5 of the Best Christmas Markets to Visit in Europe in 2025

If you’re dreaming of twinkling lights, spiced mulled wine, and streets brimming with festive vibrance, Europe’s Christmas markets are the ultimate destination. From the UK, many of these Christmas markets are a short train or plane ride away. Or, if you’re staying closer to home, we’ve even included one of the best markets in the UK (ice rink, anyone?)

At Nere, we’re experts in travel bags and luggage - so we understand the challenges of journeying across Europe during one of its busiest - and most beautiful - times of year. So, if you’re venturing to a Christmas market in 2025, make sure you’ve got the right travel gear - you’ll want to safely bring home all your gifts, souvenirs, and snacks, after all.

Below, we’ve rounded up five of the best Christmas markets in Europe, and our top picks for travel bags to make your journey smoother.

No list of the best European Christmas markets is complete without Cologne. Nestled beneath the magnificent Cologne Cathedral in Germany’s west, the Cologne Christmas Market transforms the city into a winter wonderland. Meander through rows of wooden stalls selling handmade ornaments, gingerbread hearts, and mugs of steaming Glühwein (mulled wine). Families will love the festive ice rink and charming carousel.

Our travel bag pick

With so much to see, a lightweight Nere Backpack is your best travel companion - roomy enough for your Christmas shopping, but comfortable to carry all day. Keep your camera, wallet, and new trinkets tucked safely inside while you wander between stalls glowing under the cathedral’s lights.

Vienna turns into a storybook scene each December, with its dazzling Christmas Market set in front of the City Hall. Rows of wooden stalls sell roasted chestnuts, warm pretzels, and handcrafted candles. Between shopping sprees, you can wander through the festive park or enjoy one of the many opera or orchestra performances nearby - perfect for travellers seeking a combination of culture and Christmas cheer.

Our travel bag pick

Here, a sleek Nere Tote Bag makes exploring effortless. It’s large enough to store a scarf for chilly evenings, yet stylish enough to transition from daytime shopping to a festive dinner. If you’re taking a cruise along the Danube River to visit various Christmas markets, this tote bag is ideal for bringing ashore during short market visits.

Affectionately dubbed the ‘Capital of Christmas’, Strasbourg’s Christmas Market dates back to 1570, making it one of the oldest in Europe. Straddling the border between France and Germany, the entire city of Strasbourg is transformed into a glowing maze. More than 300 stalls sprawl across Cathedral Square and Place Brogli, selling everything from sweet Alsatian pastries to festive ornaments and wooden toys. The atmosphere feels straight out of a fairy tale - perfect for couples or anyone chasing a romantic winter escape.

Our travel bag pick

A sling bag is perfect here - stylish enough for France’s fashion-forward vibe, yet practical for carrying your Christmas market shopping, like artisanal cheeses or handmade candles. Between photo ops under the sparkling Christmas tree and warm stops for vin chaud (mulled wine), you’ll appreciate having everything neatly packed and easy to access.

Prague’s Old Town Square transforms into a glittering postcard scene during the holidays. You’ll find carolers, twinkling lights, and stalls offering delicious chimney cakes, hot honey wine, and exquisite glass ornaments. Smaller side markets in Wenceslas Square offer even more treasures to uncover.

Our travel bag pick

Because cobblestone streets and busy markets call for hands-free ease, a secure crossbody bag is ideal when navigating the Prague Christmas Market. A crossbody bag keeps your small souvenirs safe while letting you enjoy a trdelník (chimney cake) or snap photos of the breathtaking Astronomical Clock without having to juggle shopping bags.

If you’re staying closer to home, the Edinburgh Christmas Market is a must-visit. Centrally located in Princes Street Gardens, it offers a mix of Scottish and European stalls, carnival rides, and an ice rink framed by the city’s dramatic skyline. It’s the perfect blend of festive fun and cultural charm.

Our travel bag pick

For a full day of exploring, pack your essentials in a practical travel backpack. It’s perfect for storing snacks, gifts, and your winter layers as you move from market stalls to light trails and evening pubs. With the right bag, you can stay organised while fully soaking up the festive spirit.

• Go early or late in the day: Visit in the morning or evening to avoid crowds and enjoy the markets beautifully lit at night without elbowing your way through.
  
  
• Bring cash: Many small stalls may not accept cards, especially in traditional markets, so it’s better to have change on hand.
  
  
• Dress warmly and comfortably: Layer up, wear waterproof shoes, and don’t forget your gloves because European winters can be chilly!
  
  
• Carry a practical bag: A secure backpack or crossbody bag keeps your hands free for shopping and sipping hot chocolate.
  
  
• Stay central: Book accommodation close to the main market area so you can explore easily and return for evening festivities.
  
  
• Try local treats: Don’t miss regional specialities like bratwurst, raclette, strudel, crepes, or chimney cakes.
  
  
• Plan ahead: Popular markets like Cologne and Vienna can get busy. Check dates, opening hours, and nearby attractions in advance.
  
  
• Watch for pickpockets: Keep your valuables zipped inside your travel bag and be cautious in crowded areas.

Europe’s Christmas markets are an unforgettable, multi-sensory experience that goes far beyond a simple shopping trip - they’re the heart of the festive season.

A smooth, stress-free trip relies on research, planning, and, most importantly, the right luggage. A reliable travel companion from Nere ensures that you not only have comfort, but also the ability to bring all your Christmas market treasures home safely and hassle-free.

Explore our full collection of stylish travel bags and luggage today and pack for a perfect Christmas market journey.