There is nothing more enchanting than the atmosphere of a Christmas market in December. The smell of mulled wine, the sparkle of lights, and the coziness of stalls selling artisanal products make Christmas markets a magical experience. For motorhomers, it's the perfect opportunity to go out and explore new places, with the freedom to stay overnight wherever you like.
Whether you enjoy large, impressive markets full of spectacle or small, cosy markets with local charm, Europe has something for everyone. In this blog, we take you on a journey through some of the most beautiful and biggest Christmas markets. From the historical charm in Dresden to the atmospheric Christmas markets in Budapest, there is plenty to discover. We will provide you with practical tips for great motorhome stopovers, so you can fully enjoy your winter adventure.
Haarlem Christmas Market (Netherlands)
Date: 13 - 15 December 2024
During this Christmas weekend, the city center of Haarlem is transformed into a magical Christmas market. Stroll along dozens of attractively illuminated stalls at the Grote Markt and discover handmade gifts, festive decorations and local delicacies. Enjoy the scent of freshly baked syrup waffles and mulled wine while listening to live music and street theatre performances. With its charming courtyards and historic buildings, Haarlem is the perfect setting for a magical Christmas outing.
Motorhome tip
UrbanCamperspot Haarlem & Zandvoort: Within walking distance of the centre of Haarlem, with cycling options to Zandvoort and Bloemendaal aan Zee. Or UrbanCamperspot Amsterdam & Haarlem: Centrally located between Amsterdam, Haarlem and Zandvoort. Perfect for combining a visit to the Christmas market with a day in nature.
20Ka76
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Stayed at this motorhome site last weekend and it was fantastic! A simple but perfectly laid out site for motorhomes. The toilets and showers were incredibly clean, and the showers were lovely - really a plus. The location is ideal, a stone's throw from Haarlem and Spaarnwoude. We enjoyed lovely bike rides and a pleasant stroll through atmospheric Haarlem. Truly a top stay! We will definitely come back one day!
Valkenburg Christmas market (Netherlands)
Date: 16 November - 29 December
The Valkenburg Christmas market is unique, because it takes place in the caves beneath the city. The Municipal Cave and the Velvet Cave are transformed into a magical Christmas landscape with illuminated stalactites and stalls full of festive products, making it a special experience for young and old alike. Besides the Christmas markets, you will also find the famous Santa's Village and an impressive Christmas parade.
Valkenburg is located in a hilly area that is beautiful in winter. Take a walk in the surroundings, for example up to the Cauberg, and enjoy the views of the Limburg landscape. After a walk, settle down in one of the cosy restaurants for a warm pea soup - a Dutch winter classic.
Motorhome tip
Camping Heuvelland Oaze is a lovely campsite close to Valkenburg. From here it is ideal to drive to the Velvet Cave by car or motorhome in about 20 minutes. The campsite offers peace and space in the beautiful South Limburg hills, ensuring a relaxing stay after a day at the Christmas market.
Bennienora
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We have been here twice now, summer 2022 and during the New Year 2022/2023. The sanitary facilities get a solid 10. The pitches are very spacious and neatly separated by hedges. There is a wonderful peace and quiet on this campsite. Beautiful surroundings for cycling and walking. The motorhome site is very flat and has a paved surface. However, the path to get there or to leave can be a bit tricky with a heavy motorhome (January 2, 20230 . Highly recommended for a stay!
Vienna Christmas markets (Austria)
Date: 16 November - 26 December
Vienna has not just one, but several Christmas markets scattered throughout the city. The most famous one, in front of the Rathaus, is a winter wonderland with charming stalls and an impressively illuminated setting. You'll find handmade Christmas decorations, traditional Austrian delicacies like apfelstrudel and beautiful handicrafts. For a more intimate experience, you can also visit the market near Schönbrunn Palace.
Visit the Vienna Woods just outside the city. Here you can enjoy snowy landscapes and picturesque trails. After your hike, warm up with a mulled wine in one of the cozy mountain huts in the area. For winter sports enthusiasts, there are also cross-country skiing and ice-skating tracks within reach.
Motorhome tip
Reisemobil Stellplatz Wien is open all year round and offers great facilities. The location is close to a bus stop and the distance to the centre of Vienna is about 12 km.
Knausrich
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Parking areas on the outskirts of Vienna with good public transport connections to reach the city centre by metro. The train station is just a few minutes' walk away, as are shops and restaurants. The pitches themselves are on grass and large enough to extend the awning. In any case for every second vehicle; otherwise it could get cramped. Sanitary facilities are available and clean, but during peak tiems, I can expect traffic jams in the morning.
Budapest Christmas markets (Hungary)
Date: 17 November - 1 January
Budapest has some of the most atmospheric Christmas markets in Europe, such as those at Vörösmarty tér and at St Stephen's Basilica. The markets are known for their cozy atmosphere, with beautifully illuminated stalls and a spectacular light show at the Basilica. Enjoy Hungarian delicacies like lángos, and hot drinks like pálinka to warm yourself up.
After a cold day at the Christmas market, warm up in one of Budapest's famous thermal baths, such as Széchenyi or Gellért. Enjoy the contrast between the hot baths and the cold outside air - a unique experience you shouldn't miss during a winter trip to Budapest.
Motorhome tip
If you're purely in Budapest to visit the Christmas market, then Stellplatz-Parkoló is a great choice. This parking area is 1.5 kilometres from the city centre and public transport in and around Budapest is well-organized. However, if you prefer a slightly more comfortable stay and more amenities, choose campsite Arena! A little further from the centre but in a peaceful green area outside the city.
