What if we told you that two of the most enchanting Christmas destinations are just a train ride away from Paris? For over two decades, based on millions of travelers' votes, the site European Best Destinations (EBD) ranks the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe. Year after year, certain cities consistently top the list, making them the «best Christmas markets of all time » according to this new "All Stars" selection from European Best Destinations.
And the great news is that several of these gems are directly accessible by train from Paris. Pack your bags, we’re off for a weekend!
Geneva and Zurich, Swiss paradises of Christmas festivities
More thanA simple list, European Best Destinations highlights the heavyweights of Christmas magic: iconic markets that, year after year, attract millions of visitors thanks to their authentic charm, support for local artisans, and enchanting animations. Sparkling Ferris wheels, festive concerts, and mulled wine stands—everything you need for a dreamy Christmas experience. Among these magical destinations, Geneva and Zurich hold top spots in the rankings. True gems of the holiday season, these two Swiss cities stand out for their fairy-tale atmosphere and easy access via direct TGV from Paris!
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Located less than 4 hours by TGV from Gare de Lyon in Paris, Geneva has been named by the website European Best Destinations as the « best Christmas city break by Lake Geneva ». This year, the famous Bastions Christmas Market will run from November 13 to December 23, 2024.With its wooden chalets, regional artisans, and fairy-tale atmosphere filled with the scents of mulled wine and chestnuts, the city envelops us in a setting that would make Santa blush.
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Zurich has been given the lovely title of « the most magical Christmas market in Europe » with its charming Christmas village, Wienachtsdorf, located in Sechseläutenplatz. Beautifully decorated stalls, countless Christmas trees lining the path, a giant Christmas tree in the center of the village, an ocean of lights… Beyond the decorations, it’s really the warm atmosphere of this Christmas market that European Best Destinations highlights: « What makes Wienachtsdorf so special is also the contribution of the residents of Zurich. Despite its recent history, it has become a must-have tradition thanks to the involvement of the citizens, who have created a warm place to celebrate the Advent season together. This new space for sharing was exactly what Zurich needed: a c.Join a magical place where the community can come together and celebrate the spirit of Christmas. »
The most beautiful Christmas destinations in Europe
These two Swiss destinations are just a glimpse of the treasures revealed by European Best Destinations. In total, 15 cities across Europe have been awarded, including Vienna, Budapest, Manchester, and Gdansk. A French Christmas market, located just 3 hours by train from Paris, stands out as the best Christmas market in France: it's Montbéliard.
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Here is the complete ranking :
- Christmas Market at St. Stephen's Basilica in Budapest (Hungary): the most awarded
- Christmas Market in Zagreb (Croatia): the most magical Christmas ice rink in Europe
- Christmas Market in Gdansk (Poland): the best Christmas market in Europe 2024 in a fairytale setting
- Christmas Market in Craiova (Romania): the most beautiful and largest Christmas market in Europe
- Christmas Market in Vienna (Austria): the most refined festive experience in Europe
- Christmas Market in ...
- The Geneva (Switzerland) city break: the best Christmas getaway by Lake Geneva
- Christmas Market in Essen (Germany): the best sustainable Christmas market in Europe and the top one in Germany
- Christmas Market in Riga (Latvia): featuring the most beautiful Christmas lights in Europe
- Christmas Market in Prague (Czech Republic): the best in Europe for a luxurious yet accessible experience
- Christmas Market in Asti-Govone (Italy): the most romantic in Europe and the most delightful festive experience in Italy
- Christmas Market in Valkenburg (Netherlands): the best Christmas market in the Netherlands and the most magical parade in Europe
- Christmas Market in Montbéliard (France): the best Christmas market in France
- Christmas Market in Marbella (Spain): a luxurious Christmas celebration by the sea
- Christmas Market in Zurich (Switzerland): the most magical Christmas market in Europe
- Christmas Market in Manchester (United Kingdom): the largest Christmas market in the UK
Want to escape beyond European borders? Then check out our selection of the 10 most beautiful Christmas markets to visit around the world.