OKAY, it’s scorching hot outside right now but also… we’re already just half a year away from Christmas.
We’ve spotted a few deals to visit four of Europe’s best Christmas markets this winter, starting from just £129pp.
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Here are some of the best early-bird deals we’ve spotted:
Krakow
Often described as a “holiday extravaganza”, the Krakow Christmas Market welcomes guests every winter from around mid-November until just after Christmas.
The market is situated against the backdrop of the Old Town Square, and it’s a particular hit with foodies.
Here, modern celebrations and centuries-old customs combine to create a quaint atmosphere.
The market’s centrepiece is a massive Christmas tree covered in multicoloured ornaments, illuminating the busy square.
- Two-night Krakow Christmas Market breaks with flights – from £99pp
Budapest
In Budapest, families love Vörösmarty Square’s Christmas market, thanks to its kid-friendly events and Santa meetups.
Also in Budapest is the Advent Bazilika Christmas market, a more intimate Christmas market crowned “best in Europe” for the last three years.
It has an ice skating rink and festive lights are projected outside the cathedral.
A Tripadvisor reviewer said: “This market is small but perfectly formed with a good selection of stalls of craft goods and food outlets.”
- Three-night Budapest Christmas Market breaks with flights – from £129pp
Prague
Prague is also one of the most visited Christmas markets – and they are among the cheapest in Europe, with £2 mulled wine and cheap flights to get there.
The Old Town Square is where the biggest Christmas market occurs every year.
However, Prague also has many smaller markets, such as those in Republic Square and Na Kampě Square, located in Lesser Town near the Charles Bridge.
Every market in Prague is crammed with wooden kiosks offering regional specialities like smoked meat dumplings and “klobása”, which are barbecued sausages.
- Three-night Prague Christmas market breaks with flights – from £129pp
Cologne
Cologne becomes a magical place for Christmas. While the city’s markets are fairly standard, a few unique features make them stand out.
The most well-known market is the one at the Cologne Cathedral, which has a huge Christmas tree and a picturesque backdrop provided by the cathedral.
Another famous market is the Stadtgarten Christmas Market, which the locals love for its cosy atmosphere, live music, and mediaeval theme.
Both markets feature over 100 stalls selling art, jewellery, baked goods, and other festive items.
- Two-night Cologne Christmas market breaks with flights – from £129pp
For more holiday deals, we found cheap last-minute all-inclusive holidays under £399pp – but you’ll have to be quick, as they depart in two weeks.
Meanwhile, Eurocamp launched £8pp a night summer holidays with on-site pools, waterparks and nearby beaches.
There are even some cheap all-inclusive holidays from £389pp this August across Spain, Turkey and Greece.
Prices correct at the time of publication.