It’s that time of year again — mulled wine is warming, lights are twinkling, and cities around the world are transforming into festive wonderlands. Christmas markets have become travel destinations of their own, drawing millions who want to experience local traditions, food, and holiday cheer.
According to recent data from InsureandGo’s 2023 and 2024 reports, searches for Christmas markets have soared worldwide. While Europe remains the heart of these celebrations, the latest research shows that newer markets, including a few in the U.S. and even Australia, are becoming global favorites.
1. Sydney, Australia
Sydney has officially taken the top spot for 2024, with a 233 percent increase in searches for Christmas markets compared to last year. The city embraces the holiday season with markets that stretch from mid-November through Christmas, offering handmade gifts, live music, and plenty of festive food.
The Martin Place Christmas Market is a must-visit, featuring the tallest Christmas tree in New South Wales adorned with hundreds of glowing baubles. Sydney proves that even under the summer sun, you can still feel that holiday magic. It’s the perfect destination for travelers who want the Christmas spirit without the winter chill.
2. Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo continues to climb the charts, ranking second in 2024 after strong interest in 2023. The city offers multiple Christmas markets, with the Meiji Jingu Gaien market standing out for its authenticity. Supported by the German Embassy, it features a 14-meter-tall tree imported from Germany and rows of stalls serving sausages, beer, and hot chocolate.
Each Tokyo market adds a local twist to the European tradition. You’ll find Japanese crafts, cultural performances, and glowing illuminations across neighborhoods like Roppongi and Hibiya. The result is a mix of Eastern charm and Western festivity that keeps travelers coming back year after year.
3. Cork, Ireland
Cork has become Ireland’s holiday hotspot, landing in third place for 2024 with a 108 percent increase in online searches. Its “Corkmas” celebration transforms the city center with parades, carousels, and a Ferris wheel overlooking the River Lee.
New this year is Winterlee, an immersive Christmas experience opening in early November. Visitors can enjoy Alpine-style chalets, a funfair, and even an ice skating rink. Between the lights, laughter, and live performances, Cork delivers a warm and joyful Irish Christmas experience.
If you plan to stay out in the cold, bring a packable jacket and insulated gloves for comfort. Between the lights, laughter, and lively music, Cork delivers a warm and inviting Irish holiday experience.
4. Seattle, Washington (USA)
Seattle’s Christmas Market was one of 2023’s breakout stars, debuting with a 650 percent jump in popularity. Located at Seattle Center, it recreates a traditional European Christmas village with artisan stalls, live entertainment, and a festive light display.
The market blends Pacific Northwest creativity with German-inspired charm. Visitors can shop for handmade gifts, sip hot cider, and even enjoy a ride on the carousel with the Space Needle glowing nearby. For U.S. travelers, it’s a perfect mix of local convenience and international flair.
5. Tallinn, Estonia
Tallinn’s Christmas Market remains a top contender among Europe’s most traditional celebrations. Its Town Hall Square has hosted a Christmas tree since 1441, believed to be the first public Christmas tree in Europe. Snow often blankets the medieval rooftops, making it feel like you’ve stepped into a fairy tale.
Visitors can browse through stalls selling candles, ornaments, and Estonian sweets while listening to carolers and folk musicians. The scent of gingerbread and hot glögi fills the air, creating an atmosphere that captures the spirit of old-world Christmas charm.
6. Skansen Christmas Market, Stockholm (Sweden)
Among the individual markets seeing the biggest 2024 surge is the Skansen Christmas Market in Stockholm, which recorded a remarkable 324 percent increase in searches. Held inside the world’s oldest open-air museum, it’s a step back in time featuring traditional Swedish foods, crafts, and folk performances.
This market has been a beloved tradition since 1903. Here, you can sample saffron glögg, browse handmade decorations, and watch artisans at work in old wooden cottages. For those braving Sweden’s winter chill, layered thermals and a scarf are essential for enjoying the outdoor festivities comfortably.
7. Bryant Park Christmas Market, New York (USA)
New York’s Bryant Park Christmas Market ranked among the top trending markets for 2024, with a 311 percent jump in online interest. Located in Midtown Manhattan, it’s one of the city’s longest-running holiday events and features an open-air ice rink surrounded by festive stalls.
Visitors can shop for locally made gifts, enjoy street performers, and sip warm cocoa while watching skaters glide across the ice.
8. Covent Garden Christmas Market, London (UK)
London’s Covent Garden transforms into a winter wonderland every December, and it’s no surprise it remains one of the most-searched Christmas markets globally. The square’s 60-foot Christmas tree, live music, and holiday pop-ups create an atmosphere that feels both historic and vibrant.
Travelers can explore boutique stalls, watch street performers, or simply take in the sight of fake snow falling beneath sparkling lights. For anyone spending Christmas in the UK, Covent Garden is as festive as it gets.
9. Arlington, Texas (USA)
Arlington’s Texas Christkindl Market, inspired by its German sister city of Königshofen, continues to gain attention. The market takes over Globe Life Field every December and offers a mix of European tradition and Southern hospitality.
Visitors can explore rows of vendor chalets, enjoy live music, and indulge in German treats like bratwurst and pretzels. It’s a reminder that you don’t need to travel far to experience the joy of a classic Christmas market — sometimes, the best ones are closer than you think.
Before you go
Check market dates — many close before Christmas Eve.
Visit early or midweek to beat the crowds.
Bring small cash for artisan stalls.
Try the local specialty drink at each market — from Swedish glögg to Irish mulled wine.
Whether you’re strolling through snow-covered Tallinn or basking in Sydney’s summer glow, Christmas markets capture the same feeling everywhere — community, celebration, and joy. The 2024 data shows that travelers aren’t just chasing winter; they’re chasing the holiday spirit itself.