Christmas Market Breaks & Holidays 2024
Take your winter break in Europe and discover why it really is the most wonderful time of the year. With the smell of cinnamon in the air and the sound of the choirs singing carols, Christmas market breaks are the best way to get yourself into the festive spirit. Sip on warming mulled wine, enjoy a sneaky mince pie or two, and browse the tinsel-tousled stalls for gifts for friends and family. Aside from choosing what you’re going to buy for whom, the hardest decision you’ll have to make is which Christmas market you’re going to visit. Here’s our guide to the best Christmas markets 2024 has to offer.
And if you still need more inspo, check out these Christmas holiday breaks!
Last minute Christmas market breaks
Prague
December
3 nights
from £153pp
Budapest
December
3 nights
from £153pp
Brussels
December
2 nights
from £180pp
Berlin
December
3 nights
from £210pp
Krakow
December
3 nights
from £143pp
Bruges
December
3 nights
from £274pp
Vienna
December
2 nights
from £220pp
Copenhagen
December
2 nights
from £191pp
A stay at the Boutique Hotel Budapest puts you in heart of the city. With some of the best shops, bars and restaurants at your fingertips, along with other many popular tourist attractions, you'll be spoilt for choice of things to do!
Boutique Hotel Budapest
Hungary, Budapest, Budapest
1160 reviews
December
|3 nights
from £268 pp
Krakow Christmas Markets
Krakow Christmas market is always popular and often remains open well past the festive season and right up until the end of January. With a dusting of snow almost guaranteed, you’ll feel as though you really are walking through a winter wonderland. Voted as one of the top 10 Christmas markets 2018, this is a spectacular venue in which to get some present-buying done. Expect snow-crusted spires and buildings draped in twinkling fairy-lights, while in the market you can enjoy the spectacle of the world-famous Christmas Crib Contest.
Antique Apartments Plac Szczepanski
Poland, Krakow
1885 reviews
Queen Boutique Hotel
Poland, Krakow
3064 reviews
Best Western Plus Krakow Old Town
Poland, Krakow
1269 reviews
Vienna House by Wyndham Andel's Cracow
Poland, Krakow
2190 reviews
Radisson Blu Hotel Krakow
Poland, Krakow
3824 reviews
Holiday Inn Krakow City Center
Poland, Krakow
1283 reviews
Best Western Hotel Galicya
Poland, Krakow
380 reviews
Maksymilian
Poland, Krakow
1173 reviews
Avena Boutique Hotel by Artery Hotels
Poland, Krakow
188 reviews
Metropolo By Golden Tulip
Poland, Krakow
163 reviews
Garden Square Hotel
Poland, Krakow
152 reviews
Kazimierz II
Poland, Krakow
493 reviews
Garbarska 22 Aparthotel
Poland, Krakow
Novotel Krakow City West
Poland, Krakow
1678 reviews
Galaxy
Poland, Krakow
2002 reviews
Budapest Christmas Markets
Budapest boasts two Christmas markets: one held in Vorosmarty Square and the other by the Basilica. Both are set among beautiful architecture, adding that little extra bit of magic to proceedings. They’re also famous for sumptuous street-food and live Christmas music. However, for something spectacular, head to the Basilica market, where you’ll be treated to a fabulous laser display on the side of this impressive church.
Continental Hotel Budapest (ex Continental Hotel Zara)
Hungary, Budapest
5604 reviews
Hotel Museum Budapest
Hungary, Budapest
2397 reviews
Prestige Hotel Budapest
Hungary, Budapest
3110 reviews
Mystery Hotel Budapest
Hungary, Budapest
773 reviews
Eurostars Palazzo Zichy
Hungary, Budapest
6489 reviews
Hilton Budapest
Hungary, Budapest
5690 reviews
Leonardo Hotel Budapest
Hungary, Budapest
1110 reviews
City Hotel Matyas
Hungary, Budapest
985 reviews
City Inn
Hungary, Budapest
706 reviews
Central Hotel 21
Hungary, Budapest
733 reviews
Grand Jules - Boat Hotel
Hungary, Budapest
248 reviews
Mercure Budapest City Center Hotel
Hungary, Budapest
663 reviews
Bo33 Hotel Family and Suites
Hungary, Budapest
Pullman Budapest
Hungary, Budapest
242 reviews
Marmara Design Hotel
Hungary, Budapest
2182 reviews
Berlin Christmas Markets
Christmas weekend breaks don’t mean you’re limited to just one market. Christmas market breaks put you in the heart of some of the most beautiful cities, where the yuletide celebrations have to be seen to be believed. Hop from market to market or immerse yourself in the one nearest to your hotel; the choice is yours. Berlin offers the chance to sample some delicious, festive food, such as Bratwurst, sweet, flaky pastries and local Gluhwein. You’ll find plenty of Christmas markets, both large and small, in which to hunt out that perfect gift for that special someone.
