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Best Christmas Markets in Europe 2026: 10 Magical Destinations for Families

Writer: Shanti | The Kensington Diary
Shanti | The Kensington Diary
3 hours ago
17 min read

There is something truly magical about Europe's Christmas markets. From beautifully decorated medieval towns and twinkling Christmas trees to traditional wooden chalets, festive music and the scent of gingerbread, they are among our favourite ways to celebrate the Christmas season as a family.


With a German husband and a son who shares his father's heritage, Christmas in Germany has always been a special part of our family life. For many years, we travelled to Germany almost every Christmas to spend time with family, and exploring traditional Christmas markets became one of our favourite festive experiences.


Over the years, we've visited Christmas markets in Germany, France and Switzerland, taking our son along from the age of 18 months through to eight years old. Most of our visits have been two-night weekend breaks, making them wonderful family getaways from London.

Our favourites have been Strasbourg and Colmar in France's beautiful Alsace region, followed closely by Frankfurt. We've also explored Berlin, Munich and Zurich, each offering something different.


For 2026, we're also considering some of the destinations still on our Christmas wish list, including Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Nuremberg, Cologne and Vienna.

Whether you're travelling with a toddler, young children or older children, these are our picks for the best Christmas markets in Europe in 2026, combining beautiful surroundings, traditional food, Christmas shopping and festive activities that the whole family can enjoy.


Some of the Best Christmas Markets in Europe for the most amazing festive cheer

Best Christmas Markets in Europe 2026: Dates & How to Get There


Christmas market

2026 dates

Nearest airport + Transport

Strasbourg, France

From 27 November; closing date to be confirmed

Strasbourg; Train or Taxi 30-45 Minutes

Colmar, France

From 23 November; closing dates vary

EuroAirport Basel (BSL): Bus or Train

or Taxi 1-1.5 houra

Frankfurt, Germany

23 November – 22 December

Frankfurt: Train or Taxi 20-40 minutes

Berlin, Germany

Charlottenburg Palace: 23 November – 27 December

Berlin Brandenburg (BER): Train or taxi

40-60 minutes

Munich, Germany

20 November – 24 December

Munich: S-bahn or taxi 40-60 minutes

Zurich, Switzerland

Dates to be confirmed

Zurich: Train or taxi 20-30 minutes

Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany

20 November – 23 December

Nuremberg: Taxi or Car 1-1.5 hours

Nuremberg, Germany

27 November – 24 December

Nuremberg: U-Bahn or Taxi 20-30

minutes

Cologne, Germany

Dates vary by market

Cologn Bonn: Train or Taxi 20-35

minutes

Vienna, Austria

Rathausplatz: 13 November – 26 December

Vienna: Train + U-bahn or Taxi 40-50

minutes

Christmas market dates and opening hours can change, particularly where a city has several separate markets. Check the official organisers' websites before booking.


1.Strasbourg Christmas Market, France

Best for: Spectacular Christmas decorations, beautiful architecture and a magical festive atmosphere for all ages.


Strasbourg is undoubtedly one of the most magical Christmas destinations we've visited in Europe. Known as the Capital of Christmas, this beautiful Alsatian city feels as though it has stepped straight out of a fairytale.


The half-timbered buildings, elaborate Christmas decorations and beautifully illuminated streets reminded me of Beauty and the Beast. Some of the shopfronts were so spectacularly decorated that they looked like something from Hansel and Gretel. It is difficult to describe just how beautiful Strasbourg becomes during the festive season.


The Christmas markets are spread across several historic squares, including Place Broglie, Place Kléber and the area around Strasbourg Cathedral. The enormous Christmas tree at Place Kléber is one of the city's most impressive festive sights, while the streets around the cathedral are filled with traditional stalls selling handmade gifts, Christmas decorations and regional specialities.


For adults, Strasbourg is wonderful for Christmas shopping, discovering traditional Alsatian crafts and enjoying local food. Look out for bredele Christmas biscuits, pain d'épices, tarte flambée and warming vin chaud. The historic streets and beautiful architecture make exploring the city just as enjoyable as browsing the markets themselves.


What to Do with Kids in Strasbourg

One of the highlights of our visit was Strasbourg's Advent Village. It was an incredible experience and offered something more engaging for families than simply walking between Christmas stalls. Strasbourg's festive programme has featured creative workshops, storytelling, music and seasonal performances, making the Advent Village particularly worth looking into when planning a visit. The exact activities and sessions should be checked against the 2026 programme.


