Christmas markets 2023

Like in many other European capitals and cities, Bratislava also has its own beautiful Christmas markets. They are getting better and better with every year passing by, so if you are looking for a Christmas market not yet among the most famous but with a nice Christmas spirit and atmosphere, go to Bratislava.

Bratislava has two big Christmas markets in the heart of the city, only a few hundred meters away from one another. As a result, you can easily walk from one to the other and then back to the first one again easily. Along the way, you will see some cool statues in the city center of Bratislava, making it a delightful walk.

There is also a Christmas market by Bratislava Castle, giving you the chance to enjoy a fantastic view combined with Christmas shopping and tasting the local cuisine.

Christmas market at the main square

There is a Christmas market at the main square in Bratislava. After all, it is the main square, so this is where things happen! At this square, you will be able to enjoy beautiful lights in the evenings and quite a lot of stands from where you can buy apples with sugar on the outside, chimney cakes, strudels, strawberries covered with chocolate, pancakes of many sorts, and of course some more serious meat, sausages and other main courses. In addition, you will find lots of handicrafts made in Slovakia on the stands, meaning that you can buy some souvenirs and Christmas gifts with you home from Bratislava as you visit the market.

At this market, you will also find a big stage at which cultural programs, concerts, and live music occur quite frequently.

Christmas market at Hviezdoslavovo námestie

This is just two blocks from the main square, one of the nicest and most famous squares in all of Slovakia. You can find the Slovak National Theatre, the lovely Radisson Blu Carlton hotel, the American Embassy, and some nice restaurants at this square. There is also a small playground and many benches where you can sit and relax. At this square, George Bush held a big speech back in 2005. The Christmas Market located at this square is also magnificent, and especially in the evening. Here you will find an ice skating rink, lots of stands from where you can buy something to eat and drink, and a few stands where you can buy handmade objects and souvenirs. But, this market is first of all about eating and drinking.

Christmas market by Bratislava Castle

There has been a Christmas market by the castle of Bratislava since 2016. It is very similar to the other Christmas markets, only that it has a fantastic view that you can combine with shopping, eating, and drinking. Since tourists always visit the castle anyway, this is a perfect way to combine sightseeing with traditional Christmas market shopping in Bratislava.

Christmas market dates in Bratislava 2023

November 23th – December 23rd

The best hotels for guests coming to the Christmas markets in Bratislava.

Would you like to live very close to the Christmas markets in Bratislava? Are you dreaming of a central hotel where you can go shopping, eat in nice restaurants, and visit the Christmas markets without using public transportation or walking too much? Here are some awesome suggestions that will give you a good foundation for some great days in Bratislava.

• Radisson Blu Carlton – A fantastic hotel located in the center of Bratislava. It is normally cheaper than you would expect it to be.
• Skau Venturska – This is a good option if you’d rather live in an apartment in the middle of Bratislava.
• Skaritz Hotel – Cheaper than Radisson Blu, but still a very good hotel with a good location in the Old Town of Bratislava.

More pictures from the Christmas markets in Bratislava

For more information on what is going on in Bratislava, click the link.