Planning to visit some of the Christmas markets and fairs in the Netherlands, Germany, Belgium, and other parts of Europe? We probably shouldn’t say this too loudly on a website about Amsterdam, but the best Christmas markets in Europe we’ve visited were actually in Germany and France. In this post, we’ll share our top three Christmas markets to visit this festive season.
📋 What’s in this guide
Last updated: 4 October 2026 by Anastasia Dudina
Christmas market in Münster, Germany
Münster’s Christmas markets transform the historic city centre into a winter fairytale. From late November until December 23, six different markets, spread across spots like the Town Hall, Aegidiimarkt, Spiekerhof, Überwasserkirchplatz, Lamberti Kirchplatz, and Harsewinkelplatz, come alive with twinkling lights and rows of charming wooden stalls.
Münster in Germany is only 3 hours away from Amsterdam by train. A one-way ticket costs from € 20. The Christmas market in Münster is open from 23 November until 23 December 2026.
Here you can find more information about Christmas markets in Germany, Belgium, France and England.
Christmas market in Düsseldorf, Germany
Düsseldorf transforms into a festive wonderland during the Christmas season, with several themed markets spread across the city centre. From the traditional craft stalls at Marktplatz to the glittering promenade along the Rhine, each market offers its own charm, complete with twinkling lights, Glühwein, and seasonal treats. Together, they create one of Germany’s most magical and elegant holiday experiences.
Xmas market in Düsseldorf, Germany is open from 19 November to 30 December 2026.
- Train tickets from Amsterdam from € 20 one-way >>
- Hotels in Düsseldorf
- Things to do in Düsseldorf
Christmas markets in Strasbourg and Colmar, France
Strasbourg, often called the Capital of Christmas, hosts one of Europe’s oldest and most beautiful Christmas markets. Centered around the stunning Strasbourg Cathedral, the city glows with thousands of lights, over 300 wooden chalets, and the scent of mulled wine and spiced pastries. The blend of French and Alsatian traditions makes it a truly magical holiday destination.
Strasbourg Christmas market is expected to run from late November to 24 December 2026, similar to previous years. The official 2026 programme wasn’t published yet at the time of writing, so check the link above closer to the date for the confirmed dates.
- Train tickets to Strasbourg from Amsterdam from € 80 >>
- Book a hotel in Strasbourg. We recommend Hôtel & Spa Le Bouclier D’or.
- Things to do in Strasbourg, including Strasbourg: Christmas Market Tour.
Another famous Christmas market in Alsace is in Colmar, just 75 kilometers away from Strasbourg. Colmar’s Christmas market looks straight out of a fairy tale, with its half-timbered houses, canals, and cobbled streets lit by thousands of twinkling lights.
The city hosts several markets spread through its old town, each offering handmade gifts, regional delicacies, and festive cheer. Its intimate atmosphere and storybook beauty make Colmar one of the most picturesque Christmas destinations in Europe. Colmar’s six Christmas markets run from 23 November to 29 December 2026, with the gourmet market and the Ferris wheel at Place Rapp staying open a little longer, until 3 January 2027.
Christmas at Disneyland Paris
And if you cannot wait for Christmas, head to Disneyland Paris! The Christmas Season in Disneyland Paris is from 7 November 2026 to 6 January 2027. Explore its magic atmosphere with your family!
Enjoy your Christmas time in Europe!
Related articles:
- Opening hours of Amsterdam museums on Christmas
- Amsterdam Light Festival 2026/2027
- How does Amsterdam public transport work on New Year’s Eve?
- Winter in Amsterdam: day itinerary
- What is included in the I amsterdam city card?
About the author:
Written by a local
Anastasia Dudina
I’ve been living in the Netherlands since 2013 and exploring it ever since. I write and update all articles on Amsterdam Explorer and Holland Explorer myself: real tips, not tourist traps.