The 7 best Christmas Markets in Europe and where to park your car

Are you looking for the ultimate Christmas experience? Here you will find some of the best Christmas markets in Europe which you will need to cross off your Christmas list. Read up on activities, gift ideas, and practical tips including parking, at these Cozy European Christmas markets. From Christmas markets in some of the bigger cities such as Brussels and Vienna, to smaller more original Christmas markets like the Valkenburg Christmas market. If you are looking for a charming, warm and authentic Christmas environment in Europe, you've come to the right place!

1. Valkenburg Christmas Market, The Netherlands

Visit this unique underground Christmas market in Valkenburg to get a charming city break. This old mining village near Maastricht, transforms into a festive Christmas town from the mid of November until the end of December. The Christmas market is held outside and mainly inside the caves of the old mines, which gives this a truly unique and cosy feel. It is one of the only underground Christmas markets you will ever find. If you wonder where to park, do not worry, we got you. Mobypark has affordable parking in Valkenburg, right in the city center. Valkenburg is perfect for exploring on foot, and the parking spot brings you close to Valkenburg Castle Ruins, top bars, cosy restaurants, charming attractions, and of course Valkenburg's Christmas Market.

Source: Valkenburg Christmas Market

When & Where is the Christmas Market in Valkenburg?

15th November 2024 - 5th January 2025. Address: Daalhemerweg 27 in Valkenburg aan de Geul. Valkenburg, Netherlands.

What to do at Christmas Market Valkenburg?

Take a walk through these unique caves and enjoy the special atmosphere. If you have time, take a tour of the Velvet Caves and see the castle ruins. You will need to purchase an entry ticket in advance, otherwise you have the chance that you will have to wait in line for a long time. You can easily book your ticket in advance. After visiting the caves, also head over to the nearby Maastricht for a nice visit and a lovely dinner. Check out our Maastricht blog as well, if you are planning to head over to Valkenburg’s Christmas Market and will visit Maastricht too.

The Best Christmas gift at Valkenburg Christmas Market

Most of the stalls in this Christmas market are Christmas themed, so it is perfect to buy cute ornaments and other unique handmade goods.

Parking Tip Christmas Market Valkenburg

Valkenburg is a small town and the parking lots tend to be overcrowded with long cues during the Christmas market. Therefore, Parking City Center Valkenburg is your go-to spot. Strategically located in the heart of the historic old town, this best priced parking lot in Valkenburg is just steps away from Valkenburg Castle Ruins, making it the perfect starting point for exploring Valkenburg on foot. Surrounded by charming bars, restaurants, and accommodations, it’s ideal for both day trips and longer stays in Valkenburg.

2. Lille Christmas Market, France

The month-long Christmas Market in Lille is the largest in Northern France and has been a tradition for centuries. The Christmas festival is held in the Place Rihour in the town centre. Rustic wooden chalets fill Lille’s Place Rihour, selling toys and gifts along with tempting vats of cheesy tartiflette and sweet waffles dripping with chocolate. More than 900.000 visitors come every year, to discover the magical light decoration of Lille's Christmas Market and the magic of the ferris wheel "Grande Roue" at the heart of the Grand Place.

When & Where is Christmas Market in Lille?

20th November - 29th December 2024. Address: Place Rihour, centre of Lille, France

What to do at the Lille Christmas Market?

In the heart of winter, Lille takes on a festive atmosphere and welcomes you to a precious winter wonderland! Amongst the traditional wooden chalets selling local products and gifts, there is plenty of entertainment and regional specialities, such as gingerbread. At this Christmas market, the main star of the show isn't Santa, but is instead the huge ferris wheel in the centre of the square. This ferris wheel is actually one of the biggest ferris wheels in France, being 50 meters high!

The Ultimate Christmas Gift at Christmas Market Lille

From this market, you should take home some of the wooden figurines. They are a traditional gift from this area. Furthermore, you can also find amazing arts and crafts from all over the world, such as Canada and Poland.

