LUCKILY for Brits, most of the best Christmas markets in the world are only a few hours away, in our European neighbours.
We’ve revealed six great value markets to visit during this festive season and the best deals to get you there.
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Breaks to these European winter wonderlands start from £189pp for three nights (£63pp a night), including your return flights, accommodation, 22kg hold baggage and handbag allowance.
1. Prague
Every winter, the centre of Prague hosts a Christmas market in the Old Town Square.
While you browse the market to the sound of carolers, there will also be traditional sweet treats and mulled wine called “svařák”.
For an extra special day, holidaymakers should consider visiting on December 5 (St. Nicholas Day), which represents the start of Christmas for Czech people.
Kids might even catch a glimpse of the market’s mascot, Mikulas, and his companions, the angel and the devil, in the Old Town Square.
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2. Krakow
The Krakow Christmas market is in the city’s Main Square and is a particular hit with foodies.
Sample some of the best traditional Polish dishes like pierogis and bigos – a “hunter’s stew”.
The traditional dish is made of chopped meat of various kinds stewed with sauerkraut, shredded fresh cabbage and spices.
You’ll find mulled wine to accompany your snacks, but a traditional mulled beer called “grzane piwo” is also a must-try.
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3. Budapest
In Budapest, you’ll want to head to the famous Vörösmarty Square. for a more down-to-earth approach compared to the extravagance of other markets.
You won’t find towering Christmas trees or OTT light shows, but the market is known to be very family-friendly, with many children’s activities and Santa meets.
You’ll find popular Christmas market fare like hotdogs and roasted chestnuts, but make sure to try the famous local chimney cake (kürtőskalács).
Its is made of flour, sugar, eggs, milk, butter, yeast, and salt and is then wrapped around a cylindrical baking spit, which is where the name comes from.
Visitors should also try “lángos,” which are deep-fried flatbreads with different toppings.
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4. Vienna
Vienna is home to 12 different markets, so this one’s an excellent option for Christmas market fans.
The market at Schönbrunn Palace has been labelled as one of the best, with a ‘regal atmosphere’ thanks to its backdrop of the imperial castle.
The Belvedere Palace market is also popular thanks to stalls selling handmade crafts and artwork.
Meanwhile, the smaller market of Freyung Square might be a great option for those looking to stay away from the crowds.
This one is also said to be particularly good for food and drink gifts, as you’ll find chutneys, sauces, and mustard already wrapped up in Christmas packages.
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5. Cologne
During the Christmas season, Cologne transforms into a festive wonderland.
Although the city’s markets are pretty traditional, they stand out from others thanks to a few distinctive features.
The Cologne Cathedral’s market is the most famous one, with its massive Christmas tree and the cathedral’s picturesque background.
You could also visit the Stadtgarten Christmas Market, a local favourite, thanks to its mediaeval theme, stalls, live music, and cosy atmosphere.
At both markets, you’ll find Christmas-decorated huts with fairy lights and over 100 stalls selling art, jewellery, baked goods and more.
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6. Berlin
Staying in Germany, Berlin’s Christmas markets are a must-visit. The city is filled with festive options, from classic festive markets to alternative and eco-friendly ones.
The most traditional and famous market is Gendarmenmarkt, famous for its classical music, handmade arts, and decorations.
Meanwhile, the Medieval Christmas Market at the RAW Compound showcases independent designers, artists, potters and woodcarvers.
There’s also plenty of entertainment for little ones, with a Ferris wheel and a wooden carousel – and those brave enough can test their skills at crossbow and arrow shooting or enter a troll forest.
You can also head to the Sustainable Christmas Market on Sophienstraßethe, where the main focus is organic, sustainable and fairly produced goods.
If you’re into ice skating, you cannot skip the theme park Winter World at Potsdamer Platz.
Here, you’ll be able to ice skate, play curling or even rush down the 12-metre-high toboggan run.
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We’ve also spoken to a Christmas market expert, and they revealed the four pitfalls to avoid or risk being disappointed.
Plus, we’ve rounded up the nine best Christmas markets that are taking place across the UK this winter.
And here’s the time-warp Christmas market you can visit this December – but it’s only open for four days.
