2025’s Hottest New Christmas Markets in Europe – According to Travel Experts
From rooftop mulled wine to Northern Lights pop-ups, these festive markets are shaking up the classic winter break.
As festive travel planning begins, Global Work & Travel, a working holiday & travel provider, reveals the most exciting new and emerging Christmas markets across Europe – proving that winter city breaks don’t have to be traditional to be magical.
According to Jessie Chambers from working holiday provider Global Work & Travel:
“We’re seeing a big shift in what young travellers want from their winter trips – it’s less about ticking off touristy Christmas markets, and more about finding something original, local, and TikTok-worthy. These new markets are blending food, music, culture and sustainability in ways that feel totally fresh.”
Here are our suggestions for the top new Christmas markets to visit in 2025
Amsterdam Light & Winter Market, Netherlands
A first-of-its-kind fusion of Amsterdam’s Light Festival and a floating Christmas market. Think glowing canals, indie designers, and candlelit boat rides through the Jordaan.
Late Nov – Early Jan
Reykjavík Northern Lights Market, Iceland
Set near the Grotta Lighthouse, this pop-up combines aurora spotting, local crafts, and geothermal foot baths. Expect Icelandic street food, storytelling and live music by the fire.
Dec – Jan
Berlin Vegan Christmas Market, Germany
Now in its second year at Fehrbelliner Platz, this market serves plant-based festive food, ethical gifts and sustainable workshops – with live DJs creating a club-meets-Christmas vibe.
Late Nov – Dec
Tallinn Rooftop Market, Estonia
Located in the creative Telliskivi district, this rooftop market swaps cobbles for skyline views, with design-led pods, sauna pop-ups and igloos serving Nordic cocktails.
Early Dec – Jan
Budapest Eco Market at Városliget, Hungary
A new eco-friendly spin-off near City Park. Expect upcycled decorations, local designers, and sustainable mulled wine stands. Google searches for “Budapest Christmas market” are up 28% year-on-year, according to Global Work & Travel’s analysis
Mid Nov – Early Jan
Edinburgh Street of Light Market, Scotland
Expanding for 2025 with live choir performances, artisan stalls, and projections along George Street. Searches for “Edinburgh Christmas Market” are up 41% since 2023, according to the working holiday provider Global Work & Travel.
Mid Nov – Early Jan
Manchester Winter Island, England
Manchester’s newest addition turns MediaCity’s waterfront into a winter island, complete with rooftop bars, festive street food, and digital art projections. Searches for “Manchester Christmas Market” have risen 33% in the last year, Global Work & Travel reports.
Mid Nov – 31 Dec
Leipzig Artisan Market, Germany
Often overshadowed by Dresden and Nuremberg, Leipzig’s alternative market is now trending thanks to TikTok coverage of its medieval woodcraft zone and candle-lit beer gardens.
Late Nov – Dec
Stuttgart Alternative Market, Germany
A lesser-known gem that’s gaining attention for its live jazz nights and zero-plastic policy. Popular with younger German travellers seeking a more local experience.
Late Nov – 23 Dec
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