In the heart of autumn, as nights start to get cooler and darkness falls earlier, what brings us the most joy are the twinkling lights that remind us Christmas is just around the corner, with its festive spirit and well-deserved winter holidays. In many towns and cities, the magic of Christmas doesn’t wait until December. Numerous markets open their doors in November, offering crafts, lights, food, and a festive atmosphere from the very first weeks of the month. If you’re considering a getaway, here’s a selection of Christmas markets that will already be open in November 2025.
Christmas Markets in Europe
Germany
German Christmas markets date back to the 14th century. They offer local crafts, traditional sweets such as Lebkuchen (gingerbread), hot mulled wine (Glühwein), wooden toys, and handmade ornaments.
- Dresden – Striezelmarkt: One of the oldest markets (1434). From November 26 to December 24, 2025.
- Nuremberg – Christkindlesmarkt: From November 28 to December 24, 2025.
- Cologne – Weihnachtsmarkt am Dom, among others. From November 25 to December 23, 2025.
Austria
Vienna – The Vienna Christmas Market is one of the most beautiful, traditional, and complete in Europe. It offers sweets, local cuisine, and plenty of activities for children: workshops, crafts, storytelling, and carousels. The most famous one is the Wiener Christkindlmarkt on Rathausplatz, in front of the City Hall. From November 14 to December 26, 2025.
Hungary
Budapest– The Pearl of the Danube looks stunning under festive lights and decorations. In Vörösmarty Square, at the heart of the city, you’ll find the oldest market, open from November 15, 2025, to January 1, 2026. By late November, you can also visit the St. Stephen’s Basilica Market, which features an ice rink and a Christmas light show projected onto the basilica façade. Later in December, don’t miss the Buda Castle Christmas Market.
Switzerland
Zurich – Christkindlimarkt (Main Station): Home to Europe’s largest indoor Christmas market, located inside the train station. It’s famous for its dazzling Christmas tree decorated with Swarovski crystals. From November 21 to December 24, 2025.
Basilea – Weihnachtsmarkt: One of the biggest and most spectacular in Switzerland, held in the Old Town at Münsterplatz and Barfüsserplatz. Expect numerous stalls selling crafts, food, and holiday décor. From November 21 to December 23, 2025.
Belgium
Brussels – Winter wonders: A winter festival and Christmas market that transforms the city center into a holiday wonderland with over 200 stalls and attractions. From November 28, 2025, to January 4, 2026.
Czech Republic
Prague – Old Town Square Christmas Markets: A fairytale-like setting filled with traditional Czech choirs. The air smells of mulled wine, sugar, and cinnamon. Don’t miss local specialties and the Trdelník, a rolled pastry baked over coals that you’ll fall in love with. From November 29, 2025, to January 6, 2026.
Denmark
Copenhagen – Tivoli Gardens Christmas Market: More than a market, it’s a magical amusement park with a Nordic fairytale atmosphere, located inside Tivoli Park. Admission is paid, but kids will absolutely love it. From November 14, 2025, to January 4, 2026.
Spain
Barcelona – Fira de Santa Llúcia: Held in front of the Cathedral since 1786, this market offers all kinds of Christmas decorations and figurines for nativity scenes, including the famous Catalan caganer. From November 28 to December 23, 2025.
Madrid – Plaza Mayor Christmas Market: The capital’s most traditional market, featuring 104 stalls selling ornaments, toys, decorations, and humorous items for Día de los Santos Inocentes (similar to April Fool’s Day). From November 28 to December 31, 2025.
Torrejón de Ardoz – Mágicas Navidades: East of Madrid, this Christmas theme park is worth visiting for its video-mapping shows, market, ice rink, and giant nativity scene. Entry to the fairgrounds requires a ticket, but the activities in the town’s Plaza Mayor are free. From November 14, 2025, to January 6, 2026.
Why Visit in November
- Lower tourist demand: After the summer peak and before the Christmas holidays, November sees fewer travelers.
- Better prices: Flights and hotels tend to offer lower rates before the December and Christmas rush.
- Festive atmosphere without crowds: Full decorations but shorter lines — perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed experience.
- Special deals: Many travel agencies launch promotions to encourage trips during this month.
Accommodation Booking Tips
- Central location: Look for hotels or apartments in the historic center or near main squares. Check your destination’s official tourism website and use maps to calculate walking distance from your stay to the market.
- Public transport: If you can’t find central accommodation, make sure you’re close to the metro, tram, or bus lines. Staying 10–20 minutes’ walk from the market can cut your price by up to 30%. In cities like Vienna, Strasbourg, or Brussels, public transport is excellent.
- Useful filters: Use search filters like “near points of interest” or “excellent location.” On Booking, Airbnb, or Google Maps, you can search directly for “near [market name]”. Selecting “best value for money” highlights well-rated yet affordable options.
- Free cancellation: Weather can change your plans, so choose flexible rates. Many places allow free cancellation up to a few days before your stay.
- Book early: Ideally between 4 and 8 weeks before your trip.
Turn November into the new December with this accommodation booking guide, and enjoy the Christmas spirit without the year-end price hikes. Quieter moments, same Christmas magic.
