2025’s Hottest New Christmas Markets in Europe – According to Travel Experts
Global Work & Travel
(Reproduced with kind permission of Sophie Rhone of Digital PR Lab and report research by Jessie Chambers of Global Work & Travel)
From rooftop mulled wine to Northern Lights pop-ups, these festive markets are shaking up the classic winter break
As festive travel planning kicks off, Global Work & Travel reveals the most exciting new and emerging Christmas markets across Europe – proving winter city breaks don’t have to be traditional to be magical.
According to Jessie Chambers, travel expert at Global Work & Travel:
“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.”
Here are the top new Christmas markets to put on your list for 2025:
Amsterdam Light & Winter Market (Netherlands)
New for 2025
A first-of-its-kind fusion between Amsterdam’s Light Festival and a festive market. Think floating food stalls, indie designers, glowing canals, and candlelit boat rides through the Jordaan. Perfect for travellers wanting a festive vibe without the clichés.
Reykjavík Northern Lights Market (Iceland)
Launching this winter
Set just outside Reykjavík near the Grotta Lighthouse, this atmospheric pop-up is a chance to shop local crafts under the aurora borealis (weather permitting). Expect Icelandic street food, geothermal foot baths, live folklore storytelling and fire-lit seating areas.
Berlin Vegan Christmas Market (Germany)
Now in its second year
Plant-based meets party season at Fehrbelliner Platz. This fully vegan market has over 60 stalls serving up meat-free festive eats, mulled wine, and ethical gifts – with DJs and sustainable workshops on rotation. A must-visit for eco-conscious travellers.
Tallinn Rooftop Market (Estonia)
Returning for 2025
Located in Tallinn’s edgy Telliskivi district, this rooftop Christmas market swaps cobbles for city views and wooden huts for design-led pods. With local DJs, sauna pop-ups, and heated igloos serving Nordic drinks – it’s fast becoming one of Europe’s coolest winter hangouts.
Why It Matters:
Younger travellers are ditching tourist-heavy hotspots and looking for experiences that feel more real – creative local vendors, walkable neighbourhoods, and authentic food scenes. These four picks balance the festive magic with a twist of something unexpected.
About Global Work & Travel:
Global Work & Travel is one of the world’s leading travel brands for working holidays, gap years, and cultural exchange adventures. With flexible travel packages and on-the-ground support, they help thousands of travellers each year explore the world in a more meaningful way.
