As festive travel planning begins, Global Work & Travel, a working holiday & travel provider, has revealed the most exciting new and emerging Christmas markets across Europe.
*All details correct at time of publish (14 October 2025)
Jessie Chambers from Global Work & Travel said:
“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.
“There’s a new generation of travellers who see Christmas markets as social events, not just sightseeing,” Jessie says. “It’s about connection, atmosphere, and finding hidden gems that haven’t been over-posted yet.”
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. Best time to visit: late November to early January.
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. Best time to visit: December to January.
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. Best time to visit: late November to December.
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. Best time to visit: early December to January.
Budapest Eco Market at Városliget, Hungary
A new eco-friendly spin-off near City Park featuring 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. Best time to visit: mid-November to early January.
Edinburgh Street of Light Market, Scotland, UK
Expanding for 2025 with live choir performances, artisan stalls, and light projections along George Street. Searches for “Edinburgh Christmas Market” are up 41% since 2023, according to Global Work & Travel. Best time to visit: mid-November to early January.
Manchester Winter Island, England, UK
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. Best time to visit: mid-November to 31 December.
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. Best time to visit: late November to December.
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. Best time to visit: late November to 23 December.
For more information, visit Global Work & Travel.
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