Children will also love discovering the enormous Christmas tree, spotting the elaborate decorations and exploring the illuminated streets. Petite France, with its picturesque canals and historic half-timbered houses, is particularly enchanting at Christmas.


Our Tip

Visit Strasbourg as soon as the Christmas markets open in late November rather than waiting until closer to Christmas. We found the crowds extraordinarily heavy, particularly later in the day. Our recommendation is to arrive early, explore the markets during daylight and stay long enough to see the Christmas lights come on. Then leave before the busiest late-evening crowds, especially when travelling with younger children.


Its a toss between Strasbourge and Colmar as the number one Christmas Market in Europe for me

2. Colmar Christmas Market, France

Best for: Fairytale Christmas streets, charming traditional markets and festive activities for children.


If Strasbourg is the grand Christmas capital of Alsace, Colmar is its enchanting little sister. This beautiful town is one of the prettiest places we've visited at Christmas, with colourful half-timbered houses, cobbled streets and elaborate festive decorations.


Colmar genuinely feels like a storybook village. Almost every street reveals another beautifully decorated building, charming Christmas chalet or picturesque corner. Its Christmas markets are spread throughout the historic centre, including Place des Dominicains, Place de l'Ancienne Douane and Place Jeanne d'Arc.


For adults, Colmar is particularly lovely for browsing artisan gifts, enjoying Alsatian food and discovering the architecture and canals of Petite Venise. The smaller-town setting gives it a wonderfully romantic atmosphere.


What to Do with Kids in Colmar

Colmar stood out for the number of family-friendly activities we encountered. During our visit, there were children's choirs singing Christmas songs, festive games that children could participate in, rides and skating activities. The Children's Christmas Market in Petite Venise, at Place des Six Montagnes Noires, is especially appealing for families with younger children. Its festive setting and carousel add to the town's storybook atmosphere.


Colmar's Christmas programme also includes seasonal performances and music, including the charming tradition of children singing Christmas songs from boats along the canals on selected dates. Families interested in creative workshops should check the official events calendar for the 2026 programme.


Our Tip

Strasbourg and Colmar are approximately an hour apart by car, so it's possible to visit both during a short Christmas break. We stayed across the border in Germany and travelled into Alsace by car, which is another option for families considering where to stay.

Like Strasbourg, Colmar was extremely crowded during our visit. Go early in the season, explore during daylight and stay until the lights come on. Both destinations are magical, and I would struggle to choose just one.


Beautiful Colmar has one of the Best Christmas markets in Europe with the most stunning decor and activities

The Intentional Holiday Guide


Our free guide explores how to approach Christmas more thoughtfully, choosing the traditions and experiences that make the season meaningful rather than simply filling the calendar.


With so many wonderful Christmas experiences available, it’s easy to feel that we should be doing everything. But the traditions children remember most aren’t necessarily the most expensive or elaborate. I think there’s something valuable in choosing a smaller number of experiences that genuinely matter to your family, leaving enough time to enjoy the season without rushing from one activity to another.



3. Frankfurt Christmas Market, Germany

Best for: Traditional German Christmas markets, historic architecture and festive food.


Frankfurt is one of our favourite German Christmas market destinations and comes just behind Strasbourg and Colmar on our personal list. Although Frankfurt is famous for its modern skyline, its historic Christmas market offers a wonderfully traditional atmosphere. The main market stretches through the city centre, with Römerberg providing one of its most picturesque settings.


The square's reconstructed half-timbered buildings, enormous Christmas tree and beautifully decorated stalls create the quintessential German Christmas market scene. It's a wonderful place to wander, particularly once the festive lights illuminate the historic buildings.


For adults, Frankfurt is especially appealing for traditional Christmas shopping and regional food. Alongside gingerbread, roasted almonds and other seasonal treats, look out for Bethmännchen, Frankfurt's traditional marzipan pastries, and hot apple wine.


What to Do with Kids in Frankfurt

Frankfurt offers more than traditional shopping stalls. The Christmas market includes a dedicated children's area at Mainkai, while the wider market is known for its traditional carousel and festive entertainment. One of the city's distinctive Christmas traditions is the sound of tower horns played from St Nicholas Church at Römerberg on scheduled evenings. It adds a wonderful musical element to the market atmosphere.


Children can also enjoy exploring the stalls, choosing Christmas decorations and sampling traditional German treats. The historic centre provides a beautiful backdrop for a family Christmas outing.


