Christmas markets are one of my favourite things about living in Luxembourg. Every year, I look forward to visiting the Christmas markets in Luxembourg City with friends and family, but I also love exploring the beautiful festive destinations just across the border in Germany, France and the Netherlands.
And living in Luxembourg means we’re incredibly lucky. Within a relatively short distance, we have access to some of Europe’s most beautiful Christmas markets, from traditional German towns along the Moselle to the festive streets of Alsace.
Over the years, I’ve visited Christmas markets across Luxembourg, France, Germany and the Netherlands. Some are big, bustling affairs, while others are much smaller and more traditional. I love both, although there are a few that I find myself returning to again and again.
I’ve put together a collection of my favourites, along with a few more destinations worth considering, whether you’re looking for an afternoon out, a festive day trip or an excuse for a weekend away.
My Three Favourite Christmas Markets
Strasbourg, France
Strasbourg is one of my absolute favourite places at Christmas. The city really goes all out, and I love that the markets aren’t concentrated in one square. You can spend hours wandering through the streets, discovering different markets, stopping for something to eat and admiring the decorations.
One thing I particularly loved on previous visits was the guest-country village. Each year, another country would be invited to showcase its Christmas traditions, food and culture. I thought this was such a wonderful idea, and it made the market feel even more special. I haven’t been recently, and I haven’t been able to confirm whether it’s happening in 2026, but I really hope they bring it back.
My advice is to give yourself plenty of time. Strasbourg is too beautiful to rush through, especially at Christmas. And if you can stay overnight, even better. There’s something wonderful about walking through the city once all the Christmas lights are on.
When: 27 November – 24 December 2026
Where: Throughout Strasbourg’s historic centre, including Place Broglie, Place Kléber and the Cathedral area
Official website
Luxembourg City, Luxembourg
Luxembourg City’s Christmas markets will always be special to me because Luxembourg is home. Every year, I look forward to going into the city with friends and family, wandering around the markets, eating far too much and making new memories together. It’s become one of my favourite Christmas traditions.
And I have to talk about the salmon sandwiches. If you’ve never tried one, you’re missing out! The salmon is roasted over an open fire and served warm in bread, and it is absolutely delicious. I look forward to these every single year.
Of course, there’s plenty more to eat, from gromperekichelcher and raclette to roasted almonds and all the usual Christmas treats. Between the food, the lights and the festive atmosphere, I love that we have all of this right on our doorstep.
If you’re visiting Luxembourg for the holidays, don’t miss the markets. And if you’re looking for more ideas while you’re here, I’ve put together a Luxembourg Guide where I share more of my favourite places to eat, shop and explore, along with plenty of ideas for making the most of your time here.
When: 20 November 2026 – 3 January 2027
Where: Luxembourg City centre, including Place d’Armes and Place de la Constitution
Official website
Bernkastel-Kues, Germany
I absolutely love Bernkastel-Kues at Christmas. It’s a beautiful little town along the Moselle, with half-timbered houses, narrow streets and a market that fits perfectly into its historic centre.
What makes this one so special for me is the town itself. It’s not about having the biggest market or the most attractions. It’s about wandering through those beautiful streets, enjoying the decorations and taking your time.
If you’ve never been to Bernkastel-Kues, I’d really encourage you to go. It’s also in one of Germany’s lovely wine regions, so you could easily turn a visit into a weekend exploring the Moselle.
When: 20 November – 20 December 2026
Where: Bernkastel-Kues historic centre
Official website
Christmas Markets in Luxembourg
Beyond Luxembourg City, there are several lovely local markets worth visiting. Some are traditional Christmas markets, while others have their own particular character.
Differdange
Differdange has one of Luxembourg’s longest-running Christmas markets, and I think there’s something really nice about visiting the smaller local markets as well as the big ones.
You don’t need to plan a whole day around it. Head into the town centre, wander through the stalls, pick up something warm to eat and enjoy a little Christmas atmosphere without the crowds of the larger markets.
Where: Place du Marché, Differdange
2026 dates: Check the municipality’s current Christmas programme
Website
Dudelange
Dudelange is one I’d definitely recommend, especially for its medieval Christmas market. I’ve been, and I really love how different it feels from a traditional Christmas market.
The medieval setting gives the whole experience a slightly magical atmosphere, and it’s fun to explore something a little different from the usual wooden chalets.
Dudelange also has its more traditional Christmas festivities, so it’s worth checking the program before you go to make sure you catch the market you’re most interested in.
When: Winter market 28 November – 20 December; traditional and medieval markets 11–20 December 2026
Where: Place Am Duerf, Place de l’Hôtel de Ville and Place Kinnen
Website
Esch-sur-Alzette
Esch-sur-Alzette is another market I’ve visited, and it’s a good reminder that you don’t have to travel far to enjoy a little Christmas atmosphere.
The market takes place right in the town centre, so you can easily combine it with shopping or dinner. I like having these smaller markets close to home, particularly on evenings when I want to do something festive without making a big outing of it.
