November 21, 2022
Ranking the most popular Christmas markets in 2022 according to TikTok
- Introduction
- Methodology
- Rankings
- Edinburgh, Scotland
- Strasbourg, France
- Esslingen, Germany
- Copenhagen, Denmark
- Berlin, Germany
- Prague, Czech Republic
- Bruges, Belgium
- Budapest, Hungary
- Brussels, Belgium
- Vienna, Austria
- Tallinn, Estonia
- Bratislava, Slovakia
- Nuremberg, Germany
- Cologne, Germany
- Krakow, Poland
- Metz, France
- Salzburg, Austria
- Basel, Switzerland
- Zagreb, Croatia
There's a magical quality about Christmas markets that brings out a sense of wonder in all of us. Without a doubt, the joyous atmosphere provides a unique experience, making them the perfect place to spend a winter night celebrating with friends or family. If abroad, these markets are also a great excuse to soak in some of the local cultures and try a host of regional festive delicacies and traditions.
People have been indulging in these markets for hundreds of years, with the one found in Germany's Dresden dating back as far as the 14th and 15th centuries. Early mentions of 'December markets' have been found in Vienna even further back, in 1296.
So, it's safe to say that these markets have been popular for a while, but which cities boast the most popular winter markets? At DiscoverCars.com we wanted to investigate this further, therefore, we turned to the popular social media platform TikTok for help.
To find out which city has the most popular Christmas market in 2022, we analysed the total views of each market's hashtag and ranked the top markets accordingly.
People have been indulging in these markets for hundreds of years, with the one found in Germany's Dresden dating back as far as the 14th and 15th centuries. Early mentions of 'December markets' have been found in Vienna even further back, in 1296.
So, it's safe to say that these markets have been popular for a while, but which cities boast the most popular winter markets? At DiscoverCars.com we wanted to investigate this further, therefore, we turned to the popular social media platform TikTok for help.
To find out which city has the most popular Christmas market in 2022, we analysed the total views of each market's hashtag and ranked the top markets accordingly.
Methodology
We looked at 20 Christmas markets, all renowned for this annual event, using a seed list from The Times.
We then used TikTok to investigate the top hashtag used in relation to the specific Christmas market events and recorded the total number of views to score and rank each market accordingly.
We then used TikTok to investigate the top hashtag used in relation to the specific Christmas market events and recorded the total number of views to score and rank each market accordingly.
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Edinburgh, Scotland
#EdinburghChristmasMarket - 3.3 million views
Ranking first as the most popular Christmas market in 2022 according to TikTok is Edinburgh's market. The event's hashtag boasted 3.3 million views on the platform. Entry is free but beware of the crowns that come with this popular event.
Stalls include both Scottish and German market sections, where visitors can indulge in festive refreshments. The event is dog-friendly and is held between November 19th to January 3rd at East Princes Street Gardens.
Ranking first as the most popular Christmas market in 2022 according to TikTok is Edinburgh's market. The event's hashtag boasted 3.3 million views on the platform. Entry is free but beware of the crowns that come with this popular event.
Stalls include both Scottish and German market sections, where visitors can indulge in festive refreshments. The event is dog-friendly and is held between November 19th to January 3rd at East Princes Street Gardens.
Strasbourg, France
#StrasbourgChristmasMarket - 526.8k views
In second place is France's oldest Christmas market. Strasbourg market is also known as Christkindelsmärik and the event has amassed over 526k views on TikTok this year. Held near the iconic Strasbourg Cathedral, the event has been running for over four centuries (since 1570).
Visitors can expect the city to look festive, with thousands of decorations and light displays dotted around the market. The market also hosts events on specific days, including a Christmas walk and carols planned this year on December 11th. The event is set to take place between November 25th and December 26th and is held on the Grande Île.
In second place is France's oldest Christmas market. Strasbourg market is also known as Christkindelsmärik and the event has amassed over 526k views on TikTok this year. Held near the iconic Strasbourg Cathedral, the event has been running for over four centuries (since 1570).
Visitors can expect the city to look festive, with thousands of decorations and light displays dotted around the market. The market also hosts events on specific days, including a Christmas walk and carols planned this year on December 11th. The event is set to take place between November 25th and December 26th and is held on the Grande Île.
Esslingen, Germany
#StuttgarterWeihNachtsMarkt - 347.4k views
Ranking as the third most popular Christmas market is the Stuttgart Christmas Market, which is held annually in the town of Esslingen and contains 300 stalls that are sure to ignite feelings of festive nostalgia. The event's hashtag has racked up 347.4k views on TikTok.
