Published on
November 9, 2025
Hungary Joins France, Austria, Germany, Czech Republic and Romania as Top Christmas Travel Destinations in Europe, Offering Unforgettable Holiday Experiences for 2025 Travelers. As the holiday season approaches, Hungary has emerged as a must-visit destination alongside iconic European countries like France, Austria, Germany, Czech Republic, and Romania, thanks to its captivating Christmas markets and festive charm. With its unique blend of rich traditions, stunning lights, delicious seasonal treats, and warm, welcoming atmosphere, Hungary is poised to offer unforgettable holiday experiences for travelers in 2025. Whether it’s exploring Budapest’s enchanting markets or discovering lesser-known gems, Hungary promises to enchant visitors seeking the magic of a European Christmas.
The magical allure of Christmas markets in Europe has long been a cherished tradition for travelers worldwide, particularly for Britons. The dazzling lights, festive aromas, local crafts, and warm drinks create a unique atmosphere that entices millions of people every year. While Germany is often celebrated as the birthplace of the Christmas market tradition, a new study has emerged highlighting that it is Strasbourg’s Christkindelsmärik in France that claims the top spot for UK travelers in 2025. Hungary, alongside France, Austria, Germany, Czech Republic, and Romania, is now in the limelight, offering a wealth of incredible festive experiences. This year, visitors will find themselves spoilt for choice with the finest Christmas markets across Europe, from the popular to the hidden gems.
Strasbourg: The Heart of European Christmas Markets
Strasbourg’s Christkindelsmärik, France’s iconic Christmas market, has come out on top in 2025, earning a well-deserved place at the forefront of holiday festivities. Situated in the picturesque Alsace region, Strasbourg’s market is a mesmerizing blend of old-world charm and vibrant modernity. It boasts a history dating back to 1570, making it one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe.
For UK travelers, Strasbourg ranks first due to several factors, including its excellent accessibility, affordability, and Instagram-worthy charm. With 27,000 Google searches and a staggering 36,800 Instagram posts, the market’s global popularity is undeniable. Visitors are treated to a dazzling display of more than 300 wooden stalls, selling everything from handcrafted toys and ornaments to gourmet food and mulled wine. The traditional wooden huts create a cozy, authentic atmosphere that invites visitors to immerse themselves in the holiday spirit.
In addition to the market, Strasbourg’s historic center, with its half-timbered houses and majestic cathedral, enhances the charm of this winter wonderland. With an overall score of 6.83/10, Strasbourg has firmly established itself as the top destination for those seeking an unforgettable Christmas market experience.
Budapest: A Magical Winter Escape
Hungary’s capital, Budapest, has made its mark on the European Christmas market scene, joining the ranks of the best in Europe. At the top of the list is the Vörösmarty Square Christmas Market, a place where tradition meets modern-day magic. Known for its intimate atmosphere and stunning setting, the market attracts both locals and international visitors each year.
What makes the Budapest market stand out is its combination of festive charm and cultural experiences. Visitors can expect to see Hungarian folk art, enjoy traditional food like chimney cake and hearty goulash, and explore handcrafted goods from local artisans. With an impressive 52 days of festive joy, the Vörösmarty Square market offers an extended holiday experience, making it perfect for travelers looking to immerse themselves in a holiday tradition.
Besides the holiday festivities, Budapest is also home to striking architecture and thermal baths, which add to its appeal. Whether you’re shopping for gifts or soaking in the thermal waters, Budapest promises an unforgettable holiday experience.
Vienna: A Christmas Wonderland in the Heart of Austria
Austria’s capital, Vienna, is another must-visit destination for Christmas market lovers. Known for its imperial palaces, classical music, and magnificent Christmas markets, Vienna offers an old-world charm that never fails to captivate. The Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz, set against the backdrop of the stunning City Hall, is arguably the most iconic market in Vienna.
Vienna’s Christmas markets are a blend of the magical and the elegant, offering everything from high-end gifts to delicious treats. Visitors can indulge in roasted chestnuts, gingerbread, and hot chocolate, while browsing handcrafted gifts made by local artisans. The city is also renowned for its festive lights, and the famous “City of Music” truly comes to life during the holiday season.
With its rich history, stunning architecture, and elegant market offerings, Vienna is a place where holiday dreams come true. It’s no wonder that this market has earned a top spot on the list for 2025.
Prague: A Storybook Christmas Market Experience
Prague’s Old Town Market is another gem that ranks highly among Europe’s best Christmas markets. The Czech capital is a city that feels like stepping into a fairy tale, especially when it’s adorned with Christmas lights and decorations. The Old Town Square comes alive with wooden huts offering local crafts, ornaments, and holiday delicacies, while the towering spires of the Tyn Church provide a perfect backdrop for the market.
