Christmas Markets in Craiova

6 MarketsRomania

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Explore the magical atmosphere of Craiova's Christmas markets

Craiova glowing Edison bulbs and festive garland during winter season
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Plan Your Visit to Craiova

Getting There

Craiova is served by Craiova International Airport, which offers connections to several European cities. The city has excellent rail connections to Bucharest via regular intercity services along the main southern Romanian corridor. Major national routes link Craiova to the capital and western Romania, making it accessible by road.

Where to Stay

The city center offers the most convenient base, with cultural landmarks, restaurants, and public squares within easy walking distance. Accommodation ranges from business hotels to smaller guesthouses, all providing access to the heart of the city.

Other Attractions

Nicolae Romanescu Park, one of southeastern Europe's largest landscape parks, features lakes, historic bridges, and walking paths. The Art Museum of Craiova, housed in the grand Jean Mihail Palace, holds an impressive collection including works by Constantin Brâncuși. The Church of Saint Demetrius, one of the city's oldest religious monuments, merits a visit for its architectural significance. The surrounding Oltenia region offers day trip opportunities to rural villages and the scenic Carpathian foothills.

History & Culture

Craiova has roots stretching back to antiquity, with evidence of Dacian and Roman presence in the Oltenia region. During the medieval period, the city grew into a significant administrative and commercial center, serving as the seat of the bans—governors who ruled Oltenia on behalf of the Wallachian princes. This political heritage gave Craiova considerable cultural and economic influence, and the city became known for its educated elite and civic ambition. By the nineteenth century, Craiova had developed into one of Wallachia's most important urban centers, with grand architecture and cultural institutions reflecting its prosperity. The city's Oltenian identity remains strong, expressed through local cuisine, folk traditions, and seasonal celebrations that carry genuine regional character.

Craiova Christmas Markets at a Glance

6 markets • Sorted by popularity

Târgul de Crăciun Craiova

Craiova City Centre
14 Nov11 Jan(est.)
Free Entry
Ice SkatingLive MusicFamily FriendlyCarouselLight Show

Craiova's Christmas market is one of Europe's largest festive events, spanning over 280,000 square meters across five city squares and featuring millions of lights, hand-painted wooden chalets, and four distinct themed Christmas experiences. Highlights include Eastern Europe's highest-flying Santa's sleigh, a panoramic Ferris wheel, an ice rink, and a wide array of food stalls celebrating Eastern European cuisine. The market has been recognized as one of the best Christmas markets in Europe by European Best Destinations, finishing in the top rankings multiple years running.

View Târgul de Crăciun Craiova

Târgul de Crăciun Craiova - Buzești Brothers Square

Buzești Brothers Square
14 Nov11 Jan(est.)
Free Entry
Ice SkatingLive MusicFamily FriendlyCarouselLight Show

Frații Buzești Square location of the Christmas market

View Târgul de Crăciun Craiova - Buzești Brothers Square

Târgul de Crăciun Craiova - Doljana Zone

Doljana Zone
14 Nov11 Jan(est.)
Free Entry
Ice SkatingLive MusicFamily FriendlyCarouselLight Show

Doljana area location of the Christmas market

View Târgul de Crăciun Craiova - Doljana Zone

Târgul de Crăciun Craiova - Michael the Brave Square

Michael the Brave Square
14 Nov11 Jan(est.)
Free Entry
Ice SkatingLive MusicFamily FriendlyCarouselLight Show

Main central square location of the Christmas market

View Târgul de Crăciun Craiova - Michael the Brave Square

Târgul de Crăciun Craiova - Theodor Aman Street

Theodor Aman Street
14 Nov11 Jan(est.)
Free Entry
Ice SkatingLive MusicFamily FriendlyCarouselLight Show

Theodor Aman Street location of the Christmas market

View Târgul de Crăciun Craiova - Theodor Aman Street

Târgul de Crăciun Craiova - William Shakespeare Square

William Shakespeare Square
14 Nov11 Jan(est.)
Free Entry
Ice SkatingLive MusicFamily FriendlyCarouselLight Show

Esplanade of the Marin Sorescu National Theatre location of the Christmas market

View Târgul de Crăciun Craiova - William Shakespeare Square

Nearby Christmas Market Destinations

Explore other cities with Christmas markets near Craiova

Frequently Asked Questions

When do Christmas markets in Craiova open in 2026?

Christmas markets in Craiova typically run from around 14 Nov to 11 Jan. Exact 2026 dates vary by market, so check each market's page for confirmed opening and closing dates.

How many Christmas markets are there in Craiova?

Craiova has 6 Christmas markets in our directory, each with dates, locations, and visitor details to help you plan.

What are the main Christmas markets in Craiova?

Notable Christmas markets in Craiova include Târgul de Crăciun Craiova, Târgul de Crăciun Craiova - Buzești Brothers Square and Târgul de Crăciun Craiova - Doljana Zone, among others. See the full list above with dates and highlights for each.

Are Christmas markets in Craiova free to enter?

Entry to Craiova's Christmas markets is generally free — browsing the stalls costs nothing, though a few attractions like ice rinks may charge separately.

What food and drink can you try at Christmas markets in Craiova?

Craiova's Christmas markets serve seasonal favorites like mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, grilled sausages, and freshly baked festive treats, alongside regional specialties from Romania.

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Discover 6 magical Christmas markets in the heart of Romania