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Variety of christmas markets tours options, incredible destinations, years of travel experience, christmas markets group packages, christmas market travel options, christmas market tours 2024 & 2025 discount 50%.

Christmas Market tours and the world-famous Christmas Market River Cruises will once again become available in 2024 and 2025. Every year, eager travelers reserve space on Europe Christmas Market Tours to experience the yuletide season at its best. Now you can on any of our 2024 and 2025 Christmas Market Tours.

Europe Christmas Market Tours remain an incredibly affordable way to travel, mostly due to the off-peak nature of the season. Christmas Market Tours and Christmas Market River Cruises take you through popular Central European destinations like Austria, France, and Germany. Dating back to the 15th century, Christmas Markets in Europe have provided locals and visitors with festive scenes, including Christmas light shows, concerts, hot apple cider, mulled wine, and beautifully decorated trees that rival the giant spruce at Rockefeller Center! Central Europe hosts many traditional markets, with various ways to experience them, such as Christmas Market Tours and Christmas Market River Cruises.

The Difference Between Christmas Market Tours and Cruises

The main difference between a dedicated Christmas Market Tour and a Christmas Market River Cruise is that you only have to unpack once on a cruise. Historically, rivers were the highways of Europe, with major city centers situated right along the banks. For example, beautiful Prague has hugged the Vltava River for over ten centuries, with the river area now home to over 1 million residents. Multi-city bus tours that feature Prague also normally visit Vienna and Budapest. While the overland distance between these cities is around 200 miles, tours usually include stops in charming towns like Bratislava to break up the longer drives. River cruises allow you to wake up to new destinations each day while enjoying views of castles and sites along the passing river banks. Both tour and cruise options may also offer activities like biking along trails near the floating vessels.

What Makes Christmas Market Tours So Special?

• During the four Sundays preceding Christmas (Advent), Christkindlmarkts fill the streets of many cities and villages bringing Christmas to life.
• Getting to see and experience a Christmas Market in Europe by itself is most definitely a bucket list item.
• Having the chance to purchase unusual holiday ornaments not easily found in the states is also a treat.
• Experiencing warm Gluhwein while wandering through Central Europe Christmas Market during a cold winter's night is a highlight.
• Iceskating in Rockefeller Center is a wonderful experience; however, iceskating in the middle of a five hundred year old Christmas Market is entirely something else.
• Discovering hot chimney cakes, Spatzle, and Lebkuchen can transform your experience into something amazing!

But where should you begin when trying to figure out the best Christmas Markets in Europe?

The Best Christmas Markets In Europe

That's easy! The best Christmas Markets in Europe are all of the above, because they're all wonderful! It all depends on if you prefer taking a Christmas Market Tour or Christmas Market River Cruise.

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7 Christmas Market Trip Itinerary Ideas

Hopefully by now, I’ve convinced you to make your own Christmas market trip to Europe!  Despite the cold, there is nowhere I’d rather celebrate the holiday season than in Europe.  The smell of roasted chestnuts, the warmth of mulled wine, traditional wooden stalls selling beautiful Christmas decor, and glimmering Christmas lights all get me out of our hotel room on the coldest of nights.  That being said, even if the Christmas markets don’t get you going, these Christmas market trip itineraries can help you plan your vacations at any point in the year.

This post is heavily focused on central Europe.  Did you know that Hungary and the Czech Republic are not  considered to be part of Eastern Europe?  Test your knowledge through this  European map quiz .  It’s sure to inspire a whole host of alternate itineraries to try, particularly if you want to experience Eastern Europe destinations.  Estonia, Latvia, and the entire Balkan peninsula are calling to me.

If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out this list of some of the  best European Christmas markets !

Disclosure:  This post contains affiliate links for tours and products I love at no additional cost to you.  You can read my  full disclosure policy here.

Christmas Market Trip Travel Tips

To maximize your trip, I highly suggest that you book an open jaw ticket.  A open jaw ticket is one that arrives in one city and departs from another city.  Typically, I like to choose my two furthest points to minimize any backtracking.  I use Skyscanner to get an idea of what are the cheap travel deals. Using my home airport (DFW) I search to anywhere in Europe.  I also subscribe to Scott’s Cheap Flights and CheapDFW .  Once I know what is on sale, I use ITA Matrix to figure out which flights I want. I use Book with Matrix to find the best deal for my specific flight.

Use Rome2Rio to compare train, bus, and car transportation options.  Trains are usually the most efficient way to travel, but it depends on the size of your group.  In some cases, it might be better to drive.  We’ve done both.  If you’ve never been abroad and you’re not comfortable navigating public transportation, you might want to consider a river cruise, but I promise that you can do this!

Winter in Europe is cold.  I could do a whole packing post on what I’ve learned, but I haven’t done it yet.  My suggestions are to purchase cuddledud base layers that can be layered under leggings or jeans.  I find cashmere sweaters to the best for staying warm.  I have a pair of wool lined waterproof Ugg books that I’ve had for six years.  They keep my feet warm and dry.  Beyond that, you’ll want a scarf, a hat, an ear band, and gloves, too.  I am all about the layering!

One Week Christmas Market Trip Ideas

Classic central europe.

Salzburg, Austria (2 nights)

Vienna, Austria (2 nights)

Prague, Czech Republic (3 nights)

Affordable Central Europe

Munich, Germany (2 nights)

Bratislava, Slovakia (2 nights)

One Week Itinerary for France Christmas Markets

The Alsace wine route is great at any time of year, and it’s perfect for Christmas markets, too!  I recommend flying into Paris and immediately catching a train from Charles de Gaulle to Strasbourg.  We’ve done this Paris to Strasbourg itinerary twice and it’s super easy!  From there, you can rent a car or take the train.  If you opt for the train, I think Strasbourg and Colmar are the best connected.  On the return, you can spend a couple nights in Paris and enjoy their Christmas markets, too.  We’ve spent Christmas in Paris twice and it’s just magical at Christmas time.

Note:  Not all Alsatian Christmas markets are open every day.  You’ll want to check the Alsace Christmas market calendar before making plans, especially for some of the smaller towns in Alsace.  The suggested itinerary below is for markets that stay open consistently, but there are some off the beaten path towns in Alsace that I love!  I would choose Strasbourg or Colmar and then fit together some of the smaller towns based on your own Christmas market trip timing.  (We actually walked from Colmar to the Eguisheim Christmas markets one day.  That might be a little intense, but it’s doable!  

Strasbourg (2 nights)   

Colmar (2 nights)

Paris (3 nights)

10 Day Christmas Market Trip Itineraries

Both of these itineraries will allow you to see some of the most popular Christmas markets in Europe.  Many popular river cruises use some variation of these itineraries, but this will allow you to enjoy seeing the cities at night.  I think they appeal to difference audiences, though I love each of these itineraries equally.  

Don’t miss the incredible ice rink in Slovakia.  It’s one of my favorite memories of our first trip, though I love the ice rink in Salzburg as well.  (I came home from studying abroad with black and blue knees from ice skating!)

Central European Capitals

Budapest, Hungary (3 nights)

Bavarian Christmas Tour

Salzburg, Austria (3 nights)

Nuremberg, Germany (2 nights)

Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany (2 nights)

Munich, Germany (3 nights)

Two Week Christmas Market Trip Itinerary Ideas

This is the first Christmas market trip itinerary that we used, and it is intense.  It’s worth it though.  For me, there was nothing more magical that ending our trip with the big Christmas tree in the middle of Old Town Square.  It felt like my favorite scene in the Nutcracker and I loved every minute of it.

Classic Central Europe Itinerary

Vienna, Austria (2 nights)

Prague, Czech Republic (3 nights)

German Christmas and Central Europe Itinerary

This itinerary flies into and out of Munich.  If your trip will end on or shortly after Christmas Day, I recommend reversing it to end your trip in Salzburg .  On Christmas Eve, you can visit the chapel where Silent Night was first performed .  How’s that for a magical Christmas Eve??

Nuremburg, Germany (2 nights)

Which are the Most Beautiful Christmas Markets?

All of these cities are beautiful in their own right.  There are things I love about all of them.  Nuremberg is the original German Christmas market.  I think Salzburg has the most beautiful views.  Vienna has the most beautiful Christmas lights.  Marienplatz in Munich is one of the most beautiful squares I’ve ever seen.  Old Town Square is a scene out of The Nutcracker.  Budapest at night is pure magic.  The old town in Bratislava epitomizes Christmas cheer.  Rothenburg ob der Tauber is the Christmas village of  Kathe Wohlfahrt in real life.

You can’t go wrong with any combination of these cities.  Pick your favorite Christmas market trip and get excited!  They are all lovely in their own right.  If you’re looking for more Christmas markets in Germany, Lorelei has a lot of unique Bavarian Christmas markets, villages, and towns on her blog!

Salzburg:  The Alpine Christmas Markets

Where to Stay:   Hotel Goldgasse or Hotel Goldener Hirsch

Where to Eat:   Zum Zirkelwirt or Gasthof Wilder Mann

Don’t Miss:   Apple Strudel and Christmas Cookie Class

Who Loves Salzburg:   People who don’t mind being outside.  Between the Christmas market at Hohensalzburg Fortress, the one at Helbrunn Schloss, and the lakeside village markets, you have to enjoy spending time outside.  I wouldn’t recommend missing any of those markets, in addition the ones in the middle of the aldstadt, but if you don’t enjoy being outside, I would head to a city that offers more indoor activities.

Vienna:  The Beautiful Christmas Markets

Where to Stay:   Hotel am Stephansplatz or Ritz Carlton Vienna

Where to Eat:   Trattoria da Angelo – I love the rose ravioli!

Don’t Miss:   The Christmas lights!  I love the chandeliers near St. Stephan’s Cathedral.

Who Loves Vienna:  If you love music, culture, and cafes, Vienna has plenty of things to do on cold, wet days.  After touring Schonnbrunn Palace, you can take in a classical concert or see a strudel show.  I love sipping amaretto hot chocolate and reading at Cafe Central.  There are numerous museums, covering every topic you could imagine in the heart of Vienna.  If that’s not enough to satisfy your culture appetite, take a class to learn the Viennese waltz.  (We did; it was fun!)

Bratislava: Christmas Markets for Foodies

Where to Stay:   Sheraton Bratislava or Roset Boutique Hotel

Where to Eat:   Rio Grande Restaurant – I love the lava steak!

Don’t Miss:   A food tour of the Christmas markets !  You’ll try a lot of Slovak specialties.  Find a place where you can comfortable enjoy the ambiance around the ice rink in the old town.  A lot places have outdoor heaters and blankets to keep warm!  It’s worth it!

Who Loves Bratislava:   If Vienna is too big, too modern, or too expensive for you, Bratislava feels like a world away from the grand architecture of Vienna.  Less than an hour away, it offers a similar beauty to Prague without the crowds.  Despite the cold temperatures, we enjoyed the public art, seeing the fortified city walls, and learning more about the differences between Slovakia and the Czech Republic, which ultimately led to their split during our lifetime.  I find this piece of modern history fascinating.

Budapest:  The City Backdrop for Christmas Markets

Where to Stay:   Hilton Budapest

Where to Eat:   Pest Buda Bistro and Strudel House

Don’t Miss:   Any of these tours: Budapest night walking tour with river cruise , historical Budapest , Budapest Christmas market tour .  These are some of my favorite tour guides in Europe.  I can’t wait to go back and book them again!

Who Loves Budapest:   How can you not love Budapest?  That being said, if you love history, you’ll love Budapest.  If you love beautiful architecture and grand boulevards, you’ll love Budapest.  Budapest is the coldest of the Christmas markets we visited, so you’ll want to be prepared for that, but I think it is worth it.

Prague: The Fairytale Christmas Markets

Where to Stay:   Four Seasons Prague or Mandarin Oriental Prague

Where to Eat:   Pasta Fresca  or Meat and Greet

Don’t Miss:   St. Vitus Cathedral .  The Spanish Synagogue .  Old Town Square at night.  Charles Bridge in the early morning light.  Mala Strana.  The list for Prague goes on and on, doesn’t it??

Who Loves Prague:   If you like nightlife, Prague is your city.  (That’s not really my jam, but I recognize that it may be other people’s.)  If you love awe-inspiring stained glass and fairy tales come to life, don’t skip Prague.  One of my most fond memories of Prague is wandering the lamplit streets of Mala Strana on the way to the castle.  I could picture easily what it must have felt like in the 1500s.  I love getting out early and experiencing the Charles Bridge when its mostly empty with only the lamps are illuminating it.  The entire city seems mysterious and magical.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber: The Christmas Village

Where to Stay:   Hotel Klosterstuble

Where to Eat:   Profumo di Pasta da Guiseppe

Don’t Miss:   The Night Watchman’s Tour, eating a schneeballen , and visiting Kathe Wohlfahrt .

Who Loves Rothenburg ob der Tauber:   Anyone who loves Christmas.  It’s hard not to be a Grinch in this postcard perfect town.  If you love medieval town walls (my husband does), it’s neat to be able to walk around the city as though you are the night watchman.  The views of the German countryside are beautiful, too.

Munich:  The Traditional German Christmas Markets

Where to Stay:   Aloft Munich

Where to Eat:   TBD – we’re still in search of truly great meals in Munich!  That being said, Aldi has fresh and delicious pretzel rolls that Tom and I both still talk about.  (Why yes, my husband has identified the best products at Aldi in Europe, too.  It’s his favorite store.  He tells our family if Aldi doesn’t sell it, you don’t need it.)

Don’t Miss:   Listening to the traditional band and making friends at Hofbrauhaus .

Who Loves Munich:   Anyone who loves science or history.  Munich occupies a large space in World War II history, and I highly recommend learning more about its role in the world during that time.  The Deutsches Museum is the most comprehensive science museum I’ve ever visited, and I highly suggest visiting it.  Munich is much larger than it seems, so you’ll want to plan to get out of the old town and experience more of the neighborhoods with different feels.  The Aloft gave us a map of all the Christmas markets in the city, and many offer more traditional crafts than the markets in the city center.  (That’s yet another reason to stay with them – they encourage you to see more!)

Nuremberg:  The Original German Christmas Market

Where to Stay:   Melter Hotel and Apartments

Where to Eat:   at the Christmas market!  (I love the Nuremberg sausage.  And the pretzels.)

Don’t Miss:   Taking a food tour of Nuremberg !

Who Loves Nuremberg:   People who love history.  You need to visit the Documentation Center.  Not everything can be filled with Christmas cheer, but it’s important to understand that the atrocities that happened during World War II didn’t happen over night.  It is the result of a slow and methodical stripping away of the humanity of others.  We’re in danger of repeating that again, so I encourage you to learn more than we were taught it school.  It remains one of the most transformative experiences of my education.

Strasbourg Christmas Markets: The Capital of Christmas

Where to Stay:   Regent Petite France Hotel & Spa or Le Bouclier d’Or

Where to Eat:   at the Christmas market!  Don’t miss the Vin Chaud Blanc – my favorite is right in front of the Strasbourg Cathedral – literally smack dab in the middle.  It’s an additional Euro and it’s worth it.  

Don’t Miss:   Strasbourg Christmas Market Food Tour  

Who Loves Strasbourg:   People who are looking for a bigger city with their Christmas market.  For me, it felt like a smaller Vienna or similar to Bratislava.  I really loved being able to take a break from the crowds at our hotel spa, too.  (It overlooks the Petite France canals, too!)    

Colmar Christmas Markets: Christmas Markets with Canals

Where to Stay:   La Maison des Tetes

Where to Eat:   Via Roma , La Pignata , or the Covered Market right across from Petite Venise.  (You’ll want reservations anywhere in Colmar during Christmas time.  Colmar gets so busy!   