Uniquely, during advent, the town hall is converted into a giant advent calendar with a window being opened daily to reveal different coats of arms relating to Stuttgart's boroughs. The month-long event is set to take place between November 23rd and December 23rd.
Ranking as the third most popular Christmas market is the Stuttgart Christmas Market, which is held annually in the town of Esslingen and contains 300 stalls that are sure to ignite feelings of festive nostalgia. The event's hashtag has racked up 347.4k views on TikTok.
Uniquely, during advent, the town hall is converted into a giant advent calendar with a window being opened daily to reveal different coats of arms relating to Stuttgart's boroughs. The month-long event is set to take place between November 23rd and December 23rd.
Copenhagen, Denmark
#CopenhagenChristmas - 305.8k views
In fourth place ranks Copenhagen's Christmas markets, with the event receiving 305.8k views on TikTok, highlighting the popularity of this spectacular occasion. Copenhagen's market offers a slice of everything, with events held in Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen Zoo and Bakken Amusement Park.
With so much to do in the city, it's no surprise that the markets last for nearly two whole months, from November 18th to New Year's Eve. Visitors can indulge in various stalls including trying some Danish mulled wine, known locally as Glögg.
In fourth place ranks Copenhagen's Christmas markets, with the event receiving 305.8k views on TikTok, highlighting the popularity of this spectacular occasion. Copenhagen's market offers a slice of everything, with events held in Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen Zoo and Bakken Amusement Park.
With so much to do in the city, it's no surprise that the markets last for nearly two whole months, from November 18th to New Year's Eve. Visitors can indulge in various stalls including trying some Danish mulled wine, known locally as Glögg.
Berlin, Germany
#BerlinChristmasMarkets - 120.2k views
Next, Berlin ranks fifth, making it the second German market on the ranking. The capital's event has collected 120.2k views on TikTok. There are several different markets throughout the city, including Lucia Christmas Market which is Nordic-themed.
With so many different events happening in the city during the festive period, Berlin's Christmas markets offer something for everyone. We recommend setting a few days aside to be able to take in everything that this vibrant city has to offer. The markets are set to take place between November 21st and December 31st.
Next, Berlin ranks fifth, making it the second German market on the ranking. The capital's event has collected 120.2k views on TikTok. There are several different markets throughout the city, including Lucia Christmas Market which is Nordic-themed.
With so many different events happening in the city during the festive period, Berlin's Christmas markets offer something for everyone. We recommend setting a few days aside to be able to take in everything that this vibrant city has to offer. The markets are set to take place between November 21st and December 31st.
Prague, Czech Republic
#PragueChristmasMarket - 91.8k views
Ranking sixth is the Christmas market that takes place in Prague. The hashtag has received 91.8k views on TikTok and the event is hosted in central Prague's Old Town Square, which is transformed with festive decorations, including a nativity scene and a 22-metre high Christmas tree.
Soaking up the yuletide atmosphere in Prague is one way to get into the festive spirit, with the stalls offering local treats such as Czech muffins and barbecued pork. The markets run from November 26th to January 6th in the city each year.
Ranking sixth is the Christmas market that takes place in Prague. The hashtag has received 91.8k views on TikTok and the event is hosted in central Prague's Old Town Square, which is transformed with festive decorations, including a nativity scene and a 22-metre high Christmas tree.
Soaking up the yuletide atmosphere in Prague is one way to get into the festive spirit, with the stalls offering local treats such as Czech muffins and barbecued pork. The markets run from November 26th to January 6th in the city each year.
Bruges, Belgium
#BelgiumChristmasMarkets - 76.7k views
Next, Bruges Christmas Market ranked seventh, with the event's hashtag receiving 76.7k views on TikTok. The small city offers fewer amusement rides than your typical Christmas market, but makes up for it with fairy light decorations and cosy stalls. Bruges also celebrates Saint Nicholas Day on December 6th, meaning there are even more occasions to celebrate.
Visitors can taste local beverages such as Jenever, the local gin, or indulge in some fresh Belgian hot chocolate. The event is set to take place between November 25th and January 8th, with festivities continuing into the New Year.
Next, Bruges Christmas Market ranked seventh, with the event's hashtag receiving 76.7k views on TikTok. The small city offers fewer amusement rides than your typical Christmas market, but makes up for it with fairy light decorations and cosy stalls. Bruges also celebrates Saint Nicholas Day on December 6th, meaning there are even more occasions to celebrate.
