As the most magical time of year approaches, cities worldwide transform into enchanting holiday wonderlands.
Christmas markets come to life with warm lights, festive music, and the best aromas of seasonal treats. Whether in charming European squares or modern Asian cities, these markets offer a unique way to experience the holiday season of 2024. We've gathered a selection of the world's most magical Christmas markets - each with its own distinctive charm and character. From traditional European markets with centuries-old customs to vibrant celebrations in Asia and beyond, here’s your ultimate guide to festive travel.
Best Christmas Markets in Europe
Europe’s Christmas markets are iconic, known for its old-world charm and holiday spirit. Each city offers its own version of a winter wonderland in Europe, with charming stalls, sparkling lights, and seasonal foods that capture the spirit of the holidays.
Strasbourg, France (Nov 27th - Dec 27th)
Known as the “Capital of Christmas,” Strasbourg’s market is one of Europe’s oldest, dating back to 1570. The market hosts 300 stalls, French-German fusion cuisine, and the 30-meter-tall towering Christmas tree in Place Kléber.
Prague, Czech Republic (Nov 30th - Jan 6th)
Prague’s Christmas markets, set against the city's stunning Gothic architecture, are truly enchanting. The Old Town Square market is the main attraction for visitors, with handcrafted gifts, spiced mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, local hand-made gifts and more.
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, London, UK (Nov 21st - Jan 5th)
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland in London is more than just a Christmas market; it’s a full-scale holiday extravaganza. Alongside traditional stalls, visitors can enjoy ice skating, circus performances, and thrilling carnival rides.
Vienna, Austria (Nov 13th - Dec 23rd)
Vienna’s Christmas markets are a delightful blend of tradition and elegance. The main market at Rathausplatz brings stunning decorations, and Spittelberg’s narrow lanes offer a more intimate, artsy market experience.
Cologne, Germany (Nov 18th - Dec 23rd)
With multiple themed markets across the city, Cologne’s Christmas celebrations are some of Germany’s most beloved. Visit the iconic Cathedral market for local crafts, or explore the medieval market for a taste of traditional German festive season.
Best Christmas Markets in America
From Chicago to New York, North America’s holiday markets bring traditional European flair to the American cityscapes. With vibrant decorations and artisanal goods, these markets are a festive highlight of the holiday season.
Christkindlmarket, Chicago, USA (Nov 22nd - Dec 24th)
Inspired by the markets in Nuremberg, Chicago’s Christkindlmarket is a beloved local tradition. The market’s stalls offer authentic German food, handcrafted ornaments, and beautiful wooden toys in the heart of the Windy City.
Union Square Holiday Market, New York, USA (Nov 14th - Dec 23rd)
Named the best holiday market in America in 2023, New York’s Union Square Holiday Market is a favorite for holiday shopping, with dozens of stalls offering artisanal crafts, gourmet food, and unique gifts. The atmosphere is festive and lively, perfect for embracing the holiday spirit.
Downtown Holiday Market, Washington, D.C., USA (Nov 22nd - Dec 23rd)
Located in D.C.’s Penn Quarter, this holiday market is known for its local arts and crafts, festive music, and warming treats. It’s an ideal stop for unique holiday gifts and a joyful seasonal vibe in the nation’s capital.-
Best Christmas Markets in Far East
While the Far East may not come to mind first for Christmas markets, cities across Asia are embracing the festive season with unique holiday offerings. From Tokyo’s German-inspired stalls to the spectacular displays in Singapore, these markets are sure to bring holiday cheer.
Roppongi Hills Christmas Market, Tokyo, Japan (Nov 23rd - Dec 25th)
Inspired by traditional German markets, Roppongi Hills features charming wooden stalls, glowing ornaments, and authentic German treats like bratwurst and glühwein. The beautiful illuminations add a magical touch to Tokyo’s bustling district.
Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Christmas Market, Japan (Nov 22nd - Dec 25th)
Held at Yokohama’s historic Red Brick Warehouse, this market combines old-world charm with modern Japanese flair. Shoppers can find European goods, German sausage, hotwine, while the giant Christmas tree and seaside views create a festive atmosphere.
Christmasland, New Taipei City, Taiwan (Nov 15th - Jan 1st )
Christmasland in New Taipei City is famed for its stunning light displays and holiday concerts. A favorite with families, the market is also known for its seasonal pop-up shops and unique themed attractions that bring holiday magic to Taiwan.
Best Christmas Markets in Middle East
Christmas markets in the Middle East bring a unique twist to the holiday spirit. Despite the warm climate, these markets capture the festive magic with stunning decorations, live entertainment, and seasonal shopping opportunities.
Madinat Jumeirah Christmas Market, Dubai, UAE (Dec 6th - Jan 12th)
Set along Dubai’s charming waterways, this market offers a Middle Eastern take on holiday festivities. Enjoy Santa meet-and-greets, snowball fights, a German-inspired market with local flair, and family activities including our North Pole Train, a four-lane bungee and a Venetian carousel.
Lusail Winter Wonderland, Doha, Qatar (October 24, Early 2025)
Discover the heart of fun at Lusail Winter Wonderland on Al Maha Island—Qatar’s ultimate amusement park! With 100+ rides, games, shows, and new attractions, it's the perfect spot for family-friendly adventures, adrenaline thrills, and unforgettable memories. Indulge in world-famous hot chocolate and enjoy big thrills day and night
Yas Winter Fest / Snow Abu Dhabi, UAE (Dec 13th - 22nd)
Located in Abu Dhabi, Yas Winter Fest offers a wide range of holiday entertainment, including Santa appearances, festive markets, and even artificial snow for a wintry feel in the desert for everyone.
Santa’s Village Market, Amman, Jordan (Dec 5th - 7th)
Amman’s Santa’s Village Market brings European-style Christmas festivities to Jordan. With Santa’s grotto, holiday stalls, and a joyful ambiance, this market offers delightful time with holiday cheer.
---
Wherever you are in the world, we hope this list inspires you to embrace the magic of Christmas markets this holiday season. As you immerse yourself in the tastes of the season, remember that we at 79 are here to help make your holiday travel dreams a reality. Enjoy every festive moment!