Park Inn by Radisson Berlin Alexanderplatz
Germany, Berlin
12134 reviews
Hilton Berlin
Germany, Berlin, Mitte
6191 reviews
Vienna House by Wyndham Andel's Berlin
Germany, Berlin
3209 reviews
Hotel Dorint Kurfurstendamm Berlin
Germany, Berlin
3616 reviews
Melia Berlin
Germany, Berlin
7088 reviews
Hotel Riu Plaza Berlin
Germany, Berlin
1598 reviews
Best Western Hotel am Spittelmarkt
Germany, Berlin
2135 reviews
Select Hotel Berlin The Wall
Germany, Berlin, Mitte
1326 reviews
Movenpick Hotel Berlin Am Potsdamer Platz
Germany, Berlin, Mitte
2891 reviews
NH Collection Berlin Mitte am Checkpoint Charlie
Germany, Berlin
3556 reviews
Pullman Berlin Schweizerhof
Germany, Berlin, Charlottenburg
4386 reviews
Titanic Comfort Mitte
Germany, Berlin
2046 reviews
nhow Berlin
Germany, Berlin
4426 reviews
NH Berlin City Ost
Germany, Berlin
622 reviews
Leonardo Hotel Berlin
Germany, Berlin, Charlottenburg
1837 reviews
Prague Christmas Markets
It doesn’t get much more festive than drinking mulled wine and listening to carols being sung in Wenceslas Square. Book your Christmas weekend breaks to Prague, and you’ll find that there are plenty of markets, although this tends to be the most popular. In addition to steaming glasses of mulled wine and traditional Czech food such as ‘braided cake’, this is the place to come for traditional, handmade toys. You’ll find offerings from carpenters and blacksmiths, as well as delicate gifts made from glass.
Majestic Plaza Hotel Prague
Czech Republic, Prague
3261 reviews
Hermitage Hotel Prague
Czech Republic, Prague
3511 reviews
Botanique Hotel Prague
Czech Republic, Prague
5349 reviews
Hotel Royal Prague
Czech Republic, Prague
375 reviews
Assenzio Prague
Czech Republic, Prague
745 reviews
Hotel U Zlateho Stromu
Czech Republic, Prague
697 reviews
Urban Creme
Czech Republic, Prague
205 reviews
K+K Hotel Central
Czech Republic, Prague
3489 reviews
Century Old Town Prague - MGallery
Czech Republic, Prague
3385 reviews
ibis Praha Wenceslas Square
Czech Republic, Prague
2075 reviews
Royal Court Hotel
Czech Republic, Prague
1124 reviews
Theatrino Hotel
Czech Republic, Prague
1762 reviews
Belvedere
Czech Republic, Prague
990 reviews
ibis Praha Mala Strana
Czech Republic, Prague
2033 reviews
Green Garden Hotel
Czech Republic, Prague
1538 reviews
Vienna Christmas Markets
Vienna really comes into its own at Christmas-time. Christmas markets are a long-standing tradition in Vienna, dating back as far as the 13th Century. Although there are plenty of markets to enjoy, if you really want to get into the swing of things, set some time aside to visit the one held in front of the City Hall. This is the perfect destination for family Christmas market breaks. In addition to wooden stalls packed full of gifts and traditional treats, you’ll find that the first floor of the City Hall holds some special surprises for children. Here, they can learn how to make candles and crumbly Christmas cookies, turning it into a really immersive family experience for everyon
Flemings Selection Hotel Wien City
Austria, Vienna
1890 reviews
Melia Vienna
Austria, Vienna
3213 reviews
Leonardo Hotel Vienna Schönbrunn
Austria, Vienna
1498 reviews
Hilton Vienna Plaza
Austria, Vienna
2546 reviews
Grand Hotel Wien
Austria, Vienna
1767 reviews
Hotel Kaiserhof Wien
Austria, Vienna
3062 reviews
Zeitgeist Vienna Hauptbahnhof
Austria, Vienna
3131 reviews
Austria Trend Parkhotel Schoenbrunn
Austria, Vienna
1531 reviews
ibis Wien Mariahilf
Austria, Vienna
2654 reviews
Best Western Plus Amedia Wien
Austria, Vienna
1097 reviews
Lucia
Austria, Vienna
1203 reviews
DoubleTree by Hilton Vienna Schonbrunn
Austria, Vienna
1110 reviews
Steigenberger Hotel Herrenhof
Austria, Vienna
4406 reviews
Daniel Vienna Hotel
Austria, Vienna
968 reviews
ibis Wien Messe
Austria, Vienna
1535 reviews
Cologne Christmas Markets
Cologne’s Christmas markets are renowned for their festive spirit, sumptuous street food and live music. Climb the tower of the Gothic cathedral for breathtaking views of the seasonal scene and the city’s panorama. If you're searching for something truly extraordinary, make your way to Heinzels Winter Fairytale, with its ice skating rink and handicrafts stalls. The kids can look out for the brownies - these fairytale characters have a reputation for secretly helping out lazy crafters at night. In Cologne it’s socially acceptable to drink many glasses of Kölsch (the local beer) - as the traditional serving size is 200ml.
