‘Tis the season! 10 best Christmas markets from around the world
Christkindlesmarkt (Nuremberg, Germany)One of the oldest and most famous Christmas markets, Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt features traditional wooden stalls offering handmade ornaments, gingerbread and mulled wine.
Winter Wonders (Brussels, Belgium)Brussels transforms into a winter wonderland with its “Plaisirs d’Hiver,” featuring a light and sound show, a skating rink and a giant Ferris wheel. The market offers Belgian chocolates, waffles and crafts.
Strasbourg Christmas Market (France)Dubbed the “Capital of Christmas,” Strasbourg hosts one of Europe’s oldest Christmas markets. Its 300 stalls spread around the UNESCO-listed Grande Île offer Alsatian specialties, crafts and stunning decorations.
Tallinn Christmas Market (Estonia)Set in Tallinn’s medieval Town Hall Square, this charming market features snow-covered wooden huts, a towering Christmas tree and Estonian holiday treats like black pudding and gingerbread.
Vienna Christmas Markets (Austria)Expect ornate decorations, artisanal crafts and delicious Austrian treats like Sachertorte and roasted chestnuts.
Bryant Park Winter Village (New York City, USA)A highlight of New York’s festive season, this market combines holiday shopping with ice-skating. Unique gifts and warm treats make it a must-visit destination in the heart of Manhattan.
Tivoli Gardens Christmas Market (Copenhagen, Denmark)Tivoli Gardens is transformed into a Christmas wonderland, featuring fairy-tale lights, Danish holiday treats and festive rides in a magical setting.
Toronto Christmas Market (Canada)Located in the historic Distillery District, this market features beautifully lit cobblestone streets, local crafts, and Canadian treats like poutine and maple syrup-inspired dishes.
Prague Christmas Market (Czech Republic)With Prague Castle and the Astronomical Clock as a backdrop, the markets in Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square offer a magical atmosphere with mulled wine, trdelník (sweet pastry) and unique handmade gifts.
Christkindlmarket (Chicago, USA)Inspired by traditional German markets, Chicago’s Christkindlmarket brings Old World charm to the Windy City, offering bratwurst, glühwein and handcrafted ornaments.