Europe’s Christmas markets are one of the best reasons for a winter trip, and several of the best are just a short flight from the UK. If you need a Schengen visa, the time to apply is now: December is one of the busiest months at UK visa centres.
France: Strasbourg and Colmar
Strasbourg calls itself the “Capital of Christmas”, and its market, the Christkindelsmärik, has been held since 1570. Wooden stalls fill the squares around the cathedral, selling mulled wine, gingerbread and Alsatian decorations. Half an hour away, Colmar’s half-timbered old town hosts several small markets that feel straight out of a storybook. See our France visa guide.
Italy: Bolzano, Merano and Trento
In the Dolomites, Bolzano’s Christmas market is one of Italy’s best known, with Tyrolean food, handmade crafts and mountain views. Merano’s market runs along the river promenade, and Trento’s fills Piazza Fiera next to the old city walls. Combine them with a few days in Verona or Venice. See our Italy visa guide.
Spain: Madrid and Barcelona
Madrid’s Plaza Mayor market is famous for nativity figures and joke shop costumes for the Day of the Holy Innocents on 28 December. In Barcelona, the Fira de Santa Llúcia outside the cathedral has been running since the 18th century. Spain’s mild winter weather makes it ideal for longer city breaks. See our Spain visa guide.
Portugal: Lisbon and Óbidos
Lisbon’s Wonderland in Parque Eduardo VII has an ice rink, a big wheel and stalls with sweeping views over the city. North of Lisbon, the medieval walled town of Óbidos becomes “Óbidos Vila Natal”, a Christmas village inside the castle walls that’s popular with families. See our Portugal visa guide.
When markets open
Most markets run from late November until Christmas Eve, and some stay open until early January. Opening dates are confirmed each autumn, so check the official city tourism website before you book.
Visiting more than one country?
Apply to the country where you’ll spend the most nights. If your nights are equal, apply to the first country you’ll enter. Our “Which country do I apply to?” checker works it out in seconds.
Apply in time for December
For a mid-December trip, aim to be at your appointment by mid-November. Decisions usually take about 15 calendar days, and consulates close over Christmas and New Year. Pick a time in our appointment calendar on any country page and we’ll handle the booking, forms and document check. Start your application.
