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Best Christmas markets

Christmas markets so good they’ll stir the festive spirit in Scrooge himself.
Mulled wine. Mince pies. Christmas carols. Name a more festive activity than strolling around a Christmas market – we’ll wait. From showing off your ice-skating skills in New York City to stockpiling the sweet treats in Cologne (we’ve all got Secret Santa presents to buy), we’ve rounded up a list of the best Christmas markets to make your December days bright.

Read on for the festive lowdown, then browse our Christmas market deals to make the most of the snowy season.

New York

Ahh, magical Manhattan – is there anywhere more iconic at Christmas? We don’t think so. From the famous Rockefeller Centre Christmas Tree to the Macy’s store windows at Herald Square, there’s loads to add to your Big Apple itinerary. Our top spot? Bryant Park Winter Village. There’s an ice-skating rink and over 180 food, craft and gift stalls to stroll around, hot apple cider in hand. Manhattan’s longest market – the Union Square Holiday Market – is another must-see. 175 European-style stalls line the streets here, selling everything from handmade jewellery and accessories to local artwork.

Check out our holidays to New York.
View of New York.

Prague

Think Christmas, think Prague. This place is full of festive markets, from Old Town Square to Wenceslas Square. Expect carolling, Czech crafts, and some of the best decs going – the ideal place to bring back a bauble or two. Don’t worry, we’ve not forgotten about the food. Start with klobása (a pork sausage, mustard and spiced potato combo), taste trdelník (a cinnamon and sugar pastry), and wash it all down with medovina, a hot honey wine. Cheers to the New Year!

Prague piqued your interest? Read the best Christmas markets in Prague for the inside scoop on the food and festivities.

Check out our holidays to Prague.

Reykjavik

With a blanket of fresh snow falling come December, Reykjavik gets a winter glow-up – the perfect conditions for a cosy trip. You’ll want to check out Iceland’s longest-running market in Hafnarfjörður, a 20-minute bus ride from the city centre. This dinky but delightful coastal town transforms into a winter wonderland throughout December – think mistletoe-topped food stalls, towering Christmas trees and a round of festive carolling. Fancy something sweet to eat as you explore? The Piparkökur AKA gingerbread cookies get our vote.

Check out our holidays to Reykjavik.

Cologne

Make a break for the city where it all began – yep, we’ve got Cologne to thank for the modern Christmas market. Head to Heinzels’ Winter Fairytale for over 100 stalls selling everything from handmade wooden decorations to traditional sweets like chocolate-covered marshmallows. Not only is this place the largest market in Cologne (did we mention there’s an ice rink, too?), it comes with a fairytale backstory. Legend has it that Heinzelmännchen (friendly gnome spirits) would lend a helping hand while the craftsmen of the Old Town slept.

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Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market.

Lapland

As the home of the Big Guy himself, Lapland is the cream of the crop when it comes to Christmas markets. Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi – open 365 days a year – has loads for little ones, including reindeer rides, trips to the ‘forest of the elves’ and Santa’s Post Office – a real working post office. Stuff your stocking with tinsel and trinkets from the craft stalls or take home traditional sweet treats like joujutorttu, star-shaped pastries filled with tasty plum jam.

Check out our holidays to Lapland.
Shop trinkets.
Making tracks for Christmas markets?

Take a look at our winter deals and book your December getaway.

Want more destination inspiration? Find out about the best places to spend Christmas abroad. Or, if you fancy Christmas in the Big Apple, read about the best places to go shopping in New York.

Pssst. Head to the Discover homepage for our latest articles.

Author: Laura Wilkinson

Last updated: 04.11.2025

Holiday Type

Destination

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