Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market:
17th November – 23rd December
Cologne is home to seven separate German Christmas markets, and they attract close to two million visitors between them every year.
As some of Europe's most well-known Christmas markets, you can browse handmade crafts and home-baked goods under the watchful eye of the stunning Gothic cathedral in the old town, before heading to Neumarkt, the city’s oldest Christmas market.
With its many stalls and markets, Cologne is one of the best cities in Europe for Christmas markets. Discover Cologne and book your travel with P&O Ferries today.
Bruges Christmas Market – 21st November - 5th January 2026
When the festive season descends, the medieval city of Bruges transforms into a magical wonderland fit for fairy tales. The marvellous cobbled streets wrapped in lights and decorations lend a beautiful stage to the annual Christmas market, where delicacies of crisp frites and fresh shrimp can be enjoyed as you browse the local goods and stalls.
Discover Bruges now and learn why it is in the top 10 Christmas markets in Europe.
Strasbourg Christmas Market: 26th November - 24th December 2025
As one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe, Strasbourg remains the top of many people’s lists. Dating back to 1570, every year Strabourg Christmas Market has grown continuously over time. Now with 300 stalls across 10 different locations around the city, it has become one of the largest in Europe.
Continuing a tradition first mentioned in the 17th century, a huge Christmas tree from the nearby Vosges Mountains is the centrepiece, illuminating the market square with kilometres of fairy lights.
Discover Strasbourg and how by taking the Dover to Calais ferry for the perfect festive day trip.
Lille Christmas Market: 23rd November – 30th December
The Lille Christmas Market is another example of a popular Christmas market in Europe. Only in the Grand Place could a 60-foot Christmas tree be eclipsed by a giant Ferris wheel decorated with 10,000 light bulbs. The historical centre is filled with festive lights, and the streets are warm with mulled wine and spices drifting from the wooden chalets along Place Rihour.
Discover Lille and visit one of the largest Christmas markets in Europe, so you don’t miss out on all the European festivities.
Ready for your Christmas adventure? Book a ferry crossing to your favourite Christmas market destination today.
Top 10 Christmas Markets in Europe
There are many different Christmas markets in Europe. If you are still struggling to decide where to visit, our list of the top 10 markets below will hopefully make planning your festive holiday a little easier.
1. Strasbourg, France
2. Bruges, Belgium
3. Valkenburg, Netherlands
4. Nuremberg, Germany
5. Colmar, France
6. Brussels, Belgium
7. Maastricht, Netherlands
8. Edinburgh, Scotland
9. Munich, Germany
10. Ghent, Belgium
Christmas Markets in Europe FAQs
Where are the best Christmas markets in Europe?
The most famous Christmas markets are in Strasbourg, Nuremberg, Bruges, Cologne, and Lille. These cities are known for their festive decorations, traditional foods, and magical holiday atmosphere, and when travelling with P&O Ferries it couldn’t be easier to book your christmas adventure.
When do Christmas markets begin in Europe?
Most Christmas markets in Europe open in late November, usually around the start of Advent. They bring festive cheer throughout December with stalls, lights, and seasonal treats.
What’s the biggest Christmas market in Europe?
Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt in Germany is considered one of the biggest and oldest. Expected to open on the 28th of November and stay open until Christmas Eve, this Christmas market offers plenty to explore to get everyone in the festive spirit.
When do Christmas markets in Europe finish?
Most markets close on December 24 or 26, just after Christmas celebrations. However, some extend until New Year’s Eve or even early January. It is always best to check when you decide which Christmas market in Europe you want to visit to avoid disappointment.
When do Christmas markets in Europe 2025 start and finish?
In 2025, most European Christmas markets will begin between November 21 and November 28. They will typically finish on December 24, with some continuing until December 31 or early January, giving you plenty of time to explore. Book your ferry to Europe now to start planning your Christmas market trip.