Don’t Miss:   Alsatian wine tasting at Domaine Martin Jund

Who Loves Colmar:   People who don’t mind crowds.  People who love holiday decor.  People who want to feel non-stop Christmas cheer.  The entire town is decked out for Christmas and it’s busy.  It can be a little overwhelming if you have sensory overload issues.  If you find yourself in that position, take a morning and head over to Eguisheim.  It’s a little quieter, a little calmer, and absolutely gorgeous.  

What Should I Buy at a Christmas Market?

For me, the best souvenirs at Christmas ornaments.  Tom and I have started a tradition where we purchase a Christmas ornament from the cities we visit.  Many of the Christmas markets have regulations that you can’t sell cheap crap that is mass produced.  Thus, you’ll find beautiful hand-painted or hand-blown Christmas ornaments.  I could look at them for hours, to be honest.  Whether your Christmas tree has a theme or a color, chances are, you’ll find something that is absolutely perfect for you.  Strasbourg had the best selection of the incense houses to create a Christmas village at home.  

Beyond that, look for things you can’t find at home.  In each city, I’ve always found something that was unique to the region.  My grandmother loves her potpourri Christmas tree we purchased in 2016 and it still smells great!  Similarly, my cousin loves the wooden dog statue we found for her on this last trip.  My mother-in-law loves her traditional German wooden pyramid decoration.  I love the bath salts my mom found me; she loves the schnapps, spices and oils she purchased for herself.  You can certainly purchase things like jewelry and journals, but I think the best part of Christmas markets is finding the specific regional things that you can’t find easily in the United States.

Sara loves to help people use their vacation time more effectively by planning beautiful, memorable, and delicious trips. She spends several weeks every year exploring Italy and central Europe. In addition to her full-time job, she is constantly searching for beautiful places and spaces. She loves the direct flights between Dallas and Italy, France, and Germany but is always up for wherever a great deal on an airline ticket will take her. (Sara also really loves European Christmas markets and tries to visit at least one new one every holiday season.)

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Stockholm is yours to explore ttoday oon a guided tour.

WOW, absolutely beautiful! I can’t believe how many cities/countries you’ve traveled to in Europe and have gotten to experience the true Christmas spirit each has to offer!

great ideas for christmas ITINERARIES 

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The Best European Christmas Markets Road Trip: A One Week Itinerary

How to plan the perfect road trip through Central Europe’s most charming Christmas Market Cities from the UK, or anywhere in mainland Europe.

(Updated 2024)

This post may contain affiliate links, which means we might earn a small commission on anything purchased through these links at no extra cost to you. Learn more on our Disclaimer page .

How to plan a European Christmas Road Trip Itinerary

There are multiple components to think about when planning a European Christmas Market road trip itinerary. Home to 44 interesting and unique countries, Europe covers a large area and choosing where to go can be overwhelming. December is one of the best times to visit as the continent overhauls itself into a festive winter wonderland. Touring through Central Europe’s most charming Christmas Markets can be one of the best ways to get into the Christmas spirit. We’ve created 4 easy steps to help you plan the perfect European Christmas Market road trip itinerary.

Time needed: 1 week.

When to go: Late November-December when the Christmas Markets are open.

Weather: Cold.

Currency: Euro.

1) Choose your destinations

A lot of people who have never visited mainland Europe before (and even those who have) underestimate its size. At 10.53 million km², Europe is a huge continent. There are far too many European countries to fit into one trip and countless cities to explore too. So how do you decide where to go? Whittling your list down to only a few destinations can be difficult. You need to balance seeing as much as possible in the time available and giving yourself enough time to do each place justice.

A typical rule of thumb for visiting a European city is that you can normally hit all the main points of interest in 1-2 days. Some cities are larger than others, particularly capital cities, but up to 2 days gives you a good flavour of a place’s culture and time to see all the main sights. This means you can realistically include up to 6 cities in a week long European road trip . These can be in as many countries as you like, but logistically will depend on distances and borders. Planning a route through multiple conjoining countries can help you maximise the diversity of your trip. On the other hand, you could choose just one or two countries to really get a feel for a place by staying for multiple days.

You’ll likely choose your destinations based on where you’re starting from. For most, this will be a capital city, such as London, Paris, Berlin, Brussels or Amsterdam. Western Central Europe is the most easily accessible from these destinations, encompassing Northern France, Belgium, Luxembourg, Western Germany and The Netherlands . Using these 5 countries as a shortlist can be a good starting point for planning a European Christmas road trip.

The first thing you need to do is plot the major cities you’re interested in visiting and list your priorities.

2) The best Christmas Markets in Europe

Europe is world-renowned for its Christmas Markets and is probably the most festive place in the world to visit around Christmastime. Most towns and cities in Europe have a Christmas Market. Some run from November through to January , while others are only open in the weeks just before Christmas . The larger cities, particularly capital cities, are more likely to have longer-running Christmas Markets (although these will likely be busier and more expensive too). Europe is also home to lots of interesting cites with rich histories and attractions. Balancing a mix between Christmas festivities and traditional sightseeing activities is recommended for a well-balanced trip.

Europe is home to some of the most famous Christmas Markets in the world . Vienna, Salzberg, Budapest and Prague all top the list of best European Christmas Markets. While Germany is one of the best countries in Europe for Christmas Markets, as many of the holiday’s traditions originated there. Nuremburg, Dresden, Leipzig and Berlin are also popular German Christmas Market towns.

The issue is that these iconic Christmas Markets are spread far and wide across Europe. Visiting them all in one week would be difficult without spending the whole trip in the car. To get the most out of your European Christmas Markets road trip, you’ll need to shortlist the destinations that you can easily drive between in one week . This means condensing your search into a smaller geographical area and maybe even choosing smaller towns. We’d recommend focussing on Western Central Europe , which has a huge variety of cities to choose from across 5 countries (Northern France, Belgium, Luxembourg, Western Germany and The Netherlands). Visiting lesser known Christmas Market cities in Europe can also yield the advantages of being less busy and less expensive. We’ve listed 24 of the best cities in Western Central Europe in the next section to help you get started.

Read next: Prague’s Best Eco-friendly Hotel: Botanique

The 24 best cities in Western Central Europe

Northern france.

1) Amiens – Located in northern France, Amiens is divided by the Somme river and known for its Gothic Cathedral and Medieval Belfry. Floating market gardens ( hortillonnages ) can be found on the city’s canals, while the Christmas Market has been held every year since 1997.

2) Arras – Arras is most well-known for its military history. A network of quarry tunnels (The Carrière Wellington) can be found under the city and were used by soldiers during WWI. While the Canadian National Vimy Memorial lies north of the city. The town boasts cobbled streets, buildings with Flemish facades, a Town Hall and Belfry. Arras’ Christmas Market is the biggest north of Paris and features over 140 artisans and exhibitors.

3) Cambrai – Known as the Duke of Wellington’s headquarters for the British Army of Occupation from 1815 to 1818, Cambrai is a small city near the German border.

4) Colmar – Located in north-eastern France near the border with Germany, Colmar features a picturesque Old Town with cobblestone streets and half-timbered medieval and early Renaissance buildings. Colmar has six Christmas markets to choose from, as well as a Gothic 13th-century church and the Unterlinden Museum, which houses the Isenheim Altarpiece. Colmar is on the Alsace Wine Route, making it a firm favourite with wine lovers who stop to try local Riesling and Gewürztraminer wines.

5) Douai – Known as the City of Giants , Douai is a small city in northern France known for the region’s most impressive belfries. Douai is home to Douai Abbey, a Roman Catholic monastery founded in Paris in 1615, uprooted by the Revolution and finally returned to England in 1903.

6) Laon – Laon is a hill-top city with a dramatic cathedral at its centre. The city is encircled by walls and was once the capital of the Carolingian Empire in the early middle ages.

7) Lille – Situated near the border with Belgium, Lille is a cultural hub and bustling university city. Its historic centre, Vieux Lille , is known for 17th-century houses, cobbled pedestrian streets and a large central square. Lille is easily accessible from the UK at only 1hrs 30min on the Eurostar from London St Pancras.

8) Reims – The unofficial capital of the Champagne wine-growing region, Reims is known for its grand cathedral with stained-glass windows and Gothic carved portals, including the Smiling Angel. For more than 1,000 years, French kings were crowned here. Reims Christmas Market is the 3rd largest Christmas market in France with over 135 stalls offering regional specialities, crafted products, souvenirs and food and drink items.

9) Strasbourg – Strasbourg is the formal seat of the European Parliament. Its proximity to the German border has resulted in culture and architecture blending of German and French influences. Possibly the best Christmas Market in Europe, Strasbourg’s Christkindelsmärik features over 300 wooden huts, spread around different squares in the city.

10) Antwerp – Antwerp is a port city in Belgium known for its centuries-old Diamond District that houses thousands of diamond traders, cutters and polishers. With history dating to the Middle Ages, Antwerp is home to Flemish Renaissance architecture and the 17th-century Rubens House, period rooms which display works by the Flemish Baroque painter Peter Paul Rubens. The Christmas Market boasts over 90 stalls, as well as an ice-skating rink, miniature golf, winter bar and giant Ferris wheel.

11) Bruges – One of Europe’s most romantic cities, Bruges is renowned for its canals, cobbled streets and medieval buildings. The 14th-century City Hall and 13th-century Belfry overlook the main Christmas Market, which features an ice rink and numerous wooden chalets. In Winter, Bruges is transported into a Winter Wonderland as the annual Winter Glow Festival takes over the city.

12) Brussels – The capital of Belgium, Brussels is known for being the administrative centre of the European Union, as well as housing numerous historical and architectural landmarks, some of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. In winter, Brussels’ Winter Wonders event covers the city with festivity. Wooden chalets, pop-up bars and restaurants span over a mile (2km), while families can enjoy the Ferris wheel or merry-go-round. Brussels is easily accessible from London via the Eurostar, which takes less than 2 hours.

13) Ghent – Ghent is a strong contender with Bruges for most picturesque Belgian town. With a Medieval history and impressive cathedral, Ghent is a popular Christmas getaway destination. The Christmas Market is fun for all the family, with more than 150 wooden huts, Ferris wheel and merry-go-rounds.

Read next: The Thorough Guide to Bruges

14) Luxembourg City – The capital of a small European nation of the same name, Luxembourg City is known for ruins of medieval fortifications, dramatic cliffs and sweeping views. The annual Winter Lights Festival illuminates the city with Christmas cheer and visitors can enjoy Christmas stalls, food and drink, a Ferris wheel, miniature train, concerts, workshops and shows for children.

Western Germany

15) Bonn – Located in western Germany, Bonn is known for Beethoven House, a memorial and museum honouring the composer’s birthplace. The Christmas Market runs for over a month and visitors can shop for locally-produced souvenirs, as well as exploring Bonn Minster, the old City Hall or Poppelsdorf Palace.

16) Cologne – Famed for its twin-spired, Gothic Cathedral, Cologne is over 2000 years old. Tourists can explore the lavish Christmas huts, browsing crafts, souvenirs, jewellery, toys and tasty treats. Art lovers should visit Museum Ludwig, which showcases 20th-century art, including many masterpieces by Picasso. While the Romano-Germanic Museum houses Roman antiquities.

17) Düsseldorf – Düsseldorf is known for its fashion industry and art scene. The city is split into two, with the Old Town on the east bank and modern commercial areas lying to the west. Visitors can explore the 13th century St. Lambertus Church and Schlossturm ( Castle Tower ) or wander streets lined with boutique shops, including Königsallee and Schadowstrasse. Known as the fairytale market , Düsseldorf Christmas Markets are unique. Each market has a different theme and the wooden huts are topped with characters from the Brothers Grimm fairy-tales.

18) Frankfurt – Frankfurt is a large German city and major financial hub, home to the European Central Bank. Known as the birthplace of writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, much of the city was damaged during World War II. The reconstructed Old Town is the site of Römerberg, the square that hosts the annual Christmas market. Featuring a huge Christmas tree, these markets are the perfect place to buy a mulled wine or roasted chestnuts and watch the chiming of Frankfurt’s Church Bells.

19) Monschau – Located, near the Belgian border, Monschau has a picturesque Medieval centre, with half-timbered houses and narrow cobblestone streets. The hill-top Monschau Castle looks over the city and often hosts open-air concerts. Monschau not only hosts the traditional German Christmas Market stalls but also boasts a House of Christmas. Throughout the months of March to December, the House of Christmas offers Christmas decorations for sale on all 3 floors. Christmas carols played by various music ensembles can be heard around every corner and visitors can also explore The Red House, the 1752 home of a local and wealth cloth manufacturer, featuring lavish period furnishings and a carved, winding oak staircase.

20) Rothenburg ob der Tauber – Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a German town located in northern Bavaria. Featuring Medieval architecture, half-timbered houses and cobblestone lanes, the Old Town is home to the annual Reiterlesmarkt (Pre-Christmas Market). Visitors can also climb the Town Hall tower for panoramic views of the city, or explore the town walls, which include many preserved gate houses and towers, plus a covered walkway on top.

21) Trier – Located in the Moselle wine region, near the Luxembourg border, Trier is one of the most underrated cities in Germany. Founded by the Romans, the city contains numerous well-preserved Roman structures including the Porta Nigra gate, the ruins of Roman baths, an amphitheatre just outside the centre and a stone bridge over the Moselle River. With over 95 Christmas stalls, the Christmas Market features a daily festive programme against a backdrop of the imposing Trier Cathedral.

The Netherlands

22) Rotterdam – Located in south Holland, Rotterdam is a port city with a Maritime Museum featuring vintage ships and exhibits, as well as the 17th-century Delfshaven neighbourhood, Pilgrim Fathers Church and Erasmus bridge. Home to the Dutch Royal family, Rotterdam welcomes visitors, who can enjoy several Christmas Markets, as well as a Finnish Christmas Shop.

23) Amsterdam – The capital of The Netherlands, Amsterdam is famed for its intricate canal network, as well as numerous bike paths, the Van Gogh Museum, the Rijksmuseum (which houses works by Rembrandt and Vermeer) and modern art at the Stedelijk. There are numerous Christmas Markets throughout the city with the largest market next to the skating rink on Museumplein. The Winter Paradise Festival transforms the city with the Ice*Amsterdam Village featuring an ice rink.

24) Utrecht – Utrecht is a charming university city, known for its medieval centre, tree-lined canals, Christian monuments and Domtoren, a 14th century bell tower with sweeping city views, as well as the Gothic Cathedral of St. Martin on central Domplein square.

Read next: The 10 Best Things to do in The Netherlands

3) Choose the things you want to see in each city

Once you’ve got a rough plan of the countries and cities you want to cover, it’s time to plan what you want to see. Google Maps is a great resource which allows you to save locations as pins, plot routes and plan your own walking tours of a city. GPS My City is also a fantastic resource, which gives detailed information on all the major (and not so major!) sights in each city, and provides suggested walking routes as well as letting you design your own. DIY walking tours can be a great way to see a new city and are free too! Most Europeans cities are walkable, or have an Old Town that is walkable, so this is a great way to see your main points of interest in one day.

4) Planning the route

After shortlisting your locations and mapping out your points of interest, the next step is to solidify your plan and work out how to get there.

Looking at the locations on a map will give you a good idea of the natural order in which to visit each place (and how much you can fit into the time available), although there are other considerations.

Do you own car or are you going to hire a car?

It is possible to drive a car from the UK via the Eurotunnel. If this is your plan, your first and last night may need to be close to Calais.

