Christmas is coming, and my family wanted to go somewhere for a long weekend. We were looking for Christmas markets, a cozy spot to buy holiday decorations, and somewhere we could enjoy time together without the long travel or overwhelming crowds.
After some thought, I decided on Lübeck. I was a little skeptical at first—Christmas and Yule at Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens looked big, cozy, and inviting.
But at the same time, Germans know how to do Christmas markets, and Lübeck seemed to offer just the right mix of charm and tradition. In our experience, the best holiday moments often come from slightly smaller, less obvious places where the crowds thin, and the festive spirit feels that much more genuine.
At LocalsInsider, that’s what we’re always after—holiday places where the magic isn’t just in the lights and decorations but in the warmth, the traditions, and the seasonal flavors that bring everything together.
So, we’ve gathered a list of Europe’s coziest and most unique holiday destinations, places that feel like a warm hug against the chill of December.
This December, skip the usual and uncover Europe’s hidden holiday treasures. From candle-lit markets in medieval squares to snowy retreats by crackling fires, these destinations are all about winter beauty, local traditions, and that genuine holiday spirit.
So grab a mug of mulled wine, bundle up, and let these places wrap you in a festive warmth that feels wonderfully real.
Here, we list the best and most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe to visit in December 2024.
Cozy Christmas Markets Addresses in Europe and Snowy Winter Retreats 2024-2025
Please note that market dates and locations can vary annually; it’s advisable to check official tourism websites for the most current information.
- Odense, Denmark: H.C. Andersen Christmas Market, Sortebrødre Torv, 5000 Odense C.
- Goslar, Germany: Goslar Christmas Market, Marktplatz, 38640 Goslar.
- Reykjavík, Iceland: Yule Town Christmas Market, Ingólfstorg Square, 101 Reykjavík.
- Húsafell, Iceland: Húsafell Christmas Market, Húsafell, 311 Borgarbyggð.
- Zermatt, Switzerland: Zermatt Christmas Market, Bahnhofstrasse, 3920 Zermatt.
- Rovaniemi, Finland: Santa Claus Village Christmas Market, Tähtikuja 1, 96930 Rovaniemi.
- Copenhagen, Denmark: Tivoli Gardens Christmas Market, Vesterbrogade 3, 1630 København V.
- Krakow, Poland: Krakow Christmas Market, Rynek Główny (Main Market Square), 31-042 Kraków.
- Tromsø, Norway: Tromsø Christmas Market, Stortorget, 9008 Tromsø.
- Innsbruck, Austria: Innsbruck Old Town Christmas Market, Altstadt, 6020 Innsbruck.
- Lübeck, Germany: Lübeck Christmas Market, Markt, 23552 Lübeck.
- Valletta, Malta (The warmest no snow XMas market in Europe): Fairyland – Santa’s City, next to the Fountain and Phoenicia Hotel, Floriana
- Courchevel, France: Courchevel Christmas Market, Place du Bachal, 73120 Courchevel.
- Bradford-on-Avon, England: Bradford-on-Avon Christmas Market, Lamb Yard, Kingston Rd, Bradford-on-Avon BA15 1FG.
- Colmar, France: Colmar Christmas Market, Place de l’Ancienne Douane, 68000 Colmar.
- Vipiteno, Italy: Vipiteno Christmas Market, Piazza Città, 39049 Vipiteno BZ.
- Tallinn, Estonia: Tallinn Christmas Market, Raekoja plats, 10146 Tallinn.
- St. Moritz, Switzerland: St. Moritz Christmas Market, Plazza da Scoula, 7500 St. Moritz.
Odense, Denmark: Hans Christian Andersen Christmas Market
Odense’s holiday market is a love letter to Andersen’s tales. With around 50 wooden stalls nestled in the old town, this Danish market offers cozy, homey vibes that bring Andersen’s world alive. Sip on gløgg, the Danish take on mulled wine, spiced with cinnamon, cloves, and sometimes a dash of schnapps for extra warmth.
Try traditional holiday treats like æbleskiver, little pancake balls dusted with powdered sugar.
You’ll find a storyteller’s corner with live performances of Andersen’s tales, adding to the old-world charm that feels like you’ve stepped into a Danish holiday fairytale. Also, vist the newly opened H.C. Andersen’s House. Odense is just a short train ride from Copenhagen.
Christmas Market in Goslar, Germany: Goslar Weihnachtsmarkt
Tucked in the scenic Harz Mountains, Goslar’s Christmas market has about 70 stalls, including its famous forest section where evergreens transform the square into a winter woodland. Sip on Glühwein, Germany’s iconic mulled wine, or try the regional favorite, Feuerzangenbowle, where a rum-soaked sugar cube is set on fire and drips into the wine.
Local treats like bratwurst and fresh gingerbread cookies are perfect snacks as you explore. The mountain setting and cozy “forest” make this intimate market feel like a hidden winter wonderland.
