Top 20 Kid-Friendly Christmas Markets In Europe For Families

Christmas Celebrations

The variation in Christmas celebration dates across Europe, specifically on 24 or 25 December, is rooted in historical, cultural, and religious traditions. In many European countries, particularly in Eastern Europe and Scandinavia, Christmas celebrations begin on the evening of 24 December. This tradition is influenced by the Christian liturgical day, which traditionally starts at sunset. As a result, events like Christmas Eve (Heiligabend Bescherung in Germany) are significant because they mark the beginning of the holiday festivities. Families gather for a festive meal and exchange gifts this evening, aligning with the belief that Jesus was born at night. 25 December is often reserved as a more solemn day for religious observance and rest.

In contrast, countries that follow the Gregorian calendar, such as the United States and many Western European nations, primarily celebrate on 25 December. Meanwhile, Orthodox Christian countries that adhere to the Julian calendar celebrate Christmas on 7 January. These differences highlight the diverse ways in which cultural and religious practices have shaped holiday traditions across Europe.

Zagreb, Croatia

Zagreb, Croatia's Christmas market, known as Advent Zagreb, has gained international recognition as one of Europe's best festive destinations, winning the title of Best Christmas Market in Europe for three consecutive years. This enchanting winter wonderland transforms the city from late November to early January, offering a unique blend of Croatian traditions and modern holiday cheer. The market spans across several locations in the city center, including Ban Jelačić Square, Zrinjevac Park, and King Tomislav Square, each offering its own distinct atmosphere and attractions. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, from ice skating at the picturesque Ice Park to sampling traditional Croatian delicacies like fritule (fried dough balls) and sarma (stuffed cabbage rolls) at the numerous food stalls. The market is also known for its stunning light displays, live music performances, and artisanal crafts, including the UNESCO-recognized Licitar hearts.

Various opening hours, 25 Christmas markets around the city, https://www.adventzagreb.hr/en/

Santa Claus Village, Finland

Santa Claus Village in Finland offers a truly unique Christmas experience nestled in the enchanting landscape of Lapland. As the official home of Santa Claus, this magical destination provides visitors with the opportunity to meet Santa himself and capture memorable photos. The village is renowned for its festive atmosphere, where guests can enjoy various activities such as feeding reindeer and other animals, going on scenic hikes, and shopping for handcrafted Finnish gifts and Christmas knick-knacks from local artisans. One of the highlights of visiting Santa Claus Village is the chance to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights, adding an extra layer of magic to the holiday experience. Although open year-round, the village hosts a special Christmas Opening event with musical performances and a speech from Santa.

Opening hours vary throughout the year

Santa Claus Village, Santa Claus Pajakylä, Tähtikuja 1, 96930 Napapiiri, Finland, https://santaclausvillage.info/fi/

Vienna, Austria

Austria's Vienna Magic of Advent Market is renowned for its enchanting atmosphere, making it a must-visit destination during the festive season. Nestled in the heart of Vienna, this Christmas market transforms the city into a winter wonderland, offering a delightful experience for families. Children can immerse themselves in various workshops and enjoy rides designed to capture the season's magic. The market is also famous for its culinary delights, such as the iconic Sachertorte and warm mugs of glühwein (mulled wine), which are perfect for keeping warm in the crisp winter air. The beautifully decorated stalls offer various festive snacks, hand-carved ornaments, and unique Christmas gifts, making it an ideal spot for holiday shopping.

Opening hours vary with various markets throughout the city

Vienna Christmas Market,  https://www.visitingvienna.com/sightseeing/christmas-markets/

Liseberg, Sweden

Liseberg transforms into a magical Christmas wonderland during the holiday season, offering a festive experience like no other. As Scandinavia's largest amusement park, Liseberg is adorned with millions of sparkling lights illuminating the winter landscape, creating an enchanting atmosphere. The Christmas market features over 80 stalls selling a variety of delicacies and local crafts, providing visitors with ample shopping opportunities. Families can enjoy the thrill of ice skating and the excitement of winter-themed rides, all set against a backdrop of dazzling illuminations. The park also hosts festive activities such as concerts and offers the chance to meet Santa Claus himself.