Hiring a car can allow you to start and end in different places (even different countries). Hire cars are easily rented at most international airports, but there can be quite substantial surcharges for dropping off in a different country to the one you picked up in, so bear this in mind.

You can find out more about getting to and from Europe later in this article.

Daily driving time

The last thing you want is to plan your trip and then spend all your time in the car. It’s preferable to plan to spend no more than 3 hours driving each day. You can do this by making the most of the excellent European motorway network which will get you quickly from A to B. Alternatively there are some beautiful scenic routes, but it is worth considering the unpredictable European winter weather, which is very variable – it can be anything from sun through to rain, sleet, snow and dense fog! You can read more tips for driving in Europe at the end of this article.

Seeing the city by day or by night

By day, a city may be beautiful but by night it can be truly magical! You don’t have to do everything all in the same day. Some people prefer to see a city first by night, and then in daylight the following morning.

Winter days are short – typically light from 8:00 to 16:00. Maximise your daylight sightseeing hours by travelling after dusk. This does mean you end up travelling in the dark, so get no drive-by views, but that’s not a problem if you are using motorways which typically traverse less attractive landscapes anyway. Travelling after dusk can also mean you might hit rush hour traffic, although it tends to be more busy coming out of a city than going in on an evening.

Suggested destinations

We’ve created a suggested European Christmas Market road trip itinerary below, which is the perfect mix of culture, history and Christmas. It visits 5 of Europe’s most beautiful cities , without rushing. The 5 cities we’d recommend visiting are:

• Luxembourg City

These are all destinations that are not too far to drive between, minimising journey times and maximising sightseeing. This itinerary gives you a good mix of European culture, including gothic architecture, Medieval canals, picturesque landscapes, ancient history and of course, festive Christmas Markets. It’s also a flexible itinerary with suggested detours, giving you the opportunity to add destinations including:

Interactive Europe Christmas Markets Road Trip Map

Northern europe christmas road trip itinerary, day 1 – travel to ghent.

Ghent describes itself as Europe’s Best Kept Secret , and it’s not wrong. Boasting a history that goes back to the Middle Ages, with architecture to match, Ghent is one of the most beautiful cities in Belgium. The compact old city centre has a canal network and is packed with historical buildings including churches and castles, as well as lots of great places to eat and drink. The Gravensteen Castle is not to be missed, while the Graslei (row of harbourside guildhalls) makes for a perfect photo. As you pass the dramatic Cloth Hall , look up to the top windows and spot people fencing at the world’s oldest fencing club! See the city by night for a festive experience. During winter all the old buildings are illuminated until midnight, making wandering the narrow streets a magical experience. The Christmas markets are fun for all the family, with a Ferris Wheel, vintage merry-go-round, Moose bar and Children Village to boot.

Taking a boat tour is one of the best activities in Ghent. This is a great way to see the city and hear fascinating commentary from the skipper. Be aware that in winter the boats open from about 10:00 and may not run in bad weather. Climbing the Belfry for the superb views of the city is one of the best things to do in Ghent and shouldn’t be missed. You only need to take the stairs for the first couple of floors as beyond that there is a lift to the top.

Christmas Market Location: From Sint-Baafsplein Square to the end of Korenmarkt.

Christmas Market Dates: The second week of December to New Year’s Eve.

Key things to do:

• Gravensteen Castle
• Climb the Belfry
• Saint Bavo’s Cathedral
• Saint Nicholas’ Church
• Ghent City Museum
• Boat tour on the canal

The best sightseeing tours in Ghent: One of the best ways to learn about a new city in a short amount of time is on a walking tour. You can book onto a Private 2-Hour Walking Tour with a local guide to see the main attractions in Ghent, including the medieval city centre, Gravensteen Castle, Graslei and Korenlei. You’ll learn a lot through informative commentary, orient yourself and pick up local bar and restaurant recommendations too. Themed guided walks are very popular, with a Beer and Sightseeing Adventure and Small-Group Chocolate Tour  also available. Foodies can even book a Guided City Food Tour which includes food and drink tastings of local cuisine. While those who like to be a little more active, should consider joining a Guided Urban Bike T o ur .

Where to stay:

Budget: Hostel Uppelink Mid-range: Hotel Astoria Gent Luxury: Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Reylof Ghent

Day 2 – Ghent to Luxembourg City

Bordered by Belgium, France and Germany, Luxembourg is a small European country that many visitors miss. The capital, Luxembourg City ( Ville Haute ), is perched atop sheer cliffs and separated from the newer city by a deep river valley. As a truly strategic position, it has changed hands many times over the centuries, and has a rich heritage which reflects this.

The annual Winterlights Festival transforms Luxembourg City into a winter wonderland. Christmas Markets spring up all across the city, while live concerts, exhibitions, performances and workshops for kids are held in various venues. The Christmas Market stalls feature Christmas decorations, handicrafts, toys, clothes, jewellery, sweets, drinks and all sorts of food, and are particularly beautiful at night. Those who wish to learn more about the city’s festive traditions can join a Guided   Magical Christmas Tour .

While you’re in the city, wander through the Old Streets and admire the views from the Bock Casements (defensive tunnels cut into the cliffs). The impressive Cathédrale Notre-Dame is not to be missed, while art lovers should head to the National Museum of History and Art .

The superb new and free tram service makes it easy to get around, while a lot of the city is walkable. The City Line Bus Tour is a popular way to see the city in a limited amount of time, with 4 tours per day and a ticket valid for 24 hours.

Accommodation in the old city is limited (and expensive), but you can very easily stay in the new city and travel in by tram. Public transport is cheap and easy to use, and recommended as the one-way system can be congested and parking near the old city can be tricky too.

Christmas Market Location: The main market is at Place d’Armes, with other events in Place de la Constitution, Kinnekswiss, Place de Paris, the courtyard of the Old Athénée and Champ du Glacis.

Christmas Market Dates: Mid-November to early January.

• Palais Grand-Ducal
• Bock Casemates
• Cathédrale Notre-Dame
• Panoramic Elevator of the Pfaffenthal
• Musée national d’histoire et d’art Luxembourg
• Constitution Square

The best sightseeing tours in Luxembourg City: Those looking to get into the festive spirit should join a Guided   Magical Christmas Tour to learn more about Luxembourg’s history and traditions. Alternatively, taking a Guided City Walking Tour with Wine   is very popular and takes in Luxembourg City’s main sights, including Constitution Square, Place Guillaume II, Place d’Armes and Grand Ducal Palace. Those looking for a little more adventure can join a Guided E-Bike Tour , an eco-friendly way to see the city’s highlights. While those who wish to do less walking can enjoy the sights on a double decker bus as part of the City Line Bus Tour .

Budget: Luxembourg City Hostel Mid-range: DoubleTree by Hilton Luxembourg Luxury: Hotel Le Place d’Armes

Day 3 – Luxembourg City to Strasbourg

As the self-designated Capital of Christmas , Strasbourg has been hosting a Christmas market in Place Broglie since 1570. And what a market it is! Christmas lights and decorations adorn every building, an enormous Christmas tree pops up in Place Kléber and over 300 Christmas stalls can be found in every square (and there are lots of squares!). It’s no wonder that more than 2 million people visit Strasbourg Christmas Market ( Christkindelsmärik ) every year. Couple this with the fact that it is a truly beautiful city, and it’s easy to see why Strasbourg is top of many people’s Europe Christmas Markets list.

While Strasbourg may be French, its proximity to the German border and turbulent history has resulted in a mix of culture and architecture that has both German and French influences . The city became French after the conquest of Alsace in 1681. It was then taken back by Germany after the Franco-Prussian War in 1871 until the end of World War I in 1918 saw it revert back to France. Today, visitors can visit the Gothic Cathédrale Notre-Dame which features daily shows from its astronomical clock and offers sweeping views of the Rhine River from partway up its 142m (466ft) spire.

Upon arrival, the best way to orient yourself is with a guided walking tour. Explore the Historical Centre on a Private Walking Tour or jump straight into the festivities with a Christmas Market Tour . Those looking for a unique perspective should consider joining a 1.5-Hour Guided Segway Tour , which is fun for all abilities. While foodies will love a Traditional Food Group Walking Tour , which introduces you to the city’s highlights and stops to sample traditional delicacies and drinks.

Day 4 – Strasbourg (and the Colmar/Alsace region)

Strasbourg is a beautiful spot and, as the Capital of Christmas , deserves a full day on this European Christmas Market road trip itinerary. Start your day with a Batorama Boat Tour , a large glass-topped boat. Cruising around the city is a great way to orient yourself. Make sure you book the longer tour, which will not only take you into the picturesque Petite France but will also show you the more modern districts, including the European Parliament, whilst giving an insightful commentary into the turbulent history of this town on the French-German border.

Photographers shouldn’t miss Petite France, a lovely place to stroll, and so photogenic. While history buffs can head to the Historical Museum of the City of Strasbourg. If you’d like to explore the area, you can join a Full-Day Highlights of the Alsace Tour , which visits highlights of the region, including Colmar, Eguisheim, Riquewirh and Haut Koenigsbourg Castle. While a Wine Tour & Tastings fr o m Strasbourg is the perfect way to spend the day if you’re a wine lover. This highly-rated tour explores the Alsace Wine Route, tasting local wines and visiting local villages. A Half-Day Wine Tour is also availale for those who wish to spend a little more time in Strasbourg’s centre.

The Christmas Markets are the main event. They are all located in the Old Town ( Grand Ile ), which is an easily walkable area encompassed by the River Ill. And of course make sure you stay until after dark, when the city lights up and the streets become truly magical. To really get in the festive cheer, consider spending the day on a Alsace   Christmas Markets Tour , which visits local Christmas Market Towns, including Colmar, Eguisheim and Riquewihr.

Accommodation in Strasbourg gets booked very early and tends to be very expensive. The Park & Ride tram service, runs frequent services in and out of the city and is incredibly reasonably priced. Booking a hotel or B&B out of the city and transiting in can save you money.

Christmas Market Location: The main market is in Place de la Cathédrale de Strasbourg and Place Kléber, with others spread across Place Gutenberg, Place Broglie, Place du Château, Place du Marché aux Poisson, Place du Temple Neuf, Place Saint Thomas, Place des Meuniers, Place Benjamin-Zix, Place Grimmeissen, Advent Village at Square Louise-Weiss and Place du Corbeau.

Christmas Market Dates: The end of November to Christmas Eve.

• Cathédrale Notre Dame de Strasbourg
• Palais Rohan
• St. Thomas Church
• Parc de l’Orangerie
• Ponts Couverts de Strasbourg
• Historical Museum of the City of Strasbourg

The best sightseeing tours in Strasbourg: Explore the city’s highlights and Historical Centre on a Private Walking Tour or a 1.5-Hour Guided Segway Tour . Learn more about the city’s festive traditions on a Christmas Market Tour or sample local delicacies on a Traditional Food Group Walking Tour .

Budget: The People – Strasbourg Mid-range: HANNONG Hotel & Wine Bar Luxury: Maison Rouge Strasbourg Hotel & Spa, Autograph Collection

Day 5 – Strasbourg to Trier

Trier is one of the lesser well-known German cities but so worth visiting. Located conveniently between Strasbourg and Bruges, Trier has some of the best preserved Roman ruins in Europe, as well as beautiful buildings and of course a wonderful Christmas Market.

Visiting the Porta Nigra , an amazingly preserved Roman gateway to the city, is a must, while the Constantine Basilica features Emperor Constantine’s throne room, a huge and impressive building which is today used as a church. And the Imperial Roman Baths are one of three in the city, reached by a pleasant walk though the Palasgarten (Palace Gardens) and are unmissable for a history lover.

Set against the imposing backdrop of Trier Cathedral, Trier Christmas Market boasts over 95 wooden huts, selling local produce, handmade crafts, souvenirs and tasty food and drink. The romantic setting in the main square is the perfect place to grab a mulled wine and take in the twinkly fairy-lights.

Christmas Market Location: Domfreihof, the main square in front of the cathedral.

Christmas Market Dates: The end of November to just before Christmas Day.

• Porta Nigra
• Kaiserthermen
• Trier Amphitheatre
• Trier Saint Peter’s Cathedral
• Palasgarten
• Liebfrauenkirche
• Rheinisches Landesmuseum Trier

The best sightseeing tours in Trier: Take a Guided City Highlights Walking Tour to learn more about Trier’s rich Roman and Medieval history. Or consider doing a self-guided outdoor-escape-game for a fun and unique way to explore the city.

Budget: FourSide Hotel Trier Mid-range: Best Western Hotel Trier City Luxury: Park Plaza Trier

Day 6 – Trier to Bruges via Waterloo/Monschau/Brussels

As the trip comes to an end, it’s time to start heading back home. Travelling from Trier to Bruges can be done via a scenic drive through Monschau , taking in the German countryside. Brussels would make a good alternative to visit en-route, as it’s half-way between Trier and Bruges. While history lovers should stop at Waterloo, the site of the 1815 Battle of Waterloo. The battlefield site is a large, flat area, with a huge mound topped by a lion statue, as a memorial to all those who fought. You can climb the Butte de Lion (the lion monument), which was built on a man-made mound between 1823-1826. There is also a well laid out and thought-provoking museum, where you can learn more about the history of the battle through artifacts and a 3D movie.

As you arrive in Bruges, it’ll most likely be dark. This is the perfect time to head out and appreciate the magical festive lights which are part of the annual Winter Glow festival , which takes over the city in winter. Follow the Light Experience Trail, which illuminates some of Bruges’ most iconic buildings or enjoy a hot drink in the cosy winter bar pop up at the Minnewater ( Lake of Love ). Or take a walking tour to orient yourself. You can join a classic 2-Hour Guided Walking Tour to learn more about the city’s history, or a Dark Side of Bruges Private Evening Tour to discover mystery, dark stories, interesting facts, and the old legends of Bruges’ Medieval Centre.

Day 7 – Bruges

The capital of West Flanders, Bruges is known for its Medieval houses with crow-stepped gables, impressive Neogothic architecture and historic centre, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Start your day with a Boat Cr uis e and Guided Walking Tour , taking in the highlights of this romantic city. Visit the Lace Centre to learn more about the history of lace in Bruges, or climb the 366 steps up the Belfry of Bruges ( Belfort ), a 13th century clock tower that stands 83 metres (272ft) high and give tourists panoramic city views. There are plenty of wet weather activities, including the Historium , Fries Museum and Chocolate Making Workshop with Chocolate Museum Entry , with museum passes available ( Musea Brugge Card ). While foodies can join a Belgian Beer Tour , Waffle and Beer Workshop or Private food Tour .

Overlooked by the Neogothic Provinciaal Hof (the former meeting place for the provincial government of West Flanders), Bruges’ Christmas Market can be found in the 10th century main square, Markt , as well as along Simon Stevinplein Street. Featuring a large ice rink, festive decorations and numerous wooden stalls selling unique souvenirs, Bruges Christmas Market is one of the best in Belgium, if not the whole of Europe.

Christmas Market Location: Grote Market with huts also along Simon Stevenplein street.

Christmas Market Dates: End of November to early January.

• Belfry of Bruges
• Basilica of the Holy Blood
• Church of Our Lady Bruges
• Sint-Salvatorskathedraal
• Bruges City Hall
• Historium Bruges
• De Halve Maan Brewery

The best sightseeing tours in Bruges:

Orient yourself on a 2-Hour Guided Walking Tour , or discover Bruges’ darkest secrets on a Dark Side of Bruges Private Evening Tour . Those who like to stay active can join a City Highlights Bike Tour , while foodies can sample local cuisine on a Private food Tour . Give the poor ponies a break and skip the horse-drawn carriage ride, instead opting for a Guided Rickshaw Tour , a fun and cruelty-free way to see the city.

