A short historical past lesson on Christmas markets in Europe: The continent’s once-humble vacation markets are believed to have sprouted from easy stalls in German-speaking areas, the place locals stocked up in medieval instances on items to remain heat and fed in the course of the frigid winter season. There’s debate round which Wintermärkte, or “winter market,” was first: Dresden’s dates again to the fifteenth century, when it opened for one sole day on Christmas Eve, whereas Nuremberg’s internationally well-known Christmas market—now considered one of Germany’s largest—has roots relationship again to 1628.
Today, you’ll discover hundreds of Christmas markets in Germany alone, with in all places from capitals like Vienna to tiny alpine cities in the Italian Dolomites and port cities in Scandinavia internet hosting their very own variations that veer from charming and conventional to as elaborate as a theme park—and, in some circumstances like Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens, held at them. From late November till January, central squares topped by light-strung cathedrals and storybook towns throughout Europe rework into scenes as picturesque as a snow globe with wood chalets doling out vacation sweets and heat mulled wine poured into collectable glühwein mugs—the final word memento.
Here, we’ve narrowed down 28 of the most effective Christmas markets in Europe, in no explicit order, from well-known favorites to smaller, extra under-the-radar finds (if you wish to examine off a number of, a Christmas market cruise is among the best methods). From over-the-top ice rinks and carnival rides to Disney-esque mild reveals and performances, these are a few of the best spots to spend Christmas in Europe—and the place to remain inside a brief stroll of the market stalls.
This gallery has been up to date with new info since its unique publish date. Additional reporting by Jessica J. Lee and Jessica Chapel.