As the magic of the festive season takes hold, head east to discover Europe’s largest Christmas market. This little-known but grandiose open-air spectacle has nothing to envy the markets of Strasbourg or Nuremberg. We’re off to this magical destination that attracts travellers from all over the world!
Europe’s biggest Christmas market is launched
Every winter, Craiova lights up with a unique festive energy, and the 2025 edition of the Christmas market propels the city into the ranks of Europe’s most magical destinations. Spread over several iconic squares such as Mihai Viteazul, Frații Buzești, National Theater Square and the pedestrian zone in the center, the market covers around 280,000 square meters, a figure rare enough to be highlighted. This spectacular surface area regularly earns it a place among Europe’s most impressive Christmas markets.
Inspired by the “Nutcracker ” theme, the market features giant soldiers, luminous ballerinas and ballet-inspired decorations all over the city. The installations are designed as an artistic journey, with each square offering a different atmosphere. During the inauguration, we even saw a flying Santa Claus in his sleigh!
The market brings together over 90 chalets, carefully decorated and set up in the liveliest areas of Craiova. Local crafts, retro toys, hand-carved Christmas decorations, creations of all kinds: everything is designed to offer a charming and warm immersion. For those with a sweet tooth, there are Christmas staples such as mulled wine, gingerbread and hot chocolate. All this mixes with classic Romanian cozonac, gogoși, grilled sausages or traditional dishes simmered on the premises.
The city is betting on monumental scenography. XXL skating rink, panoramic Ferris wheel, retro rides, aerial sleigh to fly over the decorations: each attraction brings a bit of enchantment. In the evening, the facades of the buildings are transformed by light projections and visual shows. Live concerts, children’s choirs, artistic performances and entertainment punctuate the event. There are even creative workshops where children can make decorations, figurines and gifts.
All in all, the Craiova Christmas Market is a winter getaway unlike any other in Europe. With its wild atmosphere, local crafts and fairy-tale rides, it’s the epitome of an end-of-year extravaganza, while retaining the authenticity of a village. And if you can’t travel that far, you can always visit the new Swiss Christmas market at La Villette in Paris, which has just opened its doors.
📍Location: Craiova Christmas Market, Romania
📆 Dates: November 14, 2025 – January 4, 2026