Christmas Markets Around the World
Traveling around the holiday season is such a treat. There’s something magical about seeing how different countries and cultures celebrate, discovering unique traditions, and soaking in the cozy festive atmosphere. One of my favorite parts of traveling during the holidays is getting to experience Christmas markets. In this blog, I want to share the different markets I’ve visited, my top-ranked favorites, and a little insight into the Christmas markets on my ever-growing bucket list.
Markets I’ve Visited
My Hometown: Ottawa, Illinois
One of the best things about Christmas markets is that they exist everywhere, no matter how big or small the town. In my small hometown of Ottawa, Illinois, we have our yearly Chris Kringle Market. It’s such a lovely way to discover local vendors and support small businesses that create handcrafted gifts. I love watching how the market grows every year and seeing the community come together to celebrate the season.
Chicago, Illinois
The Christkindlmarket in Chicago is vibrant, festive, and beautifully designed. While the booth area can feel compact, it’s packed with artisan-crafted items, stunning Christmas décor, and cozy warm food. You can grab a hot cocoa or mulled wine and take a short walk to the iconic Christmas tree and ice-skating rink nearby. If you’re in Chicago during the holidays, it’s a must-see.
Belfast, Northern Ireland
The Belfast Christmas Market outside City Hall was a happy surprise during my visit. This market is extremely family-friendly, with a large slide, carousel, and plenty of activities for kids. We loved walking around with warm mulled wine, sampling treats, and enjoying the lively atmosphere. Its central location makes it easy to explore, and it’s definitely worth adding to your list.
Dublin, Ireland
Dublin has a number of Christmas markets scattered throughout the city. The two I attended were Christmas at the Castle and the Twinkle Town Market. Christmas at the Castle quickly became one of my favorites, thanks to its historic courtyard setting at Dublin Castle. Sadly, this market won’t be running in 2025 or 2026 due to government works. Twinkle Town, however, is a newer market that grows each year. With a Ferris wheel, ice-skating rink, delicious food, and homemade desserts from local vendors, it brings a wonderful mix of classic and modern festivities. I’m excited to continue watching this market evolve.
Twinkle Town Market in Smithfield, Dublin, Ireland
Barcelona, Spain
The market I visited in Barcelona was Fires de Nadal, located right in front of the historic Catedral de Barcelona. It was such a fun way to learn about Spanish Christmas traditions, try local wines and cheeses, and explore handcrafted goods. The festive atmosphere surrounded by Gothic architecture (and slightly warmer weather!) made the whole experience unforgettable.
My Favorites
My top two favorite Christmas markets so far are Christmas at the Castle in Dublin and the Christkindlmarket in Chicago. I may be a little biased since these markets are in two cities I’ve loved living in, but both hold special meaning for me. There’s something so heartwarming about experiencing holiday traditions all around the world while still cherishing the ones close to home. I’m really hoping Christmas at the Castle will return in 2027.
I know I’ve only scratched the surface — the world is full of markets I still hope to visit.
My Bucket List
Here are the Christmas markets at the top of my wish list, along with a little about what makes each one special:
Vienna, Austria – Often considered the Christmas market capital of Europe, with more than a dozen markets ranging from imperial palace settings to cozy neighborhood squares.
Bath, England – Known for its charming Georgian streets, local artisans, and one of the most picturesque market backdrops in the UK.
Copenhagen, Denmark – Tivoli Gardens transforms into a Christmas wonderland with rides, light displays, and Scandinavian winter treats.
Prague, Czechia – Famous for its Old Town Square market, complete with medieval architecture, twinkling lights, and incredible pastries.
Tallinn, Estonia – A fairy-tale market set inside a UNESCO-listed medieval town square, often topped with fresh snowfall.
Dresden, Germany – Home to the Striezelmarkt, one of the oldest Christmas markets in the world (dating back to 1434), known for traditional German crafts and famous Stollen cake.
Conclusion
No matter what holiday you celebrate this season, markets bring joy, support local artists and small businesses, and create memories for families and loved ones. They’re the perfect blend of tradition, culture, and community.
Happy Holidays to all — and Happy Travels!
Christmas at the Castle, Dublin, Ireland
