Christmas markets
The Best Christmas Markets of 2023: A Festive Preview Before You Cast Your Vote for 2024
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As the winter chill sets in, cities across the world begin to transform into magical holiday wonderlands, with Christmas markets at the heart of these seasonal celebrations. These markets, brimming with twinkling lights, artisan goods, festive treats, and warming mulled wine, have become a cherished tradition for many. Whether you’re an enthusiast of festive shopping, seasonal food, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, there’s no shortage of beautiful Christmas markets to explore. As we look ahead to 2024, it’s time to take a look back at some of the standout Christmas markets of 2023, and to help guide your choices for next year’s holiday adventures.
1. Vienna, Austria – Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz
Vienna’s Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz remains one of the most iconic and beloved Christmas markets in Europe. The 2023 edition was as magical as ever, drawing crowds to its stunning location in front of the city’s grand Rathaus (City Hall). The market featured over 150 stalls offering everything from handcrafted ornaments to unique Christmas gifts, delicious gingerbread, and traditional Austrian treats such as Kaiserschmarrn (shredded pancakes with powdered sugar). What sets this market apart is its old-world charm, with beautifully decorated stalls and the backdrop of Vienna’s neo-Gothic City Hall, which is illuminated with festive lights. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike can enjoy ice skating in the adjacent park, or sip on hot mulled wine while enjoying a live performance of traditional carols.
2. Strasbourg, France – Christkindelsmärik
Dubbed the “Capital of Christmas,” Strasbourg is known for its spectacular Christmas market, and the 2023 edition did not disappoint. This market, one of the oldest in Europe, has been held since 1570 and is spread out across multiple locations in the city, with the largest market taking place in the heart of Strasbourg’s historic center, around the beautiful Strasbourg Cathedral. The city exudes a fairytale atmosphere with medieval half-timbered houses and streets adorned with thousands of sparkling lights. At Christkindelsmärik, visitors can shop for high-quality Alsatian products, including locally crafted ceramics, woolen items, and gourmet foods like foie gras, gingerbread, and bredele cookies. Additionally, Strasbourg’s warm, welcoming vibe and its focus on showcasing local traditions and craftsmanship make it an unforgettable holiday destination.
3. Cologne, Germany – Kölner Weihnachtsmarkt
The Cologne Christmas Market, located in front of the majestic Kölner Dom (Cologne Cathedral), is one of Germany’s most impressive Christmas markets. The 2023 market was no exception, featuring over 150 stalls offering handcrafted goods, holiday ornaments, toys, and a wide range of delicious food and drinks. The aroma of roasted chestnuts, bratwurst, and mulled wine fills the air, creating an irresistible atmosphere. Cologne’s market is known for its cozy, traditional vibe, combined with modern touches, like the ice skating rink and the stunning light displays that brighten the historic city center. One of the highlights of the Cologne Christmas market is the Christmas Village in the Alter Markt, where visitors can browse artisanal gifts and enjoy performances of traditional carolers and street musicians.
4. Munich, Germany – Christkindlmarkt am Marienplatz
Munich’s Christkindlmarkt, held annually at Marienplatz, is another unmissable market in Germany. The 2023 market brought together local artisans, vendors, and food stalls, offering visitors a chance to experience Bavarian Christmas traditions. Among the highlights of the market are the hand-carved wooden toys, festive ornaments, and traditional Bavarian Christmas specialties like Lebkuchen (gingerbread) and Glühwein (mulled wine). Munich’s historic architecture, especially the Gothic-style Neues Rathaus (New Town Hall), provides a stunning backdrop to the market’s twinkling lights. A highlight of the Munich market is the Krampuslauf, a traditional procession where people dressed as Krampus, the dark counterpart to Saint Nicholas, march through the streets, adding a fun and slightly eerie twist to the festivities.
5. Prague, Czech Republic – Old Town Square Christmas Market
Prague’s Old Town Square Christmas Market is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves festive ambiance and charming medieval architecture. The market in 2023 was as enchanting as ever, with its market stalls set against the backdrop of Prague’s iconic Old Town Hall and the Astronomical Clock. Traditional Czech crafts, glass ornaments, wooden toys, and hearty food offerings such as trdelník (a sweet pastry) and svařák (hot mulled wine) are plentiful. The market is also famous for its towering Christmas tree, which is usually sourced from one of the nearby forests and decorated with thousands of lights. For those who want to experience a traditional Czech Christmas, the market also features performances of folk music and dance.
6. London, UK – Winter Wonderland
London’s Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is one of the largest and most immersive Christmas markets in the UK, offering much more than just shopping and food. The 2023 edition was packed with festive activities, from the iconic ice skating rink to thrilling fairground rides and circus performances. The market itself is brimming with stalls selling unique gifts, handcrafted ornaments, and delicious treats, such as roasted chestnuts, mulled wine, and candy apples. The grand Winter Wonderland is perfect for families, couples, or anyone looking for a magical Christmas experience, complete with a Ferris wheel that offers breathtaking views of the city.
7. Copenhagen, Denmark – Tivoli Gardens Christmas Market
Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen is one of the oldest amusement parks in the world, and its Christmas market is a key highlight of the Danish capital’s festive season. In 2023, the park’s Christmas market was transformed into a winter wonderland, with over 70 stalls selling everything from Christmas decorations to Scandinavian treats like æbleskiver (round Danish pancakes) and hot chocolate. Tivoli’s magical setting—complete with twinkling lights, Christmas trees, and the scent of roasted almonds—makes it a truly unique experience. Visitors can also enjoy carnival rides and performances of traditional Danish Christmas music, making it an ideal spot for families.