Best Christmas Markets in Europe

In the winter, it can be tempting to huddle indoors to escape the cold – but there’s nothing quite like revelling in the magic of the many Christmas markets in Europe. From carnival rides to carolling choirs, gingerbread to mulled wine, it’s an annual experience not to be missed. Here are some of the best Christmas markets in Europe to visit.

Christmas Markets in Germany

Spandau Christmas Market, Berlin

Running for over 40 years, Spandau Christmas Market is Berlin’s largest traditional market, with up to 400 wooden huts selling everything from roasted almonds and mulled wine to artisanal handicrafts. Visitors can also enjoy free stage performances, a Christmas nativity scene complete with live animals and, of course, a majestically illuminated fir tree. 

Hotels near Christmas markets in Berlin: Make your base at Capri by Fraser, Berlin. Its central location means you’ll be within easy reach of many of the city's best Christmas markets, including Berliner Weihnachtszeit, which is a 12-minute walk away. The Spandau Christmas Market is a 30-minute taxi ride from the property. 

Frankfurt Christmas Market

One of the oldest and most beautiful Christmas markets in Germany, Frankfurt Christmas Market (or Frankfurter Weihnachtsmarkt) dates back to 1393. Held in Römerberg Square, it’s jazzed up with elaborate festive decor, including dazzling light displays and Germany’s tallest Christmas tree. Visitors can look forward to unique local delicacies like bethmännchen (small marzipan and almond biscuits) and quetschemännchen (edible figurines made from dried plums), choral concerts and meet-and-greets with Santa. On selected days, you’ll even hear the bells from various churches around Frankfurt ringing in unison. 

Hotels near Christmas markets in Frankfurt: Capri by Fraser, Frankfurt is a 20-minute walk from Frankfurt Christmas Market. It’s also located near the hip Messe district, which offers numerous shopping, dining and nightlife options. 

Winterwald, Hamburg

Situated near Spitalerstrasse shopping street in Hamburg’s city centre, Winterwald is a popular Christmas market featuring an enchanting winter forest dotted with numerous fir trees. Besides browsing the food and handicrafts on offer, be sure to check out the enormous Christmas tree at the Moenckeberg fountain, which is illuminated with thousands of twinkling lights. 

Hotels near Christmas markets in Hamburg: After visiting some of the 30-odd Christmas markets in Hamburg, relax and unwind in your spacious serviced residence at Fraser Suites Hamburg, located a 17-minute walk from Winterwald. The five-star property is housed in a historical building that was once the office of Hamburg’s tax authority.

Christmas Markets in Switzerland

Geneva Christmas Market

Also known as Noël au Jardin or Marché de Noël, the Geneva Christmas market transforms one of the city’s most beautiful parks, the Jardin Anglais, into a magical festive village. An illuminated path leads you to the heart of the village, where you can enjoy lobster rolls, live music and beer at The Christmas Pub or – if you manage to snag a reservation – some cheese fondue at Le Chalet. Families will appreciate the ice rink and fun-filled activities in the Children’s Yurt.

Hotels near Christmas markets in Geneva: A nine-minute walk from the Geneva Christmas Market, Fraser Suites Geneva offers 67 fully furnished suites decked out with kitchenettes and comprehensive home entertainment systems. 

Christmas Markets in Spain

Fira de Santa Llúcia, Barcelona

Dating back to 1786, Fira de Santa Llúcia is Barcelona’s main Christmas fair. Held in front of the city’s imposing Avinguda de la Catedral, it’s a 10-minute walk from Mercado de La Boqueria – one of the world’s must-visit local markets. You’ll find a wide array of festive decor on sale, including Christmas trees, baubles, wreaths and accessories for nativity scenes.

Hotels near Christmas markets in Barcelona: Just two metro stops from Fira de Santa Llúcia, Capri by Fraser, Barcelona is located in the fashionable 22@ District within the Sant Martí neighbourhood. Take your pick from 97 colourful studios and one-bedroom apartments, each featuring dedicated living, dining and bedroom areas.

Christmas Markets in France

Marché de Noël de la Défense, Paris

Every holiday season, around 20 Christmas markets (marchés de Noel) pop up in and around Paris. Set against the imposing Grande Arche de la Defense monument, the Marché de Noël de la Défense is the largest Christmas market in the entire Île-de-France region. Here, visitors will discover more than 300 stalls offering everything from cheese and charcuterie to toys and handicrafts.

Hotels near Christmas markets in Paris: Book a stay at the luxurious Fraser Suites Harmonie, Paris La Défense, which is a 16-minute walk from Marché de Noël de la Défense. Many of its apartments offer excellent views of the La Défense and Montmartre neighbourhoods.

Christmas Markets in UK

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, London

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, London Undoubtedly one of the biggest and best Christmas markets in London, Hyde Park Winter Wonderland draws around 2.5 million revellers every year. There’s plenty to see and do here: adrenaline-pumping rides (including a hair-raising roller coaster with a G-force of 2.5), a sprawling Christmas market, a Bavarian village and even a bar carved out of ice. Kids will relish a visit to Santaland, where they can pass their Christmas wish lists to Santa himself.

Hotels near Christmas markets in London: Once you’ve had your fill of fun, head back to your luxurious apartment at Fraser Suites Queens Gate, London, which is three Tube stops from Hyde Park Winter Wonderland.