If you plan on traveling to Luxembourg in winter, then a visit to the Christmas markets is a must.
Whether you are looking for unique gifts, mouthwatering foods, or just want to be part of the bright and happy spirit that pervades the country at this time of year, you’ll find the best Christmas markets in Luxembourg to visit in this guide.
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Tips For Visiting The Christmas Markets In Luxembourg
Always be sure to check the opening and closing dates of the markets you plan to visit. Whilst many open towards the end of November, some don’t open until early December or later, and almost all close before Christmas Day.
You also need to dress for the weather! Luxembourg in winter can sometimes be very cold, particularly in December, and a little festive snow is more than possible. Rainfall, too, tends to be higher at this time of year, so be sure to pack an umbrella or waterproof clothing.
Prepare for the markets to be busy, particularly the large ones in the town centres. Visiting early in the morning or towards the end of the day can help you avoid the worst of the crowds.
Alternatively, opt for the smaller village markets – but be aware that the range of goods and entertainment on offer won’t be as wide as in the larger markets.
Handy tip: The first three markets on this list are all in Luxembourg city centre and within a few minutes’ walk of each other. This means it is easy to visit all three on the same day – perfect if your visit is short!
That said, it’s going to be a busy time of year, so we recommend you book your hotel in advance.
Best Luxembourg Christmas Markets
Let’s take a look at the best Christmas markets in Luxembourg.
Lëtzebuerger Chrëschtmaart, Place D’Armes
Open from late in November until just before Christmas Day, this may be the most lively Christmas market in Luxembourg. It usually features around 50 different chalets selling festive decorations, spiced mulled wine, gourmet specialties, and local arts and crafts.
But people come here for so much more than just the seasonal shopping – there are two traditional carousels for children, along with a music kiosk providing lots of Christmas music and concerts to add to the festive cheer.
You’ll also find a giant nativity scene, and a brightly decorated 13 metre tall Nordmann fir tree overlooking the proceedings!
Knuedler On Ice, Place Guillaume II
Head to the town hall and you’ll find the Place Guillaume II turned into a winter wonderland, with lots of festive music and numerous chalets selling all kinds of gourmet treats.
Running from late November all the way through to January, this is one of the best Luxembourg Christmas markets for getting you into the spirit of the season.
Not only can you watch artists create spectacular ice sculptures, but there is also a sparkling 800 m² heated ice rink, offering winter fun for the whole family to enjoy.
Wantermaart, Place De La Constitution
Also running from late November until Christmas Eve is the winter market in Constitution Square where you will find 50 wooden chalets offering candles, toys, decorations, and all kinds of festive foods.
These include the wonderful Grillwurscht (grilled sausage) and addictive Gromperekichelcher (potato pancakes).
A visit to this market is one of the best things to do in Luxembourg in winter if you are traveling with children, as there are so many activities designed for a younger audience.
In addition to all sorts of fun workshops, you will find a trampoline, a pyramid, a big wheel, and several rides.
Niklosmaart, Place De Paris
As its name might suggest, the focus of this market in the station district is St. Nicholas, with a St. Nicholas parade on December 2 and a visit from the man himself on December 6th!
Running from the last week in November until shortly before Christmas Day, the Niklaasmaart features live festive music, a beautifully decorated tree, and around 12 stalls.
These usually sell handicrafts, leather goods, soaps, candles, and – of course – a selection of festive foods and drinks.
Place Du Théâtre
Opening in early December and closing just before Christmas Day, this covered market features artisan shops, chalets selling delicious local foods and drinks.
This is one of the best Luxembourg Christmas markets to visit if your aim is to shop consciously, as it is heavily focused on locally and ethically produced items.
Depending on when you visit, you may also be able to see the ‘Poppenthater’ featuring dolls and puppets that is sometimes hosted here.
Place Royal-Hamilius
Located at one of Luxembourg’s largest entertainment and shopping centres, this market consists of pop-up chalets in the mall selling handmade arts and crafts and delicious festive food.
This gives you a good opportunity to buy traditional Christmas gifts alongside more contemporary offerings – ideal if you only have a limited amount of time.
Solidaritéitsmaart, Grand-Rue At Roude Pëtz
This ‘solidarity’ Christmas market in Luxembourg is somewhat unique in that all the chalets selling goods are run by non-governmental organizations, with the profits donated to various charities.
There is also the opportunity to learn more about the work of the various organizations involved, plus a traditional carousel for children.
Goods sold in this market vary from year to year but you can usually find Christmas decorations, arts, crafts, and local delicacies.
Place De L’Hôtel De Ville, Esch-sur-Alzette
If you are planning to visit Luxembourg in winter, it’s good to know that this Christmas market tends to open the earliest of them all, usually around mid-November. If you are hoping to avoid the typical crowds of the festive season, this is a very good time to come and shop at your leisure.
Open until just before Christmas Day, chalets at this market in Luxembourg’s second-largest city sell a variety of decorations, hand-crafted items, and local foods.
You can also enjoy concerts and other entertainment in the evenings on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, whilst children will love the annual Santa Claus Parade through the city.
Place De L’Hôtel De Ville De Dudelange
Open from early December until the middle of the month, this is a market with a truly medieval atmosphere featuring around forty small chalets!
Along with the traditional arts, crafts, toys, and decorations you’d expect, you’ll also find a tavern, plus entertainment with a storyteller around the campfire!
In addition to the usual festive fare, you can even try some traditional dishes that originated in the Middle Ages. There are also lots of activities for children, with a different program of events each day.
Differdange
Established over forty years ago, this is the oldest Christmas market in Luxembourg and runs from early December until just before Christmas Day.
Parts of the market are often covered, so this is a good market to visit on a rainy day, and with more than 40 chalets there are plenty of gifts, toys, and arts and crafts to choose from.
A beautifully illuminated Christmas tree lies at the heart of the market and for some added winter fun, you can take a spin on the 300m² ice rink.
Final Thoughts On Luxembourg Christmas Markets
When Christmas is just around the corner, there is no better way to get into the festive spirit than by visiting one of Luxembourg’s many markets and enjoying the food, drink, and joyous atmosphere.
I hope this guide has helped you plan a memorable and magical visit at the most wonderful time of the year!
Searching for other destinations with magical Christmas markets?
Take a look at the best Christmas markets in France and the best Christmas markets in Krakow, Poland.
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