Parking Tip Christmas Market Lille

Lille Christmas market is a true shopping heaven in the city centre of Lille! If you are planning a proper shopping weekend then you should probably take the car to store all the gifts. Book your parking in Lille with Mobypark to avoid the stress of finding a parking space in Lille. If you prefer parking in the outskirts of Lille and save some money, parking Jardin des Géants in Lille is perfect for you!

3. Frankfurt Christmas Market, Germany

Christmas in Germany is celebrated with treasures and gifts of every size and price, the Frankfurt Christmas market is indeed no ordinary event. Its history has been traced back to 1393 and it has grown out to be a huge market with around 3 million visitors a year. The market is spread out over three locations: Römer Square, Paulsplatz and the main Quay.

Source: Frasers Hospitality

When & Where is the Christmas Market in Frankfurt?

25th November - 22nd December 2024. Address: Römerberg, St Paul's Square, Mainkai (Main Quay), Hauptwache and Friedrich-Stoltze-Square. Frankfurt, Germany.

What to do?

Shopping at Frankfurt’s festive market really requires stamina, and that’s one of the reasons why the food sold here is so tempting. You can find any kind of the typical German Christmas delicacies, from cookies, candies and roasted almonds to sausages, currywurst and glühwein. Besides eating (a lot), you should visit Liebfrauenkirche (Church of our Lady) where on selected dates, Christmas carols will be sung by a choir. You will see paintings, sculpture, photography, ceramics, graphics, jewelry, textile wood and paper work. Also, check out the rest of the Christmas market program for all other events.

The best Christmas gift at Frankfurt Christmas Market

If you want to buy something sweet, visit the Honey Wagner's House. This family-owned business specializes in bee products. They have beeswax candles you would almost want to eat because of the sweet smell and they also have a huge variety of honey-based drinks and liquor to buy. Get some sweets for your sweets.

Parking Tip Christmas Market Frankfurt

As mentioned above, Frankfurt’s Christmas Market market is very popular with its 3 million visitors, make sure to book things upfront! It is especially smart to book your hotel and parking in Frankfurt upfront. Through Mobypark, you can book cheap parking in Frankfurt. Here are two great options: parking near Central Station Frankfurt at Holiday Inn Express, parking center Frankfurt from private parking owner Pragya.

4. Strasbourg Christmas Market, France

Strasbourg, also called the ”Capital of Christmas”, is one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe. Strasbourg has held its world-famous Christmas market every year since 1570, which is almost 500 years! Strasbourg really goes “all out”. It becomes this big feast and all the lights are set against the backdrop of the beautiful city of Strasbourg and the amazing Strasbourg Cathedral. No wonder it’s also called ”the hottest” Christmas market destination in Europe.

Source: Strasbourg.eu

When & Where is the Christmas Market in Strasbourg?

27th November - 27th December 2024. Address: Place Broglie Cathedral Square, Strasbourg, France.

What to do at the Strasbourg Christmas Market?

There are plenty of things to do when visiting the magical Christmas market in Strasbourg. There are over 300 stalls spread across the city, selling traditional food, drinks, and an abundance of cheese! You can also take your family ice skating or enjoy some live music performances. If you want to experience something traditional and unique, you could learn how to cut and bake traditional Alsatian Christmas biscuits with a local baker.

The Best Christmas Gift from Strasbourg Christmas Market

What you should look for at this market are definitely the traditional gifts. The gifts from this region include the handmade wooden toys and blown glass candles. Be sure to bring some of them home!

Parking Tip Christmas Market Strasbourg

This is the most popular Christmas market in France. If you want to visit, be sure to reserve your hotel and parking upfront through the Mobypark website and find an affordable parking in Strasbourg. Mobypark has several parking spots you can pick from to park your car in Strasbourg. You could, for example, book parking in the centre of Strasbourg from parking owner Bob or reserve Victor’s parking in Strasbourg Esplanade/Vauban.

5. Bruges Christmas Market, Belgium

Bruges is a magical city all year around, but at Christmas time it becomes even more interesting. From November until January, it transforms into this big sparkling Christmas postcard. You will find the main Christmas market on the market square in the center of the city. However, Bruges will be filled with interesting and unique little markets as well. It will be the ultimate Christmas package, as Bruges is famous for its waffles, beer, and chocolate.