Where: Place de l’Hôtel de Ville, Esch-sur-Alzette
2026 dates: Check the current municipal programme
Website
More Luxembourg Christmas Markets to Discover
There are so many smaller Christmas markets around Luxembourg, and some of them only take place for a weekend or two. I always think they’re worth keeping an eye on, especially if you enjoy discovering different parts of the country.
- Echternach: With its beautiful historic centre, this is one I’d look out for during the Christmas season.
- Remich: Christmas festivities along the Moselle, often with activities beyond the traditional market.
- Mondorf-les-Bains: A nice excuse to visit the town, especially if you want to combine it with a little relaxation.
- Clervaux: A beautiful destination in northern Luxembourg, particularly if you want to make a day of exploring the area.
- Hesperange: Another local market worth checking as the Christmas programme is announced.
Smaller markets can have limited opening dates, so make sure you check the individual programmes before heading out.
Christmas Markets in Germany
Germany really knows how to do Christmas markets. The traditional wooden stalls, beautiful old town squares, handmade decorations and seasonal food are all part of the experience.
Trier
Trier is probably one of the easiest Christmas markets to visit from Luxembourg, and I’ve been several times over the years.
The market is right in the historic centre, with stalls around the Hauptmarkt and cathedral. I particularly like that you can make a proper afternoon of it, doing a little Christmas shopping, wandering through the old town and stopping for something to eat.
It’s close enough that you don’t need to plan too much in advance, which makes it a great option when you suddenly feel like getting into the Christmas spirit.
When: 20 November – 22 December 2026; closed 22 November
Where: Hauptmarkt and Domfreihof
Official website
Aachen
It’s been quite a few years since I visited Aachen, but I still remember how impressed I was by the things being sold at the Christmas market. There were beautiful handmade decorations, glass ornaments and pottery. It felt much more like an artisan market than some of the others I’ve visited.
My tip: we combined the Christmas market with a visit to Carolus Thermen, Aachen’s thermal baths. Spending a few hours relaxing in the warm pools and saunas before heading into the city for the Christmas market was such a good combination. If you have time, I’d absolutely recommend doing both.
When: 20 November – 23 December 2026
Where: Around Aachen Town Hall and the Cathedral
Official website
Stuttgart
Stuttgart is one of the larger German Christmas markets I’ve visited, and if you love a big, traditional Christmas market, this is one to consider.
The market stretches across several squares, so there’s plenty to explore. One thing to look out for is the decoration on the roofs of the stalls. Some are incredibly elaborate, and it’s one of the things that makes Stuttgart’s market a little different.
I’d make a weekend of this one, especially if you want to combine the Christmas markets with shopping and exploring the city.
When: 25 November – 23 December 2026
Where: Stuttgart city centre
Website
Monschau
I have such lovely memories of visiting Monschau at Christmas, and I’m actually hoping to go back again this year.
The town is absolutely beautiful, with narrow streets, half-timbered houses and a Christmas market that feels perfectly at home in its historic centre. It’s smaller than some of the big German markets, but that’s part of its appeal.
I also remember having a particularly delicious Flammkuchen there. Funny how certain meals stay with you, but that one definitely did!
If you haven’t visited Monschau, I’d put it on your Christmas list. I’m already looking forward to going back.
When: 27 November – 20 December 2026, on selected days
Where: Monschau old town
Website
Cologne
Cologne is a good choice if you want to spend a whole day exploring Christmas markets rather than visiting just one.
There are several markets across the city, each with its own theme and atmosphere. The one beside the cathedral is particularly impressive, but it’s worth looking at the others before you go so you can decide which ones interest you most.
I’d combine a visit with some Christmas shopping and a good meal. There’s more than enough to keep you busy for a full day or even a weekend.
When: Dates vary by market; several open from mid-November 2026
Where: Various locations, including the Cathedral and Old Town
Website
Christmas Markets in France
Metz
I’ve been to the Christmas markets in Metz quite a few times over the years, partly because it’s so close to Luxembourg, but also because I think it’s a particularly good one for families.
The markets are spread across several squares, and there are usually some really fun rides and attractions for children. It’s nice to be able to wander from one area to another rather than staying in the same place all afternoon.
Metz is also a great shopping city, so I like the idea of combining the markets with a little Christmas shopping. You can easily make a full day of it without having to travel very far.
When: 20 November – 30 December 2026
Where: Several squares throughout Metz city centre
Website
Nancy
Nancy does Christmas a little differently because so much of the celebration revolves around Saint Nicholas, which is a big tradition in this part of France.
I’ve visited Nancy at Christmas, and I think it’s worth going for the city itself as much as the festive events. Place Stanislas is always beautiful, and the Christmas decorations make it even more gorgeous.
If you haven’t spent much time in Nancy, I’d suggest allowing a few hours to explore beyond the markets. It’s a really lovely city and easy to visit from Luxembourg.
