Do Christmas markets in Europe continue after Christmas?

Yes, many Christmas markets in Europe continue after Christmas, though most traditional German markets close on December 23rd or 24th. Major cities like Vienna, Prague, Budapest, and Berlin often keep markets open until New Year's Eve or early January (often around Jan 3rd-6th) to extend the festive, tourist-focused, and "winter market" experience.

Do European Christmas markets stay open after Christmas?

When do they end? All the big locations traditionally stay open until at least December 23rd. Expect several markets to continue through the Christmas public holiday period as well. One or two may even stay open until late December or early January, often in the form of a New Year market.

Are there still Christmas markets in January in Europe?

Not sure about New Year, but Vienna (selected markets), Salzburg, Prague, Ghent, Bruges have Christmas markets running till January, some even till January 6th.

Are Vienna Christmas markets open after Christmas?

A lot open as early as November 6th, and most are open by November 21st. They normally stay open until at least December 23rd. A few stay open even after Christmas and into the New Year. Each day, the Vienna Christmas markets open sometime between 10 am and 2 pm and typically close around 9 pm.

How long do Christmas markets stay open?

Christmas market hours vary significantly by location, but generally run from mid-November to late December, with typical weekday hours around 10 AM - 7 PM and later closures (8 PM - 10 PM) on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, and shorter hours on Sundays (e.g., 11 AM - 5 PM). Always check the specific market's official website (like for Manchester, Belfast, or Liverpool) for exact 2025 dates and times, as some have late-night shopping or different schedules for food stalls. 

16 Tips I Wish I Knew Before Visiting European Christmas Markets

How long do German Christmas markets last?

They usually start in the last week of November and continue up until a day or two before Christmas day. The first Sunday of Advent in 2026 is 29 November. Many Christmas markets start the Friday before the first Sunday of Advent – that is, on Friday 27 November in 2026.

What is the most Christmassy city in Europe?

Berlin, Germany. It's official – Berlin takes first prize as the most festive city to celebrate the holidays in Europe.

How long do Christmas decorations stay up in Vienna?

The lights typically go on sometime in the second half of November (without too much advance notice on the specific date) and continue until early to mid-January; last year's displays, for example, began on November 21st.

Where is Vienna Christmas market 2025?

Held on Rathausplatz, in front of the 19th-century City Hall, with more than 145 stalls, this postcard-perfect market provides an unbeatable backdrop for a spot of seasonal shopping. At night, trees are embellished with lights to create an enchanting woodland. There's a track-style ice rink too!

Is Vienna expensive at Christmas time?

When I visited, the prices at Vienna Christmas markets were quite similar to what I've experienced in the UK. Food was around the £8 – £12 mark and mulled wine cost just under £5. The activities too, were reasonable, and there are plenty of areas to explore and take in for free!

What is the most beautiful Christmas market in Europe?

Berlin is one of the top destinations when it comes to the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe. The former Gendarmenmarkt, now at Bebelplatz, is the embodiment of festive elegance. Enjoy the smell of roasted almonds and try specialities such as Berlin currywurst, potato pancakes or hot apple wine.

Which European city is best to visit in December?

Here's a look at the best places to visit in Europe in December, plus some top excursions and insider tips to round out your winter getaway.

1. Copenhagen, Denmark. Best for: Scandi Charm & Holiday Markets. ...
2. Tenerife, Canary Islands. ...
3. La Coruña, Spain. ...
4. Malaga, Spain. ...
5. Hamburg, Germany. ...
6. Madeira, Portugal. ...
7. Rome, Italy. ...
8. Bruges, Belgium.

What do Germans do on the 25th and 26th of December?

On December 25th (First Christmas Day) and 26th (Second Christmas Day, Zweiter Weihnachtstag), Germans enjoy official public holidays focused on quiet family time, large festive meals with traditional foods like roast goose or carp, exchanging gifts (which often happens on Christmas Eve), and visiting relatives, with most shops remaining closed as the celebration continues after the main gift-giving on Christmas Eve (Heiligabend).
 

How long do Christmas markets last in Switzerland?

Each major city—Bern, Zurich, Geneva, Lucerne, Lugano, Montreux, and Basel—hosts multiple Christmas markets along busy streets and cobblestone lanes. They typically last the entire month of December.

What to do in Germany between Christmas and New Year's?

10 best Christmas & New Year Germany tour packages

• Munich Christmas Markets.
• 4-Day Nuremberg Christmas Market Experience – Discover the Magic of Christkindlesmarkt.
• GERMAN CHRISTMAS MARKETS 2026.
• 4-Day Munich Christmas Market Getaway.
• 4 Days of Berlin's Winter Magic: A Christmas Market Escape.

Where is the best Christmas market in Europe in 2025?

Europe's best Christmas markets for 2025 include traditional German ones in Berlin, Cologne, and Nuremberg, Austrian gems in Vienna and Salzburg, French markets in Strasbourg and Paris (La Défense), historic squares in Prague, and unique spots like Gdańsk, Poland, and Valkenburg, Netherlands, offering festive magic with artisanal crafts, festive foods, and enchanting lights, often running from late November through December. 

How cold is Vienna during Christmas?

All you need to know for Christmas in Vienna 👇🏻 Weather and What to Wear. December in Vienna is cold, with temperatures from 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F).

How long do Christmas markets last in Europe?

Most European Christmas markets open in mid to late November and run through December, with some staying open into the first week of January. Cities like Amsterdam and Cologne often start around mid-November. Markets in Brussels, Strasbourg, and Bruges typically begin in the last week of November.

How long do Christmas decorations stay up in Poland?

Yes, 2 February is the traditional end to Christmas season in Poland.

What is the most Christmassy town in Austria?

St Wolfgang is famed as Austria's advent town – the most festive place in the whole country. And that's some boast. Alongside Germany, Austria has some of the most popular Christmas markets in the world and Salzburg and Innsbruck are thought to be the most spectacular.

How long do Christmas markets last in Austria?

Most markets stay open until at least 23rd December, with a few continuing past Christmas. The Schönbrunn and Prater markets, for example, stick around the longest, staying open until 6th January 2026.

What is the most magical Christmas town in the world?

Rovaniemi, Finland (Santa Claus Village)

Often called the best Christmas town in the world. Village Inspiration: Snowy rooftops, log cabins, Santa's Workshop.

Where is the prettiest Christmas town?

Christmas Towns at a Glance

• Vail, Colorado – Upscale winter Christmas destination.
• Santa Fe, New Mexico – Cultural holiday celebrations with southwestern flair.
• Nantucket, Massachusetts – Coastal Christmas with quaint charm.
• Branson, Missouri – Holiday shows and light displays.

Where to go for xmas 2025?

For Christmas getaways in 2025, consider magical European cities for markets (Krakow, Vienna, Germany), warm destinations like the Caribbean or Mexico for sun, family fun in Finland's Lapland for Santa experiences, or cozy UK lodges/manors for festive charm, with options ranging from budget-friendly Southeast Asia to adventurous Peru.