Craiova named Europe's best Christmas market destination for 2026

The Romanian city of Craiova has been named the best Christmas market destination in Europe for 2026. The ranking was determined by over 800,000 travelers from 179 countries through a vote organized by the tourism platform European Best Destinations.

Craiova's holiday program spans more than 280,000 square meters and features a theme inspired by the Nutcracker. Attractions include large-scale light installations, a skating rink, a Ferris wheel, and high-altitude Santa Claus sleigh rides. The market also offers a diverse culinary selection featuring specialties from Romania, Serbia, Bulgaria, Greece, Armenia, and Georgia.

Other top-ranked destinations include Zurich, Switzerland, known for its traditional wooden stalls and fondue; Riga, Latvia, located in its UNESCO-protected historic center; Lisbon, Portugal, which hosts Wonderland Lisboa; and Debrecen, Hungary.