Budget: Hotel Malleberg Mid-range: The Black Swan Hotel Luxury: Grand Hotel Casselbergh Brugge

Day 8 – Travel home

You can head home at the end of day 7, or spend another night in Bruges and head home on day 8, depending on your destination. Those heading for the UK will likely spend a whole day travelling, while those going to an airport might have a shorter journey. You can find out the best, easiest and most accessible ways to transit to and from Europe in our How to get from the UK to Europe and How to get to Europe Internationally sections below.

Europe Accommodation

While we’re big fans of spontaneous travel, with short trips like this it’s best to plan ahead to make the most out of your time. Christmas is a very popular time of year to visit Europe with Christmas Markets seeing hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. Accommodation therefore often books up in advance.

City centre hotels within walking distance of the main attractions are very convenient, but also very expensive, and get booked up very quickly. Many also offer parking (often at an extra cost). Bear in mind that parking can often be underground – check your car will fit the low ceilings and tight parking spaces before booking.

Renting an apartment is possible (even for 1 night) and can be a good alternative to staying in a hotel. There are also lots of great, locally-owned B&Bs in Europe.

Many cites have excellent public transport, which are often trams, so you can stay a little further out of the city and still have easy access to the centre. Websites like Booking.com or Hostelworld.com are good for initially sourcing accommodation. It’s always worth checking whether you can get the room cheaper via the accommodation’s own website.

How to get from UK to Europe

For many, a trip to mainland Europe starts or ends in the UK. Or you may be an international visitor, wishing to include the UK in your itinerary. Here are the best ways to get between the UK and mainland Europe. Each route can be done without flying, which is more eco-friendly and means you can take a car too.

Ferry crossings UK to France

The Dover to Calais ferry crossing is the most popular option to get to France by boat. It takes less than two hours with up to 20 sailings a day. P&O Ferries is one of the largest providers of the route. Booking in advance can be far cheaper than leaving it to the last minute.

It’s also possible to cross from the UK to France via the following routes:

• Newhaven to Dieppe
• Portsmouth to Caen, Cherbourg or St Malo
• Poole to Cherbourg
• Plymouth to Roscoff

These routes are run by DFDS Seaways and Brittany Ferries . They’re less frequent than the Dover-Calais crossing and typically more expensive.

Ferry crossings UK to The Netherlands

It’s also possible to cross from the UK to The Netherlands.

Hull to Rotterdam is the most popular route. Run 3 times a day by P&O Ferries , the route takes around 10 hours so is popular as an overnight route. You get a cabin included in your ticket and can make the most of your days by transiting overnight. P&O often run sales between October-December where you can travel for around £50 or you can buy one get one free.

DFDS S eaways provides crossings from Newcastle to Amsterdam (Ijmuiden) which runs 7 times a day. This is a convenient option for those travelling from the north of England or Scotland. While Harwich to Hook of Holland is operated by Stena Line and runs 16 times daily.

Trains UK to France

The fastest way to get from the UK to France is by Eurostar . Leaving from London St Pancras , the Eurostar heads to Lille, Paris, Lyon, Avignon, Bourg-St-Maurice and Marseille . The shortest route (stopping at Lille) takes under 1 1/2 hours, while the last stop is 8 hours away from London.

If you wish to take your own car from the UK, it’s best to book the Eurotunnel . Running 24 hours a day, 365 days per year, with up to 7 departures per hour, the crossing takes only 35 minutes from Folkestone to Calais . Tesco Clubcard Voucher codes can be redeemed when booking the Eurotunnel, so if you save up those points you can actually get the crossing for free!

Trains UK to Belgium

The Eurostar runs from London to Brussels , which takes less than 2 hours, and Antwerp in less than 3 1/2 hours. Bruges can be accessed with a quick change at Brussels Midi/Zuid on an Any Belgian Station ticket.

Alternatively, you could take the Eurotunnel from Folkestone to Calais and then drive into Belgium.

Trains UK to The Netherlands

The Eurostar also stops in Rotterdam and Amsterdam , which takes less than 4 hours.

Buses from UK to Europe

Taking a bus is one of the most eco-friendly ways to travel Europe. Flixbus operates hundreds of routes and is our preferred method of transport in Europe, being comfortable and super affordable. It services a large number of major UK cities, with those leaving from London heading to destinations including Lille, Paris, Bruges, Ghent, Brussels, Antwerp, Cologne, Frankfurt, Rotterdam, Amsterdam and Utrecht . It’s then possible to get a Flixbus to pretty much any city in Europe. National Express also runs routes from the UK to Amsterdam, Brussels, Paris and Dublin.

How to get to Europe Internationally

There are several major European airports that serve most international flights. Paris, Brussels, Frankfurt and Amsterdam are popular airports, due to their location being easily accessible to most of Central Europe. Typically, flights into a capital or large city are cheaper than flying a less busy route. The best time to buy flights is around 10-12 weeks before your flight date.

Getting around Europe

Flixbus offers hundred of routes throughout Europe and connects almost every major city. It’s super cheap and eco-friendly too. Europe has a great railway network that is affordable (although considerably more expensive than Flixbus). Tickets can be booked through Rail Europe or Trainline . If you want freedom to travel at your own pace, hiring a car is preferable.

Most European cities will be walkable, or have a walkable Old Town. Larger cities are usually served by tram networks, which are often very affordable.

Things to Know Before You Go

If you plan to drive your own car abroad or hire a car, check your car insurance and breakdown cover will cover you. Road conditions can be unpredictable in winter so it’s best to be completely covered.

Read next: The 6 Best Travel Insurance Companies for Every Kind of Trip

To drive in Europe in your UK car, you also need UK magnetic plates (not GB) on the back of the car.

Tolls are common and have different lanes for you to pay by card or cash (it’s a good idea to carry both). Be careful as you approach them to get in the right lane for you, which can be worked out by the large signs above each lane. Watch out as you pull away from the toll too, as many lanes condense back into a few and there are vehicles on both sides.

Some cites (for example , Brussels) need you to pre-register your car for emissions purposes. Check each city you plan to visit, as some might have no-vehicle zones or specific times cars can and cannot enter certain areas.

It’s a smart idea to read up on the road rules for each country as they might vary. For example, France requires you to carry a breathalyser kit and warning triangle in your car at all times. The motorways flow seamlessly from one country to another, but the speed limits change and isn’t always clearly signposted, so be sure to be careful and know the rules.

As with any customs, there are strict import/export rules between the UK and Europe. Check what you can take with you and what you can bring home. Brexit has impacted the free flow of goods between UK and the rest of Europe, and there are rules on things like meat and dairy products that you might not expect. And if you are planning on bringing back alcohol and food as presents, know what the limits are. The Christmas Markets provide some great opportunities for Christmas shopping, as do many of the small specialist shops, but don’t ignore the supermarkets – they can also have great choice at reasonable prices.

COVID-19 regulations are still changing on a frequent basis. While most countries are back to business as normal, it’s still a good idea to check entry requirements and any testing/paperwork requirements that might exist at the time of travel.

Don’t forget your passport and driving license. It’s also a good idea to carry a EHIC (European Health Insurance Card), although having comprehensive travel insurance is a must too.

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Lucy and Dan are travel writers, photographers, content creators, and founders of Thoroughly Travel. They're on a mission to help others travel for less money, with less environmental impact. You'll find them whale watching, wildlife spotting, road-tripping and seeking authentic experiences around the world. After quitting their 9-5s to backpack Mexico and Central America, they travelled New Zealand for a year on working holiday visas. They're currently Digital Nomad-ing their way around Europe.

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European Christmas Markets featuring Prague, Vienna & Budapest

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18 Christmas Markets in Europe You Need to See (2024 Guide)

By: Author Sylvia

Posted on Last updated: January 23, 2024

Are you looking for the best Christmas Markets in Europe? You came to the right place. 

Christmas is approaching and we can’t wait to put up the Christmas tree. Let’s for a while forget about the stress to buy Christmas presents and the crowded shopping centers and focus on what Christmas should be all about.  Having a joyful time with friends and family members.

There is no better place to do that than at these cozy and fairy-tale-like Christmas markets.  

Call your friends, put on a pair of warm shoes, and meet them at one of the markets below to collect stories about the past year.

Ambiance guaranteed!

Here is the list of the best Christmas markets in Europe. 

There is a really good chance that this post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission (for which we are deeply grateful) at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

Europe Christmas Markets You Must See

Christmas Market in Cologne

• Contributed by Sarah and Justin from Travel Breathe Repeat.

The best Christmas Markets in Europe are in Cologne, Germany.

There are seven major Cologne Christmas Markets ( Koln Christmas market), so you absolutely will have your fill of fun and food during your time there. 

Each market has a different theme so they look and feel quite distinctive.

Under the gorgeous Cologne Cathedral, you’ll find the most traditional market.

Nearby, you can enjoy a bit more whimsy at the market in the Old Town, which is watched over by wooden elves.

This is our favorite market because it’s the biggest and has an ice skating rink.

The market by the harbor is appropriately nautical-themed with ship-shaped huts.

Further in at Neumarkt, is the Angel’s Market where angels roam sprinkling glitter on happy children.

A few blocks away is a smaller, more relaxed market at Rudolfplatz. It feels very neighborhoody and more of a local spot.

Also nearby you can find the small yet fun Heavenue market, billed as the gay Christmas Market that’s welcoming to all. It features pop-art-styled tents and live music.

And up at Stadtgarten is the market for shopping as they have more unique crafts on offer. 

All of the markets have delicious food including traditional Christmas Market fare and some more interesting dishes. And of course, they all have the all-important Glühwein, which will keep you warm as you roam the aisles.

You can walk or take public transportation between most of the markets. There’s also the Christmas Market Express trolleybus that takes visitors to see the four biggest markets. It’s especially great for people with mobility issues and kids.

You can definitely see them all the markets in an, albeit busy, day. But there are a lot of other great things to see and do in Cologne, you should definitely make a weekend trip out of it.

Bremen Christmas Market

• Contributed by Arzo from Arzo travels. 

Bremen´s Christmas Markets are the most beautiful ones in Germany (and probably in the world).

Okay, this is coming from a local but seriously, the markets are well-known all over the world because they are gorgeous. 

There are two main Christmas markets to visit in Bremen – Schlachte Zauber  and the main one at the market square.

Both are located in the city center and are easily reachable – it takes a 10-minute walk from the main train station and is a 10-minute tram ride from the airport.

You can easily walk from the market square to the Schlachte Zauber.

So, it is perfect to spend your whole afternoon/evening here.

The Market Square Christmas Market houses 176 stalls –  food, snacks, drinks, and shops!  There are even carousels for kids (and also for us adults).

Of course, mulled wine (Glühwein) is also big and you’ll find many stalls selling some. But whether you are into sweets, hearty or healthy food – you’ll find all kinds of food and snacks here.

So, come with an empty stomach – because there are also even more food stalls at the Schlachte Zauber.

There you’ll find about 100 “snow-capped” wooden huts, selling drinks, all kinds of food, and merchandise.

If you are looking for some last-minute Christmas presents then you might find something here.

In addition to all the lights, stalls, and carousels there are also events -, especially for the kids. Visit Santa – yes, Santa is in Bremen for the 4 weeks before Christmas – or watch some short shows to have the best experience.

Frankfurt Christmas Market

• Contributed by Jorge & Claudia from Travel Drafts

The Christmas Markets in Frankfurt is one of the largest and oldest in Germany, dating back to 1393.

The market is a Christmas wonderland with an enormous Christmas tree, a big merry-go-round, decorations, and food stalls embraced by the scenic surroundings of the Römerberg and St Paul’s Square.

This year the Christmas Market starts on the 25th of November at 5 pm with the singing of Christmas carols by the Frankfurt Opera.

Another iconic event of the market is the Chiming of Frankfurt’s Church Bells on the 30 of November.

Between 4.30 and 5 pm all the churches of Frankfurt chiming their bells. In total there are 50 bells and the sound echos all around the city.

The Frankfurt Christmas Market is also the ideal place to buy Christmas gifts from Christmas decorations to sweets and to cookie cutters.

If you think about a Christmas-related gift you’ll probably find it there.

It is also a place to eat with so many traditional dishes.

You should try the Kartoffelpuffer (potato pancakes), the Flammkuchen (German version of a pizza), the wood-fired salmon (definitely a must), the wurst with bread, and mustard (any kind of wurst), the Lebkuchen (Gingerbread), and many others.

For the kids, there are plenty of activities to do, like the Santa Claus visit in the Römerberg Square, riding the Historical Steam Train, and the carrousels.

You will need at least 2 days to explore this market, but besides the Market, there are plenty of other things to do in Frankfurt in Winter .

Get in the festive mood in Germany with this 9-day tour of German Chrismas Markets: Best Christmas Markets in Germany

Switzerland

Werdmuhleplatz Christmas market in Zurich

• Contributed by Shelley from Lifejourney4two.

Just a few minutes’ walk south of Zurich’s main train station, just off Bahnhofstrasse, you’ll find the Werdmuhleplatze Christmas market.

This is our favorite of all the Zurich Christmas markets. 

It not only has the classic Swiss chalet style stalls packed full of Christmas goodies, but it also has the famous, ‘Singing Christmas Tree’.

Each day, various choirs, fill the tiered podium within the Christmas tree to become the tree’s decorations and serenade the audience with carols and Christmas cheer.

The choirs change around and depending on the program and time of day, you could be listening to soul and gospel choirs or school and youth choirs.

Listening to the ‘Singing Christmas Tree’ gives a whole new special experience to visiting this gorgeous Christmas market. 

Here you can enjoy the Christmas tunes as you sip on gluhwein or hot chocolate and there is even a wooden chalet devoted totally to traditional swiss cheese fondue.

There are plenty of culinary delights to choose from and a nostalgic carousel tops off the Christmas feel.

You can spend quite a while here soaking up the Christmas atmosphere.

The choirs normally perform for about 30 minutes and make sure to leave extra time after that to peruse the stalls and partake in some delicious local delicacies.

This is a wonderful Christmas market in Switzerland, where you can take time to relax, be entertained, and start your Christmas celebrations.

Konstanz Christmas Market

• Contributed by Wendy from The Nomadic Vegan.

I visited a lot of Christmas markets during the six years that I lived in Switzerland, but the one I remember the most fondly is actually not in Switzerland itself but just across the border in the lakeside German city of Konstanz.

Many people come not only from all over Germany but also from neighboring Switzerland and Austria to visit this unique market.

The official name of the market is Weihnachsmarkt am See, which in German means “Christmas market on the lake”.

And the most distinctive feature of the market is that it does take place not just along the shores of Lake Constance but even on the lake itself!

The highlight has to be the “Christmas Ship” anchored in the harbor. On board, you’ll find plenty of stalls selling local arts and crafts, as well as an ice bar with a 360-degree panoramic view of the lake and its surroundings.

It’s open seven days a week during that period, but if you want to avoid the worst of the crowds you’re best of coming mid-week if possible.

And if you’re arriving from Switzerland by train, check the SBB railway company’s website for special deals. They also offer promotions on fares to Christmas market towns during the season, and when I visited I got 50 percent off the train fare as well as a whole bottle of glühwein for free!

There are about 170 stalls at the market, so you could easily spend half a day here soaking up the atmosphere and sipping on a mug of glühwein or another warm beverage.

United Kingdom

Winter Wonderland, London (UK) 

Contributed by Eniko from Travel Hacker Girl.

London has many Christmas markets, but one of the best and most popular ones is Winter Wonderland. The market is so huge, that it takes up a big chunk of Hyde Park.

