Our Top 4 Christmas Market Destinations This Festive Season
If twinkling fairy lights, steaming cups of mulled wine, and cobblestone streets dusted with festive charm make your heart skip a beat, then it’s officially Christmas Market Season. And good news: Europe does it best.
Whether you're a seasoned solo traveller or planning your first independent festive escape, these markets offer the perfect blend of atmosphere, safety, culture, and cosy winter magic. Here are the top 7 Christmas Market destinations you should travel to now.
Cologne, Germany
Most of Cologne's Christmas markets will run from November 17 to December 23, 2025. A few notable exceptions include the Harbour Market, which extends to December 28, and Heinzels Winter Fairytale, which remains open through January 4, 2026. Each market has a unique theme, from traditional and gnome-filled to trendy and harbor-side
Vienna, Austria
Elegant, enchanting, effortlessly festive. Vienna’s Christmas markets are where classical charm meets culinary indulgence.
Expect: Orchestras, artisan crafts, roasted chestnuts, and a picture-perfect setting around every corner.
Budapest, Hungary
Brimming with atmosphere, Budapest offers affordable luxury and rich cultural flair.
Highlights: Vorosmarty Square Market, the Basilica Laser Light Show, and thermal baths for post-market warming.
Most Christmas markets will be open from mid-November to late December 2025, with several extending into the new year.
Strasbourg, France
The Strasbourg Christmas market will run from November 26 to December 24, 2025, with over 300 chalets spread across various squares in the city's historic Grande Île. Known as the "Capital of Christmas," Strasbourg hosts one of the oldest markets in Europe, dating back to 1570
Why Christmas Markets Are Perfect for Solo Travellers
Safe, lively, welcoming environments
Easy walking cities
Endless food, crafts, and cultural experiences
Natural opportunities for conversation and connection
Ideal for 2–4 day short breaks
Ready to Add a Little Sparkle to Your Season?
If you’re dreaming of a festive getaway filled with markets, magic, and mulled wine, I’m here to help plan the perfect trip.
Get in touch and let’s design your Christmas Market escape.
Charlie Banks
LUXURY EXPERIENCE ARCHITECT
Well hello, wanderer. I’m your globe-trotting, adventure-addicted, slightly sassy founder of Solo Malta. I’m also a long-time lover of solo travel, a champion of the confidently curious, and a firm believer that life is far too short for boring!
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