TOP 5 Christmas Markets in Europe – Perfect Destinations for Incentive Travel in December 2025

The Viennese Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz is the essence of a European Christmas market. Impressive illuminations, the scent of punch and roasted chestnuts, and Advent concerts transform the Austrian capital into a magical holiday wonderland.

In addition to visiting the market, groups can take part in pastry workshops (e.g., strudel or sachertorte), tour the Vienna State Opera, or attend a classical music concert.

Prague in December looks like a scene straight out of a Christmas card. The Old Town Square, with its monumental tree and Gothic town hall, creates a fairytale setting, while the local treat – cinnamon trdelník – has become a holiday symbol in the Czech capital.

A perfect addition to the market visit is a dinner cruise on the Vltava River or a city game leading through the most beautiful corners of the Old Town.

Vörösmarty Square and the area around St. Stephen’s Basilica are the heart of Budapest’s Christmas markets. Wooden stalls full of handicrafts and aromatic lángos draw crowds, and the spectacular light projections on the basilica’s façade create a magical atmosphere.

After strolling through the market, a visit to the thermal baths is a must, and in the evening, a Danube river cruise offers views of the city dressed in its festive best.

Belgium’s capital is famous for the Plaisirs d’Hiver market. It’s not just hundreds of stalls but also a huge ice rink, a Ferris wheel overlooking the entire city, and multimedia light shows on the Grand Place.

In Brussels, chocolate-making workshops at local chocolatiers or craft beer tastings are fantastic additions – experiences that highlight the local flavor of an incentive trip.

The market at Marienplatz is Munich’s hallmark – a giant Christmas tree, alpine music concerts, and aromatic gingerbread create a truly Bavarian holiday vibe.

Instead of traditional business attractions, consider local experiences: a visit to the famous Hofbräuhaus brewery, a tour of BMW Welt, or a day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle, which in winter looks like something out of Frozen – surrounded by snow, majestic and magical, making it an unforgettable backdrop for incentive travel.

Christmas markets in Europe offer the perfect combination of festive spirit and the practical value of incentive travel. A December market trip becomes not only a reward for participants but also a great opportunity for team bonding and strengthening relationships.

September is the ideal time to make the decision – so that by December 2025, you can enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience without the stress of booking flights or missing out on key attractions.