Opening hours: 12.00 – 22.00 on select dates

Liseberg Christmas Market, Örgrytevägen 5, 402 22 Göteborg, Sweden, https://www.liseberg.se/en/calendar/

Nuremberg, Germany

The Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt in Germany is one of Europe's most iconic Christmas markets, celebrated for its medieval charm and festive atmosphere. Located in the heart of Nuremberg's old town, this market is a beloved tradition that dates back to the 16th century. It features a dedicated children's section, making it an ideal family destination. Here, young visitors can explore toy stalls and enjoy rides specifically designed for their entertainment. The market is also famous for its traditional German treats, including gingerbread (Lebkuchen) and grilled sausages, perfect for savoring in the crisp winter air. The Christkindlesmarkt offers a cultural experience with its beautifully decorated stalls selling handcrafted ornaments, Christmas decorations, and unique gifts. The highlight of the market is the opening ceremony, where the "Christkind," a young girl dressed as an angel, delivers a prologue from the balcony of the Church of Our Lady, officially kicking off the holiday festivities.

Opening hours: 10.00 – 21.00 Monday to Sunday

Nuremberg Christmas Market, Hauptmarkt, 90403 Nürnberg, Germany, https://www.christkindlesmarkt.de/en/

Basel, Switzerland

The Basel Christmas Market in Switzerland is a festive highlight known for its impressive Christmas pyramid and traditional Swiss treats. Spanning two central locations, Barfüsserplatz and Münsterplatz, this market is considered one of the prettiest and largest in Switzerland. The 13-meter Christmas pyramid on Barfüsserplatz serves as a popular meeting point, offering a variety of hot drinks, including mulled wine, perfect for warming up in the winter chill. Visitors can explore over 150 rustic wooden chalets that offer enchanting Christmas gifts, jewelry, and festive foods. Culinary delights abound, with offerings such as Swiss raclette (yum), grilled sausages, and Basel Läckerli, a type of gingerbread unique to the region. The market's festive atmosphere is enhanced by the stunning Christmas tree on Münsterplatz, decorated by renowned decorator Johann Wanner.

Opening hours: 11.00 – 20.30 daily

Basel Christmas Market, Liechti's Feuerzangenbowle, Weihnachtsmarkt Basel, Switzerland, https://www.basel.com/de/veranstaltungen/weihnachten/weihnachtsmarkt

Kraków, Poland

Kraków hosts a captivating Christmas market in one of Europe's largest medieval squares, the Rynek Główny. This market is renowned for its charming atmosphere and the array of handmade decorations that reflect the region's rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore numerous stalls offering traditional Polish crafts, such as intricately designed ornaments and unique gifts that make perfect souvenirs. The market also showcases the best of Polish cuisine, with vendors serving delicious local specialties like pierogi, oscypek cheese, and warm mulled wine to keep the winter chill at bay. The historic setting, with its stunning architecture and festive lights, provides a picturesque backdrop for this vibrant market.

Opening hours: 10.00 to 20.00 daily

Kraków Christmas Market, Agatowa 1, 30-798 Kraków, Poland, https://visitkrakow.com/christmas-in-krakow/

Strasbourg, France

Strasbourg, often called the "Capital of Christmas," hosts one of Europe's most celebrated Christmas markets, renowned for its magical atmosphere and historical significance. This market, the oldest in France, transforms the city into a festive wonderland with twinkling lights and over 300 stalls offering a wide array of handcrafted gifts and Christmas decorations. A standout feature is the giant 30-meter Christmas tree that graces the central square, providing a stunning backdrop to the festivities. The market also features a dedicated children's village, where young visitors can enjoy various activities and meet Santa Claus. Visitors can savor traditional Alsatian treats and sip on vin chaud (mulled wine) while soaking in the holiday spirit amidst the charming medieval architecture of Strasbourg.

Opening hours: 11.30 to 21.00 daily, except on opening days and Christmas Eve

Strasbourg Christmas Market, 17 Place de la Cathédrale, 67082 Strasbourg Cedex, France, https://noel.strasbourg.eu/en/welcome

Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn's Christmas market in Estonia is renowned for its historic charm and festive atmosphere, making it a perfect destination for families during the holiday season. Situated in the picturesque Town Hall Square, the market is famous for its Christmas tree, which has been a central feature since 1441, marking it as one of Europe's first public Christmas trees. The market is adorned with charming stalls offering local handicrafts and traditional Estonian Christmas cuisine, such as black pudding and sour cabbage. Families can enjoy the festive programs and merry-go-rounds designed to entertain children, creating a magical experience for all ages. The snow-dusted medieval architecture adds to the enchanting setting.

Opening hours: 10.00 – 20.00 daily

Tallinn Christmas Market, Raekoja plats 8-9, 10146 Tallinn, Estonia, https://visitestonia.com/en/tallinn-christmas-market

Cologne, Germany

Cologne, Germany, is home to enchanting Christmas markets, each offering its unique theme and festive decor. These markets highlight the holiday season, providing a vibrant and family-friendly atmosphere that attracts visitors from all over. Families will find plenty of activities to entertain children, including workshops, face painting, and live performances. One of the main features is the variety of attractions, such as a giant Ferris wheel, an ice skating rink, and the Christmas Market Express mini train. Visitors can indulge in culinary delights like mulled wine while enjoying views of the stunning Cologne Cathedral and the Rhine River.

