Student cities with the best Christmas Markets

Chalsi Jindal·2 December 2025·3 min read

Student cities with the best Christmas Markets

I don’t think any place in the world can compare to the way Christmas is celebrated in the UK. This is something truly worth experiencing - every city lights up and looks absolutely breathtaking! One of the best parts of being a student here is experiencing the Christmas markets, and I’m not kidding when I say they are magical. So, here are the cities with the best ones!

Manchester

One of the most famous markets in the UK, located near Piccadilly Gardens! From great savouries like mini Dutch pancakes and crepes to cute handmade gifts, you’ll find everything here.

Being a student here in this city, I can vouch for its beauty and, of course, the mulled wine!

It’s the perfect spot to hang out post-lectures for students studying at the University of Manchester or MMU.

Edinburgh

In a close second-place, Edinburgh's Christmas Market - set right below the stunning Edinburgh Castle.

Enjoy it with a cup of hot chocolate as you take in the ice-skating rink, light shows, and Ferris wheels - you could stay all day without getting tired!

For students from the University of Edinburgh, it feels like studying inside a snow globe.

Birmingham

Yet again, one of the most famous UK cities to hosts a European-inspired Frankfurt Christmas Market. The delicacies here are all from German culture - the beer, food, and music!

Located near the University of Birmingham campus in Victoria Square, this market felt completely different from any other I’ve visited in the UK.

London

It goes without saying that the UK's capital would be in the top 5.

The Winter Wonderland here, is one of the largest Christmas markets I’ve ever seen, and it’s a must-visit. The ice rink and rides are truly amazing. But, there are many markets like this dotted all over London, including lots of stalls down side streets too - the city comes alive during this festive season.

 

 

Each of these cities has its own unique charm, but what ties them together is the warmth and joy that fill the air during Christmas. Whether it’s sipping mulled wine in Manchester or skating under the castle lights in Edinburgh, celebrating Christmas in the UK is an experience that stays with you forever.