The best Christmas city breaks are the ones where you can spend your morning exploring somewhere new, pick up a few Christmas presents in the afternoon and finish the day with a delicious meal surrounded by twinkling lights. December is a brilliant time to get away and you do not need a full week off work to enjoy it. A few nights in the right city can be enough to get you into the Christmas spirit.
Christmas markets are a big part of the appeal. ABTA reported that 27% of people planning a winter holiday in 2024 intended to visit a Christmas market, showing just how popular a festive escape can be. If you fancy swapping your usual December routine for mulled wine, market stalls and a change of scenery, here are some destinations worth adding to your list.
Where Are The Best Christmas City Breaks In Europe?
Vienna, Austria
Vienna is hard to beat if you love traditional Christmas markets. The Austrian capital has grand buildings, elegant cafes and beautifully decorated squares, with the market outside City Hall providing a particularly festive setting. Expect wooden stalls selling handmade decorations, sweet treats and gifts, alongside plenty of opportunities to warm up with a hot drink.
Make time to explore beyond the markets, too. Vienna's coffee houses are ideal for a leisurely afternoon, especially when the weather turns chilly. This is a lovely choice for couples who want a festive break with a little culture and luxury thrown in.
Prague, Czech Republic
Prague has a way of making even an ordinary stroll feel special, and Christmas only adds to its charm. The Old Town Square is the place to start, with its market stalls and historic surroundings, but some of the best moments can come from wandering down the smaller streets away from the crowds.
Stop for a traditional Czech meal, browse the independent shops and take a walk across Charles Bridge if you get the chance. Prague is compact enough for a long weekend, so you can fit plenty in without spending your entire trip rushing from one attraction to another.
Budapest, Hungary
If you like the idea of a Christmas market but fancy doing something a little different as well, Budapest is a great option. Alongside the festive stalls and Hungarian food, the city is famous for its thermal baths, which are particularly tempting when temperatures drop.
Spend the morning looking for gifts near St Stephen's Basilica, then head for a warming bowl of local goulash before relaxing in the baths. It is a good combination of sightseeing, festive shopping and time to yourself.
Krakow, Poland
Krakow is worth considering if you want a traditional European Christmas break without automatically choosing one of the more expensive capitals. Its Main Market Square fills with festive stalls, where you can browse local crafts and try Polish specialities while taking in the surrounding historic buildings.
The city also has plenty to offer away from the Christmas markets, including Wawel Castle and the atmospheric streets of the Old Town. Leave a little room in your plans for cafe stops and long lunches.
How Can You Find A Good Deal On A Christmas City Break?
Christmas is a popular time to travel, so it is worth looking at your options early, particularly if you have a specific destination or hotel in mind. Weekend dates can be busy, while travelling during the week may give you more choice. It is also sensible to check when individual Christmas markets open, as their dates vary.
Think about what you want from the trip before booking. A centrally located hotel might cost a little more, but being able to walk to the main attractions could save you time and transport costs. If you are travelling with children, check for family friendly activities, while couples might prefer a hotel close to restaurants and quieter streets.
Find Your Next Festive Escape With Holiday Exclusives!
Whether you fancy browsing Vienna's Christmas markets, discovering Prague's historic streets or enjoying the festive atmosphere in Edinburgh, a Christmas city break is a lovely excuse to get away before the year ends.
Take a look at the Christmas holiday deals available through Holiday Exclusives and compare options for your next trip! With the right destination and a good value hotel, you could spend a few days enjoying festive food, finding unusual gifts and discovering somewhere new, all without using up too much of your annual leave.
