Christmas markets in Europe

Brussels Christmas market is voted one of the best Christmas markets in Europe and is a great market for a family break or weekend shopping trip at only 1 hour 53 minutes from London. It runs from 24 November 2023 to 31 December 2023.

The Brussels Christmas market, over 250 wooden chalet stalls, is spread out over the capital between Grand Place, Rue de la Bourse, Place Sainte-Catherine and Marché aux Poissons.

Lille Christmas market is small in comparison to some of the bigger markets in Europe, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in convenience. At only 1 hour 22 minutes from London, it is perfect for a festive day trip. The market runs from 17th November to 30th December 2023.

The Christmas market in Lille is in the centre of town with around 90 stalls on Place Rihour, and the massive Christmas tree and Ferris wheel on nearby Grand Place, so it’s very compact and just 10 mins walk from the station.

One of the best European Christmas markets is in the romantic city of Bruges. Their festive celebrations are known as ‘Winter Glow’, with wooden chalet market stalls, ice skating rinks, light experience trail and light decorations throughout the city. The whole city turns into a fairy tale destination at Christmas.

At only 3 hours 30 minutes from London St Pancras, with a quick change in Brussels, you'll find yourself at the next best thing to Santa’s grotto. This year the Bruges Christmas market 2023 runs from 24 November 2023 to 7 January 2024.

The Christmas markets in Cologne are a bit further afield, but definitely worth the trip. At 5 hours 30 minutes from London St Pancras, with a quick change in Brussels, you’ll be exploring the ‘cathedral city’ and sipping glühwein in no time. Cologne Christmas markets 2023 run from 23 November to 23 December.

Cologne has several Christmas markets spread across the city, the largest is in the shadows of the city’s stunning cathedral.

Strasbourg is considered the ‘Capital of Christmas’ with the oldest Christmas market in France, dating back to 1570. It is also one of the prettiest Christmas markets in Europe with over 300 wooden chalets spread across the city’s main town squares.

From London St Pancras, with a quick change in Paris, Strasbourg Christmas market is just over 5 hours away. Strasbourg Christmas market 2023 runs from 24 November to 24 December 2023.