BEST CHRISTMAS MARKETS OPEN UNTIL JANUARY

Just because Christmas is over doesn’t mean the celebrations have to end! There are plenty of European destinations with holiday festivities in full swing through the New Year. In fact, a few of my favorite Christmas Markets are open through the new year. Whether you prefer a market small or large, touristy or off the beaten path, there is something for everyone! With that said, if you are headed to Europe for the New Year, these destinations should be at the top of your list!

And don’t forget to pin this for later!

I’m going to kick this article off with simply the best Christmas Market in Europe, Advent in Zagreb. After visiting quite a few markets in Europe, I have to say Zagreb is top notch. There are approximately 8 markets scattered around town. The markets are lively with music playing at all hours of the day! You will find basic Christmas Market staples such as sausages as well as food trucks from some of the best restaurants in town. One of my favorite markets in Zagreb offers a ton of photo ops as it overlooks the city. An impressive ice skating rink surrounds the market in King Tomislav Square making it a close second. Since the market runs through the New Year, it is a popular destination for New Years Eve.

Market Dates 2024: November 30th, 2024 – January 7th, 2025

Visiting Prague during the holidays is a magical experience. There are a handful of markets throughout Prague however, the best are in Old Town and at the castle. It is hard not to be in the Christmas spirit when adorable wintry Christmas Booths are surrounded by medieval architecture in the city. Christmas in Prague is the smell of chimney cakes roasting over an open flame. Among the most popular food served are sausages, gnocci with sausage, chimney cakes, and mulled wine. I will mention, Prague is quite busy during the holidays as it is a popular destination.

Market Dates 2024: November 30th 2024 – January 6th, 2025

If you are looking for a smaller more off the beaten path market, head to Warsaw! For some reason, Poland is not as touristy as the rest of Europe. The Christmas Market is smaller than the other markets on my list however, it is festive and cozy. There are two main markets in the Old Town selling homemade goodies, food, and warm drinks. There is an ice skating rink at the center of Old Town. Twinkling lights connect the rink to the surrounding booths. While the market is small it is decked to the brim with holiday cheer.

Market Dates 2024: November 29th, 2024 – January 6th, 2025

If you are looking for a supersized holiday, head to Budapest. The market is literally supersized as the portions and market booths are gigantic. Meat is a staple at the Budapest Christmas Market as you will notice large booths offering items from the grill. Do not tell Prague but their chimney cakes are the best. They are obviously huge and come hot off the fire. If you are looking for a smaller more charming market, take a quick trip to Óbuda. Budapest is one of the coolest European destinations especially during the winter.

Market Dates 2024: November 15th, 2024 – January 1st, 2025 (however, dates vary depending on location!)

Spending the holiday season in Tallinn brings out the magic of Christmas. In fact, Tallinn is the first place in Europe to display a public Christmas tree. With a Christmas Market at the center of the Old Town, Tallinn transforms into a wintry fairytale. The booths at the market offer the staples of a traditional market including food, drinks, and trinkets. The market is complete with a stage in the middle of the market with performances almost every single night. Throughout the five nights we spent at the market, there was live music and Santa even made a few appearances.

Market Dates 2024: November 22nd, 2024 – January 7th, 2025 (although some sites show the market ends December 27th)

Spending the holiday season in Europe is simply the best! It is so special to see the towns transform into a winter wonderland as Christmas Markets take over the city. Each city has their own style when it comes to Christmas so experiencing a few markets is exciting. Between Christmas Markets, ice skating rinks, and holiday performances there is always something to do.

Safe Travels,

Sarah :)