Even though it is technically a Christmas market, it very much resembles a theme park.

There are several rides, such as roller coasters, haunted houses, mirror mazes, bouncy castles, and bumper cars. But that is not all! You can try ice skating around a Victorian bandstand.

In the evenings there are several shows you can book tickets for in advance. If you want a laugh then visit the comedy show or the circus.

There are many events for families with children as well, such as Paddington on Ice or Santa Land.

Of course, you won’t go hungry during your visit. There is a wide variety of food stalls, that cater to anyone.

You can eat vegetarian food, French crepes, Spanish churros, Hungarian chimney cake, or German sausages.

You can also do your Christmas shopping and buy some lovely hand-crafted products. You can easily spend a whole day at Winter Wonderland.

Visiting the market is free, however, the rides, food, and shows cost extra and they are not cheap.

The market tends to get busy at the weekends and evenings, so try and visit outside these times if it is possible.

Christmas in London  is magical and one of the best places to experience this is Winter Wonderland. 

Christmas Market at Southbank Center, London

• Contributed by Sarah and Justin from Live, Dream, Discover. 

The Southbank is a popular area with locals and visitors any time of year but as Christmas in London approaches it turns into a festive wonderland.

Southbank Center hosts a winter festival from early November to early January which includes fun-filled shows and entertainment.

There’s even a turn-of-the-century circus called Circus 1903.

Some of the events are ticketed but many are free such as the admission to our favorite part of the festival…the fabulous Christmas Market.

The market is set up on the riverbank in front of the center and emulates the look of a German Christmas market with wooden chalets draped in greenery and lights.

The chalets are filled with vendors selling traditional seasonal treats and trinkets such as hot spiced cider, Christmas ornaments, and cozy knitted scarfs.

There will also be fun pop-ups around the Southbank Center Christmas Market like the Bar Under the Bridge, The Circus Bar, and Jimmy’s Lodge.

Our favorite pop-up spot is Bar Under the Bridge which has an alpine-style lodge theme with fleece rugs, board games, and heated booths.

But perhaps the best part about this Christmas market is the location.

Imagine strolling along the River Thames among twinkling lights, sipping mulled wine, eating mince pies, and listening to Christmas carols while browsing the festive wares.

Is there anything more Christmasey than eating, drinking, and being merry in jolly old England?

How to get there:

Thanks to the awesome London underground with nearby stops like Waterloo, Embankment, and Charing Cross it’s easy to get to Southbank.

There are also bus stops nearby as well as a boat that stops at the nearby Festival Pier.  

Cambridge Christmarket (UK)

• Contributed by Rai from A Rai of Light.

Just when the winter chill sets in over the Cam River, the Christmas markets in and around Cambridge bring a much-welcomed festive atmosphere to the city.

Even more so than at any other time in the year. The city’s squares and streets are lit up and there’s no better way to get into the cheerful spirit than a visit to the market. Here you will find over sixty lively, closely packed stalls that are a delight to wander through in your search for something good to purchase.

Even though a couple of the vendors sell traditional gifts and souvenirs from London , there are many offering local arts and crafts, handmade jewelry, books, and vinyl records.

You might just get all your shopping done in one place. I particularly enjoy the wide variety of good food and drink stalls, sampling cuisine from around the world.

The market is open every day from the second week in December until the first week of January.

The location adjacent to the St. Mary’s Church makes for a convenient stop as you are never too far from it no matter where in the city you find yourself.

The North Pole Cambridge festival which takes place at the same time also features a pop-up ice rink, fairground rides, and an alpine bar.

Expect to spend more than two hours here and prepare to get into some serious festive cheer all while sipping on hot chocolate or hot spiced wine well into the night.

Tuileries Garden Christmas Market, Paris

• Contributed by Elisa from World in Paris.

Paris at Christmas time is a wonderful place to be. It’s one of the best places to visit in Europe in winter. 

Apart from the Christmas decorations and lights, there are many Christmas markets, and almost all the central Arrondissements of Paris have one!

Among all the Christmas Markets in Paris , the one located at the Tuileries Garden is my favorite one.

For me, it is great to visit this Christmas market while enjoying one of the most beautiful gardens in Paris, with such an interesting history behind it and there are so many things to do, apart from shopping, that I could spend all day, weather permitting.

For those who have not been to Paris in the last few years, this Christmas Market replaces the one traditionally located along the Champs Elysées. The Tuileries Garden is more central than Champs Elysées (Paris 1), more zen than Paris’ main avenue plus the park is big enough to host around 100% wooden stalls.

The main highlight of this market, apart from the Tuileries Garden itself, is the quality of the offer with more than 80% of the stalls proposing products, food, and drinks all made in France.

Apart from the park’s usual games, the Christmas market hosts a Ferris wheel, an ice skating rink, and free activities for children so kids will be spoilt for choice if they get bored of shopping.

Personally, I like the stalls selling vin-chaud (the local version of the Glühwein) so when I visit the Tuileries Christmas market I make sure to stop at one of these stalls.

Strasbourg Christmas Market

• Contributed by Brianna from Curious Travel Bug.

The Strasbourg Christmas Market in France is one of the oldest in Europe, operating since 1570. Christmas takes over the whole Grande Île (old town), a UNESCO site, making Strasbourg one of the best Christmas markets in Europe.

Strasbourg is a great  winter destination in France  to explore the Alsatian Christmas culture and traditional foods.

The highlight of the market is the huge Christmas tree in the main square, Place Kleber, and wandering the more than 300 stalls with a cup of mulled white wine.

The entire old town is decorated with Christmas decorations and lights, which make for a magical sight in the evening.

The Strasbourg Christmas market is actually made up of multiple markets. Each of the squares in Strasbourg has a Christmas market with a different theme.

There are traditional market stalls where you can find decorations and mulled wine and hot apple cider and traditional Alsatian cookies and gingerbread.

There are also non-traditional markets like the alternative market. The alternative market puts an emphasis on locally made products as well as vintage clothing and antiques in an effort to have an environmentally friendly Christmas.

My favorite market is the guest country market.

Each year, Strasbourg invites a different guest country to take over one of the squares and have a market that showcases Christmas traditions, food, and products from that country.

It’s easy to spend a day exploring all of the Christmas markets Strasbourg has to offer.

It’s worth staying overnight in the city rather than doing it as a day trip from Paris to see all of the Christmas lights at night.

In addition to the market, the Strasbourg Cathedral displays multiple nativity scenes inside the church that are worth seeing. 

Visit the Strasbourg, Innsbruck, Freiburg & other Christmas Markets with this highly-rated tour: Alpine Christmas Markets

Czech Republic

Prague Castle, Prague

• Contributed by Veronika from Travel Geekery. 

It’s been only a few years since Prague Castle has been hosting its own Christmas market, but I can’t think of a better setting! And definitely one of the best places to go in Prague in the winter .

Prague Castle complex is large and it encompasses a small square that’s empty for most of the year.

However, towards the end of November, it comes to life with a Christmas market.

You’ll find the usual goodies: mulled wine and hot mead to drink, sausages, and chimney cakes to stuff your belly with.

The prices may be a little higher than at Prague’s other Christmas markets, but it’s nothing dramatic.

If you get lucky, you might experience a performance by the castle choir.

When I visited the market last winter, we got to listen to some and it was beautiful. Essentially it’s a choir of Prague Castle guards.

All the magic helps overcome the fact that you need to go through security frames to get inside the castle complex and you never know how long the line is going to be.

You can spend easily half an hour to over an hour, depending on how much you’re enjoying the local atmosphere and whether you take to walking around the castle complex too.

• Contributed by Hannah & Adam from Getting Stamped.

If you are looking for one of the biggest and best Christmas markets in Europe, make your way to Budapest, one of the cheapest places to travel in Europe , for the Vörösmarty Square Christmas Market.

This market is the biggest and longest market in Budapest that takes place right in the heart of the city, which provides beautiful scenery. 

This is one of our favorites because it starts earlier than most.

The food stalls will remain open until New Year’s Day.

We love going around the food stalls and craft vendors, as the local artists sell a diverse selection of craftwork and pieces.

Just imagine enjoying your food and spirits in the town square while listening to local live music – it is simply the best! 

It is up to you how long you spend at this market – squeeze everything into one day or visit it over a few days!

Make sure you leave enough time to stop and get a piece of cake at the Szamos pastry shop. The coffee-caramel-flavored torte is to die for. 

If you are looking for somewhere to stay, consider the Kempinski hotel. It is the perfect location for exploring this particular market, as you can see it from your room. You can find  cheap flights to Budapest here. 

And if you have some extra time in Budapest, we suggest checking out a neighboring market in front of St. Stephen’s Basilica that is less than 700 meters away from Vörösmarty Square. It’s a newer market, opening just in 2011, but a must-stop.

The basilica backdrop makes it the most picturesque Christmas market in Budapest ! 

Wrocław Christmas market

• Contributed by Karolina from Lazy travel blog.

One of the best Christmas markets in Europe, Wroclaw’s famous winter wonderland will come to life from the 22nd of November until the 31st of December.

Possibly the largest market in Poland, this festive event takes over the Rynek Market Square, Plac Solny, and the nearby streets, Olawska and Swidnicka.

During this time, market stalls brimming with artisan products that consist of beautiful handmade wooden crafts and delicious Polish delicacies fill the area. Everywhere you walk, you are followed by the scent of cinnamon and pine.

An attraction that is perfect for all ages, the market features an enchanting fairy forest, locally known as Bajkowy Lasek, where animatronic characters tell stories to the children passing through.

Within the market, the Fireplace House is the perfect place to warm oneself on cold Polish winter’s night.

Coupled with a hot cup of mulled wine from one of the distilleries available in the market, it is the perfect spot to take a quick pause and admire the wonderland that sprouts in the middle of Wroclaw once a year.

Aside from the quaint wooden stalls and amusement rides, a lineup of parades and performances can be seen at the beginning of December.

The best ones to catch are the traditional Christmas parade on December 9th and the parade of  Wroclaw  elves on December 16th. On December 23rd, the shows close with the voices of the Christmas Carols Singers Parade.

An amazing way to mix with the locals and learn more about Polish culture, join the residents of Wroclaw as they watch the Christmas tree light up on December 6, or join them as they feed the needy and lonely on the 24th of December.

Moscow (Russia)

• Contributed by Liza from Tripsget.

Moscow is not a typical Christmas Market destination, however, the decorations and the Christmas Market I’ve seen in the capital of Russia were among the best ones I’ve seen in Europe.

Russia celebrates Orthodox Christmas which happens on the 7th of January, rather than on the 24th of December. Hence, Christmas Markets in Moscow start a bit later than everywhere in Europe and finish later as well.

Moscow gets decorated around the middle of December and all the celebrations finish after the 14th of January.

The decorations in Moscow are actually spread all around the city, so you have to walk a lot and you will probably need a day to see all of them.

The best part of the Christmas market in Moscow is Red Square.

There are a huge ice skating rink and lots of Christmas stalls selling souvenirs, food, and hot drinks. It does get cold in Russia (it can be anything from +3 up to -25 degrees celsius in Moscow in December), so you will consume a lot of hot drinks.

One of the best hot drinks to try is the Russian honey mead. It has a bit of alcohol, but not too much and it helps you get warm.

The main department store in Moscow, GUM , also gets decorated from the inside and the outside, so make sure to visit it as well.

Another beautiful area to visit is Lubyanka: there are more stalls on the Nikolskaya street and a huge light tunnel.

The is a second light tunnel around the Tverskoi Boulevard. Finally, you can head to the Bolshoi theatre and visit a small Christmas market outside on the square as well. 

Belfast Christmas Market

• Contributed by Allan from It’s sometimes Sunny in Bangor.

There was a time when Belfast was one of the last places to be for a tourist holiday, where tourism was set around war, with the “Troubles in Northern Ireland”, alcoholics such as the great George Best, and of course the titanic, a big sinking ship.

So there really wasn’t a lot of positives coming from the city before the millennium.

But these days it really is a well-developed tourist destination yet it still manages to hold the same character and local charm to escape the busy tourist crowds.

And it’s also just a nice compact destination with more than enough things to do in Belfas t for a short winter break.

Wintertime is always my favorite time in Belfast when the city center is dressed in festive lights and Christmas baubles but more so for the annual Christmas Market located at Belfast City Hall.

A rather prestigious backdrop for what is Belfast’s interpretation of those better-known Christkindlmarkt of continental Europe.

So similar to the city, it does feel more local and less ‘touristy’ than many, although the set-up is not so different from the similar stalls including the German and Swiss favorites like frankfurters, schnitzels, cheese raclette, and of course Glühwein (mulled wine).

And while it is a relatively small market it is also compact and quite precise to cover all sorts of interests including a Christmassy Helter Skelter for the kids and charity stalls for various good causes.

But some of the better-known attractions each year include the “Meats of the World” stall which sells some unlikely burgers such as ostrich and kangaroo burgers, and of course, there is a heavy focus on the central beer tents where most people escape to warm up with some big stein mugs of Paulaner.

And the traditional Belfast craic (banter) is best found in the later hours with opening times from 17:00 PM until late. 

Durbuy Christmas Market

• Contributed by Paulina from Paulina on the Road.

Durbuy is also known as the smallest city in the world. Indeed there are only a few hundred people living in one of the quaintest cities in Belgium.

Even though the town is small in size, its Christmas Market is BIG. Indeed, plenty of wooden cabins are put up in the main square of the city.

Here you can find all kinds of sweets and some of the most typical Belgian foods such as French fries, sausages from the Ardennes, and chocolate. 

Several artisans from Belgium and France make their way to Durbuy in order to sell their handicrafts at the Christmas Market. If you are looking for some original Christmas gifts, this is the place.

However, the most typical and unique thing to eat at the Durbuy Christmas Market is the foie gras on hot potatoes. It’s truly unusual.

During the weekends, the Christmas Market gets crowded and some of the wooden chalets even host dancing parties. That makes Durbuy Christmas Market one of the best Christmas Markets in Belgium.

It’s only a 1h30 minutes drive from Brussels, one of the prettiest cities in Europe.

Christmas Markets at Tivoli Gardens

• Contributed by Derek from Everything Copenhagen.

Christmas in Europe is magical, and Scandinavia is an especially brilliant region to experience a European Christmas.

Denmark and the capital of Copenhagen provide the best backdrop for a Scandinavian Christmas. Within Copenhagen, the best Christmas Market is found at Tivoli Gardens. 

The Christmas Markets at Tivoli Gardens opens on 16 November and runs until 5 January. The amusement park and Christmas Market is open from 11 am until 23 pm Sunday through Thursday and an extra hour on Friday and Saturday nights. Tivoli is open on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, and New Years Day but with altered hours. 

You could easily spend all day at the Tivoli Gardens Christmas Market. That’s because there is so much to do inside of Tivoli.

You do have to pay an entrance fee, but it’s worth it for all of the events, entertainment, and activities within Tivoli Gardens. Visitors can enjoy the food and drink vendors, gift shops, and decorations that are common at Christmas Markets. 

Tivoli is an urban amusement park and the rides are operational during the Christmas season – they even get a festive makeover.

In the center of Tivoli Gardens is an iconic Christmas tree decorated with crystal Swarovsky ornaments and over a thousand lights.

There are nightly holiday laser light shows at the lake to the music of The Nutcracker . Santa Claus has a home in Tivoli’s Pantomime Theatre, there are Christmas parades each weekend and fireworks between Christmas and New Year’s Eve. 

Tivoli is a fantastic place to visit at any time of the year. It was the inspiration for Disneyland and full of old-world charm that shines through at Christmas.

Visit it yourself and you will agree!

