Discover the Magic of Holiday Festivals: Top Christmas Markets to Book Now

As the festive season approaches, a visit to a European Christmas market is the perfect way to capture the holiday spirit. From twinkling lights to aromatic mulled wine, these markets offer a blend of tradition, charm, and festive excitement. Whether you're after unique gifts or a heartwarming holiday experience, it's time to book your trip—now! With destinations filling up fast, here are the top Christmas markets, along with recommended hotels, travel advice, and an estimate of your vacation costs.

Best Dates to Travel: Most Christmas markets open in late November and run until just before Christmas, typically from November 25th to December 24th. To avoid peak crowds while still soaking in the holiday magic, I recommend traveling between November 28th and December 10th. This window allows you to enjoy the full experience of the markets without the heavy crowds closer to Christmas.

Nuremberg, Germany – Christkindlesmarkt

• Closest Major City: Nuremberg, Germany (Airport: Nuremberg Airport)

• Why You Need to Visit: Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt is the epitome of a traditional Christmas market, dating back to the 16th century. Known for its charming wooden stalls and unique Christmas gifts, it also offers iconic gingerbread treats and bratwurst.

• Special Highlights: The festive atmosphere in the Old Town, with its gothic churches and illuminated streets, will transport you back in time.

• Hotel Recommendations:

  • Hotel Drei Raben– A chic boutique hotel blending modern design with Nuremberg’s rich history.

  • Le Méridien Grand Hotel Nuremberg– An elegant hotel near the market, combining luxury with convenience.

• When to Book: September is ideal to secure your hotel. Nuremberg’s popularity during the holidays can make accommodations scarce by mid-fall.

Vienna, Austria – Rathausplatz Christmas Market

• Closest Major City: Vienna, Austria (Airport: Vienna International Airport)

• Why You Need to Visit: Set against the grandeur of the Vienna City Hall, this Christmas market exudes imperial elegance and charm. Wander through rows of stalls offering everything from Austrian Christmas ornaments to delicious pastries and mulled wine.

• Special Highlights: The beautifully lit trees, ice skating, and workshops for children make this market perfect for families.

• Hotel Recommendations:

  • DO & CO Hotel Vienna – Situated right by St. Stephen’s Cathedral, this luxury boutique hotel offers top-notch service with panoramic city views.

  • Imperial Riding School Renaissance Vienna Hotel – Housed in a former military riding school, this Marriott property offers a blend of historical charm and modern luxury.

• When to Book: Vienna is a popular holiday destination, so book by early October to guarantee the best room rates.

Prague, Czech Republic – Old Town Square Market

• Closest Major City: Prague, Czech Republic (Airport: Václav Havel Airport Prague)

• Why You Need to Visit: Prague’s market is known for its gothic charm, with the Old Town Square providing a dramatic backdrop. Shop for traditional Czech crafts while sipping svařák (Czech mulled wine), and enjoy the market’s impressive Christmas tree.

• Special Highlights: The combination of centuries-old architecture, cozy market stalls, and the towering tree makes Prague’s market unforgettable.

• Hotel Recommendations:

  • The Emblem Hotel – A sleek and modern boutique hotel in the heart of Prague’s historic district.

  • Prague Marriott Hotel – A five-star hotel conveniently located near the Old Town, offering luxury accommodations with easy access to the Christmas market.

• When to Book: Given Prague's growing popularity, it's essential to book by early October.

Colmar, France – La Magie de Noël

• Closest Major City: Strasbourg, France (Airport: Strasbourg Airport, approx. 40-minute drive)

• Why You Need to Visit: Colmar’s half-timbered houses and canal-lined streets provide a fairy-tale setting for its Christmas market. Spread over five distinct areas, each part of the market offers something unique, from Alsace wines to handcrafted goods.

• Special Highlights: The market’s intimate, cozy feel and scenic location make it an ideal destination for those looking for a more relaxed and traditional experience.

• Hotel Recommendations:

  • La Maison des Têtes – A charming boutique hotel in the heart of Colmar, offering luxurious accommodations in a historic building.

• When to Book: Book in September or early October to secure accommodations, as Colmar’s smaller size means limited lodging availability.

Copenhagen, Denmark – Tivoli Gardens Christmas Market

• Closest Major City: Copenhagen, Denmark (Airport: Copenhagen Airport)

• Why You Need to Visit: Tivoli Gardens transforms into a dazzling winter wonderland with an incredible Christmas market filled with Danish Christmas treats, handcrafts, and even amusement rides.

• Special Highlights: Tivoli Gardens is more than just a market—its magical atmosphere, rides, and festive shows make it a favorite for families and holiday-lovers alike.

• Hotel Recommendations:

  • Nimb Hotel – Located within Tivoli Gardens itself, Nimb offers a luxurious, fairy-tale stay.

  • Copenhagen Marriott Hotel – Located along the waterfront, this hotel offers spacious rooms and is a short walk from Tivoli Gardens.

• When to Book: Tivoli Gardens is a prime destination, so be sure to book your stay by September for the best options.

Strasbourg, France – Christkindelsmärik

• Closest Major City: Strasbourg, France (Airport: Strasbourg Airport)

• Why You Need to Visit: Strasbourg, often referred to as the “Capital of Christmas,” offers France’s oldest Christmas market. The city itself is decorated with lights, and the scent of mulled wine fills the air as you browse for artisanal crafts and taste delicious French delicacies.

• Special Highlights: Strasbourg’s mix of French and German influences makes its Christmas market unique. Don't miss the massive Christmas tree at Place Kléber.

• Hotel Recommendations:

  • Hôtel Les Haras: À stylish, modern hotel housed in a historic building near the heart of Strasbourg.

  • AC Hotel by Marriott Strasbourg: A contemporary hotel close to the market, offering modern amenities and comfort.

• When to Book: Due to Strasbourg’s popularity during Christmas, you should book by September or early October.

To estimate your budget for a Christmas market vacation, here’s a rough breakdown of costs for a week-long trip from major US cities like New York, Chicago, Atlanta and Los Angeles:

Airfare (round-trip):

• From New York: $700–$1,200

• From Chicago: $800–$1,300

• From Atlanta: $800–$1,300

• From Los Angeles: $900–$1,500

Hotels (5 nights):

• Luxury/Boutique Hotels: $250–$500 per night, depending on the city and season. ($1,250–$2,500 total)

• Mid-Range Hotels: $150–$300 per night. ($750–$1,500 total)

Daily Expenses (Food, Market Purchases, Transportation):

• $100–$150 per day, including meals, local transport, and market shopping ($500–$750 total)

Overall Estimated Costs (per person):

• From New York: $2,500–$4,500

• From Chicago: $2,600–$4,600

• From Atlanta: $2,600–$4,600

• From Los Angeles: $2,700–$4,800

Christmas markets offer an unforgettable holiday experience, blending old-world charm with festive magic. But with these destinations growing in popularity, spots are filling up fast. To secure your dream Christmas vacation, reach out to me today for personalized travel planning and to lock in the best rates. Whether you’re drawn to the historic streets of Nuremberg, the imperial grandeur of Vienna, or the cozy charm of Colmar, now is the time to book and ensure a festive season you'll never forget!