Source: Visit Bruges

When & Where is the Christmas Market in Bruges?

22nd November – January 5th, 2024-2025. Address: Market Square and Simon Stevinplein, Bruges, Belgium.

What to do at Bruges Christmas Market?

Enjoy the fairytale backdrop with the colourful, lit up gingerbread-like buildings and warm up with a creamy hot cup of cocoa in the cold winter air or have a nice beer. Visit the Historium bar and learn about their specialty beers or select your favorite beverage from the extensive drink menu alongside the priceless view of the market. If you are taking the car later on and can’t enjoy a beer don’t worry! In this case, you could definitely try one of the best hot chocolates! Bruges is the hot chocolate capital of the world, head over to “Chocolaterie Sukerbuyc”. If you have kids, it is a great activity to have a hot cocoa and to take your kids ice skating on the big square!

The best Christmas gift at Bruges Christmas Market

Buy a Chocolate box from the Sukerbuyc to share with your loved ones on Christmas eve, they have the best chocolate and offer worldwide shipping express.

Parking tip Christmas Market Bruges

This market will have a large selection of beers, don't drink and drive: park and drink. It is best to park your car at the edge of the city, for example in a P+R and to continue by taxi or bus for the rest of the way. You can buy a ticket on the bus itself, but only if you pay with smaller bills in cash.

6. Brussels Christmas Market, Belgium

The Brussels Christmas Market promises five magical weeks of festive cheer. During this period, the city's cobbled streets and picturesque squares transform into a winter wonderland as part of the Brussels Winter Wonders event. This 2 km-long celebration features charming snow-dusted chalets, vibrant bars, and pop-up restaurants that create an unforgettable holiday atmosphere. The Brussels Christmas market stretches across iconic locations, including the Grand-Place, Bourse, Place Sainte-Catherine, and Marché aux Poissons, making it the perfect way to explore the heart of Brussels while soaking in the Christmas spirit.

When & Where is the Christmas Market in Brussels?

29th November – January 5th, 2024-2025. Address: the Grand Place in Brussels, Belgium.

What to do at Brussels Christmas Market?

Visitors can stroll through the market to find unique stocking-fillers, take in breathtaking views from the top of the Ferris wheel, or enjoy a nostalgic ride on the merry-go-round. All the while, the irresistible aroma of freshly baked waffles and warm glühwein fills the crisp winter air, adding to the festive experience. The stunning Grand Place is beautifully illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere, while countless chalets tempt visitors with a variety of delicious treats. Make sure to check out the Light Show at the Grand Place, which happens every 30 minutes between 17h and 22h. This year, the Beursplein proudly hosts a special guest of honour, Le Var! Alongside their partners, they invite you to explore and experience all the charm this remarkable destination has to offer. In a bid to promote sustainability, the market traders are once again using reusable tableware, continuing an initiative that highlights the growing commitment to eco-friendly practices.

The best Christmas gift from Brussels Christmas Market

At the yearly Brussels Christmas Market, you will have a variety of Christmas candles and homemade jewelry.

Parking Tip Christmas Market Brussels

Mobypark offers cheap parking in Brussels at over a hundred different parking lots and garages spread throughout Brussels and near Brussels’ Christmas markets. We have many parking options available that are walking distance from the Brussels Christmas Market. For example, parking Central Station Brussels, Parking Brussels Central Station St Michael and St Gudula, and Parking Van Artevelde Brussels. Make sure to check the other parking options in Brussels that Mobypark offers.

7. Vienna Christmas Market, Austria

Elegant Vienna gets a glittering makeover as 14 Christmas markets pop up around the city. This is truly a Christmas market experience which you could stretch for a couple of days. When this market opens up again next year, you should stroll around the market in front of the fairytale-like Schönnbrunn Palace and go to the Christmas Village on Maria-Theresien-Platz, before heading over to the popular Wiener Weihnachtstraum at the City Hall (Rathaus). Soak up all the beauty of this Medieval and Baroque city scattered with Christmas lights.

Source: Austria.info

When & Where is the Christmas Market in Vienna?

