When do Europe’s Christmas markets open? Winter 2026/27 dates for Berlin, Munich, Edinburgh and Belfast

There’s nothing quite like a Christmas market to get you in the festive spirit. Well, except a world-famous Christmas market in a world-famous city.

If you’re planning a city break for winter 2026/27, timing matters. Some markets close before Christmas Day, while others keep the festivities going into the New Year.

Here are the dates to know for Berlin, Munich, Edinburgh and Belfast. 

Christmas market dates 2026 at a glance

• Berlin: Dates vary by market, with many popular markets opening during November
• Munich: 20 November–24 December 2026
• Edinburgh: 14 November 2026–3 January 2027
• Belfast: 14 November–22 December 2026

Explore winter destinations from London Southend Airport.

Berlin Christmas Market 2026

There isn’t one Berlin Christmas Market – there are over a hundred across the city, with different opening and closing dates. Don’t worry, we’ll narrow it down! 

Some of the main dates to know are:

• Gendarmenmarkt: 23 November–31 December 2026
• Charlottenburg Palace: 23 November–27 December 2026
• Breitscheidplatz: 23 November 2026–3 January 2027
• Humboldt Forum: 18 November 2026–3 January 2027

That gives you plenty of options, whether you fancy a traditional market surrounded by historic architecture or a spot to keep the festive season going after the big day.

Flights from London Southend Airport to Berlin operate on Thursdays and Sundays.

Read more: Your Guide to Berlin’s 2026 Christmas Markets

Munich Christmas Market 2026

Dates: 20 November–24 December 2026

Munich’s main Christkindlmarkt takes over Marienplatz from 20 November until Christmas Eve. On 24 December, it closes at 2pm – and the market is also closed on Sunday 22 November.

Beyond Marienplatz, Munich has festive markets and events across the city, making it a piece of cake (or Kletzenbrot) to build a full break around the celebrations.

London Southend Airport’s extended Munich flights run from 23 November 2026 to 1 January 2027, with flights on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.

Edinburgh Christmas Market 2026

Dates: 14 November 2026–3 January 2027

Edinburgh’s Christmas market returns for seven weeks this winter, running from 14 November 2026 until 3 January 2027. That makes the Scottish capital a great option if you want to keep the festivities going between Christmas and New Year.

Make a day of the festive stalls and attractions, then explore Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and the cobbled streets of the Old Town.

Flights from London Southend Airport to Edinburgh operate on Thursdays and Sundays from 29 October 2026.

Read more: Your Ultimate Guide to Edinburgh

Belfast Christmas Market 2026

Dates: 14 November–22 December 2026

Belfast Christmas Market opens at Belfast City Hall on 14 November and runs until 22 December 2026. Expect festive food, gifts, and plenty of yuletide atmosphere right in the city centre.

Just remember: Belfast’s market finishes before Christmas Day, so plan this one for November or the run-up to Christmas.

Flights from London Southend Airport to Belfast operate on Mondays, Fridays, and Sundays from 25 October 2026.

Read more: Your Ultimate Guide to Belfast

Plan your Christmas market break

Whether you want your pick of festive stalls across Berlin or postcard-perfect markets in Munich, or to explore the cosy streets below Edinburgh Castle or chow down on festive food outside Belfast City Hall, there are plenty of ways to make your festive break your own.

Explore winter destinations from London Southend Airport.