Our Tip

Start at Römerberg, where the Christmas tree and historic buildings create the most atmospheric setting, before exploring the surrounding market streets. Frankfurt works particularly well for a two-night family break because the main Christmas market area is relatively central.


Frankfurt Christmas market at Römerberg with traditional wooden stalls and historic German architecture

4. Berlin Christmas Markets, Germany

Best for: A variety of Christmas market experiences, historic settings and festive entertainment.


Berlin is particularly special to our family because my husband comes from near the city. Unlike smaller Christmas destinations, Berlin doesn't have just one main market. There are numerous Christmas markets spread across the city, each with a different atmosphere.

Two of the markets we've visited are Charlottenburg Palace Christmas Market and Alexanderplatz Christmas Market, which offer quite contrasting experiences.


Charlottenburg Palace Christmas Market


Charlottenburg Palace provides one of Berlin's most beautiful Christmas market settings. The illuminated palace creates a romantic atmosphere, while the traditional wooden chalets offer Christmas decorations, handmade gifts, crafts and festive food. For adults, the combination of beautiful architecture, traditional shopping and the palace surroundings makes this a particularly appealing market. Families with younger children can enjoy the seasonal fairground attractions, including children's carousels and a small Ferris wheel advertised for the 2026 market.


Alexanderplatz Christmas Market


Alexanderplatz offers a livelier, more urban Christmas experience in the heart of Berlin. Surrounded by shops, restaurants and famous city landmarks, it's a convenient place to combine Christmas shopping with sightseeing. The festive stalls, seasonal food and entertainment create a different atmosphere from Charlottenburg Palace. It's worth checking the 2026 programme for specific children's rides and activities.


Our Tip

Don't try to visit every Christmas market in Berlin during a weekend. There are simply too many. Choose two or three markets that offer different experiences. Charlottenburg Palace is wonderful for its beautiful setting, while Alexanderplatz is convenient for exploring central Berlin.


Berlin Christmas market at Charlottenburg Palace with festive lights and traditional Christmas stalls

5. Munich Christmas Market, Germany

Best for: Traditional Bavarian Christmas celebrations, beautiful architecture and regional festive food.


Munich is another German city we particularly enjoy, especially for its strong Bavarian identity and traditions. The Munich Christkindlmarkt at Marienplatz is the city's best-known traditional Christmas market and the one we visited as a family. Set in front of the magnificent Neo-Gothic New Town Hall, the market is filled with wooden chalets selling handmade decorations, traditional gifts, festive food and seasonal treats. The enormous Christmas tree and historic architecture make Marienplatz particularly beautiful during Advent.


Adults can browse traditional Bavarian crafts, glass ornaments, wooden decorations and Christmas gifts while enjoying roasted chestnuts, Lebkuchen, sausages and other regional specialities.


What to Do with Kids in Munich

One of Munich's most interesting family Christmas traditions is the Himmelswerkstatt, or Heavenly Workshop, where children can participate in Christmas-themed creative activities. Check the 2026 programme for session times, age requirements and booking information.

Families can also enjoy Advent music performed from the Town Hall balcony on scheduled dates.Near Marienplatz, the traditional Kripperlmarkt specialises in nativity scenes and miniature figures, which can be fascinating for children who enjoy discovering intricate Christmas displays.


Munich also hosts a traditional Krampus run during the festive season. Although culturally interesting, the elaborate costumes and masks can be frightening for much younger children.


Our Tip

Marienplatz is an excellent starting point for a Munich Christmas break because much of the historic city centre is within walking distance. Explore the market during daylight, then stay to see the Christmas tree and illuminated Town Hall after dark.


Munich Christmas market at Marienplatz with a decorated Christmas tree and the historic New Town Hall

6. Zurich Christmas Markets, Switzerland

Best for: Spectacular Christmas decorations, elegant shopping and an indoor Christmas market.


Zurich holds a special place in our family memories because it was the first European Christmas market destination we visited together. We explored two of the city's best-known markets: the indoor Christkindlimarkt at Zürich Hauptbahnhof, the main railway station, and the outdoor Wienachtsdorf at Sechseläutenplatz, beside the Opera House. Both were beautiful, but the indoor railway station market was my personal favourite.