15th November – 23rd December, 2024. Address: Resselpark, Vienna, Austria.

What to do at Vienna Christmas Market?

The Vienna Ice World is one thing that is not closed this year! Experience one of the most unique ice-skating experiences in the world. Ice-skate in front of the City Hall with Christmas music playing in the background. Truly one of the best settings for a photograph is at the Rathaus or Belvedere Palace. Get seduced by tempting foods, warm drinks and beautiful decorations after having. If you look for mouth-watering seasonal treats, this is the place to go.

The Best Christmas Gift at Christmas Market Vienna

You can find a Christmas section selling ‘standard’ decorations for reasonable prices. Also you can discover fashion accessories, leather and pottery items, and various kinds of arts.

Parking Tip Christmas Market Vienna

If you travel to Vienna this year, keep in mind that this magical place can be very crowded, and it’s a good idea to make a reservation for your parking in Vienna and hotel upfront. If you do not want to stay at the hotel, you could still consider parking here at Leonardo Hotel’s parking Rudolfsheim-Fünfhaus Vienna. Vienna has a limitation on parking in its city centre, usually you can only park for a maximum 2-4 hours. At this Mobypark parking location, you can park for the entire duration of your stay in Vienna for a great price.

BONUS: Amsterdam Christmas Market, Netherlands

December transforms the Netherlands into a hub of Christmas cheer, with festive markets bringing towns and cities to life. These markets are more than just a place to shop for food and gifts—they’re the perfect setting to sip on warm glühwein, discover thoughtful presents for loved ones, and enjoy quality time with friends and family. From cozy craft fairs to bustling city squares, we’ve rounded up the must-visit Christmas markets in and around Amsterdam this holiday season. Make sure to book your budget-friendly parking in Amsterdam to avoid the hassle of finding a parking spot in the cozy capital of the Netherlands!

Source: Winter Festival Amsterdam

When & Where is the Christmas Market in Amsterdam?

15th November – 5th January 2024-2025. Address: spread throughout the city in Amsterdam, Netherlands.

What to do at Amsterdam Christmas Market?

Every December, the RAI convention centre turns into a magical winter wonderland, complete with indoor and outdoor ice-skating rinks, festive parties, endless dining options, and a massive Ferris wheel offering stunning views of Amsterdam. This year, dive into The Wonderful World that has an immersive audiovisual experience, combined with a celebration of art and music. For a dose of winter fun, slide down snowy slopes in a tube, ski through a forest of Christmas trees, or unleash your playful side with a good old-fashioned snowball fight.

Every year, Museumplein transforms into a delightful Christmas Village, complete with live entertainment, festive market stalls, and plenty of seasonal treats to keep the winter chill at bay. Adding to the festive atmosphere are roaming choirs filling the air with beautiful a cappella songs, all set against a picturesque winter backdrop.

The monthly Sunday Market, known for showcasing the talents of local artists and creatives, gets a festive twist with its Funky Xmas Market in mid-December. Held at the iconic Westergasfabriek terrain, this market is the perfect spot to discover unique handmade art, accessories, and more.

The Best Christmas Gift at Christmas Market Amsterdam

You can discover beautiful handmade items and stock up on delicious culinary treats to fill your fridge for the festive season.

Parking Tip Christmas Markets Amsterdam

If you are planning to come to Amsterdam by car this year, keep in mind that this magical place can be very crowded with tourists, and it’s a good idea to make a reservation for your parking and hotel upfront. Mobypark offers cheap parking in Amsterdam. If staying at a hotel isn’t your plan, keep in mind that parking in Amsterdam’s city centre is quite limited.

Book your multiple day parking at the RAI for the best price with Mobypark. RAI Amsterdam is also one of the best places to park your car to reach other parts of Amsterdam.

If you plan to come by car to The Christmas Market in Amsterdam’s Westerpark, you don’t have to worry about where to park. You can book affordable parking near Westerpark and enjoy the Christmas Market without any stress.

Take your time to visit one of the above-mentioned European Christmas markets with your family and friends. Do not spend too much on parking, spend your money on good things such as warm drinks, food, and beautiful memories!

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