The 4 Best Christmas Markets in Europe

Go further afield for your Christmas shopping this year by visiting one of the many markets that pop up in European squares. Laura Houldswoth presents some of the best locations to shop and soak up the festive atmosphere

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Prague

(December 3-January 4)

Prague's fairy-tale backdrop of cobbled streets and elaborate architecture makes it a magical Christmas setting. Easy to reach from London (the flight takes less than two hours), the capital of the Czech Republic is home to the country's most impressive Christmas market, selling local crafts, wooden toys and traditional food, while simultaneously lighting up the sky and towering buildings of the Old Town Square.

Abercrombie & Kent offers three nights at the Aria Hotel for £395 per person, or three nights at the Four Seasons Hotel Prague for £650 per person, B&B, based on two people sharing, including flights, private transfers, a half-day walking tour and museum entrance.

Budapest

(mid-November to early January)

The Vorosmarty Square, a plaza in the heart of Budapest, turns into a festive marketplace with the scent of traditional honey cookies, mulled wine, cinnamon and fir wafting from cottage-style huts, while two outdoor stages host live shows and music. Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace, an art nouveau beacon on the banks of the Danube situated at the foot of the famous Chain Bridge, is a comfortable base from which to explore the city and its seasonal treats. Many of the generously sized rooms have balconies and vaulted ceilings, while the restaurant serves up Hungarian specialities such as lángos flatbread and goulash soup alongside its signature burger with beef confit and remoulade.

Carrier offers three nights from £620 per person, B&B, based on two adults sharing a Superior King Room, including flights from London Gatwick and excluding transfers.

Danube River Cruise

Marvelling at the beauty of Salzburg; exploring the charming baroque town of Passau on foot; visiting the historic city of Regensburg and its celebrated Christmas market; and discovering the Slovakian capital Bratislava.  These are just some of the highlights of the 10-night Danube Christmas Markets cruise with Crystal Cruises.

Departing from Vienna on December 12, it costs from £2,130 per person, including flights, transfers, all meals and drinks, butler service, and a choice of shore excursions in every port.

Vienna

(November 19-January 8)

Vienna comes alive with festivity and lights in the winter. Snow often blankets the city, four different Christmas markets spring up on its cobbled streets and locals are out and about enjoying glühwein, chestnuts and spicy Christmas cookies. Don't miss the Advent windows of the Rathaus (town hall), which are decorated by local artists, and the enchanting tree illuminations in the Rathauspark.

Elegant Resorts offers a three-night stay at the Ritz-Carlton Vienna, from £875 per person, B&B, based on two sharing a Deluxe Room, including flights and transfers.  

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