Christkindlimarkt at Zürich Hauptbahnhof


Zurich's main railway station transforms into a festive indoor marketplace filled with beautifully decorated stalls selling Christmas gifts, seasonal treats and decorations. One of the most memorable features of our visit was the spectacular Swarovski-decorated Christmas tree. The decorations were absolutely incredible and made the entire setting feel particularly glamorous and festive. The tree's design can change between seasons, so check what is planned for 2026.The indoor setting is also a huge advantage for families. You can browse the stalls, enjoy something warm to eat and experience the Christmas atmosphere without spending the entire time outdoors in freezing temperatures.


Wienachtsdorf at the Opera House


The Christmas village at Sechseläutenplatz offers a different atmosphere, with wooden chalets, festive food stalls and seasonal attractions beside Zurich's Opera House. The market has traditionally featured ice skating, making it an appealing option for families who want an activity alongside Christmas shopping. We enjoyed this market too, although rain during one of our visits made the outdoor experience less comfortable.


Our Tip

If you're visiting Zurich with young children, particularly when the weather is unpredictable, start with the indoor market at the main railway station.

Combine it with the Opera House market when the weather is good, and leave time to enjoy Zurich's beautiful shopping streets and lakeside setting.


Zurich Christmas market at the main railway station with festive stalls and a spectacular decorated Christmas tree in Switzerland

More Christmas Travel Inspiration


Looking for more magical ways to celebrate Christmas with your family? Explore our festive travel guides, from Christmas in New York to some of London's most memorable seasonal experiences.

  • Christmas in New York – Discover festive attractions, spectacular Christmas decorations and family-friendly experiences in New York City.

  • LaplandUK Review – Read about our family's magical Christmas experience at LaplandUK, one of our favourite festive traditions.

  • Christmas Activities in London 2026 – If you're visiting or living in London, discover the best Christmas activities for families, including festive attractions, ice skating and seasonal experiences.


7. Rothenburg ob der Tauber Christmas Market, Germany

Best for: Medieval Christmas charm, traditional decorations and a romantic festive getaway.


Rothenburg ob der Tauber is one of the destinations we're hoping to explore in 2026.

Situated along Germany's Romantic Road, this beautifully preserved medieval town looks as though it was made for Christmas. Its historic walls, half-timbered houses and cobbled streets create an enchanting setting for the traditional Reiterlesmarkt. Unlike the enormous markets of major cities, Rothenburg offers a more intimate Christmas atmosphere. Adults can explore traditional craft stalls, browse handmade ornaments and enjoy the historic surroundings.


The town is also famous for its Christmas shops, including Käthe Wohlfahrt, where elaborate decorations, nutcrackers and festive displays make Christmas shopping an experience in itself.


What to Do with Kids in Rothenburg

Rothenburg's biggest attraction for children is arguably the town itself. Exploring the medieval streets, spotting Christmas decorations and wandering through the historic squares can feel like stepping into a storybook. The Reiterlesmarkt has a distinctive opening tradition involving the arrival of the Reiterle, a figure associated with the town's Christmas folklore. Another lovely tradition is the Town Hall Advent calendar, with decorated windows revealed during the festive season.


Children may also enjoy exploring the Christmas shops and discovering traditional German decorations throughout the town.


Our Tip

Rothenburg is particularly suited to families who love beautiful surroundings, Christmas traditions and atmospheric towns rather than expecting a large programme of fairground attractions. It could also be combined with another destination in Bavaria or Franconia for a longer festive break.


Rothenburg ob der Tauber Christmas market with festive stalls and medieval half-timbered buildings in Germany

8. Nuremberg Christmas Market, Germany

Best for: Traditional German Christmas markets, children's workshops and festive family activities.


Nuremberg is another destination on our Christmas wish list, and its famous Christkindlesmarkt is one of Germany's most celebrated Christmas markets. Held in the historic Hauptmarkt, the market is known for its red-and-white striped stalls, handmade gifts, traditional decorations and wonderful Christmas food. For adults, Nuremberg offers an especially traditional shopping experience, with wooden ornaments, nutcrackers, candles and beautiful festive crafts. The city is also famous for Nürnberger Lebkuchen gingerbread and its small grilled Nürnberger sausages.


What to Do with Kids in Nuremberg

Nuremberg is one of the most appealing destinations on this list for families who want dedicated children's activities. The Kinderweihnacht, or Children's Christmas Market, takes place at Hans-Sachs-Platz, close to the main market. Its attractions include a nostalgic carousel, miniature Ferris wheel and steam railway. Children can also participate in creative activities such as Christmas baking, candle-making and craft workshops.


The Sternenhaus hosts children's performances, storytelling and festive entertainment, while the traditional Nuremberg Christkind makes scheduled appearances during the season.