Lallo06
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Fine for a 2- or 3-day visit to Budapest. Simple campsite, but in a good location in relation to the city. Very clean bathrooms and showers. Courteous and helpful staff. Convenient public transport for connecting to the metro. Campsite Wi-Fi is ideal for streaming.
Cologne Christmas market (Germany)
Date: 18 November - 23 December
Cologne's Christmas market is located by the famous Cathedral, giving it a fairytale ambiance. This market is known for its cozy atmosphere and unique stalls offering everything from traditional Christmas decorations to culinary delights. There are plenty of activities for families, including puppet theatre and a large ice rink.
Combine your visit to the Cologne Christmas market with a winter walk along the Rhine. Many walking paths along the river provide beautiful views of the city, especially at sunset. Also, don't forget to make a stop at the chocolate museum, where you can warm up with a hot chocolate while overlooking the river.
Camping tip
Campingplatz Stadt Köln not only offers stunny views of the Rhine, but is also a short tram ride from the city centre. A nice place to relax after a visit to the market.
Sannies
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Cozy campsite by the Rhine. The campsite is a bit more geared towards passing travelers, as everyone is close together with little privacy. Facilities are good, clean and well-maintained. It is a 20-minute walk to the nearest tram stop or half an hour by bike to Cologne city centre. Great value for money with a friendly campsite owner!
Dresden Striezelmarkt (Germany)
Date: 27 November - 24 December
Founded in 1434, the Dresden Striezelmarkt is one of Europe's oldest Christmas markets. Here you can experience a unique blend of history and Christmas magic. Stroll past stalls full of handmade decorations, wooden toys and delicious specialities such as Dresdner Stollen. The Christmas pyramid, an iconic symbol, is an absolute must-see.
Dresden is not far from the Saxon Switzerland National Park. This park is beautiful in winter and offers breathtaking views of snow-covered rock formations. Plan a day trip to this region and enjoy winter walks or admire the landscape from one of the viewpoints.
Motorhome tip
CaravaningPark schaffer-mobil is about 20 minutes (by tram) from the market and offers excellent facilities, including electricity connections and easy access to public transport.
Ingskie
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Fantastic location, ideal for cycling to the old town (cycle paths). Lovely shower. Sanitary facilities are very clean and well-maintained. There is a bread delivery service and we were able to purchase a missing part from the nearby motorhome dealer. Good service!
Strasbourg Christmas market (France)
Date: 27 November - 27 December
Known as the ‘capital of Christmas’, Strasbourg offers a special experience with its Christmas market at Place Kléber. The half-timbered houses and atmospheric lighting create a unique ambience. Here you can enjoy a mix of French and German traditions, from French cheeses to German Lebkuchen. An ideal outing for those who love a rich cultural experience.
Did you know that we offer a wonderful route in our app, that takes you past Strasbourg? With a PRO+ subscription, you have free access to this route, so you can combine a visit to this Christmas market with an impressive tour of the surronding area.
Motorhome tip
Huttopia de Strasbourg campsite is an ideal place to stay at as it is located close to the city centre. They also offer great facilities for a longer and comfortable stay around Strasbourg.
Laciancio
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Really 5 stars for a super efficient motorhome site in January. Great reception, with plenty of informational material available. Table football and billiards to spend the cold evenings. Very clean toilets and shower, and quite warm. Also an interesting off-season price: after the holidays it goes from €32 to €19.
Prague Christmas market (Czech Republic)
Date: 30 November - 6 January
Prague's Christmas markets are a true treat for the senses. The most famous market is in Old Town Square, where a huge Christmas tree and atmospheric stalls draw attention. Here you can taste traditional Czech dishes such as trdelník (a sweet pastry) and enjoy artisanal products. The historical background of the city makes this market extra special, with beautiful views of the surrounding Gothic buildings.
Visit Prague Castle and enjoy the snowy views over the city. There are often fewer tourists in winter, allowing you to stroll around at your leisure and really experience Prague's picturesque character. Don't forget to try a cup of hot mead, a local honey drink.
Motorhome tip
Prague Camp is practically in the city centre, making it ideal for visiting the Christmas market(s).
Tomtom33
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In terms of location, ideal for visiting Prague. The ferry takes you into the centre in 5 minutes, and it's also convenient by bike. The motorhome site is accessible thanks to new gravel, and there is plenty of space. When it's busy, you do stand a bit close together, but there's more space at the back. The bar is open, but hardly any customers. Only drinks available no food. The sanitary facilities are renovated, reasonably clean and very quiet. If full, there is another motorhome site, 200 metres away.
Tips for motorhome driving in the snow
A winter motorhome trip brings a magical atmosphere, but it also requires some extra preparation when traveling through snowy areas. Always ensure you have winter tyres fitted, and bring snow chains for unexpected conditions. Also check that your windscreen wipers, antifreeze and heating are in good condition for a safe and comfortable journey. Looking for a handy winter checklist? You can find it here.
Please note that the rules for winter equipment vary from country to country. For specific regulations regarding winter tyres, snow chains and other winter equipment, you can check our country information page. Here you will find all the details for different European countries, so you can be well-prepared for your trip.
Whether you are looking for traditional markets full of history or just a unique experience in a Christmas cave, Europe offers a magical Christmas experience for every motorhomer. The freedom of traveling with your motorhome allows you to move from market to market, enjoying the beautiful winter landscapes along the way. Don't forget to bring your warm blankets and mulled wine, so you can relax cozily in your motorhome after a day of festivities.
With a PRO+ subscription, you can also discover handy routes in the app. This way, can combine your visit to a Christmas market with a beautiful route that leads to even more special places. Start the engine, turn on the Christmas music and enjoy an unforgettable journey full of lights, treats and winter charm!