Flandrischer Hof
Germany, Cologne
604 reviews
Pullman Cologne
Germany, Cologne
2338 reviews
Holiday Inn Express Cologne Troisdorf
Germany, Cologne
512 reviews
Hilton Cologne
Germany, Cologne
208 reviews
NYCE Hotel Bonn
Germany, Cologne, Bonn
8 reviews
Dorint Hotel Venusberg Bonn
Germany, Cologne, Bonn
227 reviews
Leonardo Royal Hotel Cologne Bonn Airport
Germany, Cologne
Leonardo Hotel Köln
Germany, Cologne
Aparthotel Adagio Koln City
Germany, Cologne
625 reviews
Steigenberger Hotel Köln
Germany, Cologne
1834 reviews
Wyndham Koeln
Germany, Cologne
1154 reviews
CityClass Hotel Alter Markt
Germany, Cologne
599 reviews
Holiday Inn Express Cologne Muelheim
Germany, Cologne
477 reviews
Hotel Wasserturm Cologne, Curio Collection
Germany, Cologne
25hours Hotel The Circle
Germany, Cologne
Copenhagen Christmas Markets
Copenhagen, the charismatic Danish capital, is a symphony of enchantment year-round, but during the Christmas season, it oozes “hygge”. Watch illuminated kayaks parade down the canals, glide on the ice at Broens, or do like the locals, and dip into the icy waters of the harbour. The main event of course, are the Christmas markets. Tivoli gardens is a must-see, decorated with over 70,000 baubles and 1,000 illuminated trees, fun fair rides and 60 market stalls. Julemarked on Højbro Plads is the popular German market in the Old Town. And the one in Christiana is as unique as this alternative-living free-town.
Absalon
Denmark, Copenhagen
4552 reviews
Imperial Copenhagen
Denmark, Copenhagen
2563 reviews
71 Nyhavn Hotel
Denmark, Copenhagen
1577 reviews
Copenhagen Admiral Hotel
Denmark, Copenhagen
6531 reviews
Tivoli Hotel
Denmark, Copenhagen
6085 reviews
Andersen Boutique Hotel
Denmark, Copenhagen
4102 reviews
Comfort Hotel Vesterbro
Denmark, Copenhagen
1996 reviews
Hotel Mayfair
Denmark, Copenhagen
1905 reviews
The Square
Denmark, Copenhagen
3794 reviews
Copenhagen Island
Denmark, Copenhagen
3626 reviews
Scandic Sydhavnen
Denmark, Copenhagen
1942 reviews
Scandic Sluseholmen
Denmark, Copenhagen
1237 reviews
Best Western Hotel Hebron
Denmark, Copenhagen
1570 reviews
Skt Petri
Denmark, Copenhagen
1942 reviews
Scandic Kodbyen
Denmark, Copenhagen
552 reviews
Bratislava Christmas Markets
If you love a quiet old-timey town, you’ll adore Bratislava. Nestled in the heart of Slovakia's charming capital, the Christmas markets may be small, but they’re oh-so-cosy, easy to get around, and perfect for families! The city’s charming medieval streets are illuminated by a thousand twinkling lights, and lined with stalls selling unique gifts and Slovak woollies. Plus, your taste buds are in for a treat! Try the traditional Loksa (savoury pancakes), and classic poppy strudels - all washed down with a boozy grog (spicy rum). Chin chin! While you’re here, make sure to visit the impressive castle, offering breathtaking views of the Old Town.
