Eastern Europe comes alive during the festive season, and Romania and Moldova are no exception. From bustling capital squares to quaint medieval towns, these countries offer a magical mix of lights, local crafts, and traditional winter treats. Christmas markets in Romania and Moldova are not just about shopping — they are celebrations of culture, community and seasonal cheer. Visitors can wander through illuminated streets, listen to carol singers, sample mulled wine, and enjoy local delicacies while exploring historic landmarks.
Whether you’re seeking lively city markets or intimate town squares, Romania and Moldova offer festive experiences that cater to travellers who enjoy culture, history, and the unique atmosphere of a Central and Eastern European Christmas.
Christmas Markets in Romania
Bucharest – Piata Constitutiei Christmas Market
In Romania’s vibrant capital, the Piata Constitutiei Christmas Market opens from late November to early January. The grand square is transformed into a winter wonderland with wooden chalets, twinkling lights, and a towering Christmas tree at its centre. Visitors can sample traditional Romanian treats such as cozonac, sausages, and mulled wine while enjoying live music and festive performances. This market is ideal for those combining sightseeing in the city with a festive experience, offering easy access to nearby landmarks and cultural attractions.
Cluj‑Napoca Christmas Market
Cluj‑Napoca, often called the unofficial capital of Transylvania, hosts its Christmas market in the central Piata Unirii. From late November through early January, the square is filled with wooden stalls selling crafts, gifts, and local delicacies. Highlights include a festive ice rink, carousels, and live performances that give the market a joyful family-friendly atmosphere. The city’s blend of history, modernity and vibrant student life makes this market especially appealing for travellers seeking an energetic yet charming festive destination.
Craiova Christmas Market
Craiova Christmas Market transforms the city centre into a cosy festive space from late November to late December. Visitors can explore an array of wooden stalls with artisanal gifts, seasonal decorations, and traditional Romanian foods. The market is complemented by live music, cultural events, and family-friendly attractions, making it a warm and inviting destination for those wanting to experience a more local, relaxed festive atmosphere outside Romania’s larger cities.
Iași Christmas Market
Iași, the cultural hub of Moldova region in Romania, hosts a Christmas market in its central square from late November to late December. The market features handcrafted gifts, festive foods, and a lively programme of music and entertainment. Its location near historic churches and cultural institutions allows visitors to combine a festive stroll with exploration of the city’s rich heritage, making it a rewarding destination for travellers seeking both seasonal cheer and cultural depth.
Sibiu Christmas Market
Sibiu, in the heart of Transylvania, is famous for its picturesque medieval streets and festive market held in the Grand Square from late November to late December. The market is renowned for its beautifully decorated wooden chalets, local crafts, traditional foods, and lively music performances. Sibiu’s historic architecture provides a stunning backdrop, creating a fairytale-like atmosphere that appeals to visitors of all ages, from families to solo travellers seeking a scenic and atmospheric Christmas experience.
Christmas Markets in Moldova
Chișinău Christmas Fair & Gift Expo
In Moldova’s capital, the Christmas Fair & Gift Expo runs throughout December in the city centre. Wooden stalls offer a wide variety of gifts, decorations, and local delicacies, while the fairground features entertainment for children and families. Chișinău’s market combines festive spirit with a modern urban vibe, making it a great destination for travellers who want a lively city atmosphere with seasonal charm. Visitors can also enjoy the city’s cultural attractions, including museums and theatres, alongside the festive market experience.
Romania and Moldova provide a rich tapestry of festive experiences for travellers who appreciate charm, tradition, and seasonal magic. From the iconic city markets of Bucharest and Cluj‑Napoca to the medieval charm of Sibiu, Iași, Craiova, and Chișinău, each destination offers something unique. Whether you’re exploring historic squares, sipping mulled wine, or enjoying live performances, the Christmas markets of Romania and Moldova promise an enchanting winter escape for all types of travellers.