Top 5 European Christmas Markets For Children

*This is a collaborative post.

Come December, cities across Europe will be brightened by markets selling Christmas decorations, toys and an array of festive fare. This centuries-old tradition spans countries across the continent and is a favourite way for residents and visitors to get into the spirit of the season. Discover which markets are most entertaining for children and should top your family Christmas city breaks list.

1. Vienna, Austria

Austria’s sprawling and stately capital has a reputation as the best destination for Christmas markets and it’s easy to see why. The entire capital is covered with separate collections of stalls so you can hop from site to site, each time discovering something new. The larger sites have thrilling rides too including giant wheels and painted carousels, all suitable for children.

Don’t leave without trying knöpfle, egg noodles traditionally served with a meat sauce, and the moreish krapfen – perfectly formed sugared doughnuts filled with a sweet jam.

2. Krakow, Poland

If you’re strapped for time, look at Krakow holidays for this Christmas. Just two hours from the UK’s major airports with well-priced flights offered by many airlines, this intimate Polish city is easily explored in a day or two and its festive markets rival those of the capital, Warsaw. 

Set in one of the largest medieval squares in Europe, this is one of the most spacious markets anywhere so you can wander the stalls at your leisure without feeling crowded or having to queue. Children will love the handmade wooden toys displayed in the Cloth Hall and the lightly spiced sausages sold on every corner.

3. Metz, France

Crowned by a Christmas pyramid filled with hand-crafted gifts, the market in Metz is the best in France. The illuminations are spectacular, especially the Trail of Lanterns which features animated trees. Younger children will love riding the musical merry-go-round and sampling the freshly made gingerbread that’s fashioned into tiny iced houses and adorable gingerbread men.

Ride the City Skyliner as the sun sets to see Metz spread out beneath you and watch as the city begins to glitter with its vibrant festive lights.

4. Nuremberg, Germany

One of the oldest and most famous in the world, Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt is a winter wonderland that will enthral adults and kids alike. 

Sweet treats are abundant here including the local Spekulatius almond cookies with their enticing subtle flavour and the bratwurst which made the city famous. As you wander the stalls, you’ll be regaled by live music performances including choruses of Christmas carols and classical orchestral shows, and costumed actors bringing local festive folklore to life.

5. Copenhagen, Denmark

The Tivoli Gardens in Denmark’s capital, Copenhagen, are so extraordinary that they inspired Walt Disney and fairytale author Hans Christian Andersen. In the weeks leading up to the 25^th of December, they become even more magical, illuminated by dazzling daily light shows with an outdoor rink at the centre for skating under the stars.

The vintage amusement rides and warming Nordic treats will give you all an uplifting feeling of hygge, calming children who might be overexcited at the thought of a Santa Claus’ visit.