The best Christmas markets taking place around the world in 2024
There’s nothing quite like a festive market to bring out the Christmas spirit in people.
While these events can be traced back to Vienna – the city’s first recorded December market was in 1298 – the tradition has spread across the world over the centuries.
From Germany and Switzerland to Singapore and New York, it’s difficult to find a coveted destination that doesn’t hold an impressive annual market. In fact, some have grown so popular that they’ve become tourist attractions in their own right.
Here’s CNN Travel’s rundown of some of the top Christmas markets taking place around the world this year:
With reindeer rides, a giant Ferris wheel and a classic Nativity scene, Vienna’s magical spectacle encapsulates the festive spirit fantastically.
Although there are around 20 Christmas markets in the Austrian capital from which to choose, Wiener Christkindlmarkt (or Rathausplatz) is one of its oldest and most traditional events.
The event, also known as Viennese Dream Christmas Market, features a 110-square-meter children’s ice rink and is held in front of City Hall. The famous Tree of Hearts, a giant maple tree decked out with hundreds of glittering hearts, is a favorite with visitors and a great photo opportunity.
