Christmas markets are a highlight of the winter season, offering a chance to enjoy festive food, unique gifts and get together in the holiday spirit. If you are planning to visit one this year, but are unsure of where to go, we have picked 10 of the best Christmas markets around the world that are worth a visit. From tasty treats and fun activities to festive decorations, these markets have something for everyone. These markets will make your Christmas extra special no matter if you are after sentimental souvenirs or just want to enjoy the festive season.
When: November 29th 2025 – January 2nd 2026
Where: Doma Square, Riga Old Town
Set in the heart of the old town, the Riga Christmas Market is renowned for its traditional Latvian gifts, such as hand-carved wooden toys, woollen scarves, and artisanal decorations. The smell of freshly baked gingerbread, mulled wine and roasted chestnuts will greet you as you walk down the cobbled streets, and the market’s lively atmosphere is enhanced by folk and local music.
Riga also hosts many other Christmas events, including a Christmas village at Esplanade Park and special Baltic Expo event later in December.
When: November 28th – December 24th 2025
Where: Caulfield Racecourse
This magical Christmas Wonderland is a celebration which brings festive spirit to life in the true Australian style. Wander through twinkling light displays, explore themed zones with family-friendly entertainment and delicious treats. There is something for everyone to enjoy, whether it is live performances, festive rides, or meeting Santa in his village.
Melbourne Christmas Wonderland | Melb Xmas Wonderland – Australia
When: November 14th 2025 – January 3rd 2026
Where: Blenheim Palace, the Cotswolds, England
Not only does this exceptional palace offer a festive Christmas market, but it also offers many other festivities to go with it. With combined ticket offers allowing visitors to enjoy illuminated trails, the Palace of Oz, ice skating, afternoon tea, and so many other offers. This is a must when searching for festive activities for you or your family.
When: October 24th 2025 – January 4th 2026. Ice rink open until March 1st 2026
Where: Bryant Park, New York City
New York City’s Byrant Park Winter Village is a spectacular holiday destination for those wanting to experience the magic of a New York Christmas. The village features an open-air market with many boutique stalls selling artisan gifts, seasonal treats, and unique crafts. Visitors can enjoy ice skating across the park’s famous ice rink and indulge in hot chocolate set against the backdrop of the city’s iconic skyline.
Ice Skating, Holiday Shops, The Lodge, and much more at New York City’s Bryant Park
When: November 13th – December 23rd 2025
Where: Cardiff City Centre
Cardiff’s Christmas market in the heart of the city offers a blend of Welsh tradition and festive cheer. With their wooden stalls, visitors can shop for a range of local goods like crafted jewellery, Welsh-inspired homeware and knitted garments. With other stalls offering Welsh cakes, hot beverages, and seasonal pies, experiencing Cardiff’s Christmas market is the perfect place for a warm and friendly atmosphere centred around the city’s iconic Christmas tree.
When: November 27th – December 23rd 2025
Where: Barfüsserplatz and Münsterplatz, Basel, Switzerland
Nestled in the heart of Basel’s charming town, the city’s Christmas market blends a modern, eco-conscious spirit with festive tradition. Visitors can wander among stalls which offer organic foods and locally crafted gifts- from recycled wood, organic Swiss chocolates, and fair-trade textiles. The market celebrates Swiss heritage with Alpine music performances and delicacies that capture the essence of the country’s rich culinary traditions. This is the spot to witness a more authentic side of Christmas in Switzerland.
When: November 14th 2025 – January 1st 2026 (Closed November 24th & December 25th)
Where: Hyde Park London
London’s iconic Winter Wonderland is a must this Christmas, with a strong focus on sustainability. This event combines traditional holiday fun featuring reusable cups, recycling stations, and many stalls with ethically sourced products and gifts. Visitors can enjoy dairy-free hot chocolate, vegan bratwurst and other plant-based dishes, as well as shop for green-gift options like organic cotton scarves, handmade jewellery and sustainably-crafted candles. Winter Wonderland takes considerable steps to balance environmental consciousness and its large-scale festivities for visitors.
When: Fridays to Sundays starting week of November 21st – week ending Sunday 28th December. Tuesday 30th December & December 31st
Where: Aberdeen Plaza at Lansdowne, Marché Way, Ottawa, Ontario
Ottawa’s European-style Christmas market is a great place to enjoy warm drinks, traditional kiosks, and great food this festive season! The Ottawa Christmas market is a family-friendly and free event which provides one-of-a-kind handcrafted and local goods, live performances, glittering displays, and seasonal food and drinks (including non and alcoholic options.)
When: November 21st – December 5th 2025
Where: Meiji Jingu Gaien
Set in the elegant tree-lined grounds of Meiji Jingu Gaien, this market brings a European Christmas town into Tokyo. Imported from Germany, a 14-metre tall ‘Christmas pyramid’ stands centre-stage, set amongst chalet-style stalls serving mulled wine, fine sausages, hot chocolate, and handmade ornaments. Guests can wander beneath fairy-tale inspired lights and live performances, all against a backdrop of Tokyo’s urban elegance.
Tokyo Christmas Market 2025 – Events in Tokyo – Japan Travel
When: December 8th – December 22nd 2025
Where: The Cape Academy, Constantia, Cape Town
Passionate about bringing handmade local gifts, artisan products, and crafts to their community, South Market has over 15 years of experience in running markets that showcase local talent. With a family-friendly atmosphere and free entry, this market offers delicious samples and foods such as sauces, fudge, spices, cheeses and more. Dedicated to celebrating handmade creations, South Market features a wide selection of tasty treats, children’s toys, and home décor.
