Christmas Markets 2026: 11 destinations for a fairytale getaway

The scent of cinnamon, wooden stalls filled with handmade decorations, and streets you could happily wander without rushing. Christmas markets are a lovely reason to pack your bags before the holidays and discover a city in a completely different atmosphere.

From Vienna and Budapest to Brussels and Prague, we have gathered 11 destinations for a winter getaway. Choose the city that appeals to you, check the market dates, and search for flights in the zbor.md app.

Vienna: 13 November – 26 December 2026

Vienna has an elegance that feels perfectly suited to the festive season. Between strolls among the market stalls, take a break in a café and leave time to explore the illuminated streets of the city centre. It is a lovely choice for a romantic trip or a few days with the family. The dates listed refer to the market at Rathausplatz.

Budapest: 13 November 2026 – 1 January 2027

In Budapest, a Christmas getaway can combine walks along the Danube with evenings browsing stalls filled with treats and gifts. Try a warm kürtőskalács and set aside a few hours for a thermal bath. The contrast between the cold air and the warm water could become one of your favourite holiday memories.

London: 19 November 2026 – 3 January 2027

London is for those who want to fill every day with different experiences: festive window displays, shows, shopping, and walks through their favourite neighbourhoods. Winter Wonderland adds attractions and entertainment for the whole family. The dates listed refer to this event, which is closed on Christmas Day.

Salzburg: 19 November 2026 – 1 January 2027

If your ideal holiday includes historic streets, music, and frequent stops for something warm, add Salzburg to your list. The old town invites you to explore without a strict schedule, and the city's atmosphere is perfect for a getaway where you want to slow down a little.

Munich: 20 November – 24 December 2026

Munich is a good choice for anyone seeking the traditional atmosphere of German Christmas markets. Alternate visits to the stalls with exploring the city centre and enjoying a meal of Bavarian specialities. Leave room in your luggage for decorations and small gifts chosen at your leisure.

Berlin: 23 November – 31 December 2026

Berlin gives you the freedom to shape your holiday around your interests: museums during the day, creative neighbourhoods in the afternoon, and Christmas markets in the evening. The city hosts several Christmas markets, each with its own schedule, so it is worth choosing a few you would like to visit in advance.

Dresden: 25 November – 24 December 2026

Dresden is for those who love Christmas traditions and handcrafted details. Wooden decorations and a slice of stollen are the perfect companions to a stroll through the historic centre. Make time to discover the city beyond the market stalls, too.

Basel: 26 November – 23 December 2026

Basel is ideal for a short getaway, with walks through the old town, stops at market stalls, and time spent along the Rhine. It is a destination to consider if you would like a few days to enjoy the festive atmosphere without an overly packed itinerary.

Nuremberg: 27 November – 24 December 2026

In Nuremberg, put Lebkuchen gingerbread, traditional decorations, and a walk among historic buildings on your list. The city is an excellent choice for a holiday where the Christmas market takes centre stage.

Brussels: 27 November 2026 – 3 January 2027

Warm waffles, Belgian chocolate, and a city centre best explored on foot: Brussels is a destination for travellers who also associate holidays with the pleasure of tasting something new. The Winter Wonders event continues after New Year's Eve, during the period listed above.

Prague: 28 November 2026 – 6 January 2027

Prague is perfect for a romantic getaway, with walks among historic buildings and evenings in the old town. Combine your market visit with a walk across Charles Bridge and a few café stops. Leave time to discover quieter streets away from the busiest routes, too.

Before booking, check the opening schedule of the market you want to visit. Markets in the same city may run on different dates, and they may have shorter opening hours or be closed on public holidays. The dates in this selection are based on the calendar provided and do not cover every market in each destination.

For a more comfortable trip, choose accommodation with good access to public transport, and pack warm clothes and comfortable shoes.

Have you chosen where you would like to experience the Christmas atmosphere? Search for flights in the zbor.md app, compare the available options, and book the flight that suits your plans.