Visitors can taste local beverages such as Jenever, the local gin, or indulge in some fresh Belgian hot chocolate. The event is set to take place between November 25th and January 8th, with festivities continuing into the New Year.
Budapest, Hungary
#BudapestChristmasMarket - 39.8k views
In eighth place are Budapest's Christmas markets, with the event racking up a total of 39.8k views on TikTok thanks to its hashtag. The fair takes place all over the city, including in Vörösmarty Square next to the famous St Stephen's Basilica. Fun activities such as ice rinks are available to visitors.
Be sure to try out the local offerings such as langos, a deep-fried flat dough or beef goulash, a must while in Hungary. The markets are set to take place between November 4th and January 1st offering fun for all the family.
In eighth place are Budapest's Christmas markets, with the event racking up a total of 39.8k views on TikTok thanks to its hashtag. The fair takes place all over the city, including in Vörösmarty Square next to the famous St Stephen's Basilica. Fun activities such as ice rinks are available to visitors.
Be sure to try out the local offerings such as langos, a deep-fried flat dough or beef goulash, a must while in Hungary. The markets are set to take place between November 4th and January 1st offering fun for all the family.
Brussels, Belgium
#BrusselsChristmasMarket - 36k views
Next, in ninth place and the second Belgian city on this list, is the Brussels Christmas market, the event's hashtag has received 36k views on TikTok. The city is set to transform into a two kilometre stretch of market stalls as part of its eye-catching Winter Wonders event.
Marchè aux Poissons is the place to be in Brussels, with over 200 stalls selling gifts and local foods. Like Bruges, Brussels has plenty of Jenever on offer, with the Belgian gin popular all across the country. The markets are set to take place between November 25th and January 1st.
Next, in ninth place and the second Belgian city on this list, is the Brussels Christmas market, the event's hashtag has received 36k views on TikTok. The city is set to transform into a two kilometre stretch of market stalls as part of its eye-catching Winter Wonders event.
Marchè aux Poissons is the place to be in Brussels, with over 200 stalls selling gifts and local foods. Like Bruges, Brussels has plenty of Jenever on offer, with the Belgian gin popular all across the country. The markets are set to take place between November 25th and January 1st.
Vienna, Austria
#ViennaChristmasMarkets - 23k views
Rounding off the top 10, we have Vienna's Christmas markets which ranked in eleventh place with the event's hashtag, having received 23k views on TiMarket (pictured) offers incredible views of the city hall with stalls in the courtyard.
Vienna's history of Christmas markets dates back to 1296 and the city has continued ever since. With several differently themed markets throughout Vienna, there is a lot to experience between November 19th and December 26th when the festivities abound.
Rounding off the top 10, we have Vienna's Christmas markets which ranked in eleventh place with the event's hashtag, having received 23k views on TiMarket (pictured) offers incredible views of the city hall with stalls in the courtyard.
Vienna's history of Christmas markets dates back to 1296 and the city has continued ever since. With several differently themed markets throughout Vienna, there is a lot to experience between November 19th and December 26th when the festivities abound.
Tallinn, Estonia
#TallinnChristmasMarket - 18.2k views
The Estonian capital of Tallinn ranked 11th for its Christmas market, with the event's hashtag collecting 18.2k views on TikTok. Each year, the Town Hall Square is festooned with decorations and stalls take over for the remainder of the festive period. Tallinn was named The Best Christmas Market in Europe in 2019, making it an unmissable choice.
Tallinn is also dubbed as one of the safest places to travel throughout Christmas, with the event sure to make any visitors feel welcome. There are activities for the children and stalls for the grownups too. The markets in Tallinn are set to take place between November 25th and January 8th.
The Estonian capital of Tallinn ranked 11th for its Christmas market, with the event's hashtag collecting 18.2k views on TikTok. Each year, the Town Hall Square is festooned with decorations and stalls take over for the remainder of the festive period. Tallinn was named The Best Christmas Market in Europe in 2019, making it an unmissable choice.
Tallinn is also dubbed as one of the safest places to travel throughout Christmas, with the event sure to make any visitors feel welcome. There are activities for the children and stalls for the grownups too. The markets in Tallinn are set to take place between November 25th and January 8th.
Bratislava, Slovakia
#ChristmasInBratislava - 14k views
In 12th place were Slovakia's Bratislava Christmas markets, which received 14k views on TikTok. Held on Hviezdoslavovo Square (or Main Square), these markets are less crowded than those in other European hotspots but still offer the same level of welcoming festive atmosphere.