La Fira de Santa Llucia, Barcelona

Contributed by Mar from Once in a Lifetime Journey.

La Fira de Santa Llucia is the Christmas market located in Barcelona taking place on Avinguda de la Catedral, right in front of Barcelona’s Cathedral in honor of Saint Lucy, a Catholic saint, and martyr.

The market has been operating every year since at least 1786 and it was set up as part of celebrations honoring the saint who has a chapel inside the Cathedral. It will celebrate its 237th anniversary in 2023.

The specific start date of the market changes every year but it is always around the end of November, and the market remains open until the 23rd of December.

Unlike other markets in Europe, you cannot find food or drinks here.

The market sells traditional Christmas decorations and items only, some of which are the typical figurines and objects that are exclusively used as part of the Catalan Christmas traditions and you will not find them anywhere else in the world outside of Catalonia.

The market is split into a few sections by the types of objects that are being sold. There is an area devoted to figurines that we use to make Nativities, one to green objects such as trees or door decorations, one for crafts like candles, and a smaller one for instruments such as simbombes.

Spend some time looking at the caganer figurines and at the pooping log.

A caganer is a pagan tradition that includes the figurine of a Catalan farmer pooping with his pants down. We add caganers to the Nativity scene and every year, new figurines of famous characters and celebrities are added to the repertoire of caganers.

The pooping log is a tree log to which we give a face that is wearing a traditional Catalan red hat. We feed him for weeks leading up to Christmas Eve so that kids can hit it with a stick while singing a song and get presents the log “poops” in return. Yes, it is a very unique Catalan Christmas celebration.

Because Santa Llucia is not very big, you will not need more than an hour to go through all the aisles.

When you get tired, cold, or hungry, head out to any of the cafeterias around the Cathedral and continue to observe the buzz.

Barcelona is a fantastic city to visit. You can easily spend a couple of days here. If you have only one day in Barcelona, take a look at this one day in  Barcelona itinerary. 

Let’s hope we haven’t made it too hard for you to choose. 

We had a wonderful time creating this list.  We visit at least two Christmas markets every year so this list has given us inspiration for many years to come.  We can’t wait to hear the choirs perform in Zurich and the Christmas boat in Konstanz must be a unique experience as well.  

Enjoy this festive season and remember, it’s the most wonderful time of the year!

See our web stories that accompany this post. 

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The Wisdom of the Markets: Last-Minute Deals for a Central European Christmas

By Carrie Havranek

Although we reported on this not quite two months ago, some last-minute deals have popped up, so consider this a reminder: if you want to go to Central Europe during the holidays and shop the Christmas Markets, now is the time to book. The markets are outdoor affairs, with local vendors whose stalls are lined with gifts, home-cooked foods, crafts and more. Usually the markets are set up in the town squares near churches in small towns and bigger cities alike. For information on the markets in specific German cities, you can visit the site for Germany tourism, ( www.cometogermany.com ) and likewise for Austria ( www.austria.info ) the Czech Republic ( www.czechtourism.com ), Slovakia ( http://slovakia.travel/en ) or Hungary ( www.gotohungary.com ).

The company Atlas Cruises and Tours has set up a site specifically geared toward the Christmas Market Tours (tel. 800/942-3301 ; www.christmasmarkettours.com ). Its six-night trip to Central Europe Christmas markets in Berlin, Dresden and Prague is priced at $1,129 per person for December 1 and 8 departures and $1,039 for the December 15 departure. This price includes airfare from New York to Berlin and then from Prague to New York, along with seven meals, transportation between cities, sightseeing and services of an English-speaking tour escort and entrance fees per itinerary. Other departures are available for additional fees. The airport taxes, fees, and September 11 security fee are not included, nor are arrival and departure transfers.

" Christmastime in Bavaria and Austria ," one of the company's most popular trips, offers a savings of $350 for bookings before September 30. The trip makes stops in Munich, Innsbruck, Salzburg and Vienna. Guided sightseeing, market visits, six breakfasts and three dinners and six nights are all included. It is listed as a land-only price, starting from $939, with many departure dates still available: December 2, 5, 9, 12, 16 and 19. You have to go through the site's vacation planner and select your departure city to find out how much it costs with round-trip airfare (and then receive the discount). A quick search revealed the cheapest December 2 departure from Newark Airport is $1,778, before the discount. If you want to go, you must act quickly.

Foreign Independent Tours (tel. 800/248-3487 ; www.fittours.com ) just released a deal that must be booked by October 13. It's a one-date departure special that departs December 14 a Danube river cruise on the MS Viktoria for the Christmas Markets, priced from $1,199 per person, for land and air from New York-JFK, Boston or Washington-Dulles. Add $75 for Chicago or West Palm Beach, $120 for LAX or $175 from San Francisco. It includes six nights in superior first class accommodations, all meals on the cruise, all transfers, shore excursions and, entrance fees. You'll visit the Christmas Markets in Regensburg, Linz, Vienna, the Benedictine Abbey, and be treated to welcome and farewell dinners. The trip takes you to Germany, Austria, Hungary and Slovakia, and the price reflects accommodations in an outside cabin, but upgrades are possible, starting at $50 per person. The trip must be booked by October 13.

General Tours (tel. 800/221-2216; www.generaltours.com ) is offering $200 savings per person for its trip called " Legendary Christmas Markets ." The trip consists of an escorted tour, with round-trip airfare, hotel transfers and luggage handling included, along with daily buffet breakfast and six dinners, all priced from $2,799 based on a New York departure. Trips run November 25, 29 and December 3. Overnights include Heidelberg, Rothenburg, Munich and the decorated houses in Prien am Chiemsee, set on an island in a large lake.

Picasso Tours (tel. 800/995-7997 ; www.picassotours.com ) has a land-only deal for eight nights in Germany from $1,234, based on double occupancy. Daily breakfast, along with a welcome and farewell dinner and a professional, English speaking tour guide are all included along with entrance fees to various castles and taxes and services charges. A different itinerary is offered here: You'll start in Frankfurt, and from there, be escorted to a trip to Heidelberg and the Black Forest, Lindau, Oberammergau, Ettal and Munich. Departures are scheduled for December 2 and 9 and space is still available.

For those who are enterprising and independent, European Destinations (tel. 877/267-2247 ; www.europeandestinations.com ) offers a flexible, customizable trip. The company's ten-day, three-city Munich, Salzburg and Vienna trip starts from $1,039 for travel from Chicago, with round-trip airfare, nine hotel nights, daily breakfast in all cities and hotel taxes included, along with the ICE high speed train to get you from one city to the next. You can travel at any time, but the best prices can be had November through March; other cities are available for additional price. There is, of course, no connection to the Christmas Markets; you'd have to plan out visits yourself.

If you can't spare the money or the time to go abroad and you live within driving distance of Bethlehem, PA (located 70 miles west of New York and about 60 miles north of Philadelphia), you might want to check out its own version of Christkindlmarkt (tel. 610/332-1300; www.christkindlmarkt.org ), modeled after the open-air markets in Germany. Located in historic downtown Bethlehem, PA, the event takes place over the course of a few weeks (November 24-26, November 30-December 3, December 7-10 and December 14-17). More than 75 vendors showcase their crafts here, and ice sculptures, special food, music and an appearance by Santa Claus are also part of the festivities.

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Christmas markets are back: the 9 best festive trips in Europe for every budget

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Adam Shaw rounds up the top Christmas market trips, starting at £99

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It’s the most wonderful time of the year! And nothing says Christmas like taking a trip round a European Christmas market, wrapped up in a big coat, with a steamy cup of mulled wine in hand – especially if it’s laced with hot rum.

This year’s Christmas markets across the continent are likely to be even more joyful. While Omicron may have put a dampener on last year’s Christmas season, this year Europe’s seasonal markets are set to be back in full, festive swing – for the first time in three years.

And from budget-conscious coach breaks to lavish, all-stops-pulled-out trips in luxury accommodation, there’s a magical festive market break to make every client’s Christmas wishes come true. Here we pick out the best trips for every budget, with plenty of selling tips from the experts.

Krakow, Poland

Krakow looks like a fairytale all year round, so it’s no surprise that the city’s Christmas market is among the prettiest in Europe. Visitors can stroll around the stalls in the 13th‑century main square, nibbling on kielbasa sausage and gingerbread before washing it down with a cup of mulled wine.

Krakow is famous for its amber, and there will be plenty of opportunity to make this part of your Christmas shopping – either for yourself or a loved one. The city also hosts an annual nativity competition – look out for colourful displays in shops and public places.

Book it: EasyJet holidays offers two nights at Avena by Artery Hotels, with flights from Luton, from £136. holidaystrade.easyjet.com

Bath, England

While continental Europe might be considered the birthplace of Christmas markets, the UK also has its fair share of big-hitting pop-up winter wonderlands. Birmingham, Edinburgh and Manchester are obvious choices, but the historic city of Bath makes a great setting for a festive market too.

Dozens of traders set up shop in chalet-style stalls across the city, with the stunning Bath Abbey providing an impressive backdrop. Beyond the market, visitors can sightsee at the Roman baths that gave the city its name, or head farther afield to places such as Bristol, Stonehenge or Cheddar Gorge.

Book it:  Just Go! Holidays offers a two-day coach break to Bath and Oxford from £99. justgoholidays.com

Lille, France

Just a short hop across the Channel, foodie hotspot Lille has long been a popular destination with UK travellers. Its Christmas market is just a 10-minute walk from the main station and, as one of France’s smaller markets, it is fairly easy to navigate.

Traders from around 90 stalls offer clients festive souvenirs and warming food and drink, there are pony rides for the kids and, on Friday nights, live concerts too. A massive Christmas tree dominates the market and makes for a great picture, while those who want a bird’s-eye view of the city can have a spin on the Ferris wheel.

Book it:  Railbookers offers a two-night stay in Lille from £299, including Eurostar tickets. railbookers.co.uk

Riga, Latvia

In Latvia, Christmas markets are seen as a place for the local community to come together to celebrate – and Riga, with its tight-knit maze of stalls, is a good place to start.

Festive markets here promise something unique. Visitors can expect to sample local traditional delicacies, such as grey peas and bacon, and in terms of shopping, the markets are a chance for traders to sell specialist items, including handmade wooden goods, furs and knitted socks.

Be sure to take in the many colourful Christmas trees around the capital city – it is said the tradition of decorating trees began in Latvia over 500 years ago.

Book it: A three-night trip to Riga can be booked through Newmarket Holidays from £374, including accommodation in the Old Town. newmarketholidays.co.uk

Prague, Czech Republic

One of Europe’s premier Christmas market cities, Prague comes alive during the winter months. The two main markets are just a five-minute walk from each other – in the Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square – with others taking place in Republic Square, Kampa Island, Havel’s Market and by the castle.

The markets are full of brightly decorated wooden huts, where traders sell festive ceramics, glassware, puppets and decorative lace. When it comes to food, dumplings, ham and sausage are always a popular choice, but clients will also spot trdelník, a sugar and walnut-covered pastry. More adventurous travellers can also try the traditional Czech Christmas fish soup.

Book it: A three-night city break in Prague with Abercrombie & Kent starts at £640. abercrombiekent.co.uk

The Dolomites, Italy

Despite its strong Christian heritage, Italy might not be the first place you think of when it comes to selling Christmas market breaks. But up in the mountainous north, clients will find many towns that have cultural influences from Austria and Switzerland.

Places such as Merano, Bressanone and Bolzano all have quaint markets situated in picturesque squares, where visitors can sample mulled wine and gingerbread snacks. The scenery is also a highlight. Where better to get into the festive spirit than in the middle of a beautiful mountain range surrounded by snow-covered peaks and breathtaking panoramas?

Book it:  Shearings offers a seven-day trip to the Italian Dolomites from £609, including three evening meals and an optional excursion to the Grand Dolomite region. shearings.com

Dresden, Germany

Rows of wooden huts, classical music in the background, lots and lots of glühwein – Germany is the iconic Christmas market destination, so much so that others across the world have tried their best to mimic its style. But why settle for an imitation when you can immerse yourself in the real deal?

There are authentic Christmas markets in almost every German village, but the best is arguably in Dresden – it’s the oldest in the country, and was responsible for making stollen famous. Alternatives include Nuremberg, famous for its handmade decorations and gingerbread hearts, and Frankfurt, where the market is set inside the historic Paulsplatz square.

Book it: An eight-day German Christmas Markets tour with Trafalgar covers all the key markets, with lots of options for added excursions. Prices start at £1,675 per person. trafalgar.com

Vienna, Austria

The Austrian capital turns into a sparkling city of light for several weeks between November and January, as the smell of hot wine and freshly baked pretzels fills the air. Like its neighbour Germany, Austria is known for going all out at Christmas, and Vienna has plenty of stalls selling arts and crafts for decorating trees and homes.

If it all gets a bit too chilly, clients can warm up in one of the city’s famed coffee houses with piping hot drinks and decadent cakes. Smaller markets are a feature in other Austrian cities, including Linz, Salzburg, Innsbruck and Klagenfurt, where you can sample a similarly magical atmosphere.

Book it:  Insight Vacations offers an eight-day Christmas Markets of Austria and Bavaria tour, with prices starting at £1,584 including accommodation and some meals. insightvacations.com

Bruges, Belgium

With a reputation for producing great beer and chocolate, Belgians know how to have a good time – and it’s particularly evident during Christmas market season.

The main market in Bruges is built around a shimmering ice rink in the shadow of the 83-metretall belfry tower in Grote Markt, where clients can wander between stalls sampling cheese-filled croquettes, cups of hot chocolate and crisp waffles.

For a slightly larger offering, head to Brussels, where huts are complemented by traditional rides such as a Ferris wheel and carousel. Another option to suggest to clients is to pop over the border into Luxembourg City – it turns into a winter wonderland with several concerts and workshops throughout December.

Book it: A 3-night stay at the Hotel Heritage on a B&B basis, plus return Eurostar tickets and a Bruges Museum Pass, starts at £738 with  Kirker Holidays . Extras such as opera tickets and private excursions with local guides are also available. www.kirkerholidays.com 

Ask the experts

Claire Dutton, trade sales manager, Just Go! Holidays

“When it comes to Christmas markets there’s a huge breadth of options to promote. UK cities such as Bath, York and Edinburgh host their own markets for those who don’t want to travel abroad or perhaps have less time.

“In Europe, Germany is the home of traditional Christmas markets. But there are many other destinations that should also be considered such as Vienna, Bruges and Arras.

“Whether in the UK or abroad, Christmas market trips are all about soaking up the festive atmosphere. The beauty of a coach break is that travel into the heart of the city is organised for customers, so all they need to focus on is where to get their first glühwein. These breaks are often an impulse purchase so agents should get them on their social channels and into their windows.”

Ashley Dellow, head of retail sales, Leger Shearings Group

“Christmas market breaks are very popular with mother-daughter combinations, couples and friend groups of all ages, allowing agents to tap into a variety of demographics. One up-selling tip is to suggest turning a Christmas markets short break into a longer holiday, combining the Christmas markets with other attractions.

“Another selling tip is to suggest an all-inclusive Christmas markets holiday; the agent receives commission on the full price and the customer gets a great deal.”

Becky Francis, sales director EMEA, TTC Tour Brands

“Christmas market season is such a special time to see some of Europe’s most beautiful cities. Not all Christmas markets are the same. We offer trips that take in Christmas markets in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Hungary and the Czech Republic, and each has its own specialities.

“Some of the bigger markets are great for variety, others are better for an intimate atmosphere, for scenery, for gifts and toys, for ice skating, food or fairy lights. So do a bit of research to inform your clients what might suit them most.”

