Riga Ranks 3rd in Europe’s Best Christmas Markets 2025-2026
Riga has climbed to its highest-ever ranking in the European Winter Tourism
awards, securing the 3rd position in the “European Best Christmas Markets
2025–2026” list.
The annual ranking, which attracts over eight million potential visitors
each year, is regularly featured in prominent international publications
like Forbes, Condé Nast Traveler, and National Geographic. This year’s
vote saw participation from 803,258 individuals across 179 countries.
Riga garnered 72,804 votes – a significant increase of over 20,000
compared to last year. This surge propelled the Latvian capital past
renowned Christmas destinations such as Vienna, Paris, Madrid, and
Edinburgh. While Zurich took second place, the top spot was claimed by
Crajova, Romania.
“This is a remarkable achievement for Riga. For the first time, we are
among the top three Christmas destinations in Europe. The sheer number of
votes demonstrates Riga’s appeal and growing international recognition,
especially considering the strong competition,” says Fredis Bikovs,
director of the Riga Investment and Tourism Agency.
The voting data reveals that Riga’s strongest support came from travelers
in the United Kingdom, Germany, Sweden, Finland, and Lithuania – key
target markets for the city’s tourism strategy, according to Bikovs.
Beyond the overall ranking, Riga has also been awarded the title of
“Best Christmas Lights in Europe” for the third consecutive year,
further solidifying its festive reputation.
Atklāj Vecrīgas Ziemassvētku tirdziņu
Vecrīgas Ziemassvētku tirdziņa atklāšana Doma laukumā.
The rise in popularity of Christmas markets across Europe reflects a broader
trend in tourism, with travelers increasingly seeking authentic cultural
experiences and festive atmospheres. According to the European Travel
Commission, Christmas and winter markets contribute significantly to
tourism revenue during the off-season, providing a vital economic boost
to cities and regions.
Riga’s success is particularly noteworthy given the current geopolitical
climate and the increased competition among European cities to attract
tourists. The city’s strategic location in the Baltic region, combined
with its rich history and vibrant cultural scene, has positioned it as a
compelling destination for international visitors.