The markets have been taking place since 1993 and this year's event is likely to take place between November 24th and December 21st. Visitors should be sure to try local foods such as Lokse, which are potato pancakes with a thin base.
In 12th place were Slovakia's Bratislava Christmas markets, which received 14k views on TikTok. Held on Hviezdoslavovo Square (or Main Square), these markets are less crowded than those in other European hotspots but still offer the same level of welcoming festive atmosphere.
The markets have been taking place since 1993 and this year's event is likely to take place between November 24th and December 21st. Visitors should be sure to try local foods such as Lokse, which are potato pancakes with a thin base.
Nuremberg, Germany
#WeihNachtshausNürnberg - 12.4k views
The latest German entry on this list is Nuremberg's Christmas markets which ranked 13th, with the event's hashtag receiving 12.4k views on TikTok. If you weren't aware by now, Germany is a country hellbent on festive spirit and Nuremberg offers all the usual expectations of a great market, such as local cuisine and handcrafted decorations.
Nuremberg's markets are a popular choice for many tourists throughout Christmas, the city is also home to some picturesque churches making it a great place to sightsee. The event is set to take place between November 25th and December 24th.
The latest German entry on this list is Nuremberg's Christmas markets which ranked 13th, with the event's hashtag receiving 12.4k views on TikTok. If you weren't aware by now, Germany is a country hellbent on festive spirit and Nuremberg offers all the usual expectations of a great market, such as local cuisine and handcrafted decorations.
Nuremberg's markets are a popular choice for many tourists throughout Christmas, the city is also home to some picturesque churches making it a great place to sightsee. The event is set to take place between November 25th and December 24th.
Cologne, Germany
#CologneChristmasMarket - 10.1k views
In 14th place was Cologne's Christmas markets, another German entry. The event's hashtag has received 10.1k views on TikTok. During the festive period, the entire city is converted into a winter wonderland with different themed stalls, concerts and even a Christmas garden in Cologne Zoo.
Cologne is also a popular shopping destination, making it perfect for picking up some last-minute gifts. Unlike most of the markets in this ranking, Cologne's event finishes just before Christmas, with the fair set to take place between November 21st and December 23rd.
In 14th place was Cologne's Christmas markets, another German entry. The event's hashtag has received 10.1k views on TikTok. During the festive period, the entire city is converted into a winter wonderland with different themed stalls, concerts and even a Christmas garden in Cologne Zoo.
Cologne is also a popular shopping destination, making it perfect for picking up some last-minute gifts. Unlike most of the markets in this ranking, Cologne's event finishes just before Christmas, with the fair set to take place between November 21st and December 23rd.
Krakow, Poland
#KrakowChristmasMarket - 8,655 views
Next, we move to Poland as Krakow's Christmas markets rank 15th, the event's hashtag receiving 8,655 views on TikTok. The main market is situated on Rynek Glowny, the central square, and offers local cuisine such as pierogi (polish dumplings).
Snow is frequent in Poland throughout the winter months, making the markets look all the more like a scene from a fairytale. Visitors should be aware that the event is set to take place between November 25th and January 1st.
Next, we move to Poland as Krakow's Christmas markets rank 15th, the event's hashtag receiving 8,655 views on TikTok. The main market is situated on Rynek Glowny, the central square, and offers local cuisine such as pierogi (polish dumplings).
Snow is frequent in Poland throughout the winter months, making the markets look all the more like a scene from a fairytale. Visitors should be aware that the event is set to take place between November 25th and January 1st.
Metz, France
#MarcheDeNoelMetz - 5,273 views
The second French entry on this ranking is the Christmas markets in Metz, which placed 16th. The event's hashtag has received 5,273 views on TikTok. Held in the Place de la République, tourists won't be able to miss the markets which are easily identifiable from the lavish Christmas Pyramid of Metz decoration structure.
Chalet's at the market include gingerbread stalls and handmade decorations, perfect for a personalised gift. This hotly anticipated event is set to take place between November 18th and December 24th.
The second French entry on this ranking is the Christmas markets in Metz, which placed 16th. The event's hashtag has received 5,273 views on TikTok. Held in the Place de la République, tourists won't be able to miss the markets which are easily identifiable from the lavish Christmas Pyramid of Metz decoration structure.
Chalet's at the market include gingerbread stalls and handmade decorations, perfect for a personalised gift. This hotly anticipated event is set to take place between November 18th and December 24th.