Opening hours: Open from around noon to 21.00, various markets around the city

Cologne Christmas Market, https://www.cologne-tourism.com/experiences-lifestyle/christmas

Prague, Czech Republic

Prague's Christmas market in the Czech Republic is a stunning festive destination known for its magnificent Christmas tree, which stands tall at 24 meters and is adorned with 100,000 LED lights, creating a breathtaking spectacle reminiscent of the Rockefeller Christmas tree in New York City. Located in the picturesque setting of Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square, this market is a hub of holiday activity, offering traditional Czech treats like sugar-coated nuts, sausages, and bratwurst. The market's charming stalls sell handcrafted decor and unique gifts, providing a perfect blend of shopping and cultural experience.

Opening hours: 10.00 – 22.00 daily

Prague Christmas Market, Staroměstské Náměstí, 110 00, Staré Město, Praha 1, Prague, Czech Republic, https://prague.eu/en/akce/old-town-square-christmas-market/

Budapest, Hungary

Budapest's Christmas market, set against the backdrop of Vörösmarty Square and St. Stephen's Basilica, is renowned for its vibrant festive atmosphere and traditional Hungarian delights. This market is a feast for the senses, offering visitors a chance to indulge in local specialties such as chimney cakes (kürtőskalács) and goulash while enjoying the sights and sounds of the holiday season. The beautifully decorated stalls showcase a variety of handcrafted gifts and ornaments, making it an ideal spot for a spot of holiday shopping. The market also features live music and cultural performances, adding to the festive cheer. With its culinary treats, cultural experiences, and stunning architecture, Budapest's Christmas market provides a magical holiday experience that captures the spirit of Christmas in Hungary.

Opening hours: From around noon to 21.00, various markets around the city,

Budapest Christmas Markets, https://budapestchristmas.com/budapest-christmas-markets

London, United Kingdom

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland in London is a spectacular Christmas market with many attractions and activities, making it an ideal destination for families during the festive season. This vibrant event transforms Hyde Park into a dazzling winter festival featuring thrilling rides, an expansive ice-skating rink—the largest open-air rink in the UK—and a traditional Christmas market filled with festive gifts and decorations. Families can enjoy a variety of entertainment options, including sing-alongs, live performances, and more than ten different rides and rollercoasters. The market also boasts a giant Ferris wheel and Santaland, where children can meet Father Christmas and share their seasonal wishes. Expect festive cheer, culinary delights like mulled wine and hot chocolate, and a frosty display of sculptured ice and snow statues.

Opening hours: 10.00 – 22.00 daily

London Christmas Market, Hyde Park, Serpentine Road, London, W2 2UH, United Kingdom, https://hydeparkwinterwonderland.com/

Dubrovnik, Croatia

The Christmas market in Dubrovnik, Croatia, offers a picturesque setting that beautifully captures the festive spirit. Set against the backdrop of the city's historic architecture and stunning Adriatic coast, this market provides a unique blend of cultural charm and holiday cheer. Visitors can explore stalls brimming with traditional Croatian crafts, from hand-carved ornaments to intricate lacework, offering perfect gifts and souvenirs. The market also delights everyone with local foods, such as sweet pastries and savory treats, showcasing the region's rich culinary heritage. With its enchanting atmosphere and focus on authentic Croatian traditions, Dubrovnik's Christmas market provides families with a warm and inviting experience.

Opening hours: Noon to 18.00 daily

Dubrovnik Christmas Market, Convent St. Claire, Dubrovnik, Croatia, https://visitdubrovnik.hr/  

Salzburg, Austria

The Salzburg Christkindlmarket in Austria is one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe, dating back to the late 15th century. This historic market is renowned for its traditional charm and festive atmosphere, attracting visitors with its beautifully decorated stalls offering a wide range of holiday gifts, handcrafted ornaments, and delicious Austrian treats such as hot punch, mulled wine, and pastries. A unique feature of the Salzburg market is its engaging storytelling sessions designed for children to immerse themselves in enchanting Christmas tales. Additionally, the market hosts Krampus parades, a traditional event where costumed figures roam the streets, adding a touch of local folklore to the festivities. Daily programs include guided Christmas tours, concerts, and carol sing-alongs.