Our Tip

Allow time for both the main Christkindlesmarkt and the Kinderweihnacht.

The traditional market offers the atmosphere, food and Christmas shopping that adults will appreciate, while the dedicated children's market provides more interactive activities for younger visitors.


Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt with traditional red and white Christmas stalls in the historic Hauptmarkt

9. Cologne Christmas Markets, Germany

Best for: Spectacular Christmas scenery, ice skating and varied festive entertainment.


Cologne is another German Christmas market destination we'd love to explore. The city has several Christmas markets, each offering a different atmosphere. The most famous is the Christmas Market at Cologne Cathedral, set beneath the magnificent Gothic cathedral.

With a huge Christmas tree, a canopy of sparkling lights and beautifully decorated stalls, it promises a spectacular festive setting. For adults, Cologne offers traditional Christmas shopping, handmade gifts, regional food and seasonal entertainment.


What to Do with Kids in Cologne

Cologne offers a particularly appealing combination of traditional Christmas markets and activities for children. The Cathedral Christmas Market has featured family entertainment, including children's theatre, Punch and Judy performances and face painting on selected dates.

Another market worth visiting is Heinzels Wintermärchen, or Heinzel's Winter Fairytale, in the Old Town around Alter Markt and Heumarkt. Inspired by Cologne's legendary Heinzelmännchen, this market features imaginative decorations, themed streets and traditional crafts.


Its large ice rink at Heumarkt is one of the major attractions for families, giving children and adults the opportunity to enjoy skating together.


Our Tip

For a two-night break, combine the Cathedral Christmas Market with Heinzels Wintermärchen. The Cathedral market offers an impressive festive setting, while the Old Town market provides a more playful atmosphere and ice skating. Check the entertainment programme before choosing your dates, especially if you'd like to attend children's performances.


Cologne Christmas market with illuminated festive stalls and the famous Cologne Cathedral in Germany

10. Vienna Christmas Markets, Austria

Best for: Grand Christmas architecture, elegant shopping, ice skating and festive experiences for all ages.


Vienna has long been on my Christmas wish list. With its magnificent architecture, historic palaces, elegant cafés and beautifully decorated squares, the Austrian capital looks like a wonderful destination for a festive family getaway. One of its most famous markets is the Viennese Christmas Market at Rathausplatz, held in front of the spectacular City Hall.

The setting is particularly impressive, with illuminated trees, beautifully decorated stalls and traditional Christmas treats. For adults, Vienna offers excellent opportunities for Christmas shopping, Austrian pastries, festive drinks and visits to the city's famous coffee houses.


What to Do with Kids in Vienna

Vienna's Rathausplatz Christmas market is particularly appealing for families because of its seasonal attractions. The Vienna Ice World offers skating in the beautifully illuminated surroundings of City Hall Park, while the Christmas World area has included a carousel, nativity trail and skating facilities for younger visitors. Families with more time could also consider the Christmas market at Schönbrunn Palace, where the imperial architecture provides another spectacular backdrop for a festive outing.


The combination of skating, seasonal attractions and traditional Christmas markets makes Vienna one of the most promising destinations on our wish list.


Our Tip

For a short Christmas break, focus on Rathausplatz and the historic city centre rather than trying to visit every market in Vienna. Choose accommodation with convenient public transport connections, and leave time for a traditional Viennese café stop between festive activities.


Vienna Christmas market at Rathausplatz with illuminated festive stalls, a sparkling Christmas tree and the historic City Hall in Austria

Are European Christmas Markets Pushchair and Stroller Friendly?


Most European Christmas markets are accessible with a pram or pushchair, but that doesn't mean they're always easy to navigate. Many are located in historic town centres with cobbled streets, uneven pavements and narrow pathways. Combined with large crowds, particularly in December, this can make visiting with babies and toddlers challenging.

Here's what families should consider when visiting each market.

Christmas market

Pram and pushchair guidance

Strasbourg

Historic cobbled streets and heavy crowds, particularly around the Cathedral. Visit early in the day.

Colmar

Narrow streets, cobblestones and uneven surfaces, especially around Petite Venise.

Frankfurt

Central pedestrianised squares are manageable, but Römerberg can become very crowded.

Berlin

Generally manageable at Alexanderplatz; Charlottenburg Palace has different outdoor surfaces and pathways.

Munich

Marienplatz is pedestrianised but can become extremely crowded, especially in the evenings.

Zurich

The indoor railway station market is convenient with a buggy, although it can get busy.

