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Christmas markets are one of Europe’s most magical winter traditions – and in recent years, they’ve also become huge social media sensations. From grand city centre spectacles to fairy tale old towns glittering under thousands of lights, some markets have become true icons of the season, and Manchester Christmas Markets are no exception.
To uncover this year’s biggest festive hotspots for travelers, the Holafly research team analysed thousands of hashtags across Instagram in English and local languages, ranking Europe’s top markets by total hashtag volume.
Manchester is one of Europe’s most Instagrammable Christmas markets 
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With 73,443 hashtags, Manchester’s Christmas market takes second place thanks to its impressive scale and atmosphere. Spread across several squares and streets, the market is known for its iconic giant Santa, European-style chalets, and colourful light displays.
The combination of bustling crowds, diverse food stalls, and glowing city streets creates dynamic photo opportunities, and its mix of modern city energy with traditional Christmas aesthetics makes it a consistent social media favourite.
Other Instagrammable European Christmas markets 
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Manchester ranked narrowly behind Zagreb (112,438) in first place, with an impressive 112,438 hashtags, cementing its status as Europe’s most Instagrammable Christmas market. Set across the city’s historic centre, the market transforms Zagreb into a glowing winter wonderland filled with twinkling lights, ice sculptures, and charming wooden stalls.
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Manchester placed ahead of Edinburgh (61,898) in third place, drawing global attention for its dramatic setting beneath the city’s Old Town. The market’s location in Princes Street Gardens provides incredible views of Edinburgh Castle, adding a cinematic backdrop to festive photos. Known for its carousel, Ferris wheel, and German-style stalls, the market’s rich atmosphere blends old-world charm with a touch of spectacle, making it one of the UK’s most Instagrammable winter attractions.
The most Instagrammable Christmas markets in Europe 
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- Zagreb, Croatia: 112,438
- Manchester, UK: 73,443
- Edinburgh, UK: 61,898
- Strasbourg, France: 43,037
- Bath, UK: 39,917
- Vienna, Austria: 28,131
- Birmingham, UK: 23,801
- Colmar, France: 21,807
- Berlin, Germany: 21,434
- Budapest, Hungary: 20,096