10 Best Christmas Markets in Europe to Visit with Kids (2026)

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Here are my top picks for the 10 best Christmas Markets in Europe to visit with kids! I’ve included: my top tips for saving money, their 2026 start dates, whether they’re open after Christmas (in case you want some New Year fun!), things to do, places to stay and the snow factor – as the kids will likely be hoping for some Christmas market snow!

The holiday season is a magical time, and what better way to experience the festive spirit than by visiting one of Europe’s enchanting Christmas markets with your kids? Picture twinkling lights, the scent of gingerbread and the excitement in your children’s eyes as they explore markets filled with toys, treats and festive fun. As a budget travel addict, it’s important to find the best markets that are not only family-friendly but also offer great value for money. So, here’s my ultimate guide to the best Christmas markets in Europe to visit with kids – with a few money saving tips!

1. Vienna, Austria: Magical and Musical

Vienna’s Christmas markets are known for their elegance and they’re perfect for families. The Rathausplatz market offers a “Children’s World” with rides, crafts and even a reindeer train. There are also free choirs and puppet shows that the whole family can enjoy.

Start Date: 13 November 2026
Open After Christmas: The main markets close on December 26th but some transition into New Year’s markets, staying open until early January.
Snow Factor: Vienna often experiences light snow, especially in December.
Things To Do: Book a Vienna Christmas Market Tour with food tasting experiences to enjoy authentic Austrian delights.
Frugal Mum Tip: Take advantage of the free entertainment, and share large portions of food like sausages and pretzels to save on meal costs.

👉 Click here to check out Vienna Christmas Market Packages on Jet2holidays.
👉 Click here to check out hotels near Vienna’s Christmas Market.

2. Nuremberg, Germany: A Toy Paradise

Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt is one of the most famous Christmas markets in Europe and it’s especially magical for children. The “Kinderweihnacht” section is dedicated to kids with toy stalls, a mini Ferris wheel and a steam train ride.

Start Date: 27 November 2026
Open After Christmas: The market closes on December 24th so plan your visit before Christmas.
Snow Factor: Nuremberg has a fair chance of snow in December, especially later in the month.
Things To Do: Book the Nuremberg Christmas City Culinary Tour to experience authentic German culinary delights.
Frugal Mum Tip: Visit on weekdays to avoid the weekend crowds, and bring your own reusable cup for hot chocolate refills which are cheaper than buying a new cup each time.

👉 Click here to check out Nuremberg Christmas Market Holidays on TUI.
👉 Click here to check out hotels near Nuremberg’s Christmas Market.

3. Poznań, Poland: Festive and Affordable

Poznań’s Christmas market may be lesser-known but it offers a wonderful, affordable, festive experience without the crowds. The market is located in the city’s Old Market Square and offers ice skating, a Ferris wheel and plenty of traditional Polish foods that kids will love.

Start Date: 21 November 2026
Open After Christmas: There’s a bit of discrepancy with this one – it looks like it ends 6th January 2027 but some activities may finish earlier.
Snow Factor: Poznań has a good chance of snow in December, especially towards the end of the month.
Things To Do: Have fun with the kids at the Poznań Chocolate Museum Workshop.
Frugal Mum Tip: Poland is generally more affordable than many Western European countries. Consider staying in a budget-friendly hotel or guesthouse, and take advantage of the reasonably priced local cuisine.

👉 Click here to check out Poznań Christmas Market Holidays on TUI.
👉 Click here to check out hotels near Poznań’s Christmas Market.

4. Strasbourg, France: The Capital of Christmas

Strasbourg’s Christmas market is one of the oldest and most famous in Europe – it’s also one of the best markets for a trip with the kids. The city’s historic centre is transformed into a Christmas wonderland, and children will love the giant Christmas tree, ice skating rink and carousel.

Start Date: 26 November 2026
Open After Christmas: The market runs until December 24th, with some festivities continuing until December 31st.
Snow Factor: Snow is possible but not guaranteed. The city often has a festive, crisp winter atmosphere.
Things To Do: Book the Strasbourg Traditional Food Walking Tour with Tastings for the ultimate experience.
Frugal Mum Tip: Stay in nearby towns, like Colmar, to save on accommodation and use public transport to reach Strasbourg.

👉 Click here to check out Strasbourg Christmas Market Packages on Jet2holidays.
👉 Click here to check out hotels near Strasbourg’s Christmas Market.

5. Prague, Czech Republic: Fairy-Tale Festivities

Prague’s Christmas markets are like stepping into a storybook, and kids will love the Old Town Square market with its nativity scenes, animals and giant Christmas tree. The smell of trdelník (a sweet pastry) fills the air, making it a treat for the senses.

Start Date: 28 November 2026
Open After Christmas: The markets in Prague remain open until January 6th 2027, making it perfect for a post-Christmas visit.
Snow Factor: Prague often experiences snow in December, especially later in the month.
Things To Do: For something a bit special, hop on the Prague Advent and Christmas River Cruise.
Frugal Mum Tip: Prices can vary, so take a walk around the market before making purchases. Consider staying in a family-friendly apartment with a kitchen to save on eating out.

👉 Click here to check out Prague Christmas Market Packages on Jet2holidays.
👉 Click here to check out hotels near Prague’s Christmas Market.

