It’s that time of the year again. Christmas lights, music, food and cheer. If you are still reluctant about it all, here are some of the best Christmas markets in our vicinity – Europe – to get you in the mood. You still have time for a visit.

Christmas market in Nuremberg

They say Germany is king of the Christmas markets. Well, then the one in Nuremberg must be among the best there.

Opened from the 1st of December and you have all the way till 24th of December to check more than 180 market stands in the Old town.

You’ll definitely be tempted by all the food displayed and be sure to have some (like Nuremberg bratwurst, or their famous sweet and spicy gingerbread that will go nicely with a glass of mulled wine).

And kids will have a special time there too, at their very own Children’s Christmas Market on Hans-Sachs-Platz, with its special programs and a nostalgic two-tiered merry-go-round, a mini Ferris wheel and a steam railway.

Christmas market in Copenhagen

It is said that Copenhagen is a Christmas city, perhaps due to Greenland (part of Denmark) being the home of the ‘Julemand’ (Santa), but also because the Danes really know how to do it.

Open from the 18th of November till 31st of December – Tivoli gardens in the center of Danish capital turn into a wonderland for all with snow, lights, candy and cakes, roller coasters and pixies.

With more than 50 stalls, 28 Christmas rides and Santa Claus in his living room at the Peacock Theatre it is a true feast for all the Christmas enthusiasts. While you enjoy all the wonders around you, don’t leave without having some funnel cake and glogg.

Christmas market in Barcelona

Christmas doesn’t need to be all cold and snowy, right. If you are in the mood for warmer climate give Barcelona and its famous markets a go.

Doors to this typically Spanish market opened on the 24th of November and will close on 23rd of December.

At the Fira de Santa Llúcia Christmas Market there are 123 stalls within the sector of nativity scenes and figures, 60 in the craft area called Artesania where you can buy hand-made and artisan products such as jewellery, toys, leather goods and ornaments.

Christmas market in Vienna

The capital of Austria certainly has many beautiful markets to offer.

It seems that from the mid November all the way up to Christmas the whole city becomes one giant magical holiday wonderland.

You must definitely check the square in front of the Town hall that truly transforms into a shining fairytale land, with over 150 stands offering perfect gifts, tree decorations, sweets and warming drinks (like the famous Jaeger tea).

But there’s more as it seems that every corner of this beautiful city hides different wonders. While there be sure to also check the markets in front of Schönbrunn Palace, on Karlsplatz (especially with kids) or Christmas village on Maria-Theresien-Platz…

Christmas market in Lille

Christmas with a French twist as the whole city sparkles and glows with joie de vivre.

Open from 17th of November till the 30th of December Place Rihour turns into a winter fairytale with more than 90 chalets full of nativity figurines, Christmas decorations and festive food like gingerbread and mulled wine.

If you take your time you’ll find regional specialties as well as arts and crafts from Russia, Poland, and Québec and on the Grand Place the Big Wheel with its height of 50 meters will let you witness the majestic views of the whole city.

But you need not go too far to experience the magic of Christmas as our favorite Christmas market is in Ljubljana.