If you are like me, the holiday decorations start looking VERY OLD the day after Christmas.  Down they come, and I don't start thinking about it all again until November.    

 

I have friends that head off to Europe for the Christmas Markets almost every year…I NEVER think to plan this for myself, because I have a mental holiday block that lasts 11 months.  Then I see their gorgeous European posts on social media and, damn, missed it again!  

 

Good news and bad news, First name / friend—

 

😔 The bad news: It’s too late to jet off to Christmas markets for 2024…

 

🥂 The good news: I’ve created a list of six holiday markets for 2025, so we can both can start dreaming and planning our next festive season getaway now. Personally, I can not wait to do something different for Holiday 2025. 

 

 While Europe is famous for its iconic markets (and trust me, I’ve included some of the best), don’t miss the options at the bottom of this list for a twist on tradition.

 

Whether you're craving the charm of Europe or just looking to escape all the madness, this guide has you covered.  

 

P.S. If anyone is interested in joining a small group for December 2025, hit the link below and let's brainstorm! 

 

 Venice is a wonderful city, which also enchants Christmas with its own flair. Most tourists visit Venice from spring to late summer, ( a GREAT reason to go in winter). But even in the cold season, a trip to the impressive lagoon city is worthwhile.  

All the main attractions are open during the Christmas holidays. A Christmas tree with thousands of lights shines in front of the golden basilica on the world-famous Piazza San Marco. 

The arcades at Piazza di San Marco also shine with a bright glow.

 Everything at Christmas here is more traditional and folksy. The most famous ‘Mercatini di Natale‘ is the annual Venezia Christmas Village in Campo San Polo, right in the center of the city. Further smaller Christmas markets are also on the Campo S. Bartolomeo, Campo San Salvador, Campo San Luca, or Campo Manin.

 

📍 Explore Nearby: A gondola ride is probably not the best idea as it will be very cold! Instead, visit the Doge’s Palace or St Mark’s Basilica. Or perhaps a nice little  trip to Murano for some fantastic glass?

 

As one of Germany’s oldest and largest Christmas markets, the Frankfurt Weihnachtsmarkt combines traditional holiday charm with the energy of a bustling metropolis. Set against the backdrop of the historic Römerberg Square, the market features beautifully decorated wooden stalls offering everything from handcrafted gifts to local specialties like Bethmännchen (marzipan cookies) and apple wine punch. A giant Christmas tree in the square adds to the festive atmosphere.

 

📍 Explore Nearby: Stroll along the Museumsufer (Museum Embankment), admire the stunning views from the top of the Main Tower, or explore the cobbled streets of Alt-Sachsenhausen, known for its apple wine taverns.

 

Known as the “Capital of Christmas,” Strasbourg transforms into a magical wonderland every December. Centered around the Cathedral of Notre Dame, the market is celebrated for its stunning decor and festive energy. Sample Alsatian specialties like bredele cookies and mulled white wine, and shop for gifts and ornaments that reflect the region's culture.

 

📍 Explore Nearby: Explore the Alsace wine route to discover charming villages like Colmar and Riquewihr, or simply stroll Strasbourg’s cobbled streets to admire its half-timbered houses and festive light displays.

 

In Vienna, the holiday season takes on a regal air. The Vienna Christkindlmarkt, set in front of the neo-Gothic Rathaus, is one of Europe’s most enchanting markets. Browse for artisan gifts and decorations while warming up with traditional treats like kaiserschmarrn (sweet shredded pancakes) and roasted chestnuts. Classical music performances add to the ambiance, making this a quintessential European holiday experience!

 

📍 Explore Nearby: Step into the grandeur of the Schönbrunn Palace, visit Vienna’s renowned art museums, ( the Albertina is a must) or stop in at the Spanish Riding School. 

 

The Tivoli Gardens Christmas Market offers a dreamy Nordic take on the holidays. With its fairy-tale decorations, cozy stalls, and festive atmosphere, this market is pure magic. Enjoy Danish delicacies like æbleskiver (pancake puffs) and spiced gløgg as you stroll through the illuminated gardens.

 

📍 Explore Nearby: Take in Copenhagen’s picturesque Nyhavn harbor or embrace the concept of hygge in the city’s warm and welcoming cafés.

🎄 Stockholm, Sweden

 

Nestled in the heart of Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s historic old town, the Stortorgets Julmarknad is Sweden’s oldest Christmas market, dating all the way back to 1837! This charming market offers a perfect mix of Nordic simplicity and festive cheer. Wander through stalls brimming with Swedish handicrafts, indulge in pepparkakor (gingerbread cookies), and warm up with a cup of glögg (mulled wine). The cobblestone streets and colorful facades of Gamla Stan make the perfect backdrop for a magical holiday experience.

 

📍 Explore Nearby: Hop on a ferry to visit the iconic Vasa Museum, dive into Stockholm’s food halls, or embark on a scenic winter boat tour through the city’s enchanting archipelago.

P.S. Looking for Christmas markets beyond Europe? Sydney, Australia offers a summery twist with artisan gifts and festive cheer at The Rocks. In Medellín, Colombia, the dazzling Alumbrados Navideños pairs light displays with local treats. And in Tokyo, Japan, the Roppongi Hills Christmas Market blends German traditions with stunning Japanese illuminations.