Christmas market season is approaching, but beyond Europe’s best-known festive destinations, some of the continent’s most atmospheric celebrations can be found further north.
Across Norway, Sweden, Finland and Iceland, Christmas markets take over historic squares, open-air museums and even forests, bringing together local crafts, Nordic design, seasonal food and traditions that have been celebrated for generations.
For travellers looking for something a little different this winter, Nordic travel specialist Off The Map Travel has selected six Christmas markets worth putting on the radar for 2026, from Stockholm’s century-old Skansen market to Bergen’s enormous gingerbread city.