Rothenburg

Historic cobbled streets and uneven surfaces. A sturdy pushchair with larger wheels is advisable.

Nuremberg

Historic paving and busy market squares. Allow extra time to navigate with a buggy.

Cologne

Crowded areas around the Cathedral and uneven surfaces in the Old Town.

Vienna

Rathausplatz has relatively spacious paths, but expect crowds and potentially slippery winter surfaces.

Our Tip: Bring a sturdy pushchair with good wheels, a warm footmuff and a waterproof rain cover. If possible, visit earlier in the day before the crowds build.


Christmas in Europe is incredible and the European Christmas Markets make it special

Our Tips for Visiting European Christmas Markets with Children


After visiting European Christmas markets with our son at different ages, we've learned that a little planning can make an enormous difference to the experience.


Visit Early in the Christmas Market Season

Our strongest recommendation is to travel when the markets first open in November, if possible. Strasbourg, Cologne, and Colmar were extraordinarily busy during our visits, and the crowds can become overwhelming for families, particularly as Christmas approaches.

Visiting earlier in the season can make exploring the markets more enjoyable, although weekends and opening days can still be busy.


Explore During the Day, Then Stay for the Christmas Lights

We love seeing Christmas markets during daylight, when it's easier to appreciate the architecture, browse the stalls and explore with children. But the real magic often begins when the Christmas lights come on. Our preferred approach is to arrive earlier in the day, enjoy the markets at a comfortable pace, stay for the illuminated decorations and leave before the late-evening crowds become too intense.


Dress Properly for the Cold

One thing I cannot emphasise enough is just how cold European Christmas markets can be, particularly in December. We've experienced some extremely cold weather during our Christmas market trips, and it's important to remember that you'll spend the majority of your time outdoors. You're often walking slowly, browsing stalls or standing still, which means you can become cold surprisingly quickly.


We always recommend dressing in plenty of layers, starting with good thermal underlayers. Thermal leggings or long johns beneath trousers make a real difference, especially for children. A warm jumper or fleece underneath a thick, insulated winter jacket is essential, and your outer layer should ideally be waterproof and wind-resistant.


Don't underestimate the importance of accessories either. A proper winter hat, earmuffs, a thick scarf and insulated gloves are all important. For children, mittens can sometimes be warmer than gloves, particularly when they're spending long periods outside. Warm socks are another essential. We would recommend thick thermal or wool socks, or even two pairs if your shoes have enough room. Just make sure the footwear isn't too tight, as that can actually make feet colder.


Comfortable, waterproof winter boots or shoes with good grip are particularly important. European Christmas markets often involve cobbled streets, wet pavements and hours of walking, so ordinary trainers may not provide enough warmth or protection. If you're travelling in December, be especially prepared. Temperatures can drop considerably, and even a beautiful Christmas market becomes less enjoyable when everyone is freezing.


We also recommend taking regular breaks indoors, particularly with toddlers and younger children. Stopping for a warm drink or a meal gives everyone a chance to warm up before heading outside again.


Choose Activities That Suit Your Children's Ages

Travelling with an 18-month-old is very different from visiting with an eight-year-old.

With toddlers, shorter visits, accessible routes, indoor breaks and a manageable itinerary can be more important than fitting in every attraction. For younger school-age children, carousels, festive music and interactive games can make the experience particularly enjoyable. Older children may appreciate ice skating, creative workshops, exploring different market areas and discovering local Christmas traditions. Check age restrictions, height requirements and booking arrangements for activities before travelling.


Remember That Christmas Markets Are for Adults Too

A family Christmas break shouldn't revolve entirely around children's activities.

Some of our favourite memories are simply of walking through beautifully decorated towns, admiring the architecture, browsing Christmas shops and enjoying traditional food together.

The best Christmas markets offer a balance of experiences, so adults can appreciate the atmosphere, shopping and local traditions while children have plenty to enjoy.


Consider a Two-Three Night Weekend Break

All six European Christmas market destinations we've visited have worked as short weekend getaways. Two nights can be enough to explore the main Christmas markets, enjoy a special family meal and experience the festive atmosphere without needing a longer holiday, but three makes it less stressful with kids. For larger cities such as Berlin, Munich and Vienna, focus on a manageable number of markets rather than trying to see everything.


Christmas in London

If you're visiting London during the festive season, or live in the city, explore our guides to the best Christmas experiences for families:

Wishing you a wonderful Christmas!

Shanti

The Kensington Diary

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