Opening hours: 10.00 – 20.30 daily except weekends and special opening hours

Salzburger Christkindlmarkt, Altstadt Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria, https://www.salzburg.info/en/salzburg/advent/salzburg-christmas-market

Metz, France

The Christmas market in Metz, France, is renowned for its enchanting atmosphere and festive illuminations spread across the city's six main squares. Known as one of France's largest and most beautiful Christmas markets, it draws visitors with its stunning ice sculptures and vibrant light displays. The market features a variety of attractions, including a Christmas pyramid, an open-air ice rink, and a Ferris wheel that offers panoramic views of the city's historic architecture. Visitors can explore an array of charming stalls offering handcrafted gifts and traditional treats like gingerbread and mulled wine. A highlight of the Metz Christmas market is the "Sentier des Lanternes," a magical lantern trail that captivates with over 2,000 illuminated figures depicting festive scenes and characters.

Opening hours: 9.30 to 18.30 Monday to Saturday, various markets throughout the city

Metz Christmas Market, https://www.tourisme-metz.com/en/discover-metz-metropole/christmas-inspirations

Nottingham, United Kingdom

Nottingham's Winter Wonderland, located in the heart of Old Market Square, is a festive extravaganza that transforms the city into a magical holiday destination. Known for its Bavarian-style stalls, this Christmas market offers a delightful array of gifts, crafts, and specialty foods, providing a unique shopping experience. The market is part of a more extensive winter wonderland that features an array of festive rides, including a toboggan slide and the ever-popular Frozen Swing. Visitors can enjoy ice skating on the expansive rink and enjoy the stunning views from the 32-meter observation wheel, which overlooks the sparkling Christmas tree below. The event also includes themed bars such as the Ice Bar and Sur La Piste, where guests can enjoy festive drinks in a cozy alpine setting.

Opening hours: 10.00 – 18.00 weekdays, 10.00 – 20.00 weekends in November, 10.00 – 20.30 weekdays, 10.00 – 21.00 weekends in December

Nottingham Christmas Market, Old Market Square, Nottingham, NG1 2DT, United Kingdom, https://www.visit-nottinghamshire.co.uk/whats-on/winter-wonderland-christmas-in-nottingham-p480781

Copenhagen, Denmark

Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen, Denmark, transforms into a mesmerizing winter wonderland during the Christmas season, offering a magical experience for visitors of all ages. This iconic amusement park is adorned with festive decorations and twinkling lights, creating an enchanting atmosphere that captures the spirit of the holidays. The Christmas market at Tivoli Gardens features a variety of attractions, including traditional rides and a beautifully decorated carousel that delights children and adults alike. Visitors can explore charming stalls selling holiday gifts, crafts, and delicious Danish treats such as æbleskiver and gløgg (mulled wine). The park also hosts live performances and events, adding to the festive cheer.

Opening hours: 11.00 – 22.00 daily

Copenhagen Christmas Market, Vesterbrogade 3, 1630 Copenhagen, Denmark, https://www.tivoli.dk/en/haven-og-forlystelser/saesoner/jul

Warsaw, Poland

The Christmas market in Warsaw, Poland, is a festive spectacle combining traditional charm with modern attractions. Known for its stunning ice rinks, the market provides a picturesque setting where families can enjoy skating amidst the twinkling Christmas lights and illuminated displays that adorn the city. The market is spread across several locations, including the historic Rynek in the Old Town and the vibrant Praga district, each offering a unique holiday experience. Visitors can explore wooden stalls decked in colorful holiday lights, selling traditional Polish treats such as gingerbread and chocolates, warm sweaters, and handcrafted decorations. The festive atmosphere is enhanced by the backdrop of Warsaw's historic architecture.

Opening hours: 11.00 – 20.00 Sunday to Thursday, 11.00 – 21.30 Friday and Saturday

Warsaw Christmas Market, Old Town Market Square, Warsaw, Poland, https://warsawvisit.com/christmas-in-warsaw/

Brussels, Belgium

The Winter Wonders Christmas market in Brussels, Belgium, is a captivating holiday event that spans several city locations, including the iconic Marché aux Poissons and the Grand Place. This market is renowned for its dazzling light displays and festive atmosphere, making it a must-visit during the holiday season. Visitors can enjoy ice skating on rinks set up across the city, adding a touch of winter magic to the experience. The market features a three-kilometer stretch of snow-blanketed chalets, offering a variety of hot foods, warm mulled wine, and unique gifts. A highlight of Winter Wonders is the "Brussels by Lights" event, which illuminates the city's streets and shopping districts with nearly 20 kilometers of enchanting Christmas lights.

Opening hours: Noon – 22.00 daily

Brussels Christmas Market, between Grand Place, Rue de la Bourse, Place Sainte-Catherine and Marché aux Poissons, Brussels, Belgium, https://www.brussels.be/winter-wonders