As the holidays approach, spots at Christmas markets are quickly being snapped up. This year, several European Christmas markets are offerin...
As the holidays approach, spots at Christmas markets are quickly being snapped up. This year, several European Christmas markets are offering a mix of classic celebrations and contemporary innovations.
There's an unmistakable enchantment toChristmasin Europe. As the nights become longer and frost sparkles on cobblestones, cities throughout the continent turn into realms of seasonal joy," Lucy Halfhead, head of editorial at photo curation app Popsa, said.
Due to the scent of roasted chestnuts andmulled wineto the music of choirs echoing under Gothic cathedrals, Christmas markets have evolved into a key tradition, merging long-standing history with today's festive atmosphere.
Articlepedia TodayTravel highlights several of the finest lesser-known Christmas markets to explore this season, presenting charming discoveries and genuine regional treats infused with a generous dose of festive enchantment.
Tallinn, Estonia
The traditional Christmas market in Tallinn is somewhat smaller compared to larger onesWestern Europeanunits, yet provides unmatched appeal. It occurs in the Town Hall Square of the medieval Old Town from November 21st to December 27th annually.
This marketplace is renowned for allegedly showcasing the first public Christmas tree in Europe, which dates to 1441. This custom is still observed today, with a large tree positioned in the middle of the square.
Admire the pastel-colored trading houses, resembling iced confectionsgingerbreadhomes, or stroll through the narrow, lantern-lit stone paths for a sentimental journey. Huts near the square offerEstoniannotable items including hand-carved wooden toys, woolen gloves featuring traditional patterns, and wooden decorations.
Dig into classic foods like piparkoogid (gingerbread) and verivorst (black pudding), or grab a glass of glögg (spiced mulled wine).
Kids can jump on a merry-go-round or go insideSanta, while adults can appreciate choral and traditional dance performances.
For those who prefer non-traditional Christmas markets, check out the Tallinn Rooftop Market, situated in the Telliskivi area. This market provides beautiful cityscape views, together withsaunapop-up structures, creatively designed pods and igloos offering Nordic-style cocktails for a more contemporary and celebratory atmosphere.
Craiova, Romania
The Christmas market in Craiova might soon lose its status as a secret treasure, given the rising number of visitors each year. The market will be open from November 14th to January 6th next year.
Spread across four different city locations, it includes various themed "Christmas worlds," like Santa's Village, Beauty and the Beast, Galactic Christmas, and Traditional Romanian Christmas. The venues are Mihai Viteazul Square, William Shakespeare Square, Doljana Fountain area, and the Old Town.
Guests can experience a variety of exciting attractions, such as a carousel, along with anice rinkand food vendors. There are also booths offering premium winter decorations and presents.
Thousands of lights and a massive flying Santa's sleigh bring an extra-special element of holiday enchantment to this market. Sample a range of genuineRomanianmeals including sarmale (cabbage rolls), preserved vegetables, pork stews and cutlets, or choose a dessert such as a chimney cake.
Arezzo, Italy
Arezzo's Christmas market is yet another hidden treasure in Europe, even though it is a significant holiday celebration for the area. The town, situated in the east...Tuscany, already offers a romantic ruralItaliancharming, the ideal setting for a memorable holiday.
The market takes place in the medieval heart, the Piazza Grande, and is anAlpineA mixed-market style with both Austrian and German stands. It features an impressive 640,000 lights, plus Santa's house and a Ferris wheel offering beautiful views. Nevertheless, it is much less popular and visited compared to its bigger neighbors in Nuremberg or Vienna.
Experience a range of traditional Tuscan dishes including chestnuts and grilled meats, along with Alpine cuisinecheeses. Guests can enjoy German delicacies like strudel, as well as traditional dishes such as Feuerzangenbowle (a sugarloaf soaked in rum, set alight, and dripped into wine).
Explore vendors showcasing hand-painted ornaments and wooden sculptures, or experience one of the numerous light displays and musical performances. Take a short break at the Alpine chalet, also situated in the square.
The Arezzo Christmas market will be available for visitors from November 15th until December 28th this year.
Bratislava, Slovakia
Bratislava’sChristmas fair, providing an authentic flavor of local European celebrations, remains relatively unknown. It takes place mainly on the Main Square and Hviezdoslavono Square in the city's Old Town, offering a wide range of traditional foods andcraftsand runs from November 27 to January 6.
Attempt potato pancakes, roasted chestnuts, or Slovak langosh (a type of flatbread), along with Bryndzové halušky (potato dumplings topped with sheep cheese and bacon). Pair it with a large glass of spiced wine.
Guests can enjoy ice skating on Hviezdoslavovo Square, while exploring vendors selling holiday decorations and handmade memorabilia. There is also a distinctmedievalA Christmas market themed around the Bratislava Castle area, featuring a children's merry-go-round and distinctive stalls showcasing medieval and handmade items.
Berlin vegan Christmas market
Berlinis famous for its variety of Christmas markets, offering visitors plenty of options. Nevertheless, the Berlin vegan Christmas market at Fehrbelliner Platz, now in its second year, remains a hidden treasure worth noting.
It features over 60 stands offering a wide range of meat-free options, including vegan "pigs in blankets," nut-based roasts, vegan sausages, Kartoffelpuffer (potato pancakes), and a vegan wellington filled with vegetables or mushrooms.
Savor Glühwein (spiced wine) as you explore booths featuring a variety of ethically made and sourced candles, crafts, and other presents. There is usually alive DJ, giving off a more club-like Christmas atmosphere, particularly for younger travelers.
Guests are also welcome to join eco-friendly workshops, and then proceed to other well-known Berlin Christmas markets like those in Spandau or Gendarmenmarkt.
Although the specific dates for this market have not been revealed, it typically takes place from late November until December and has already been confirmed for the 2025 season.