PICTURES: Polish Tourism Organisation; Shutterstock/1000 words, ecstk22, rustamank

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• Travel Planning Guide

The Best Christmas Market Tours in Europe

Looking for the best tour through Europe's Christmas markets? We have carefully curated a selection of Christmas market tours in Europe to make sure that you have an unforgettable escape filled with adventure, cherished traditions, and heartwarming activities. Immerse yourself in the magic of the holiday season as you wander through charming marketplaces, alive with joyful celebrations, all while joining a tour that takes care of the planning and organizing for you.

• Christmas Markets Rhine Cruise (Dusseldorf - Dusseldorf) 5 Days, $461.50
• Rhine Christmas Markets 2024 5 Days, $682.57

What are Christmas market tours like in Europe?

Here are the important factors:

• 36 trip options analyzed
• $385 average price per day (USD)
• 4 to 11 days in length
• 4.33 of 5 average rating
• 126 people or less on average

You'll be surprised at the array of Christmas market tours in Europe, as there is something for everyone. It's no wonder that visitors can't get enough of these tours, boasting an impressive average guest rating of 4.33 out of 5 stars. Picture yourself joining a group of like-minded adventurers, with an average maximum size of 126 people, ensuring a fantastic blend of social and personalized experiences. The average tour length spans 7 days, with tours ranging from 4 to 11 days long. For physical activity , the tours are marked as easy and relaxing, with a prevalent number on easy tours. With our thorough analysis of 36 Christmas market tours, we've found the best. So rest assured that Europe has something to captivate every kind of traveler.

(All tour prices are in US Dollars before taxes, and come from a base price that is reported by TourRadar. Peak season prices can vary significantly, particularly in destinations where seasonal travel fluctuates dramatically.)

So, let's get to it and see...

The 10 Best Christmas Market Tours in Europe

Christmas markets rhine cruise (dusseldorf - dusseldorf).

• Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for Christmas market tours.
• High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.

Here's your chance to take off on an exceptional journey that has garnered a 5 out of 5 rating. With a duration of 5 days, this jouney will have 110 participants, and it warmly welcomes guests from 1 to 105 years old. Expertly organized by Crucemundo , this amazing trip is an incredible value at just $113 per day.

• River Cruise

Rhine Christmas Markets 2024

This memorable trip is offered by A-ROSA which has received plenty of positive reviews. The trip itself has a guest rating of 4 out of 5 stars, and is priced affordably at $137 per day. Along the way, this journey encompasses 5 destinations, including Rudesheim am Rhein, Mainz, and Frankfurt-am-Main. Begin and conclude your remarkable journey in the gorgeous destination of Cologne. The maximum group size is 202 people, welcoming guests from 2 and up.

Set off on an extraordinary journey that has been awarded a 4 out of 5 stars by previous guests. With a duration of 5 days, this voyage offers an intimate group setting, accommodating 202 individuals, while extending a warm welcome to guests from 2 and up. This itinerary covers 5 captivating destinations, with stops in Rudesheim am Rhein, Mainz, and Frankfurt-am-Main, among others. You'll start and end your journey in beautiful Cologne. Brought to you by A-ROSA , this exceptional deal is an incredible steal at a mere $137 per day.

Festive Time on the Romantic Rhine (Northbound) 2024

With this option you can experience an unparalleled voyage for 8 unforgettable days, visiting Switzerland, Germany, France, and Netherlands. It ensures an intimate group setting with 160 participants at most. Immerse yourself in a travel experience that includes 11 destinations, featuring Koblenz, Cologne, Breisach, and Black Forest. Your journey starts off in Basel and finishes in Amsterdam. Avalon Waterways , the organizer of this journey, extends a warm invitation to guests guests from 8 and up. This extraordinary opportunity offers exceptional value at only $514 per day.

Festive Time on the Romantic Rhine (Southbound) 2024

This fantastic journey has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, visiting Netherlands, Germany, France, and Switzerland. Uncover the beauty of 10 destinations on this itinerary, with highlights such as Rudesheim am Rhein, Mainz, Heidelberg, and Strasbourg. Your journey will begin in Amsterdam and end in Basel. Lasting 8 days, the maximum group size is 160 people, and it's good for guests from 8 and up. Organized by Avalon Waterways , this is a great deal because it's only $514 per day.

Christmas on the romantic Rhine - MODIGLIANI

With a stellar 5 out of 5 rating, this extraordinary journey, visiting France and Germany, is the perfect choice. Traverse through 5 enchanting destinations, with Rudesheim am Rhein, Boppard, and Mainz among the must-see stops along the route. Strasbourg will be both the start and end of your journey. Spanning across 4 days, the journey accommodates 160 individuals, and is suitable for travelers of all ages. Offered by CroisiEurope River Cruises , this remarkable journey is priced at just $299 per day. Don't miss out on this incredible experience.

Christmas on the romantic Rhine - MONET

This exceptional trip offering by CroisiEurope River Cruises has received a 5 out of 5 rating. On this 4-day trip, visiting France and Germany, you can unwind while also making new memories. This trip visits 4 destinations, including Rudesheim am Rhein and Boppard along the way. Your adventure starts and ends in Strasbourg. With a group size of 160 people, it's suitable for travelers of all ages. This remarkable trip is priced at an unbeatable $299 per day.

Christmas on the romantic Rhine, the enchantment of the Lorelei Rock (port-to-port cruise) - MONA LISA

Check out this journey that has received rave reviews, earning a stellar 4 out of 5 rating, visiting France and Germany. Experience a trip that takes you to 5 remarkable destinations, including Braubach, Rudesheim am Rhein, and Worms. Strasbourg will be the beginning and end of your trip. Spanning across 5 unforgettable days, this voyage offers an intimate group experience with 176 participants, and it's great for travelers of all ages. Brought to you by the renowned CroisiEurope River Cruises , this exceptional opportunity is priced at an incredible $265 per day - an unbeatable value.

Christmas on the romantic Rhine, the enchantment of the Lorelei Rock (port-to-port cruise) - BOHEME

This 5-day journey, visiting France and Germany, is ideal for travelers of all ages. And priced at only $265 per day, it's a great value, too. Explore 4 incredible locations on this trip, including Braubach and Rudesheim am Rhein. Begin and conclude your remarkable journey in the gorgeous destination of Strasbourg. It's offered by CroisiEurope River Cruises , a very popular company with rave reviews and knowledgeable guides.

Christmas on the romantic Rhine, the enchantment of the Lorelei Rock (port-to-port cruise)

Priced at just $265 per day, this terrific 5-day journey, visiting France and Germany, is ideal for travelers of all ages. Discover a journey that spans 5 destinations, with notable stops in Braubach, Rudesheim am Rhein, and Worms. You'll start and end your journey in beautiful Strasbourg. Organized by the reputable CroisiEurope River Cruises , this is one of the best tours on this list.

See also The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Europe , The Best Wildlife Tours to Europe , The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Europe , The Best Historical Tours in Europe , The Best 10-Day Tours in Europe , The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Europe , The Best 3-Day Tours in Europe , The Best 2-Week Tours in Europe , The Best 3-Week Tours in Europe , The Best 4-Week (1-Month) Tours in Europe , The Best Extended Trip Tours in Europe, One Month or Longer , The Best River Cruises in Europe , The Best Bicycle Tours in Europe , Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Europe , The Best Christmas & New Years Tours in Europe , The Best Coach Bus Tours in Europe , The Best Adventure Tours to Europe , The Best Eco Tours in Europe , The Best Train & Rail Tours in Europe , The Best Thrill-Seeking Tours in Europe , The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in Europe , The Best Art History, Museums, and Cultural Tours Tours in Europe , The Best Sightseeing Tours in Europe , The Best Cultural Tours in Europe , The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Europe , The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Europe , The Best Music Tours in Europe , The Tours for Animal Lovers in Europe , The Best Camping Tours in Europe , The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Europe , The Best Self Drive Tours in Europe , The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in Europe , The Best Nightlife Tours in Europe , The Best Religious Tours in Europe , The Best Walking Tours in Europe , The Best Northern Lights Tours in Europe , The Best Honeymoon Tours in Europe , The Best Tours Under $1000 in Europe , The Best Luxury Tours to Europe , The Best Budget Tours to Europe , The Best Tours for Seniors to Europe , The Best Contiki Tours to Europe , or The Best G Adventures Tours to Europe for more tour ideas. With so many options, there's a guided tour or vacation package for every type of traveler.

How much do Christmas Market Tours in Europe cost?

After analyzing 36 Christmas market tours in Europe, we found the average price to be a remarkably economical $385 per day. Naturally, this region has many fantastic options for Christmas market tours with a variety of prices. The individual costs will vary by the destinations, travel style, available dates, and other factors. If you're interested in more information about tours here, see our guide to tour prices in Europe .

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Big list of Holiday Markets in the Triangle 2023

Please scroll down for a day-by-day list that’s growing every day.

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Day by Day List of Holiday Markets in the Triangle

Europe Christmas Markets: Munich to Budapest

8 days | explore the festive markets of germany, austria and hungary.

Indulge the senses by exploring the best of Central Europe’s festive market scene. Feel the bustling energy of Munich’s charismatic Christmas markets, savour the smell of spicy festive delights in Salzburg, see the sights of vibrant Vienna and take a therapeutic soak in the thermal baths of Budapest. Meander from stall to stall, discovering new sights, sounds, flavours and fashions.

Trip overview

• This trip takes you to a variety of Christmas markets across central Europe. Contrast the various traditions, cuisines and of course, mulled wine, in several amazing cities
• Munich's Christmas markets are probably the most famous of them all. Authentic Bavarian food, ale and music make this an unforgettable Christmas experience
• Explore Salzburg’s markets and travel high above the rooftops of the Baroque historical district to the fully preserved castle, the Hohensalzburg Fortress
• Vienna's Christmas markets are as ornamental as its architecture. Austria's capital provides a spectacular seasonal shopping affair, with tonnes of hand-crafted toys, candles and paintings on offer. Where better to pick up those last-minute gifts?
• Jolly Budapest really embraces the Christmas spirit. Take a walk through the streets to find every street, tree and market lit up in lights
• While the Christmas markets we visit are all beautiful, they can get very busy, so please be prepared for crowds. We'll also spend a considerable amount of time outdoors, and as it is winter it would be advisable you bring warm clothing and are adequately prepared for the weather.
• The primary means of transportation on this trip is by train. Train travel is a fast way to traverse long distances, allowing you to avoid traffic jams and arrive right into the city centre. Trains are comfortable and often decked out with air-conditioning, toilets, a snack bar (or vending machine) and power points. Please note that you'll have to carry your own luggage on and off the train, so make sure it doesn’t exceed our weight and size recommendations. You can find this information in the 'Packing' section of the Essential Trip Information.
• Hotels in Europe often don't have double beds, but rather two single beds that can be pushed together.
• On this trip you must pack as lightly as possible because you will be expected to carry your own bag and although you won't be required to walk long distances with your luggage (max 30 minutes), we strongly recommend keeping the weight under 15kg / 33lb. Most travellers carry their luggage in a backpack, although an overnight bag with a shoulder strap would suffice if you travel lightly. Smaller bags or backpacks with wheels are convenient although we recommend your bag has carry straps to accommodate the cobbled streets, uneven surfaces, stairs and steps you are likely to encounter while carrying your luggage. You'll also need a day pack/bag to carry water and a camera etc for day trips.

Willkommen! Welcome to Munich, Germany. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm. In the evening, head out for an included dinner with the rest of the group. If you can't arrange a flight that will arrive in time, you may wish to arrive a day early so you're able to attend the meeting. We'll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability).

• Hotel (1 night)
• Munich - Welcome Dinner

Please look for a note in the hotel lobby or ask reception where the welcome meeting will take place. We'll be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this meeting, so ensure you bring these details to provide to your leader. If you're going to be late, please inform hotel reception. You can arrive at any time during the day as there are no activities planned until this important meeting. Museums are closed on Mondays in Munich and if you wish to book any optional tours, please book in advance because they tend to book out during Christmas & New Year period very fast.

In the morning after breakfast, venture out with your leader for an orientation walk of Munich. This cosmopolitan metropolis houses an extraordinary array of sights for travellers more interested in art, architecture, history, music and, of course, Christmas markets. There are 20 different Christmas markets in Munich and you'll be introduced to the best of them. From the Kripperlmarkt, which has all you need to create an authentic manger, to the Tollwood Christmas Market, Munich's vibrant ethnic festival. Music lovers will be able to get into the festive spirit with a special alpine Christmas Market concert from the balcony of Munich's town hall, which takes places Sunday to Thursday while the Christmas markets are on. Sip on a mug of gluehwein, grab a grilled sausage and browse the markets full of toys, wood carvings, candles etc.

• Munich - Gluehwein (Mulled Wine) Tasting
• Munich - Christmas Market Visit
• Munich - Alte Pinakothek Art Gallery - EUR12
• Munich - Bavarian Royal Palace - EUR13
• Munich - Deutsches Museum - EUR14
• Munich - Third Reich Tour - EUR15
• Munich - Bavarian National Museum - EUR7
• Munich - BMW World - Free
• Munich - BMW Museum - EUR10

Travel south-east into Austria by train to Salzburg today, which should take around one hour and forty five minutes. Built on the fortune of its famous salt mines, Salzburg is the birthplace of the Snow White and the Seven Dwarves legend, home to the hills from the Sound of Music and purveyor of absolutely everything Mozart. On arrival, check in to your hotel and then head out into the city for an orientation walk with your leader. The city will captivate with its history, as well as its cobblestone lanes, bubbling river and charmingly kitsch atmosphere. In the late afternoon, visit the atmospheric Christmas market in Cathedral Square. The smells of gluhwein, roasted chestnuts, toasted almonds and cinnamon brushed baked apples waft through the marketplace, while the sounds of traditional Salzburg choirs fill the air. Here your leader will take you on food crawl that may include such classics as Lebkuchen (gingerbread), Kasnock´n (cheese gnocchi), Bratwurst (sausage), Mozartkugel (marzipan-covered nougat in dark chocolate cover), Schwarzbrot (sourdough bread). Later on, jump in to a cable car and reach the Hohensalzburg Fortress, the city’s most visible landmark. This fully preserved castle hosts very small, intimate Christmas market and if you’re lucky, a Christmas themed live music.

• Salzburg - Christmas Market Visit
• Salzburg - Hohensalzburg Fortress Visit
• Salzburg - Hohensalzburg Cable Car
• Salzburg- Christmas Market small tasting

Today is free to explore Salzburg and the surrounding areas. Perhaps make your way to the salt mine in Berchtesgaden, situated in the German Alps. Otherwise, you may want to experience the life of the von Trapp family from the Sound of Music and visit movie scenes of the Mirabell Gardens and Pegasus Fountain, Leopoldskron Palace and Hellbrunn Palace. In the evening, why not head back to the Christmas markets to soak up even more of the blissful atmosphere?

• Salzburg - Sound of Music Tour - EUR45
• Salzburg - Mozart's Birthplace - EUR12
• Salzburg - Mirabell Palace and Gardens - Free
• Salzburg - Three Village Christmas Market Tour - EUR25
• Berchtesgaden - Salt Mine Visit - EUR17

Board a train bound for Vienna today (approximately 2.5 hours). On arrival, embark on a leader-led walking tour of Vienna, passing grand buildings and parks. You'll see many monuments dedicated to famous composers and historical figures. In your free time, perhaps visit the striking Hofburg Palace, the Leopold Museum or seek out exceptional city views on the Prater Ferris Wheel. Later in the afternoon, head to the Christmas markets in front of the City Hall. Browse the markets, sip on Christmas punch and snack on some freshly baked cinnamon biscuits.

