Experience the Magic of Helsinki and Tallinn Christmas Markets
Travel Guides
December 10, 2025
Experience the Magic of Helsinki and Tallinn Christmas Markets
The aroma of freshly roasted chestnuts drifts through the frosty air, hot chocolates gently warm your hands, and an illuminated tree sparkles with thousands of colourful lights. It can only mean one thing: Christmas has arrived in Northern Europe. As the nights grow longer and the temperatures plummet to single digits, the festive season shines brightly in two of Europe’s most enchanting winter destinations: Tallinn and Helsinki.
Both capitals are home to some of the best Christmas markets in Europe, drawing thousands of visitors every year to experience their traditional Nordic charm. And the best part? You don’t have to choose between them. A 2-hour ferry from Tallinn to Helsinki is all that separates them, so you can visit both markets in a single trip this winter.
Tallinn Christmas Market
The Tallinn Estonia Christmas Market is often ranked among the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe and for good reason. Located in the heart of Tallinn’s UNESCO-listed Old Town, the iconic 14-metre Christmas tree towers over the historic Town Hall Square, surrounded by festive stalls glowing against the winter sky. In 2025, visitors can also look forward to new festive lighting on the Old Town Hall façade, adding even more magic to this already captivating scene.
As you explore the market, your mouth will start to water at the scent of cinnamon and freshly baked cardamom buns. Enjoy a steaming cup of mulled wine as Tallinn boasts the largest selection of mulled wine in Europe, available both alcoholic and alcohol-free.
If you’re looking for Christmas gifts, the Tallinn market is a treasure trove. Local artisans and small businesses showcase their handcrafted creations, from scented candles to traditional decorations and winter accessories. It’s just the place to find that perfect present if you’re struggling for ideas.
To crown the festive atmosphere, the Tallinn Christmas Market features a colorful program of entertainment throughout December. Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, visitors can enjoy live performances, including folk dancers, children’s choirs and local music groups.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Opening dates | 21 November – 28 December 2025 |
| Daily opening hours | Open every day from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. |
| Hot drinks | Hot drinks are served daily until 10:00 p.m., and until 11:00 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Perfect for a late evening mulled wine or hot chocolate under the Christmas lights. |
| Children's attractions | Three traditional carousels and a variety of family-friendly food stalls and sweet treats, making the market ideal for a festive day out with kids. |
| Santa Claus visits | From 30 November, Santa Claus welcomes children every day from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. This is a great time for photos, small gifts and magical Christmas memories. |
| Reusable tableware | The market uses reusable cups and plates to reduce waste. A refundable deposit of €2 (approx. $2.20 USD) is charged per item and returned in full when you bring it back. |
| Location | Located in the historic Town Hall Square in the heart of Tallinn's Old Town, just a short walk from major hotels, restaurants and public transport stops. |
| Accessibility | The square is mostly flat and accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. Accessible toilets are signposted around the market area. |
| Best time to visit | For fewer crowds, visit on weekday mornings. For the full festive atmosphere with lights and live performances, evenings and weekends are ideal. |
| Entertainment | Live music, children's choirs and dance performances take place on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays throughout the Advent season. |
| Payment options | Most stalls accept both cash and card payments. ATMs are available within walking distance of the market. |
Helsinki Christmas Market
Finland is said to be the home of Santa Claus, so it’s no wonder why the Christmas markets in Helsinki are considered one of the best in Europe. Set on the iconic Senate Square, right at the foot of the Helsinki Cathedral, this magical market transforms the city center into a beautiful winter village. There are more than 115 stalls in the square selling handcrafted gifts, artisan products and delicious Finnish specialties, many of which are sustainably sourced. Many stalls rotate every week, so expect something new each time you visit.
Those with a big appetite will feel right at home at the Helsinki Christmas Market. Visitors can warm up at cozy heated restaurant areas or browse a number of different food stalls offering everything from savory lunches to sweet holiday treats. With food options for vegetarians, vegans and families, there truly is something for everyone.
A visit to the Christmas market in Helsinki isn’t just a shopping trip. It’s a full sensory experience, combining Finnish culture, seasonal flavours, stunning architecture and warm Nordic hospitality. Whether you’re planning a winter city break, a Christmas market tour or a ferry trip between Helsinki and Tallinn, Helsinki’s festive atmosphere is sure to capture your heart.
| Category | Details – Helsinki Christmas Market 2025 |
|---|---|
| Opening dates | 28 November – 22 December 2025 |
| Daily opening hours | Open daily from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays: extended opening until 8:00 p.m. |
| Entrance fee | General entry to the Helsinki Christmas Market is free of charge (approx. $0.00 USD). |
| Children's attractions | Tivoli Sariola Carousel – a classic carousel ride for children, available free of charge (approx. $0.00 USD). Additional family-friendly stalls offer sweets, snacks and hot drinks (prices vary by stall). |
| Circus performances | Special circus show on: – Tuesday, 2 December, 5:00 p.m. – 5:20 p.m. – Thursday, 11 December, 5:00 p.m. – 5:20 p.m. Performances take place in the market area and are suitable for all ages. |
| Santa Claus visits | Meet Santa Claus at the market on the following dates: – Fri, 28 November: 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.* – Sat, 29 November: 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.* – Sat, 6 December: 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.* – Tue, 9 December: 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. – Sun, 14 December: 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.* – Sun, 21 December: 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.* – Mon, 22 December: 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.* *On these days there is a short break between 2:30 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. |
| Special days & events | 6 December – Finland's Independence Day: Expect a special parade, festive programme on Senate Square and a ceremony at the cathedral. 13 December – Lucia Festival: Lucia is crowned in the cathedral, followed by a traditional procession and music, creating an especially atmospheric evening at the market. |
| Food & drink | Numerous food stalls and heated restaurant areas offer breakfast, lunch and snacks. Visitors can enjoy traditional Finnish dishes, vegetarian and vegan options, and seasonal desserts. Hot drinks include coffee specialities, locally inspired creations (such as spruce-shoot latte), hot chocolate and Finnish mulled wine (glögi). Prices vary by stall, with typical hot drinks starting from around €4–€6 (approx. $4.50–$6.70 USD). |
| Shopping & gifts | Around 115 local traders sell handmade gifts, design items, natural cosmetics, jewellery, textiles, jams, sauces and other artisanal products. Many items are crafted from locally sourced and sustainably produced materials, making this an ideal place to find unique Christmas presents. |
| Location | The market is held on Senate Square in the heart of Helsinki, directly in front of the Helsinki Cathedral. It is easily reached on foot from the city centre, and well connected by tram, bus and metro. |
| Accessibility | The square is mostly level and accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. Accessible toilets and clearly marked paths make it convenient for visitors with reduced mobility. |
| Best time to visit | For a quieter experience, visit on weekday afternoons. For the full festive atmosphere, plan your visit for evenings or weekends, especially around live performances and special events. |
Helsinki to Tallinn Ferry
The ferry from Helsinki to Tallinn takes approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes and is available for booking with Tallink Silja Line, Viking Line and Eckero Line. Whether you’re taking a day trip or spending a long weekend in Estonia, this ferry route is a perfect way to experience the Tallinn Christmas market. With up to 88 sailings departing per week, you will have no trouble finding the right ferry for your Christmas travel plans. If you heading to Finland to visit the Helsinki Christmas market, you can take the ferry from Tallinn to Helsinki instead.
Book Your Ferry Tickets
It’s never been easier to visit two of the best Christmas markets in Europe. Book your ferry tickets today and experience the magic of the Helsinki and Tallinn Christmas markets. The Christmas holiday of your dreams is just a few clicks away.