Easter Markets Across Europe: Where to Go This Spring
While Christmas markets get most of the attention, Easter markets across Europe are a hidden gem for spring travellers. These seasonal celebrations bring together local crafts, traditional foods, and festive atmospheres in some of the continent's most beautiful squares and historic settings. If you're planning a spring trip to Europe, timing your visit around Easter can add a whole new dimension to your journey.
Vienna: Imperial Easter Elegance
Vienna hosts some of the most enchanting Easter markets in Europe. The market at Schoenbrunn Palace sets up in the grand courtyard of the former imperial residence, with over 60 stalls offering hand-painted eggs, artisan crafts, and traditional Austrian pastries. The Freyung Easter Market in the city centre is another favourite, known for its high-quality local products and relaxed atmosphere.
Vienna's Easter markets typically run for two to three weeks leading up to Easter Sunday, making them a perfect complement to a city break that includes the Belvedere, the Kunsthistorisches Museum, and a traditional coffee house visit.
Prague: Old Town Charm
Prague's Old Town Square transforms into a colourful Easter marketplace each spring. Wooden stalls sell braided willow whips (a Czech Easter tradition), hand-decorated eggs, and local delicacies like trdelnik, a sweet pastry cooked over an open flame. The backdrop of the Astronomical Clock and the twin spires of the Tyn Church make this one of the most photogenic Easter markets in Europe.
Visiting Multiple Countries?
Hopping between Easter markets in Vienna, Prague, and Krakow? That's three Schengen countries in one trip. Use Entorii to keep track of your days and generate a PDF report for border checks.
Krakow: Tradition Meets Celebration
Poland takes Easter seriously, and Krakow's Rynek Glowny (Main Market Square) reflects that with a vibrant Easter market. Stalls sell hand-carved wooden figures, embroidered linens, and regional foods like oscypek (smoked cheese) and kielbasa. The nearby Cloth Hall provides a stunning architectural backdrop, and the market is a wonderful way to experience Polish hospitality and craft traditions firsthand.
Budapest: Thermal Baths and Spring Festivities
Budapest's Easter market at Vorosmarty Square offers a blend of Hungarian folk art and spring celebrations. Visitors can browse hand-embroidered textiles, sample langos (fried dough) and chimney cake, and enjoy live folk music performances. Combine your market visit with a soak in one of Budapest's famous thermal baths for a quintessential Hungarian spring experience.
Planning Your Easter Market Tour
Easter dates vary each year, so check the specific market dates before booking your trip. In 2026, Easter Sunday falls on April 5th, with most markets opening one to three weeks beforehand. Many of these cities are well connected by train, making it easy to combine several Easter markets into a single trip across Central Europe.
Keep in mind that accommodation fills up quickly around Easter, especially in popular cities like Vienna and Prague. Book early and consider staying in nearby towns for a more affordable and authentic experience. The spring weather across Central Europe is generally mild but unpredictable, so pack layers and be prepared for the occasional rain shower.
A Different Side of Spring in Europe
Easter markets offer something that big summer festivals don't: a chance to connect with local traditions in an intimate setting. Whether you're buying a hand-painted egg in Vienna, tasting smoked cheese in Krakow, or watching folk dancers in Budapest, these markets give you a window into the cultural heart of each country. It's one of the best reasons to visit Europe in spring.