Does the prospect of Christmas shopping on the high street place you on the verge of an anxiety attack? Sure, it’s meant to be a wholehearted gift-buying experience, but, truth be told, for many of us, it feels like a dreaded chore: parking hassles, masses of people, too much to choose from, yet you can’t find the right thing!

But these Christmas markets promise an altogether different experience, making the act of gift-buying what it is supposed to be: full of Christmas cheer and tender love. Sip mulled wine as you wander from stall to stall, discovering unusual gifts that fascinate you and, no doubt, the people you’ll gift them to. These Malta Christmas markets will put you in the Christmas spirit even if you’re not a fan of the holiday!

1. Austrian-German Christmas Market

Selected dates between 29 Nov-24 Dec @ LABRANDA Riviera Hotel & Spa, Mellieha

Foodies, get into the Christmas spirit! Get into traditional German sausages, spit-roasted meats, Kaiserschmarrn, roasted chestnuts, pea and würstel soup, apple strudel, Christmas Stollen, Christmas cookies and gingerbread men at the first authentic Austrian-German Christmas market in Malta. Sip mulled wine and hot chocolate as you browse local crafts in the traditional Christmas huts with Christmas carols floating into your ears.

2. Hilltop Gardens Christmas Market 2019

30 Nov–1 Dec @ Hilltop Gardens, Naxxar

Early shoppers, support local artisans in an authentic local market atmosphere at the Hilltop Gardens Christmas Market 2019. There will be over twenty local artisans showcasing their goodies under one roof, nice and early in the season. Enjoy a glass of mulled wine (or two) while shopping for handmade crafts, jewellery, accessories, clothes, candles, ceramics and decor, and get some cakes and spices too!

3. Christmas at the Fort

6 Dec–8 Dec @ Fort St Angelo, Birgu

Get deeply involved in the Christmas experience at this unique Christmas village at Fort St Angelo. It’s not just about the lovely artisan gifts you can get from the many stalls on site, but also about workshops, food and drinks, and guided tours, all with a Christmas theme. A full programme of events will be announced by Heritage Malta.

4. Malta Artisans Markets Grand Christmas Fair

7 December @ Palazzo Parisio, Naxxar

For the love of locally produced handmade items, the Malta Artisan Markets Christmas 2019 at Palazzo Parisio is a must. Shop for handmade or originally sourced authentic arts and crafts, including ceramics, candles, woodworks, hand-sewn goods, filigree, jewellery, accessories, knitwear, crochet items and more, all within a stunning 18th century Palazzo. Meet the local creatives and entrepreneurs who made them, share some Christmas treats and feel inspired!

5. Pop-up Christmas Market 2019

Weekends 7 Dec – 15 Dec @ Souvenirs That Don’t Suck, Sliema

For the love of unique designer items, the Souvenirs That Don't Suck shop in Sliema is turning into a special Pop-up Christmas Market bringing some of the best independent designers in Malta. From fashion and jewellery to prints and antiques, you’ll find gift solutions by well-known names and undiscovered talent for every person on your list, while matching your budget. Cheese-free music, warm tea and guaranteed cheer for everyone are part of the promise.

6. Natalis Notabilis Malta's Christmas Village

11-15 December 2019 @ Rabat, Malta

For those who like it BIG and beautiful, there is no bigger and more beautiful Christmas market on the island than Natalis Notabilis. Every year, over 80,000 people visit almost 100 stalls spread around the historic core of the beautiful town of Rabat, Malta, across five days, helping raise funds for the conservation and restoration of local heritage in doing so. The event also includes drama productions hosted at historical sites and the Malta Christmas Carol Festival.

7. Eco Christmas - Eco Market Malta December 2019

21 Dec at 13:00 – 22 Dec @ Magazzino Hall, Valletta Waterfront

For the last-minute conscious shoppers, the Eco Christmas market gives you the opportunity to celebrate responsibly and shop ethically for innovative, contemporary and sustainable gifts. All vendors from a wide array of business categories are screened and curated according to ‘green criteria’ that ensure they follow eco-friendly measures. Pop down to the Valletta Waterfront to meet them, learn about the concept that drives them and support them with a few planet-friendly purchases.

Now there's how to wholeheartedly enjoy Christmas shopping this year!