Christmas Market Breaks, Getaways & Deals 2024

Who has the best Christmas markets?

Every city across Europe will tell you that their Christmas market is the best - they all have their own character, specialities and traditions that make each one a unique experience. Think about what you want from your Christmas market break - if you’re after a luxury shopping experience, why not head over to Vienna? For magical old world charm, think about trying out Bruges? For the authentic and original Christmas market experience, explore our German Christmas market deals.

If you’re still not sure what you’re after, there are some Christmas markets that come up time and time again when people discuss their favourite Christmas markets. The team at Wowcher have brought together our ideas of the best Christmas markets - take a look and see which one looks the best for you!

Which UK city has the best Christmas market?

These days, you can find a Christmas market in almost every city centre in the UK. If you’re looking for a Christmas market break closer to home, you can find some of our favourite deals in these cities:

• Edinburgh: The Christmas market in Scotland’s capital is one of the most special across the UK, with its old world charm and stunning views of the castle across the markets.
• Manchester: Manchester’s Christmas market stretches out all across the city centre, and is known for its themed sections and stalls inspired by a whole host of European cities.
• Birmingham: Birmingham’s Christmas markets are the longest running and geographically the biggest in the UK - if you’re not sure where to start this year, Birmingham’s the place to go!

Where is the best Christmas market in Europe?

Staying in the UK is a great way to experience the magic of Christmas markets close to home, but if you’re looking for more of an adventure this Winter why not spread your wings and head over to a Christmas market in Europe. Our packages make it easy to have your dream holiday with ease, so why not check out one of our favourite locations:

• Vienna: Known all year round for its old world charm and luxury, visiting Vienna at Christmas is a truly special experience. Picture your classic Christmas market in a setting that reminds you of years gone by. Plus, it’s the home of strudel!
• Berlin: Take yourself to Germany for one of the original and the best German markets. With over 70 markets across the city, Christmas really takes over the city and it’s impossible not to be swept away.
• Bruges: All year round Bruges feels like a fairytale, so picture it at Christmas time and you’ll be walking straight into your own happily ever after.

What to expect at the Christmas markets?

Food & drink

From Bratwurst to mulled wine, we all know the traditional offerings up for grabs at most Christmas markets. Head over to Frankfurt for that authentic hot dog flavour, or Brussels Christmas market for some traditional liege waffles. If you fancy something a little bit different, try out a Lagos at the Budapest Christmas market - a fried bread covered with cream, cheese and ham. Or, if you don’t know what to pick, get the train over to Manchester where international food stalls cover the whole city.

Don’t forget to bring to cash, as if you want to go for the most traditional offerings they might not accept cards!

Craft stalls

In recent years, Christmas markets have become a brilliant place for artisans and craftsmen to showcase their handmade products. If you’re looking for something a bit different to gift your loved ones this Christmas, the markets are a great place to start!

If that’s your priority this festive season, we recommend starting close to home: Christmas markets in York, Bath and on London’s Southbank have great reputations for bringing in the best artists from the area and helping you get as close as you can to the makers themselves.

Weather

While it’s cold all over Europe in the winter months, it’s a good idea to think about the weather before booking your festive adventure! Think about a market in France or the South of England if you’re hoping to just wear the one layer. But, if the Christmas cheer and a cosy hot chocolate will heat you up from the inside, why not venture further afield! The twinkling lights in Berlin make the extra jumper worth it.

Rides

If you’re looking for more from your Christmas market than just something to eat and drink, why not have a look at the rides and attractions available in the city! Southampton Christmas market has the UK’s biggest ferris wheel, while if you’re looking to don some skates and take to the ice, why not head to Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland for the biggest ice rink.

Check the attractions available before you go, and again remember to take some cash in case you need it to buy tickets!

What dates are the Christmas markets?

The opening dates for Christmas markets are specific to each city - if you buy a deal with us here on Wowcher you’ll be able to check them when you buy. Markets typically run from mid-November through to Christmas Eve. A couple stay open into January, but if you’re looking to stretch your Christmas cheer into the New Year make sure to confirm this before you book!

For comprehensive dates on when the Christmas markets will be open, take a look on the specific page for the market you’ve been eyeing up.