Europe is famous for its Christmas markets, found in every corner of the continent. From traditional markets in Germany to winter wonderlands in Switzerland, there are plenty of Christmas markets to enjoy over the holidays.
But which Christmas markets are the best? Independent travel agency Iglu Cruise has used Tripadvisor data to reveal the highest-rated Christmas markets in Europe. Using a sample of 40 of the biggest Christmas markets, the team calculated which markets had the highest percentage of “excellent”, or five out of five-star visitor reviews.
The following Christmas markets had the highest ratings:
| Ranking | Christmas Market | Rating (% of reviews which are 5 star) |
| 1 | Esslingen, Germany | 72.2 |
| 2 | Krakow, Poland | 71.4 |
| 3 | Cologne, Germany | 70.5 |
| 4 | Prague, Czech Republic | 70 |
| 5 | Vienna, Austria | 62.7 |
| 6 | Nuremberg, Germany | 62.4 |
| 7 | Frankfurt, Germany | 58.4 |
| 8 | Munich, Germany | 55.9 |
| 9 | Salzburg, Austria | 52.4 |
| 10 | Brussels, Belgium | 50.7 |
The highest-rated Christmas market in Europe is Esslingen, Germany, which has an excellent rating of 72.2%. Located 10 miles south of Stuttgart in southwestern Germany, Esslingen Christmas Market features over 280 stalls. There are two separate markets: the traditional Christmas market and the Mediaeval market, offering seasonal gifts and delicious food.
In second place, with an excellent score of 71.4% is Krakow Christmas Market in Poland. Located in the Old Town in the main square in Krakow, the Christmas market is typically open from late November to Christmas Eve, making it a perfect destination for anyone looking to experience a touch of Christmas in Poland. Visitors can enjoy a variety of local crafts, artisanal goods, and Christmas decorations.
With an excellent score of 70.5%, Cologne Christmas Market is the third highest-rated in Europe. Cologne’s Christmas Market, one of Germany’s most famous, transforms the city into a magical winter wonderland. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the market draws millions of visitors each year to experience its enchanting atmosphere.
Prague Christmas Market received an excellent score of 70%, making it the fourth highest-rated in Europe. Held annually in the heart of the city, the main market is located in Old Town Square, though there are some at Prague Castle too. Visitors can enjoy traditional Czech cuisine and svařák, a Czech mulled wine, served with cinnamon, cloves, and citrus.
The fifth highest-rated Christmas market in Europe is Vienna, Austria, which has an excellent score of 62.7%. Located next to the beautiful Gothic City Hall, the Vienna Christmas Markets provide a majestic backdrop for the festive stalls, complete with twinkling lights, elaborate decorations, and towering Christmas trees.
Nuremberg Christmas Market scored 62.4%. Located in southeastern Germany, the Nuremberg Christmas Market is one of the oldest in the world, dating back to the mid-16th century. Originally, it was a local event where people could purchase goods and food for the holiday season. Over the centuries, it has grown in size, drawing millions of visitors yearly.
Frankfurt, Germany, has the seventh highest-rated Christmas market in Europe, with an excellent score of 58.4%. The market is situated in the heart of Frankfurt, primarily around the Römerberg square. There is also often an ice skating rink near the markets for guests to enjoy.
The next Christmas market on the list is the Munich Christmas Market in Germany, which has an excellent score of 55.9%. The market is also famous for its Glühwein (mulled wine), served in festive mugs, often with a slice of Stollen (German fruitcake) on the side.
In ninth place is the Salzburg Christmas Market in Austria, which scored 52.4%. The market features stalls selling handmade crafts, ornaments, and gifts, many of which reflect the region’s culture and heritage. You’ll find everything from beautifully crafted wooden toys and decorations to candles, ceramics, and intricate glass ornaments.
Finally, in tenth place is the Brussels Christmas Market in Belgium, which has an excellent rating of 50.7%. The main attraction is a large Ferris wheel which is typically set up near the Place de la Monnaie, offering stunning views of the city’s festive lights and decorations. It’s a must-do for anyone looking for a bird’s-eye view of Brussels during the holidays.