Reykjavík, Húsafell, and the Blue Lagoon, Iceland
Iceland’s holiday season has a unique, rugged beauty. Reykjavík’s cozy market offers Nordic crafts and jólaglögg, a berry-twist mulled wine, while Húsafell, just two hours away, provides a tranquil escape in glass igloos perfect for Northern Lights viewing.
Nearby, the Blue Lagoon’s Retreat Spa, just an hour from Reykjavík, invites you to unwind in private geothermal pools, while the nearby Krauma Spa in Deildartunguhver lets you soak in hot spring-fed baths against a snowy mountain backdrop. Iceland in December is unforgettable, blending luxury, nature, and authentic holiday magic.
Winter in Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen in December brings a cozy holiday atmosphere, even if there’s more chance of rain than snow. The main attraction is the Christmas market at Tivoli Gardens, where twinkling lights, wooden stalls, and festive rides create a warm and inviting scene.
Enjoy a cup of gløgg—Danish mulled wine with spices and schnapps—alongside æbleskiver, small pancake balls with powdered sugar and jam. Strolling the cobblestone streets, you’ll find boutique shops with handcrafted gifts and the scent of roasted almonds in the air.
A walk along Nyhavn’s harbor, with its brightly lit facades, adds a perfect touch of holiday charm, making Christmas in Copenhagen feel magical in its own way.
Krakow, Poland: Krakow Christmas Market
In the heart of Krakow’s historic Rynek Glowny, Poland’s largest medieval square, this market offers a delightful mix of Polish culture and festive cheer. Over 80 stalls sell everything from hand-carved wooden toys to woolen scarves, but the real highlight?
The food. Try grzaniec, Poland’s take on mulled wine, usually served in souvenir mugs that make a perfect keepsake.
The market also boasts Polish comfort foods like pierogi (stuffed dumplings) and oscypek, a smoky cheese served grilled with cranberry sauce. Krakow’s warm, unpretentious spirit and hearty food make it feel like home.
Arctic Holiday in Tromsø, Norway
For an Arctic holiday, Tromsø is one-of-a-kind. Known as the “Gateway to the Arctic,” this northern town is famed for its snowy fjords and dazzling Northern Lights displays.
Tromsø’s blend of wild nature and warm culture makes it unforgettable: you can watch the skies light up with auroras after spending the day on a reindeer sledding tour or whale-watching in the icy fjords.
Cozy up afterward in one of Tromsø’s charming cafes with a steaming cup of hot chocolate or experience a traditional Sami festival, complete with folk music and handcrafted gifts. One unique local tradition is the Kaffekos, a time to slow down, enjoy coffee, and connect—a custom perfectly suited to Tromsø’s peaceful, star-lit nights.
Innsbruck, Austria: Old Town Christmas Market
Set in Innsbruck’s picturesque Old Town, this market offers around 70 stalls with Tyrolean flair. Discover Austrian crafts, ornaments, and the famous glühwein, a mulled wine with a slightly stronger kick. Try kiachl, a fried dough pastry often filled with sauerkraut or cranberry sauce. With stunning mountain views, Innsbruck’s market combines holiday tradition with Alpine beauty, capturing the true spirit of Austrian winter.
Lübeck, Germany: Christmas Capital of Northern Germany
Lübeck, known as the “Christmas Capital of Northern Germany,” offers a holiday experience full of charm and tradition. The historic Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is transformed with themed Christmas markets, from a Medieval Market to an Artisan’s Market.
Lübeck is also famous for its marzipan, especially at the Niederegger café, where marzipan hot chocolate and holiday treats make for a sweet seasonal indulgence.
Its location near the Baltic Sea means you can easily combine your visit with a coastal day trip, making Lübeck a interesting blend of history, winter spirit, and northern German favorites like Grünkohl (kale with sausage).
Valletta, Malta: Europe’s Warmest Christmas Market
Valletta in Malta offers a Christmas fell with Fairyland – Santa’s City, located by Triton Fountain near the Phoenicia Hotel in Floriana. Malta may not be the biggest, most traditional, or grandest Christmas desination, but here you can enjoy being outdoors in a mild climate with temperatures reaching up to 20°C and even swim. The market features a Ferris wheel and ice rink to cozy stalls selling local treats like pastizzi, nougat, or even pizza.
For even more festive vibes, head to the Insta-worthy The Magical Illuminated Trail at Verdala Palace, where illuminated paths and light installations create a slightly Disney-like, tacky, yet charming and laid-back atmosphere. Malta is perfect for a short getaway, and getting around is easy with taxi apps.
Alpine Getaway, Zermatt, Switzerland
For a winter getaway that combines holiday cheer with Alpine elegance, Zermatt is hard to beat. Nestled at the base of the Matterhorn, this car-free village is a serene winter escape, filled with holiday spirit and breathtaking mountain views.
