Easter is an excellent time to visit Europe because of the festive celebrations and the charming seasonal markets that transform historic squares in many cities. From the Baroque backdrop of Vienna and the medieval charm of Nuremberg, to the lively streets of Bucharest, each Easter market is a celebration of renewal, craftsmanship and European heritage. Wander through stalls with handcrafted ceramics, decorative Easter bunnies and delicate lace ornaments, while enjoying the flavors of traditional Easter delicacies such as sweet braided breads, roasted lamb and rich chocolate confections. Here are ten of the best Easter markets to visit this month.

Kraków’s Easter Market, set in the iconic Rynek Główny (the main market square), is a vibrant showcase of Polish Easter traditions. Expect hand-painted Pisanki (Easter eggs), intricate folk art and lively cultural performances. Local delights to buy include: Traditional Pisanki eggs, wooden folk toys, amber jewelry and handmade lace. And to taste: Żurek (sour rye soup with sausage), Oscypek (smoked cheese) and Mazurek (Easter cake). Stay in a former palace at Hotel Stary, a 5-star hotel in a 19th-century palace, near the main market square or at the gorgeous Bonerowski Palace, with 16 individually designed rooms in a 13th-century building.

Budapest’s Easter Market, held at Vörösmarty Square, is a charming mix of folk traditions, gastronomy and Easter-themed events, including egg-painting workshops and Hungarian folk music. Local delights to buy include: painted eggs, handmade pottery, embroidered textiles and wooden carvings. To eat and drink, don’t miss Hungarian goulash, Kürtőskalács (chimney cake), washed down with Tokaji wine. Stay at the 5-star Kempinski Hotel Corvinus Budapest near the Easter market, the Mathild Palace, a Belle Epoque gem near the famous Elizabeth bridge or the adults only Hotel Clark beside the Buda Castle.

Vienna’s Easter Markets, especially the ones at Schönbrunn Palace and Freyung Square, are really special. Expect to see thousands of beautifully decorated Easter eggs, gourmet delicacies and a magical atmosphere. Local delights to buy include hand-painted Easter eggs, Viennese porcelain and delicate glass ornaments. Be sure to taste Kaiserschmarrn (a fluffy pancake torn in pieces served with fruit compote), Osterpinze (sweet Easter bread), and of course Sachertorte, the classic chocolate layer cake. Stay at Hotel Sacher, a 5-star where the famous cake is said to have originated from or on the Ringstraße, the Grand Ferdinand with an excellent rooftop restaurant.

4. Prague, Czech Republic

The Prague Easter Market is held in Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square and features colorful wooden stalls, traditional Czech crafts and live folk performances. Local Delights to buy include hand-painted Czech Easter eggs (kraslice), wooden puppets, glassware and embroidered tablecloths. Taste the Trdelník (chimney cake), Czech sausages, Easter mazanec (sweet bread) and Pilsner beer. Stay at Four Seasons Hotel, a luxurious riverside hotel near the Easter Market or the 4-star Design Hotel Neruda near the castle.

Craiova hosts a charming Easter market in the Romanescu Park, filled with handcrafted Romanian products, Easter-themed decorations and festive concerts. The market is a hidden gem, offering an authentic Easter experience and is recognized as the biggest Easter Fair in Romania. Local delights to buy include hand-painted eggs, traditional Romanian ceramics, and handcrafted wooden icons. Taste Cozonac (sweet walnut-filled bread), sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls), and Pască (Romanian Easter cheesecake). Stay at Hotel Splendid 1900, a 5-star hotel with historic charm.

The Nuremberg Easter Market (Ostermarkt) is one of Germany’s oldest spring fairs, dating back to the 15th century. Held in Hauptmarkt Square, it offers a mix of Easter crafts, regional delicacies and Bavarian traditions. Local products to buy include: handmade wooden toys, porcelain Easter ornaments, and traditional Franconian crafts. Taste Nürnberger Rostbratwurst (grilled sausages), lebkuchen (gingerbread) and Osterbrot (Easter bread). Stay at Le Méridien Grand Hotel Nuremberg, a stylish 5-star hotel near the market.

The Romanian capital’s Easter Fair at Constitution Square is a vibrant mix of tradition and modern celebration, featuring folk music, handcrafted decorations and festive Romanian Easter cuisine. The market’s charming wooden stalls and egg-painting workshops create a warm and lively atmosphere. Local specialties to buy include: handwoven carpets, artisanal pottery and painted icons. Eat and drink: Pască (sweet cheese Easter cake), drob de miel (Easter lamb dish) and homemade țuică (plum brandy). Stay at JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel, a luxury 5-star hotel near major landmarks or 4-star Europa Royale Bucharest, on Franceză Street, the oldest street in the city, across from a 15th-century Church built by the notorious Vlad the Impaler.

Innsbruck Easter Market, held in the historic Old Town, offers a stunning Alpine backdrop for its charming wooden stalls, traditional Austrian crafts, and festive performances. This market is petite but incredibly picturesque, making it a must-visit for those who love cozy, authentic experiences. Local delights to buy: Tyrolean wood carvings, hand-painted eggs and Alpine wool products. Taste: Speck (smoked ham), Kaiserschmarrn (torn pancakes with fruit compote) and Apfelstrudel. Stay at family-run Hotel Maximilian, right in the heart of Innsbruck or Hotel Schwarzer Adler (ask for a room with a balcony).

9. Colmar, Alsace, France

Often described as “petite Venice” due to its canals, Colmar in the northeastern part of France’s Alsace region, is a charming little town with a well-preserved medieval old town and attractive blend of German and French architectural styles. With two separate market areas, an animal farm, and artisan stalls, it’s a charming mix of Alsatian tradition and springtime celebration. Local products include Alsatian pottery, wooden Easter decorations and handmade lace. Don’t miss the Flammkuchen (Alsatian pizza), Kougelhopf (sweet brioche) and local Riesling wine. Stay at La Maison des Têtes, a gorgeous 5-star Relais & Châteaux hotel in a historic mansion in the city center or at 4-star Hotel le Marechal.

The Salzburg Easter Market is held in Mozartplatz, featuring Austrian Easter traditions and musical performances. Set in one of Europe’s most charming old cities, the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, it’s a perfect blend of history, culture and Easter celebrations. Local products to buy include Mozartkugeln (chocolate truffles), blown-out painted eggs and hand-carved wooden figures. Don’t miss eating Bauernkrapfen (fried dough pastry), Salzburger Nockerl (sweet soufflé) and Easter ham. Stay at the legendary Hotel Sacher Salzburg, a 5-star hotel with river views or the charming 4-star Hotel Amadeus.