ibis Bratislava Centrum
Slovakia, Bratislava
1959 reviews
Crowne Plaza Bratislava
Slovakia, Bratislava
998 reviews
Mamaison Residence Sulekova Bratislava
Slovakia, Bratislava
537 reviews
Color Bratislava Hotel
Slovakia, Bratislava
Salzburg Christmas Markets
On the northern fringe of the Alps you'll find the picturesque setting of the beloved film 'The Sound of Music.' Salzburg's Christmas Markets have a unique charm, opening on the 1st Sunday of Advent and running through to New Year. They also have a slightly religious focus, with “Christ Child” festive melodies and readings. The kids will be either excited or scared by the Krampus parade on 5th December. Salzburg is famous for being the birthplace of Mozart. Before you leave you must try one of the marzipan chocolates named in his honour.
Leonardo Boutique Hotel Salzburg Gablerbräu
Austria, Salzburg
796 reviews
Best Western Plus Amedia Art Salzburg
Austria, Salzburg
640 reviews
Radisson Blu Hotel Altstadt
Austria, Salzburg
1330 reviews
Dorint City-Hotel Salzburg
Austria, Salzburg
1217 reviews
Holiday Inn Salzburg City, an IHG Hotel
Austria, Salzburg
900 reviews
Hotel Villa Carlton - Adults Only
Austria, Salzburg
802 reviews
Nuremberg Christmas Markets
Nuremberg's Christkindlesmarkt dates all the way back to the 16th century and today it’s one of the largest. Grasp a mug of glühwein as you discover the beautifully crafted ornaments and toys housed in traditional wooden huts. Let your nose guide you towards the sizzling bratwursts (sausages) and delectable gingerbread treats. You can also explore Nuremberg’s historic walled Old Town - home to a castle and medieval squares. Along the River Pegnitz you’ll find numerous attractive bridges, providing the perfect place to snap a selfie.
Avenue
Germany, Nuremberg
ibis Styles Bamberg
Germany, Nuremberg, Bamberg
the niu Hop
Germany, Nuremberg, Bamberg
B&B HOTEL Nürnberg-West
Germany, Nuremberg
B&B Hotel Bamberg
Germany, Nuremberg, Bamberg
Basel Christmas Markets
As well as being a melting pot of different cultures Basel offers a delightful selection of Christmas Markets. Head to Barfüsserplatz for handcrafted festive ornaments and gifts, or explore Münsterplatz for a traditional market experience against the backdrop of the majestic Basel Minster, where you'll discover artisanal crafts and seasonal treats. Be sure to explore the city's rich cultural heritage, including the Kunstmuseum (the oldest art collection in the world). And no trip to Switzerland would be complete without sampling the gorgeous chocolates.
Novotel Basel City
Switzerland, Basel
656 reviews
Holiday Inn Express And Suites Basel Allschwil
Switzerland, Basel
8 reviews
BandB Hotel Basel
Switzerland, Basel
Airport Hotel Basel-Worldhotel
Switzerland, Basel
Seville Christmas Markets
This Andalucian gem may not be well known for its festive markets, but it actually boasts four delightful ones. Head to Feria del Belén for handcrafted nativity figures, while Alameda blends tradition with kid-friendly fun like Disney characters and pony rides. And there’s plenty of present-buying opportunities galore at the other two including jewellery, ceramics and wooden toys. While in Seville don’t miss the opportunity to visit the stunning Royal Alcázar. And when you need a sweet treat Confitería La Campana is the go-to place - it’s been serving delicious cakes and sweets since 1885.
