes. Basel also offers special events like choral performances and family-friendly activities, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

However, remember that this is one of the most expensive cities for expats, so plan your budget in advance.

Colmar, France

Though smaller than Strasbourg, Colmar’s European Christmas market is a hidden gem with a fairytale ambience that rivals its neighbour.

The market is divided into five districts, each with its own unique character and charm. At Place des Dominicains, visitors can find artisanal crafts and delicate ornaments, while Place Jeanne d'Arc showcases regional food specialities such as foie gras, cheeses, and wines from the Alsace region. Families will enjoy Place de l’Ancienne Douane, which features an enchanting carousel and festive performances. Don’t forget to take a guided tour through the old town to learn about Colmar’s past and customs. This market’s intimate and whimsical setting makes it an idyllic destination for those seeking a more peaceful but equally magical holiday experience.

Santa Maria da Feira, Portugal

Last but not least, the final spot among the best Christmas markets is located near Port in Portugal. In Santa Maria da Feira you will find a one-of-a-kind Perlim — it’s an area like a village where everything is aimed to entertain kids and families. Visitors can enjoy storytelling sessions, puppet shows, and even a visit to Santa Claus’s house. After wandering around and playing with your child, you can take a break while eating rabanadas (Portuguese-style French toast) and bolo rei (king cake) to taste authentic holiday flavours. Visiting Perlim is a must if you want to make your family’s celebration unique and joyful.

And while abroad, stay connected to people back home with fast and secure Profee transfers. Merry Christmas!