- Mr Plane Guy
- Oct 1
- 5 min read
Updated: Oct 2
The Best Christmas Markets in Europe: Deals, Destinations & Festive Breaks
By Flight, Travel & Glühwein Expert Mr Plane Guy
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click and buy, I might earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It helps keep this blog running (and fuels my habit of buying overpriced airport lattes at the airport). Thanks for your support!
If you’re looking for a little extra sparkle this winter, a trip to Europe’s best Christmas markets is exactly the ticket. Forget the frantic high street rush and endless online deliveries – nothing beats wrapping up warm, strolling through twinkling stalls, and sipping a steaming mug of glühwein as carols drift through the frosty air.
🎄 Make the most of the season with these special Christmas offers, click here.
From the famous German Christmas markets of Berlin and Cologne, to the magical festive fairs of Prague, Vienna, and Budapest, Europe is home to some of the most enchanting holiday experiences you’ll ever find. Whether you’re after unique gifts, handmade crafts, or just the excuse to snack your way through gingerbread villages and roasted chestnuts, these festive getaways deliver charm in spades.
And the best part? You don’t have to spend a fortune. With fantastic city break deals (including flights and hotels), you can escape to some of the best Christmas markets in Europe for less than you think.
Why Visit Christmas Markets in Europe?
History & tradition: Christmas markets date back hundreds of years and still carry all the old-world magic.
Atmosphere: Snow-dusted cobbles, fairy lights, choirs, mulled wine – the festive spirit is impossible to resist.
Christmas shopping: Skip the stress and pick up handcrafted gifts (and don’t forget to check out my guide to the best Christmas gifts for inspiration).
City breaks with a twist: Markets are the heart of the action, but you’ll also get to explore some of Europe’s most iconic cities.
Top Picks for the Best Christmas Markets
Prague, Czech Republic
One of Europe’s most magical Christmas destinations, Prague transforms into a fairy-tale city every December. The Old Town Square market, framed by Gothic spires, is straight out of a snow globe.
Deal highlight:2 nights at the 5★ COSMOPOLITAN Hotel Prague Flights from London includedFrom £315 per person
Book now for the best prices before flights and hotels sell out
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest combines riverside beauty with some of the best Christmas markets in Europe. Head to Vörösmarty Square for traditional gifts and Hungary’s famous chimney cake.
Deal highlight:3 nights at the 4★ Barcelo Budapest Flights from London includedFrom £240 per person
Vienna, Austria
Vienna’s elegant squares are home to some of the best Christmas markets in Europe. Expect classical music, artisan crafts, and endless festive snacks.
I loved it at Cologne Christmas Market, honestly my flight was around £40 return and the hotel was great value and right opposite one of the markets here is a review of the hotel and of course the Guide to Colognes Christmas Markets.
Berlin & Cologne, Germany
No list of the best German Christmas markets would be complete without Berlin or Cologne. With over 70 markets across the city, Berlin offers everything from huge festive villages to intimate artisan stalls. Cologne’s market, set against the backdrop of its iconic cathedral, is a bucket-list experience.
Deal highlight:2 nights at the 4★ nhow Berlin Flights from London included From £217 per person
Krakow, Poland
Krakow’s main square lights up in December with a sprawling Christmas market packed with wooden toys, folk crafts, and pierogi aplenty.
Deal highlight:2 nights at the 5★ Holiday Inn Krakow City Centre Flights from London included, breakfast includedFrom £366 per person
Other Magical Markets Worth a Weekend Escape
Edinburgh – festive cheer with a Scottish twist
Bruges – a gingerbread city come to life
Brussels – chocolate, waffles, and Christmas stalls galore
Copenhagen – cosy hygge vibes at Tivoli Gardens
Christmas Markets London, A Festive Alternative at Home
If you don’t fancy flying, you can still soak up the festive magic right here in the UK. Christmas markets in London include Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, Southbank’s riverside stalls, and Greenwich’s charming artisan market. Perfect for a quick taste of Christmas spirit without leaving the country.
Ready to Book Your Festive Escape?
Whether you’re dreaming of the best German Christmas markets, a romantic weekend in Vienna, or simply browsing deals for Christmas markets in Europe, there’s never been a better time to book. These trips are the perfect mix of shopping, sightseeing, and seasonal indulgence.
🎄 Make the most of the season with these special Christmas offers, click here.
Airport Lounge Access: Start Your Holiday in Style
Complimentary drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic)
Tasty snacks to keep you going
Wi-Fi to catch up on emails or browse before your flight
Comfortable seating to unwind before takeoff
If you love starting your holiday with a touch of luxury, this alone might make the upgrade worthwhile.
Want airport lounge access but at a reduced fee? I got you!
Priority Pass is the world's largest independent airport VIP lounge access program, with over 1,700+ lounges in over 600 cities across 148 countries! From just £69 for an annual pass.
The lovely people from priority Pass have offered me a 30% discount code making it just £48! Be quick this won't last long!! Use my link below.
Take a Look Here ( I get a tiny kickback BTW, thank you for the support )
TOP TIP: If two of you are travelling, just get one Priority Pass and the two of you will get into lounges at reduced fee's all year!
Plan Your Airport Parking: Booking in advance can make your journey more seamless.
Follow me on Instagram for the latest lounge reviews, PLANE tips, and PLANE deals.
My phone bill was last month was £92 after just 2 days in Cologne! I forgot to take out an eSim! Don't make my mistake and take out an eSim before your next flight!
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Hello, I’m Paul a professional jet-setter and all-around plane travel pro. After 15 years working in and around planes, I became a flight delay expert at a London Airport and mastered plane travel hacks, a PLANE flight expert with BIG travel plans but small carry-on.
Now, I share PLANE travel news, tips, reviews, and deals with honesty, humour, and zero baggage! Thanks for reading The Best Christmas Markets in Europe: Deals, Destinations & Festive Breaks.
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