When: The 2026 Saint Nicholas festivities begin in November and continue into early January
Where: Various locations throughout Nancy
Website
Colmar
I’ve also been to Colmar at Christmas, and it’s hard to imagine a town that could look more festive. The colourful half-timbered houses, little canals and beautifully decorated streets are already gorgeous, but at Christmas the whole place is even more charming.
What I like is that the markets are spread throughout the old town, so you’re constantly discovering another little square or beautifully decorated street.
If you’re planning a Christmas weekend in Alsace, Colmar is definitely worth including. You could even combine it with Strasbourg or some of the smaller villages nearby, although I’d leave enough time to enjoy each place rather than trying to squeeze everything into one day.
When: 23 November – 29 December 2026
Where: Six markets throughout Colmar’s historic centre
Website
Christmas Markets in the Netherlands
Valkenburg
Valkenburg is probably one of the most unusual Christmas markets I’ve visited, simply because part of the experience takes place underground!
The town is famous for its Christmas markets inside the caves, where you wander through passages filled with decorations, stalls and festive displays. It’s a completely different experience from the traditional outdoor markets, and that’s what makes it so memorable.
There’s also plenty happening above ground, so it’s worth allowing time to explore the town as well.
If you’re looking for something different this Christmas, especially with children, Valkenburg is a fun one to consider.
When: Christmas Town celebrations run from November into early January; individual cave markets have their own dates
Where: Valkenburg town centre and its famous caves
Official website
Maastricht, Netherlands
Maastricht is one of my favourite cities in the Netherlands, and I’ve visited many times. I love the beautiful streets, independent shops, cafés and restaurants, so it’s somewhere I’d happily visit at any time of year.
At Christmas, the city gets even more festive with Magical Maastricht, centred around Vrijthof square. There’s a Christmas market, festive food and seasonal attractions, but I wouldn’t limit a visit to just the market. Maastricht is such a lovely city to wander around, and the shopping is really good, especially if you’re looking for Christmas gifts.
I’d actually recommend making a weekend of it. Spend the day exploring the shops and cafés, enjoy the Christmas atmosphere and then head out for a really good dinner. Maastricht has some fantastic restaurants, and I’ve had some particularly memorable meals there.
If you’re planning a visit, have a look at my Maastricht Travel Guide, where I’ve shared my favourite places to stay, eat and explore. There are some wonderful hotels and restaurants that are worth discovering, whether you’re visiting at Christmas or any other time of year.
When: Check the official 2026 Magical Maastricht programme for dates and opening hours.
Where: Vrijthof square, Maastricht
Official website
A Few More Christmas Market Destinations for a Weekend Away
If you’re happy to travel a little further, there are several other European cities worth considering for a festive getaway.
Vienna, Austria
Vienna is a city I’d happily return to, and Christmas would be a wonderful excuse. With markets in front of the beautiful Rathaus and around some of the city’s palaces, there’s plenty to explore.
I’d plan a long weekend so there’s time for more than just the markets. Vienna has fantastic cafés, museums, shopping and restaurants, and I think the Christmas festivities would make an already beautiful city even more special.
Salzburg, Austria
If you’re dreaming of a traditional Austrian Christmas, Salzburg is another destination to look at.
The main Christmas market takes place around the cathedral and Residenzplatz, right in the historic centre. With the beautiful architecture and mountains surrounding the city, it’s easy to see why Salzburg is such a popular Christmas destination.
This is one I’d save for a proper weekend away rather than trying to rush through it.
Paris, France
Paris is always a good idea, and I think December is a particularly fun time to visit if you love shopping, beautiful decorations and a little festive atmosphere.
There are Christmas markets around the city, but I wouldn’t necessarily plan a trip to Paris just for those. I’d be more interested in wandering through the beautifully decorated streets, admiring the department store windows, stopping at cafés and doing some Christmas shopping.
And if you love finding something a little different, why not combine your visit with some vintage shopping? I’ve put together a guide to vintage shopping in Paris with places worth exploring while you’re there.
A Few Tips Before You Go
A few things I’ve learned after visiting quite a few Christmas markets over the years:
Don’t try to do too much. I think Christmas markets are much more enjoyable when you have time to wander, eat something delicious and enjoy being there rather than rushing from one place to the next.
Go during the week if you can. Some of the larger markets, especially Strasbourg, can get incredibly busy on December weekends.
Check the closing dates. Not every market stays open until Christmas, and some finish well before the holidays.
Think about parking before you leave. For bigger cities, I often prefer the train or park-and-ride options rather than dealing with city-centre traffic.
Bring a little cash. Card payments are becoming more common, but it’s still useful to have some cash for smaller stalls.
One Last Thought
I love discovering new Christmas markets, but I also love going back to the same places every year.
For me, Christmas wouldn’t feel quite the same without a visit to Luxembourg City’s markets with friends and family, a salmon sandwich (or two!) and all those little traditions that make the season special.
And hopefully this year I’ll make it back to Monschau, too. I still remember that Flammkuchen!
