Looking for a unique place to spend the holidays? For the first time in the history of the "Best Christmas Markets in Europe" competition, Poland has emerged victorious. The Gdańsk market received a record-breaking 90,000 votes , beating out competitors from across the continent. This historic achievement – a staggering 753,000 people from around the world cast their votes in this year's poll. Do you know what makes European Christmas markets different? They're much more than just shopping destinations. They're true centers of winter magic, where tradition meets modernity. This year's Christmas markets promise to be even more diverse than ever before. In this guide, I'll show you why Gdańsk won the hearts of voters from around the world. You'll also learn what attractions await you in other Polish and European cities. You'll receive practical advice to help you plan an unforgettable holiday trip.
The most beautiful Christmas markets in Poland
Polish Christmas markets are gaining recognition across Europe. Their unique atmosphere attracts tourists from across the continent. Here are the most beautiful places worth visiting during this year's holiday season.
Gdańsk – the winner of the European ranking
The Gdańsk Christmas Market has officially been named the best in Europe! This is a historic achievement – for the first time, a Polish market took first place, receiving a staggering 92,283 votes. Located at Targ Węglowy (Coal Market) between the Golden and Upland Gates, it offers 200 stalls and 20 different cuisines from around the world.
At the most beautiful Christmas market, fairytale decorations await you: the Angel Wheel, the Enchanted Carriage perfect for souvenir photos, giant baubles, and the romantic Mistletoe Harbor for lovers. Children will love the sleigh flight simulator, the talking Lutsk the Moose, and the Venetian carousel. The market will be open until December 23rd, and From December 1st, the entire city will be illuminated with Christmas illuminations in 15 districts.
Wrocław – a fairy-tale atmosphere and shoe-shaped mugs 
The Wrocław Christmas Market is famous for its unique boot-shaped mugs, introduced in 2009. These unusual mugs have become a real collector's item! Some pieces from previous years fetch several hundred złoty at auction, and complete collections are valued at up to 4,500 złoty. In Wrocław's Market Square, you'll find around 200 vendors selling holiday treats, mulled wine, gifts, and decorations. Don't miss the Christmas tree, which will be lit up in the Market Square.
Krakow – the tradition of nativity scenes and carols
For over 30 years, the Krakow Christmas Market has been celebrating the commercial traditions of the Main Market Square. At 105 retail and food stalls, merchants from Poland, Lithuania, Ukraine, Slovakia, and Hungary offer regional products, pastries, meats, cheeses, and handicrafts made of linen, leather, and wool. Krakow is distinguished by its nativity scene tradition, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Be sure to listen to the Christmas carol concerts at St. Mary's Basilica – an unforgettable musical experience.
Poznań – ice sculpture festival and local flavors
Poznań's Bethlehem offers a unique attraction – the Poznań Ice Festival, or International Ice Sculpture Festival. In 2024, 24 competitors from 12 countries participated, including sculptors from the Philippines, Japan, Canada, and the USA [7]. The festival includes three spectacular competitions: the Small Sculpture Competition, Speed Ice Carving, and the Main Competition, where international teams create stunning works from over a dozen tons of ice. The Poznań Christmas Market has already achieved success – it took 6th place in 2019 and 3rd place in 2020 in the European Best Christmas Market competition. Its location on the Poznań International Fair grounds ensures convenient access and a wide range of attractions.
Warsaw – the festive atmosphere of the Old Town
The Warsaw Christmas Market is located in the heart of the capital – at Piotr Biegański's Międzymurze (Intermurze) at Castle Square. From November 21, 2025, to January 6, 2026, enjoy festive stalls brimming with handicrafts, artistic products, and culinary delights. The market is open daily from 12:00 PM to 9:30 PM, and admission is free. An additional attraction is the ice rink around the Mermaid Statue in the Old Town, where you can skate in a romantic, festive setting. The Międzymurze space, surrounded by fragrant Christmas trees and the aroma of mulled wine, creates the perfect holiday atmosphere.
European Christmas Markets You Must See
Christmas markets in Poland are just the beginning of your holiday adventure! European capitals offer markets that delight with their uniqueness and rich tradition. Each location showcases the magic of the holidays in its own cultural setting, offering you a unique experience.
Berlin – the capital of winter attractions
The German capital will surprise you with its abundance of Christmas markets – over 60 different markets are held throughout the city. The largest are at Alexanderplatz and Gendarmenmarkt. The latter, open from November 25th to December 31st, 2025, is renowned for its refined atmosphere and carefully curated craft stalls. Besides traditional delicacies like roasted almonds, mulled wine, and gingerbread, Berlin offers modern interpretations of Christmas flavors. Be sure to visit the market in the Botanical Garden, where fairytale illuminations create an incredible atmosphere.
Vienna – imperial splendor at every turn
Vienna's Christmas markets captivate with their elegance, especially the one in front of Schönbrunn Palace. Tradition meets splendor here, creating an unforgettable experience. The Wiener Christkindlmarkt on Town Hall Square welcomes you with a several-meter-high archway lined with candles. A special tree decorated with hearts awaits lovers, and a 12-meter-long carousel is available for children. The market at Belvedere Palace will enchant you with its Baroque setting and unique park. All Viennese markets offer high-quality handicrafts, Christmas decorations, and local delicacies worth trying.