Sevilla Center
Spain, Seville
3331 reviews
Casas de la Juderia
Spain, Seville
3863 reviews
The Level At Meliá Sevilla
Spain, Seville
5194 reviews
San Gil
Spain, Seville
1584 reviews
H10 Corregidor Boutique Hotel
Spain, Seville
1239 reviews
Silken Al-Andalus
Spain, Seville
5552 reviews
Melia Lebreros
Spain, Seville
4386 reviews
Ilunion Alcora Sevilla
Spain, Seville
1544 reviews
Exe Sevilla Macarena
Spain, Seville
3095 reviews
Vincci la Rabida
Spain, Seville
2675 reviews
Alcazar de la Reina
Spain, Seville
679 reviews
Dona Maria
Spain, Seville
1566 reviews
Vertice Sevilla
Spain, Seville
830 reviews
NH Collection Sevilla
Spain, Seville
3061 reviews
Hotel Cervantes
Spain, Seville
1492 reviews
Zagreb Christmas Markets
Croatia is not just a summer destination - its capital boasts a fantastic Christmas market scene. Ban Josip Jelačić Square is transformed into a winter wonderland with stalls offering handcrafted goods and local delicacies. Don’t miss out on the chance to sample the Štrukli (cheese pie) or the local mulled wine recipe. While you're in Zagreb you must visit the historic Upper Town, home to the famous St Mark’s Church with its colourful roof representing the arms of the Tripartite Kingdom.
DoubleTree By Hilton Zagreb
Croatia, Zagreb
1592 reviews
Esplanade Zagreb Hotel
Croatia, Zagreb
3680 reviews
Canopy by Hilton Zagreb City Centre
Croatia, Zagreb
371 reviews
Phoenix Hotel
Croatia, Zagreb
226 reviews
Art'otel Zagreb
Croatia, Zagreb
Amadria Park Hotel Capital
Croatia, Zagreb
Bruges Christmas Markets
Christmas market breaks to Bruges are especially atmospheric. Rows and rows of houses (which look as though they could have been made from gingerbread) line Market Square, which as its name suggests, hosts the main market. In addition to a sea of stalls and delicious treats on every corner, there’s usually a huge ice-rink where you can practice trying to stay upright. As with Berlin, there are plenty of smaller markets on the smaller, cobbled streets and don’t forget to sample the delicious Belgian hot chocolate.
Martin's Brugge
Belgium, West Flanders, Bruges
3802 reviews
Hotel Dukes' Arches
Belgium, West Flanders, Bruges
1805 reviews
Dukes' Palace Hotel Bruges
Belgium, West Flanders, Bruges
4293 reviews
Dukes' Academie
Belgium, West Flanders, Bruges
3404 reviews
Dukes' Palace Residence
Belgium, West Flanders, Bruges
2637 reviews
Hotel Acacia
Belgium, West Flanders, Bruges
1067 reviews
ibis Brugge Centrum
Belgium, West Flanders, Bruges
2880 reviews
Novotel Brugge Centrum
Belgium, West Flanders, Bruges
3580 reviews
Grand Hotel Casselbergh
Belgium, West Flanders, Bruges
4648 reviews
Hotel Aragon
Belgium, West Flanders, Bruges
1352 reviews
Golden Tulip De Medici
Belgium, West Flanders, Bruges
2304 reviews
Hotel De Castillion - Small elegant hotel
Belgium, West Flanders, Bruges
279 reviews
Bryghia Hotel
Belgium, West Flanders, Bruges
590 reviews
Hotel 't Putje
Belgium, West Flanders, Bruges
Gdansk Christmas Markets
Gdansk, the jewel of Poland's Baltic coast with its colourful facades, cobblestone streets, and coastal destination, make it truly unique. The city's medieval gates and walls are ablaze with festive lights, leading to the fairy tale stalls in Targ Węglowy (Coal Market) and spilling into Tkacka and Bogusławskiego. Ride the Venetian carousel, browse the famous amber jewellery and Baltic textiles, make rings on the ice rink, meet Santa, and warm up with a traditional Polish hot choccy. While in Gdansk, don’t miss the chance to see the beautiful Neptune Fountain, and the towering St. Mary’s Basilica
Hotel Number One by Grano
Poland, Gdansk
1217 reviews
Hilton Gdansk
Poland, Gdansk
2336 reviews
Holiday Inn Gdansk - City Centre
Poland, Gdansk
131 reviews
IBB Hotel Gdansk
Poland, Gdansk
280 reviews
Sadova
Poland, Gdansk
731 reviews
Admiral
Poland, Gdansk
389 reviews
Puro Gdansk Stare Miasto
Poland, Gdansk
2002 reviews
Novotel Gdansk Centrum
Poland, Gdansk
1146 reviews
Dwor Uphagena ARCHE Gdańsk
Poland, Gdansk
Radisson Blu Hotel Gdansk
Poland, Gdansk
1721 reviews
Novotel Gdansk Marina
Poland, Gdansk
190 reviews
Sea Premium Apartments
Poland, Gdansk, Gdynia