October 17, 2026, 12:43 pm | Read time: 2 minutes
A Christmas market with four themed areas, regional specialties, dozens of rides, and millions of lights–all on an incredible 280,000 square meters. Europe’s largest Christmas market is a true winter wonderland with numerous traditional attractions. Its location might surprise many, as few know about it. Europe’s largest Christmas market is neither in Germany, Austria, nor France–it is actually in Craiova in southwestern Romania. The vast area is comparable to about 40 soccer fields. The platform European Best Destinations even named it the most beautiful Christmas market in Europe and calls Craiova the new Christmas capital of the continent. What the Romanian Christmas market is really about–TRAVELBOOK reveals.
Elf Magic in Romania
From November 13, 2026, to January 3, 2027, Europe’s largest Christmas market by area is open. This year, the theme is all about the “Land of Elves.” Craiova’s city center transforms into a fairy-tale world of sweets and toy figures, enveloped in a sea of lights and Christmas decorations.
In addition to an ice rink, there is also a 40-meter-high Ferris wheel, Santa’s flying sleigh hovering over the market, more than 90 Christmas-decorated chalets, and hand-painted houses. From handicrafts to retro toys to hand-carved Christmas ornaments, treats, and classics like mulled wine and gingerbread–the Christmas magic is in the air in Craiova.
Culinary Variety at Low Prices
The Christmas market in Craiova is also a culinary highlight of Eastern European cuisine: Here you can find dishes from Azerbaijan, Armenia, Georgia, Greece, North Macedonia, Hungary, Serbia, Bulgaria, Ukraine, Turkey, and the Republic of Moldova. There are also traditional Romanian dishes like Cozonac, Gogoși, grilled sausages, and other dishes prepared right on site.
And the best part: Many of the food and drinks here are relatively inexpensive. According to “Romanian Experience,” a cup of mulled wine costs 2 euros, traditional Romanian sausage 1.40 euros, and a piece of chimney cake 5 euros. The admission price for a ride is between 4 and 6 euros. Everything at the market is designed to create a cozy atmosphere–an unforgettable, nostalgic experience for young and old alike.