Known for its festive charm and affordable offerings, Prague’s Christmas market is perfect for travelers looking for a quaint, cozy holiday experience. Enjoy traditional Czech foods like Trdelník (a sweet pastry), as well as mulled wine and hot cider. The market is also famous for its Christmas tree, which is a central feature of the square, attracting visitors from all over the world.
Prague’s magical atmosphere, combined with its affordable prices and extensive holiday offerings, makes it a top contender for those looking for a traditional Christmas market experience.
Romania: Craiova’s Christmas Market Sparkles
Romania’s Craiova Christmas Market might be lesser-known compared to some of its European counterparts, but it’s quickly becoming a holiday favorite for travelers in the know. This charming market is open for 52 days and offers an affordable yet festive escape, with accommodation prices averaging around £68 for a three-star hotel.
Located in the southern part of Romania, Craiova’s market is an enchanting mix of festive food, crafts, and entertainment. The market is especially known for its light displays and live performances, which make for an unforgettable experience. Visitors can enjoy traditional Romanian treats like mici (grilled sausages) and cozonac (sweet bread) while exploring the market’s various stalls.
The affordability of the Craiova market makes it an ideal destination for budget-conscious travelers, without compromising on the festive charm that makes Christmas markets so special.
Germany: A Christmas Market Legacy
Germany, often regarded as the birthplace of the Christmas market tradition, remains a go-to destination for anyone looking to experience the magic of the holiday season. Among the most famous is the Frankfurt Christmas Market, which has been attracting visitors for centuries. Frankfurt ranks seventh in the 2025 list, but it is noteworthy for offering some of the most affordable accommodations in Europe, with prices starting at just £68 for a three-star hotel.
Other German markets, such as the Cologne Weihnachtsmarkt and Munich Christkindlmarkt, are also top contenders, offering everything from traditional gifts to festive treats. These markets are steeped in history, with each city offering a unique take on the holiday experience. Whether it’s the famous gingerbread cookies from Nuremberg or the warming glühwein from Cologne, Germany’s Christmas markets never disappoint.
France and Belgium: A Rich Holiday Tradition
France, home to the Strasbourg Christkindelsmärik, also offers an array of other incredible Christmas markets. Paris, with its twinkling lights and festive atmosphere, is a must-visit for those looking for a magical Christmas experience. The city’s Christmas markets, spread across various districts, offer everything from gourmet French pastries to handmade crafts. Paris is especially popular for its charming atmosphere, offering everything from skating rinks to festive parades.
Belgium’s Brussels Winter Wonders market is another standout destination in Europe. With its twinkling lights, impressive Christmas tree, and ice skating rink, the market provides an enchanting experience for visitors. The city’s Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site, provides a stunning backdrop for this festive celebration.
Top European Christmas Markets for 2025
In addition to the top destinations mentioned above, Europe boasts many other markets worth visiting in 2025. These include:
Frankfurt Christmas Market, GermanyCologne Weihnachtsmarkt, GermanyMunich Christkindlmarkt, GermanyParis Christmas Markets, FranceCraiova Christmas Market, RomaniaBrussels Winter Wonders, BelgiumTravel Tips for Visiting Christmas Markets
When planning your visit to European Christmas markets in 2025, there are a few tips to ensure you make the most of your trip:
Book Accommodation Early: With the popularity of Christmas markets, it’s important to book your accommodation well in advance to secure the best rates.Dress Warmly: Temperatures in Europe during the holiday season can be quite cold, so make sure to bundle up in layers.Enjoy Local Delicacies: Each destination offers its own unique food and drink, so make sure to sample the local specialties.Plan for Crowds: Christmas markets are popular, so be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends and during peak holiday periods.Check for Special Events: Many markets feature special events, such as concerts, parades, or ice skating rinks, so be sure to check the schedule before your visit.
Hungary Joins France, Austria, Germany, Czech Republic and Romania as Top Christmas Travel Destinations in Europe, Offering Unforgettable Holiday Experiences for 2025 Travelers. Hungary has firmly established itself as a key destination for festive travelers, thanks to its enchanting Christmas markets, rich traditions, and unique holiday charm, making it a must-visit alongside other European favorites in 2025.
Europe’s Christmas markets are more than just shopping destinations; they offer an experience that captures the heart of the holiday season. From the traditional charm of Germany to the magical atmosphere in Hungary, France, Austria, and Romania, the 2025 holiday season promises to be filled with festive joy. Whether you’re seeking a budget-friendly option or a luxurious winter escape, the Christmas markets of Europe have something for every traveler. So pack your bags, don your coziest scarf, and get ready to explore the best Christmas markets Europe has to offer this holiday season!