Though it doesn’t have a traditional Christmas market, Zermatt’s boutique shops offer seasonal gifts like artisan chocolates and handmade crafts, perfect for finding something special without the crowds.
After a day on the high-altitude slopes, warm up with a cozy meal of raclette or fondue in a mountain restaurant, paired with vin chaud—the Swiss take on mulled wine. Zermatt is a refined winter destination, offering a blend of intimate holiday charm and awe-inspiring Alpine beauty.
Santa Claus Village Rovaniemi, Finland
As the official home of Santa Claus, Rovaniemi radiates holiday magic. Santa Claus Village is festive all year, but December brings an extra sparkle, with lights and activities that capture the spirit of the season.
Enjoy a warm glass of Finnish glogi, a berry-infused mulled wine served with almonds and raisins, and savor Nordic treats like smoked salmon and reindeer sausage.
For a truly unforgettable experience, stay in a luxury glass igloo, where the Northern Lights dance above, blending holiday magic with the pristine beauty of Finland’s wilderness. In winter direct flight from many European cities are offered.
Courchevel, France
Courchevel’s luxury extends beyond its slopes to its Christmas celebrations, though there’s no formal market. Instead, chic boutiques and gourmet shops offer curated holiday experiences. Sample vin chaud from local wineries, and don’t miss out on the regional favorite tartiflette, a rich mix of cheese, potatoes, and bacon, perfect after a day on the slopes. With high-end shopping and cozy Alpine cafes, Courchevel is ideal for those who want to ski in style.
Bradford-on-Avon, England
This quaint English town transforms with a floating Christmas market along the Kennet and Avon Canal. Around 30 decorated narrowboats serve as unique stalls, selling hot mulled cider, British pies, and handmade gifts. Bradford-on-Avon feels like a hidden gem, inviting you to slow down, sip cider by the canal, and enjoy a truly English countryside Christmas.
Colmar, France
Colmar’s Christmas market feels like stepping into a holiday fairytale, with its half-timbered houses, quaint canals, and illuminated streets. The market spans five squares, each offering a different focus, from local crafts to wine tastings. Don’t miss Alsatian specialties like flammekueche (a thin, pizza-like flatbread with cheese and onions) and warm cider. Colmar is ideal for those who appreciate a festive ambiance paired with delicious regional food, similar to the charm of Goslar or Odense.
Vipiteno, Italy
Nestled in Italy’s South Tyrol, Vipiteno combines Italian warmth with Tyrolean charm. Its small Christmas market features stalls offering Alpine crafts, traditional South Tyrolean treats like speck (cured ham) and mulled wine, and handmade woolen goods. The town’s medieval tower and snow-capped mountain backdrop create a unique, cross-cultural holiday atmosphere that feels as cozy and scenic as Innsbruck or Courchevel.
Tallinn, Estonia
Tallinn’s Christmas market is a medieval gem set in the heart of the Old Town’s cobbled Town Hall Square. Locals sell handmade wool items, wooden crafts, and Estonian favorites like piparkoogid (spiced gingerbread) and roasted almonds. Tallinn’s market feels timeless and intimate with its traditional holiday lights and historic architecture, capturing the old-world charm of Krakow or Odense. The town’s likely dusting of snow only enhances its winter magic.
St. Moritz, Switzerland
Known as Europe’s winter playground, St. Moritz delivers festive elegance in a luxury setting. The town’s small Christmas market has about 30-40 curated stalls, offering everything from luxury chocolates to high-quality wool items.
Warm up with glögg, the Swiss version of mulled wine, or savor a luxurious hot chocolate at one of the upscale cafes. The annual Snow Polo World Cup on the frozen lake adds to the town’s glamorous holiday atmosphere, making St. Moritz a true seasonal gem.
Each of these places has its own holiday magic—whether it’s an unusual drink, a special food, or a cozy atmosphere that makes the season feel special. December in Europe offers more than just beautiful stalls; it’s about finding places that feel real and welcoming, where traditions meet a bit of local flair.
The Story Behind Christmas Markets
Christmas markets have a long history dating back to the late Middle Ages in German-speaking regions like Germany, Austria, and parts of France. Originally called “December markets,” they began as practical gatherings where people could stock up on food, firewood, and other essentials for the winter season.
The markets evolved into places of celebration during Advent, the period leading up to Christmas, with communities coming together to enjoy warm drinks, seasonal treats, and music.
Over the centuries, Christmas markets became beloved community events filled with local foods, handmade crafts, and festive decorations.
However, the tradition was reshaped during the 20th century, when the Nazis revived and promoted Christmas markets in Germany as part of an effort to emphasize “traditional” German culture. Today, though, Christmas markets are symbols of community and warmth, celebrated worldwide and offering a glimpse into the holiday spirit and history of Europe.
