Although Easter Sunday remains more than a month away, markets at which eggs and springtime décor take center stage are already beginning to pop up across Europe. Such events offer not only the chance to acquire thoughtfully crafted items but also to explore what are oftentimes beautiful and historically significant settings. Some particularly well-set markets take place in the following environs:

Monasteries

Eltville am Rhein, Germany: Eberbach Monastery is located amid the rugged scenery of the Rheingau, a wine-growing area lying north of the Rhine and close to Wiesbaden. This Cistercian abbey dating back to 1136 has served as the backdrop to several films, including “The Name of the Rose.” Its annual Easter Egg Market is known for the high quality of the decorated eggs offered, the works of craftspeople from across Europe. Several of these talented men and women will be on hand to demonstrate their masterful techniques. The market takes place from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. March 15 and from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. March 16. Entry costs 7 euros for adults, while children ages 12 and under enter free. Online: ostereiermarkt-im-kloster-eberbach.de

Other monasteries that host Easter markets include Seligenstadt (March 8-9), Maulbronn (March 22-23) and the Dominikanerkloster in Frankfurt am Main (March 22-23).

Town squares

Prague, Czech Republic: The Easter markets spread out across Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square are made up of dozens of stalls offering handmade decorations from wood, ceramics and other natural materials. A typically Czech craft is the pomlázka, a whip braided of willow branches interspersed with ribbons. Easter breads, gingerbread, potato pancakes and sausages are served up on site. In the afternoons, folkloric performances by costumed groups take place beneath a decorated birch tree. The market is open from 10 a.m.-10 p.m. daily from April 5-27. Online: tinyurl.com/bdhay956

Nuremberg, Germany: Tracing its roots back to 1424, the city’s first market of the season is also its oldest. Some 100 booths selling wares from ceramics to curtains and baskets to tablecloths reflect the market’s origins as a place to acquire goods for the home. The market is open from 10 a.m.-7 p.m. daily April 4-21, but will be closed on Good Friday. Online: tinyurl.com/55tedzwp

Colmar, France: Many of Alsace’s villages and towns lovingly decorate for Easter, and this small city known for its canals overlooked by half-timbered houses is no exception. Colmar will greet the spring, as per tradition, with a market on the Place des Dominicains. Its goods will include home décor, chocolate treats, baked goods, floral arrangements and more. The market runs from 10 a.m.-7 p.m. daily from April 4-27. Entry is free. Online: printemps-colmar.com/en

Krakow, Poland: The Easter Fair held on the Main Square offers a plethora of décor in keeping with the season, much of which is crafted of natural materials such as wicker, straw, linen and clay. Honey and fruity liqueurs are tasteful products to enjoy back home. One essential item at Eastertime in Poland is the so-called palm, not a palm at all but a colorful creation of bound willow branches adorned with evergreens, paper ornaments, dried flowers and ribbons. These are traditionally blessed in the church on Palm Sunday. Krakow’s market is set to take place April 10-21. Online: krakowguide.net/events/easter-market

Sankt Wendel, Germany: Saarland’s medieval gem celebrates Easter with a market full of colorful eggs, plants and pretty things for the home alongside attractions for young visitors including an exhibition of Easter bunny houses. A stroll through the castle square reveals a prettily decorated fountain, while walking acts enliven other corners of this postcard-worthy town. On Sunday, many shops will be open for business. The festivities run April 3-6, and entry is free. Online: tinyurl.com/ynzmvryp

Castles

Ronneburg, Germany: The 13th-century Ronneburg Castle, one of few hilltop castles preserved in its original state, lies about 35 miles northeast of Frankfurt am Main. Its annual Historical Easter Market is a family-friendly event bursting with medieval flair. Merchants, craftsmen, archers, jugglers, magicians, knights and other costumed actors transform the castle grounds into a lively marketplace reminiscent of long-past centuries. This year’s edition of the market runs on the weekends of April 5-6 and April 12-13. Adult admission costs 10 euros; children ages 6-13 enter for 7 euros. Those dressed in Middle-Ages garb can take advantage of slightly discounted entry prices. Online: burg-ronneburg.de/en/mittelalterliche-maerkte

Vienna, Austria: For three weeks, the historic parade courtyard of the Schönbrunn Palace fills up with market stalls selling handcrafted goods and culinary delights. Small children will enjoy the wonder of nostalgic attractions including a small Ferris wheel, carousel and train, or the thrill of getting lost in a straw maze. The market is open from 10 a.m.-7 p.m. daily from March 27-April 21. Entry is free. Online: tinyurl.com/2h6ypkwz

Schwetzingen, Germany: The International Easter Egg Market offers a show of fragile beauty against a Baroque backdrop. Some 40 exhibitors, artists and craftsmen from all corners of Europe will display their painstakingly crafted works and demonstrate their skills. The market is open from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. on March 22 and from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. March 23. Adult tickets go for 8 euros, and the cost includes entry into the castle’s expansive gardens. Online: tinyurl.com/3tat2zc7