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

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.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.Are you looking for the ultimate Christmas experience? Here you will find some Christmas markets that you will need to cross off your Christmas list. Read up on activities, practical tips, and gift ideas at these markets. If you are looking for a charming, warm, and authentic Christmas environment, you've come to the right place!

1.Valkenburg Christmas Market, Netherlands.

Valkenburg is home to the most unique Christmas market in Europe. Instead of wooden stalls on a city square, Valkenburg’s Christmas markets take place underground, inside ancient marlstone caves and historic cellars. Every winter, this small town in Limburg transforms into a magical Christmas destination that attracts visitors from all over Europe. With twinkling lights, festive music and beautifully decorated caves, Valkenburg offers a warm, cosy and unforgettable Christmas experience. If you’re visiting by car, it’s smart to book your parking in Valkenburg upfront with Mobypark, as the town gets very busy during the Christmas season.

When & Where is the Christmas Market in Valkenburg?

15th November 2025 – 5th January 2026. Locations: Gemeentegrot (Municipal Cave), Fluweelengrot (Velvet Cave), Wilhelminagrot.

What to do at Valkenburgs's Christmas Market?

The highlight of Valkenburg’s Christmas Market is without a doubt the underground Christmas villages. Walk through atmospheric caves filled with Christmas stalls selling gifts, decorations and seasonal treats, all beautifully lit and sheltered from winter weather. Above ground, the town centre is decorated with festive lights, Christmas trees and cosy terraces where you can enjoy hot chocolate, mulled wine or Limburg-style snacks.

Don’t miss the Christmas Parade, which passes through Valkenburg several evenings a week and features illuminated floats, music and performers. You can also take a ride on the Christmas train through town or visit Santa’s Village if you’re travelling with kids. Valkenburg combines festive charm with something you truly won’t find anywhere else in Europe.

The Best Christmas gift at Valkenburg's Christmas Market

Valkenburg is the perfect place to find handmade Christmas decorations, unique ornaments, candles and artisanal gifts. Many of the stalls sell locally made products and traditional crafts that make meaningful and original Christmas presents. Because the markets are underground, the atmosphere feels extra intimate, making gift shopping relaxed and enjoyable.

Parking Tip Valkenburg's Christmas Market

Valkenburg is one of the most popular Christmas destinations in the Netherlands, and parking fills up quickly, especially on weekends. To avoid stress, it’s best to reserve your parking in Valkenburg in advance. Through Mobypark, you can book affordable parking spots close to the town centre and the cave entrances, allowing you to walk straight into the Christmas markets without worrying about parking restrictions or full garages.

2. Paris Jardin des Tuileres Christmas Market, France

Visit the Christmas Market at the Jardin des Tuileries and enjoy one of Paris’ most festive winter experiences. Each year, the gardens between the Louvre and Place de la Concorde transform into a lively Christmas village filled with chalets, rides, lights and seasonal treats. This market has become the most popular in central Paris, combining traditional French Christmas charm with a funfair atmosphere that attracts locals and visitors from all over the world. If you’re travelling by car, Mobypark helps you secure convenient and affordable parking in Paris, so you can walk straight into the festive ambiance without the stress of searching for a parking spot.

When & Where is Christmas Market in Paris?

15th November 2025 until early January 2026. It is located directly inside the Jardin des Tuileries, right between the Louvre and Place de la Concorde.

What to do at the Jardin des Tuileres Christmas Market?

The Tuileries Market offers a mix of traditional wooden chalets, Parisian gastronomy and winter entertainment. Visitors can stroll through rows of vendors selling gifts, sweets and regional delicacies while enjoying freshly prepared crêpes, raclette and mulled wine. One of the highlights is the festive funfair that includes rides, games and a Ferris wheel with sweeping views over the Louvre, the Champs-Élysées and the Eiffel Tower. As you wander deeper into the market, you’ll notice how Paris blends classic holiday traditions with its own unmistakable style, creating a warm and lively atmosphere ideal for a winter day or evening out.

The Ultimate Christmas Gift at Christmas Market Paris

This market is perfect for finding artisanal Parisian gifts, including handmade ornaments, scented candles, fine chocolates and decorative craftwork. Many of the stalls feature products from different French regions, allowing you to bring home traditional items that are both authentic and unique to Paris’ winter festivities..

Parking Tip Christmas Market Paris

Parking in central Paris during the Christmas season can be challenging, especially around the Louvre, Tuileries and Concorde, where streets fill up quickly. A reliable option is Seb & Agnès’ parking near the Eiffel Tower and Champs-de-Mars, which gives you easy access to the Christmas Market while avoiding the congested areas directly around the Tuileries. From this parking spot, you can reach the market comfortably by Metro or with a pleasant walk through Paris’ central districts.

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.

When & Where is the Christmas Market in Frankfurt?

25th November - 22nd December 2025. 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.

When & Where is the Christmas Market in Strasbourg?

26th November - 24th December 2025. 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.

When & Where is the Christmas Market in Bruges?

21nd November – January 4th, 2025-2026. 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?

28th November – January 4th, 2025-2026. 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.

When & Where is the Christmas Market in Vienna?

21st November – 23rd December, 2025. 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!

When & Where is the Christmas Market in Amsterdam?

December 4th – December 28th 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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