• Vienna - Christmas Market Visit

Your base for two nights in Vienna is Magdas Hotel – an accommodation that is unlike any other hotel you are likely to come across on your travels. Magdas Hotel is a social project bringing refugees from all over the world to work together in one place. The hotel is staffed with refugees so expect to hear different languages and different stories from all over the world. Also the building’s history is interesting – it’s a former retirement home and homeless shelter which has been completely renovated. Most of the furniture is also up-cycled, renovated and re-purposed. The place is full of love, passion and uniqueness. It’s full of colours and smiley faces. Magdas Hotel ‘brings together what belongs together’.

You'll have the whole day to explore Vienna, so perhaps head to Schoenbrunn Palace, which was designed by Empress Maria Theresa herself. The gardens are free to all visitors but there is a charge for entrance and tours of the palace. Avoid long queues by pre-booking your tickets at schoenbrunn.at. Also, with over 12 Christmas markets to visit in the city, you'll be sure to find the perfect Christmas present.

• Vienna - Schoenbrunn Palace - EUR22
• Vienna - Hofburg Palace & Sisi Museum - EUR16
• Vienna - Prater Ferris Wheel - EUR14
• Vienna - Belvedere Gallery (Lower Gallery) - EUR15
• Vienna - Vienna Boys Choir Concert - EUR70
• Vienna - Spanish Riding School Practice - EUR28
• Vienna - Albertina Museum - EUR19
• Vienna - Leopold Museum - EUR15

Travel east from Vienna to Budapest by train (approximately 3 hours). Known as the 'Pearl of the Danube', Budapest's grand architecture and boulevards evoke a time gone by. With so much to see and do, hiring a bicycle is a great way to move between sights and attractions. After a short orientation walk around the city, it's time to visit the Christmas markets. With the main Christmas market being located in Vorosmarty Square, every street light, tree and market stall lit up it gives the area a real Christmas feel. There are plenty of stalls offering different Hungarian foods to try and buy. Experience these great markets of Budapest with a glass of mulled wine or shot of traditional Hungarian palinka. The combination of market cheer and Neo-Renaissance architecture is a charming one.

• Budapest - Christmas Market Visit
• Budapest - Parliament Tour - HUF10000
• Budapest - Hungarian State Opera House Tour - HUF7000
• Budapest - Szechenyi Thermal Baths (starting from) - HUF9400
• Budapest - Transport and Entry to Statue Park - HUF5000
• Budapest - Faust Wine Cellar Tasting - EUR21

Your Christmas Market adventure comes to an end today. There are no more activities planned and you're free to depart the accommodation at any time after you check-out.

7 breakfasts, 1 dinner

Train, Metro

Hotel (7 nights)

Dates and availability

Important notes.

1. A single supplement is bookable for this trip, including all nights. Availability is limited due to small property we use. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

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A Smithsonian magazine special report

Christmas Markets Might Be the Best Reason to Spend the Holidays in Europe

From mulled wine to intricate ornaments, Europe’s Christmas markets are a mix of food, goods and holiday cheer

Natasha Geiling

If the thought of holiday shopping—the lines, the crowds, the stress—dampens your seasonal spirit, it might be worth taking a trip to Europe to explore their festive Christmas markets. Although the markets can be found all over the world, they are believed to have  begun in Germany and surrounding areas, such as present-day Austria . Aglow with twinkling lights and dotted with charming vendor stalls, the markets offer visitors the chance to stroll through charming town squares, steaming cup of fragrant mulled wine in hand, while enjoying the sights, sounds, tastes and traditions of Europe at Christmastime.

It's difficult to pinpoint the oldest Christmas market: numerous cities, including Dresden, Germany, and Vienna, Austria, claim the “world’s oldest” title. Records show that Vienna held a  December market as far back as 1294, though these were more general December events and less concerned with holiday-specific activities.  Dresden's Strietzelmarkt , the oldest Christmas market in Germany, was first held in 1434. In  Strasbourg , in the Alsace region of France, the country's oldest Christmas market has operated continuously since 1570. But the oldest markets aren't necessarily the most popular—Christmas markets in  Cologne and Dortmund  (both in Germany) earn the most annual visits, with 4 million and 3.6 million shoppers, respectively, wandering their stall-lined streets each season.

Although the Christmas market has spread out from Germany and its environs to places such as England and Romania, most markets contain certain key ingredients. They are typically composed of little chalets or roofed stalls, where vendors sell everything from Christmas decorations to the ubiquitous market beverage of hot mulled wine. Food is a major component, and visitors can expect to find everything from local favorites (Prague’s market especially emphasizes local food) to typical holiday sweets. Throughout Germany, treats such as  lebkuchen (a baked cookie resembling gingerbread) or stollen (a fruitcake) are popular. Stollen is such an integral part of the German Christmas market, in fact, that Dresden hosts the annual Stollen Festival , where a giant stollen (the largest measured over 5 feet and 26 pounds) is paraded through town before being brought to the market, where it is sold in pieces.

In France, Strasbourg is the undisputed capital of Christmas (a nickname the city wears proudly): the city houses 11 different Christmas markets, with around 300 stalls combined, and attracts some 2 million visitors each year. In Paris, the largest Christmas market lights up the famous  Champs Elysées , though various neighborhoods also house their own holiday market. Christmas markets in Moscow—of which there are now a record number —try to encompass the best traditions from all over Europe, with each market dedicated to a particular European town, such as  Strasbourg . 

Even with a bounty of food and crafts, a Christmas market would be incomplete without a Christmas tree. To visit the ( purported ) home of the first publicly displayed Christmas tree, check out the market in  Tallinn, Estonia . Or see the  world's largest Christmas tree  (according to the city) in Dortmund, Germany, where the Christmas market features a nearly 148-foot-tall tree decked out with 48,000 illuminated lights and ornaments.

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Natasha Geiling | | READ MORE

Natasha Geiling is an online reporter for Smithsonian magazine.

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I believe the Christmas markets are still on in January as I will be there in January I would like to know where they are and if there are any other markets in or near red square for souvenirs.

Here are last year's map. 90% of that fair location will not change this year.

http://mosprogulka.ru/Pictures/Afisha_one/Puteshestvie_v_Rozhdestvo_2016.jpg

Thanks so much for your replys

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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General election latest: UK anti-migrant stance 'biggest economic threat' to Scotland, SNP leader claims

The Conservative government has pledged £1bn a year in a bid to increase the number of GP appointments in the UK. And Labour has announced plans to reduce migration.

Sunday 2 June 2024 21:09, UK

• General Election 2024

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

Election news

• Diane Abbott intends 'to run and win' as Labour MP
• Labour lead grows by six points in a week, poll suggests
• Tories pledge £1bn to increase GP appointments
• Starmer announces plans to lower legal migration
• SNP launches election campaign
• Labour: Abbott row 'resolved' | Treatment by Labour 'had element of cruelty'
• Conservative defectors had 'their own reasons for going'
• Be in the audience for our election leaders event
• Live reporting by Tim Baker and, earlier,  Faith Ridler

Expert analysis

• Adam Boulton: 'Starmtroopers' are purging Labour
• Ali Fortescue:  Images both parties want to present clash with reality
• Darren McCAffrey :  Scotland used to be a Labour fiefdom - it could become so again

Election essentials

• Trackers: Who's leading polls? | Is PM keeping promises?
• Campaign Heritage: Memorable moments from elections past
• Follow Sky's politics podcasts: Electoral Dysfunction | Politics At Jack And Sam's
• Read more: Who is standing down? | Key seats to watch | How to register to vote | What counts as voter ID? | Check if your constituency is changing | Your essential guide to election lingo | Sky's election night plans

It's just gone 8pm - here's what you need to know as the first full week of campaigning ends.

We're ending our live coverage here for today - but will be picking it up again in the morning.

Let us get you up to speed on everything you may have missed today…

• Diane Abbott  says she will stand and win as a Labour candidate in the election;
• Shadow home secretary Yvette Cooper  told Sky News that Ms Abbott had not been offered a peerage   in exchange for not standing as an MP;
• And on policy, Labour announced plans to reduce net migration - with Sir Keir accusing the Conservatives of having "repeatedly broken their promises" to get the number down;
• Shadow schools minister Catherine McKinnell said the party would use the forecasts to get net migration to 315,000 by 2028. 
• The Conservative Party pledged to build 100 new GP surgeries if they get into power;
• Rishi Sunak was out campaigning in London;
• Health Secretary Victoria Atkins said Tory defectors had their 'own' reasons for leaving the party;
• And health minister Maria Caulfield said it wasn't the number of people on NHS waiting lists that mattered - but the length of time they spent on it .
• SNP leader John Swinney attacked Labour as he launched his party's general election campaign;
• He said immigration was important to Scotland - and views in the UK threatened that ;
• Sky political correspondent Darren McCaffrey said the SNP faces losing several seats in the areas that were once Labour heartlands .

Here are a couple of other stories that may interest you:

Our essential political podcast,  Politics At Jack And Sam's , is going out every week day through the election campaign to bring a short burst of everything you need to know about the day ahead as this election unfolds.

Tap here to follow Politics At Jack At Sam's wherever you get your podcasts .

A word cloud from pollsters More In Common, found that a lot of people think the general election campaign is "boring".

Ali asks our panel if they agree that it is the case (with a disclaimer that both are on a politics show on a Sunday night).

James Starkie, the former Home Office adviser, says he thinks it's partly to do with the parties' leaders.

He says that, even though Jeremy Corbyn wasn't charismatic, he was compelling.

And no-one would describe Boris Johnson as boring, Mr Starkie says.

But there is a fatigue in politics at the moment. Mr Starkie reckons a lot of people will only tune in for the last week or so of the election.

The New Statesman's Freddie Hayward says Rishi Sunak needs to avoid the mistakes he made with Liz Truss during public debates - where he came across as rude by interrupting.

He also spoke too quickly, Mr Hayward says.

Both leaders, he reckons, will be working with their teams ahead of the debates to make sure they're best prepared.

And with that, Ali ends the Politics Hub show.

Join us again tomorrow, when Sophy Ridge will be back at the helm.

By Tamara Cohen , political correspondent

As AI deepfakes cause havoc during other elections, experts warn the UK's politicians should be prepared.

"Just tell me what you had for breakfast", says Mike Narouei, of ControlAI, recording on his laptop. I speak for around 15 seconds, about my toast, coffee and journey to their offices.

Within seconds, I hear my own voice, saying something entirely different.

In this case, words I have written: "Deepfakes can be extremely realistic and have the ability to disrupt our politics and damage our trust in the democratic process."

We have used free software, it hasn't taken any advanced technical skills, and the whole thing has taken next to no time at all.

This is an audio deepfake - video ones take more effort to produce - and as well as being deployed by scammers of all kinds, there is deep concern, in a year with some two billion people going to the polls, in the US, India and dozens of other countries including the UK, about their impact on elections.

You can read more from Sky News below:

Our panel is now discussing the NHS.

James Starkie says that shadow health secretary Wes Streeting's pledge to reform the NHS has struck a chord with the public.

He says that it does need to be digitised drastically, among other things, and Mr Streeting has spoken about that.

But the devil is in the details, Mr Starkie says, and also the funding - which Labour has not set out its plans for.

Freddie Hayward, a political correspondent at the New Statesman, says it remains to be seen if Labour has the political capital to reform the NHS if they come into power.

He says the situation is tricky due to the party's inheritance - and there will be a swathe of issues if they come into power.

Maria Caulfield, the health minister, is now speaking to Ali about the NHS.

Ali asks about the NHS waiting lists - noting they doubled between 2010 and the pandemic.

Ms Caulfield says that "it's not how many people are on the waiting list that is the important factor".

She adds: "Because as we develop new treatments as we open up new services, as people get conditions that can be treated, waiting lists of course will grow".

What does matter, she says, is "how long" people wait.

People have gone from waiting two years this time last year, to an average of 16 to 18 weeks, Ms Caulfield claims.

Building new surgeries

Ms Caulfield is then asked about her party's pledge today to build 100 new GP surgeries and modernise another 150.

Ali points out that Boris Johnson pledged 40 new hospitals in 2019 - and it is predicted these will not be done by the 2030 deadline.

Ms Caulfield dismisses the concerns of the National Audit Office - and says the target remains 2030.

Back to our panel, and they are discussing migration.

James Starkie, the former Home Office adviser, says Labour adopting the OBR's forecast for net migration to fall to 315,000 by 2028 is important.

He says targets are "hostage to fortune" - as the Tories have found out.

But committing to the OBR's figures impacts how a government can forecast their tax income - and this was shown when Liz Truss had to accept large levels of immigration to fund her tax cuts.

Freddie Hayward says that cutting immigration will cost money - taking the example of employing UK people in the care sector costs more as wages are higher.

And that has to be funded from council budgets, who will look to central government for help.

Shadow schools minister Catherine McKinnell is asked by Ali about reports that private schools are blaming Labour's proposed VAT rise on the institutions for closing.

She says it is "right" for private schools to pay VAT - adding that there have been a number of above-inflation rises to school fees in recent years and student numbers have not fallen.

The shadow minister says the money raised from the tax rise will be spent on state schools, where "nine out of ten" children get their education.

She adds that thinktanks have factored behavioural changes into their forecasts of schools fees being taxed - and a net benefit was predicted.

On tonight's Politics Hub with Ali Fortescue , Labour's shadow schools minister Catherine McKinnell was asked about the party's immigration policy.

It comes after Labour made a pledge to reduce net migration ( read more here ).

Ms McKinnell was asked if her party would stick by the forecasts based on current policy produced by the Office of Budgetary Responsibility (OBR), which stated net migration would fall from 685,000 at the end of last year to 315,000 by the 2027/2028 period.

The Labour candidate first said the party respects the OBR, and that she did not know what the projected figure was.

When Ali told her what the target was, she was unclear if Labour would accept the figure as part of its plans should it take power.

Ms McKinnell then said that "if that's what the OBR is predicting, then that's what we will work within".

Asked if this was then Labour's target to reduce migration, Ms McKinnell says Labour does not have a target for reducing migration.

She adds that immigration can be a benefit to the economy, but UK also needs to grow its on workforce.

Ali turns to your panel to discuss the Diane Abbott row - and the veteran Labour politician standing again for the party ( read more here ).

Freddie Hayward, a political correspondent at the New Statesman, says what happens this week will decide whether a line has been drawn under the squabble.

He says that, if Ms Abbott comes out in the media it could inflame the situation again.

But if she backs the leadership, then it will maybe see things move on.

James Starkie, a former Home Office adviser, points out that Labour has made a series of decisions which have been questionable.

This includes what happened to Ms Abbott, as well as things like the row back on a £28bn climate pledge.

He says if Labour wants to be in government, it needs to get on top of such events.

Good evening. Welcome to the first Sunday Politics Hub – in case you missed it, we are now going seven days a week - so I will be with you on the weekends from here on in.

And well, today the parties are focusing on two things that always come right at the top of the list of what the public care about.

Healthcare and immigration.

But not necessarily the way round you'd expect, though.

It's Labour pledging to be tough on net migration.

And the Conservatives promising more GP appointments.

Not their traditional turf.

Waiting lists have reached record highs under the Tories.

And for labour - will too tough a message on immigration turn off some voters? The SNP certainly thought so today.

Or is this an election where we're seeing traditional party lines, and potentially the political map, redrawn?

A lot might have happened this week – but look at the polls.

The Labour Party is still miles ahead, holding onto a 20 point lead.

The first TV debate is this week - could a breakout moment in a head-to-head debate shift the polls?

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