The best Christmas markets in Europe to visit in 2023

Christmas markets are a magical excuse to escape for a few days during the month of December.

Oliver Thansan
Oliver Thansan
06 December 2023 Wednesday 21:26
9 Reads
The best Christmas markets in Europe to visit in 2023

Christmas markets are a magical excuse to escape for a few days during the month of December. Christmas trees, decorations of all kinds, colored lights, and a unique atmosphere that makes us fill our hearts with the Christmas spirit.

During these short winter holidays, many opt for nearby destinations that do not require very long flights and, preferably, that are not too expensive. One of the most popular choices are European cities, especially those that offer us charming Christmas markets.

Like every year, the European Best Destinations selects the most outstanding Christmas markets in Europe. Throughout the year, thousands of people have voted for their favorite markets, and the winners have been announced.

At El Comprador de La Vanguardia, we want to motivate you to plan your Christmas trip, that's why we explain all the details about the best markets. Furthermore, we encourage you to take advantage of the fantastic offers that Barceló Hotels has available this December to stay with an unbeatable quality-price ratio.

The Advent Basilica, winner of the Best Christmas Market in Europe award in 2019, 2021 and 2023, is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful Christmas fairs in Europe.

Where love takes your hand: with this motto, the Advent Basilica, Budapest's uniquely beautiful Christmas fair, opens its doors again.

From November 17, 2023 to January 1, 2024, in front of St. Stephen's Basilica, in one of the most impressive, beautiful and amazing squares in the Hungarian capital.

The Christmas market in Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, is known for its spectacular nature and has been awarded as one of the 10 best in Europe.

Thanks to the country's location, this market has a strong influence from the German and Austrian markets. The Ljubljana Christmas Market is located on the banks of the Ljubljanica River, in the heart of the city. Next to the main tourist attractions of the Slovenian capital, we can enjoy a walk among the various stalls that are open from ten in the morning until ten at night. In addition to finding Christmas objects and decorations, we can also delight in the most traditional cuisine.

A charming market, in a beautiful location and located in the heart of the city.

The capital of the Czech Republic has one of the most charming Christmas markets in Europe. Wooden stalls where you will find merchants offering typical Christmas products, such as traditional Czech blown glass balls. In addition, a wide variety of artisan products and gastronomy.

The renovated center of Warsaw's Old Town is covered in snow and Christmas decorations. On the edge of the Old Town is the Warsaw Christmas Market, held on the picturesque Rynek Square, in front of the Royal Castle, which used to defend the Old Town in the 16th century.

It features around 60 log cabins offering a variety of sweets, gingerbread cookies and Christmas decorations such as hand-painted glass balls, hand-knitted sweaters, carved wooden items and embroidered tablecloths. Not to mention the wide range of hot food and drinks to keep everyone warm. Traditional food, mulled wine and hot chocolate are perfect to forget the winter cold.

The highlight of the market is, without a doubt, the imposing Christmas tree located in the center of the Plaza del Castillo.

Hamburg's most famous Christmas market is located near the Town Hall, on the Rathausmarkt square. Its main attraction is a huge illuminated Christmas tree.

This market houses numerous stalls offering decorative items, handmade toys, jewelry, glassware and a varied selection of international foods.

Little ones especially enjoy this market, as Santa Claus makes regular appearances here in his sleigh.