Salzburg, Austria
#ChristkindlmarktSalzburg2021 - 4,185 views
Placing 17th in the ranking is Salzburg's Christmas markets and the event's hashtag has collected 4,185 views on TikTok. Salzburg has hosted Christmas markets as far back as the 15th century and continues to provide a dazzling festive experience. The city's main market is located near the Cathedral of Salzburg.
If pantomime is more your thing, Salzburg has you covered. Salzburg Advent Festival is a staged event that has nearly 200 participants. The markets in Salzburg are set to take place between November 17th and January 1st.
Placing 17th in the ranking is Salzburg's Christmas markets and the event's hashtag has collected 4,185 views on TikTok. Salzburg has hosted Christmas markets as far back as the 15th century and continues to provide a dazzling festive experience. The city's main market is located near the Cathedral of Salzburg.
If pantomime is more your thing, Salzburg has you covered. Salzburg Advent Festival is a staged event that has nearly 200 participants. The markets in Salzburg are set to take place between November 17th and January 1st.
Basel, Switzerland
#BaselChristmasMarket - 2,486 views
In 18th place on the ranking, Basel's Christmas market collected 152.4k views on TikTok. The Swiss city hosts three main markets each year and the largest can be found on Barfüsserplatz in the old town. A grand Christmas tree can be found on Münsterplatz with decorations and ornaments designed by Swiss decorator Johann Wanner.
The markets have a total of 155 chalets offering goods such as mulled wine and gingerbread. Visitors can take advantage of the event between November 24th and December 23rd.
In 18th place on the ranking, Basel's Christmas market collected 152.4k views on TikTok. The Swiss city hosts three main markets each year and the largest can be found on Barfüsserplatz in the old town. A grand Christmas tree can be found on Münsterplatz with decorations and ornaments designed by Swiss decorator Johann Wanner.
The markets have a total of 155 chalets offering goods such as mulled wine and gingerbread. Visitors can take advantage of the event between November 24th and December 23rd.
Zagreb, Croatia
#ZagrebMarket - 2,259 views
Zagreb's Christmas markets ranked 19th in popularity and the event's hashtag has received 2,259 views on TikTok. The Croatian city holds its main market on Ban Jelacic Square with a festive wreath laid around the fountain.
Zagreb impressively won the Best Christmas Market in Europe accolade three years in a row (2016-2018), meaning that the over-the-top decorations and wide array of stalls are not to be missed. The event is set to take place between November 26th and January 6th.
We hope this ranking has helped to inform you about a host of the best European destinations for a Christmas market. With so many amazing locations and events to choose from, we are sure you'll be able to find something suitable for all the family.
If you're looking to rent a car for your next winter trip, please consider choosing us as we are a leader in online car rental bookings. This is because we compare car rental deals from many companies so that you can choose the best deal for your individual family's needs.
We also operate in more than 145 countries and 10,000 locations, so we're sure to have the car rental deal for you, no matter which destination you choose for your next autumn adventure.
Sources
https://www.thetimes.co.uk/travel/destinations/europe/best-christmas-markets-holidays
Zagreb's Christmas markets ranked 19th in popularity and the event's hashtag has received 2,259 views on TikTok. The Croatian city holds its main market on Ban Jelacic Square with a festive wreath laid around the fountain.
Zagreb impressively won the Best Christmas Market in Europe accolade three years in a row (2016-2018), meaning that the over-the-top decorations and wide array of stalls are not to be missed. The event is set to take place between November 26th and January 6th.
We hope this ranking has helped to inform you about a host of the best European destinations for a Christmas market. With so many amazing locations and events to choose from, we are sure you'll be able to find something suitable for all the family.
If you're looking to rent a car for your next winter trip, please consider choosing us as we are a leader in online car rental bookings. This is because we compare car rental deals from many companies so that you can choose the best deal for your individual family's needs.
We also operate in more than 145 countries and 10,000 locations, so we're sure to have the car rental deal for you, no matter which destination you choose for your next autumn adventure.
Sources
https://www.thetimes.co.uk/travel/destinations/europe/best-christmas-markets-holidays
Aleksandrs Buraks
Head of Growth at DiscoverCars.com
Aleksandrs has over 10 years of experience in marketing with a focus on creating stellar content that provides topical insights using data. Having taken five road trips across Europe and one in the U.S., he is passionate about traveling by car. His favorite countries to visit are Denmark and Thailand. You can find him on Linkedin, Facebook, and Twitter.