6. Munich, Germany: Tradition and Fun

Munich’s Christkindlmarkt at Marienplatz is steeped in tradition and it’s a great choice for families. There’s a special children’s market with activities like baking and crafts, as well as a beautiful manger scene.

Start Date: 20 November 2026
Open After Christmas: The main market closes on December 24th, but some smaller markets stay open until New Year’s Eve.
Snow Factor: Munich often has snow in December, particularly later in the month.
Things To Do: Get creative with the Munich Old Town Walk & Stencil Art Workshop.
Frugal Mum Tip: Munich offers free walking tours, which are a great way to see the city’s sights without spending a lot. Also, consider using public transport to save on getting around.

👉 Click here to check out Munich Christmas Market Packages on TUI.
👉 Click here to check out hotels near Munich’s Christmas Market.

7. Copenhagen, Denmark: Hygge and Happiness

Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen hosts a Christmas market that’s perfect for families. With beautiful light displays, vintage amusement rides and cozy Nordic treats, it’s a magical experience for kids and adults alike.

Start Date: 13 November 2026
Open After Christmas: Tivoli Gardens Christmas Market may slow down around Christmas with some activities continuing until January 3rd 2027.
Snow Factor: Copenhagen has a decent chance of snow, especially later in December.
Things To Do: The kids can enjoy unlimited rides with the Tivoli Gardens Christmas Ride Pass.
Frugal Mum Tip: Consider buying a Copenhagen Card, which offers free entry to Tivoli Gardens and other attractions, as well as discounts on public transport.

👉 Click here to check out Copenhagen Christmas Market Holidays on Jet2holidays.
👉 Click here to check out hotels near Tivoli Garden’s Christmas Market.

8. Bruges, Belgium: Quaint and Cozy

Bruges is a fairytale city at any time of year but it’s especially magical during the Christmas season. The market in the historic city centre is perfect for families with ice skating, horse-drawn carriage rides and plenty of sweet treats.

Start Date: 20 November 2026
Open After Christmas: The market looks to be open until the 3rd January 2027 so you can visit after Christmas too.
Snow Factor: Bruges can have snow but it’s not guaranteed. However, the city’s charming setting more than makes up for it.
Things To Do: Head to Bruges Museum to enjoy the Chocolate-Making Workshop.
Frugal Mum Tip: Bruges is small enough to explore on foot so skip the taxis and enjoy a leisurely stroll through the market. Also, consider visiting one of the city’s free museums or attractions.

👉 Click here to check out Bruges Christmas Market Holidays on TUI.
👉 Click here to check out hotels near Bruges Christmas Market.

9. Tallinn, Estonia: Enchanting and Budget-Friendly

Tallinn’s Christmas market is set in the medieval Town Hall Square, making it feel like a scene from a fairy tale. The market is one of the best budget-friendly options and the setting is ideal for families looking for a more relaxed Christmas experience with the kids.

Start Date: 20 November 2026
Open After Christmas: This year the market will be running until 6th January 2027.
Snow Factor: Tallinn is quite likely to have snow in December, adding to the market’s magical atmosphere.
Things To Do: Leave Tallinn’s Christmas lights for a magical forest experience – meet sled dogs and enjoy a campfire, hot drink and local treats.
Frugal Mum Tip: Take advantage of Tallinn’s free walking tours to explore the city without spending extra. The local cuisine is also affordable, so you can treat the family to some hearty Estonian dishes without breaking the bank.

👉 Click here to check out Tallinn Christmas Market Packages on Jet2holidays.
👉 Click here to check out hotels near Tallinn’s Christmas Market.

10. Rovaniemi, Finland: Santa’s Hometown

It’s not technically a market but for the ultimate Christmas experience take your kids to Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus. Santa Claus Village is open year-round but it’s particularly special during the Christmas season. Kids can meet Santa, cross the Arctic Circle and enjoy the snowy wonderland. We had such an incredible time – check out my 3 Day Rovaniemi Itinerary for more info.

Start Date: Santa Claus Village is open year-round.
Open After Christmas: Open every day, including Christmas Day and beyond.
Snow Factor: Almost guaranteed to have snow, making it a true winter wonderland.
Things To Do: There are so many amazing experiences to be had – enjoy a husky ride, have a go at snowmobiling or play in the snow at Lapland Winter Park. My article on the best things to do in Rovaniemi with kids has loads of ideas.
Frugal Mum Tip: Rovaniemi package holidays can be pricey so book your accommodation well in advance and consider doing a DIY Lapland trip to cut costs.

👉 Click here to check out TUI Lapland Package Holidays.
👉 Click here to check out hotels in Rovaniemi.

Final thoughts – making the most of your family Christmas Market trip

Europe hosts some of the best Christmas markets for fun with the kids so, wherever you end up, I hope you create memories that last a lifetime. To make the most of your trip, plan ahead by choosing markets that offer plenty of family-friendly activities, have a good chance of snow (if that’s what you’re after) and align with your budget. You can view deals for even more Christmas Market Destinations on the Jet2holidays website.

So bundle up, grab some hot chocolate and get ready to make some magical memories at Europe’s best Christmas markets for kids! If you fancy a Lapland getaway instead, make sure you check out my Lapland guides – we absolutely loved it! Or, if you’re still undecided on where to go, check out my article on the 10 best UK Christmas Markets to visit with kids for some great options closer to home. Have a great time! 😊