Prague – a winter fairy tale in the heart of Europe
During the holiday season, the Czech capital transforms into a true winter fairytale. The largest market, located in Old Town Square, runs from early December until January 6th. At its center, stands an impressive Christmas tree illuminated by thousands of lights. At the stalls, you'll find handmade decorations, jewelry, and local specialties. Be sure to try trdelník – a traditional fire-baked pastry coated in sugar and cinnamon. Smaller but equally charming markets can be found on Wenceslas Square and in front of Prague Castle.
Tallinn – Medieval Magic and a Record-Breaking Christmas Tree
The Estonian Christmas market was named the best in Europe in the prestigious European Best Destinations ranking in 2019. Its uniqueness lies in the medieval setting of the UNESCO-listed Old Town. A majestic Christmas tree stands at its center – according to city documents, the first public Christmas tree in Europe was erected here in 1441! The Tallinn Christmas market runs from December 1st to January 7th, offering over 60 stalls selling local products. From handmade decorations to Estonian sweets, you'll find authentic souvenirs here.
London - a winter amusement park for the whole family
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is a veritable festival of winter attractions. The 2025/2026 season will run from November 14th to January 1st. Here, you'll find the UK's largest outdoor ice rink, a massive 70-meter observation wheel, and numerous carousels. The Magical Ice Kingdom, with over 500 tons of ice and snow, is a popular attraction. Children love meeting Santa, riding the ice slide, and the Zippos Christmas Circus, featuring an international cast of performers. Winter Wonderland attracts 2-3 million visitors per season.
How to plan the perfect trip to Christmas markets? 
Planning a visit to the Christmas markets? Proper preparation will ensure maximum enjoyment of your trip and help avoid unpleasant surprises. Find out what to look for to fully enjoy the holiday atmosphere.
When is the best time to go to the fair?
Most Christmas markets open in the second half of November and run until the end of December, though some extend their season even into early January. The Warsaw market will be open from November 21, 2025, to January 6, 2026, and the Wrocław one from November 21, 2025, to January 7, 2026, excluding Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day. Want to avoid the crowds? Plan your visit on weekdays—weekends attract the largest crowds. Then, you can browse all the stalls and enjoy regional delicacies.
What to pack in your bag for the fair?
First and foremost, bring a spacious cotton bag – it will prove invaluable when shopping for souvenirs and gifts. It will comfortably carry all the treasures you find at the stalls. Remember to dress warmly! A hat, scarf, and gloves are essential for winter walks. Small cash will also be useful, as not all stalls accept cards.
How to find good accommodation during the holiday season?
Determine your accommodation needs well in advance. The best strategy is to book at least 2-3 months before your planned visit. Look for a place in the city center or with good transport links to the Christmas market. The organizers of the Christmas market in Wrocław offer special discounts for the " Christmas Market " slogan. Alternatively, consider day trips organized by travel agencies – a great solution if you want to see several Christmas markets without the hassle of accommodation.
How to get to European fairs?
You can conveniently reach markets in Europe with FlixBus, which offers connections to all popular market cities. Buy your plane tickets 2-3 months in advance, especially if you're choosing a budget airline. Also consider trains or buses – especially for closer destinations, these modes of transport are often equally convenient and more economical.
What souvenirs to choose at the fair?
Unique souvenirs await you at the markets. Handmade baubles cost from 8 to 290 PLN, and Christmas mugs have become true collector's items. Designer nutcrackers (38-55 PLN), wooden nativity scenes (35-195 PLN), and warm alpaca wool socks (20-65 PLN) are popular. At the Wrocław market, you can buy a bauble with the Wrocław coat of arms for 98 PLN or a kitchen board with a Town Hall motif for 20 PLN. Among the culinary delights, be sure to try traditional gingerbread and local specialties – these are flavors that will linger in your memory for a long time. When choosing souvenirs, remember that they are an investment in memories. Carefully examine the products on offer and choose those that best reflect the character of the place you're visiting.
How to plan the perfect trip to the Christmas markets?
Gdańsk's historic success demonstrates that Polish Christmas markets rival the best in Europe. Each destination—whether Wrocław with its collectible mugs, Krakow with its UNESCO-listed nativity scenes, or Poznań with its ice sculpture festival—offers a unique experience.
European markets also delight with their diversity. Berlin's markets delight with their modernity, Viennese with the elegance of imperial splendor, Prague with its fairytale scenery, and Tallinn with its medieval atmosphere. London's Winter Wonderland offers attractions for the entire family. Regardless of your choice, a true feast for the senses awaits. When planning your Christmas trip, remember a few practical things:
- Take a cotton bag - it will prove invaluable when shopping for souvenirs and gifts
- Plan your visits on weekdays - you will avoid the biggest weekend crowds
- Book your accommodation in advance - even 2-3 months in advance, especially during the holiday season
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Prepare cash in small denominations - not all stands accept payment cards
Christmas markets are much more than just places of commerce. They are spaces where tradition meets modernity, where each region showcases its unique cultural heritage. The magical atmosphere allows you to experience the true spirit of the holidays and create unforgettable memories. So take advantage of this unique opportunity and choose the market that best suits your expectations. Will you choose the triumphant Gdańsk, charming Wrocław, or perhaps embark on a European adventure? Plan your holiday trip today and enjoy the magic of the upcoming holidays to the fullest!