These are the top 4 European destinations for Christmas markets, according to experts

The great thing about growing up is that you can be a little naughty and celebrate Christmas on your own terms.

What better way to do that than by traveling to Europe?

Known for its vibrant Christmas markets that take over timeless squares with holiday decor decked out to the nines. If there was ever a time to embrace the winter chill, it’s to enjoy the Hallmark movie come to life in Europe’s most beautiful cities.

Here at Travel Off Path, it’s one of our favorite times of year, when we’ve mastered the art of holding hand warmers in one hand and mulled wine in the other (practice makes perfect!).

With a little help from Ryanairthe infamous cheap flight giant, say what you will about them but indeed they are local experts…

There is hardly an airport in all of Europe that they do not serve, whether it is one of the Polish cities without vowels or household names like Paris.

They therefore know the ins and outs of the most beautiful winter wonderlands in Europe and these are the top 4 for Christmas markets.

4) KrakowPoland

Don’t let the fact that Eastern Europe seems far away be a deterrent to one of Europe’s most festive cities. Poland is easier to get to than you might expect and well worth the trip.

We’re talking quintessential storybook streets enhanced only by snow-sprinkled spiers and church domes and the smell of roasting chestnuts and diabetes-inducing snacks offered by a plethora of vendors set up in countless Christmas markets.

Krakow is one of Europe’s most underrated cities in any season, but its wintry atmosphere makes you feel like you’re in a snow globe with no plans to ever escape.

It doesn’t have to be your first stop, but a winter trip to Krakow without a visit Rynek GlownyKrakow’s main square, should be a crime.

Here you will find the main attraction of Krakow festivities that starts November 28. Prepare for typical mulled wine and Polish delicacies. In other words, we feel sausage and beer is your future.

3) Prague, Czech Republic

Prague, here I come!

This city known worldwide for its beauty and affordability has long been on my bucket list and I can’t wait to check it off next month.

As Ryanair notes, there are a few Christmas markets worth visiting. I don’t know about you, but Christmas market hopping sounds like the best kind of winter vacation…

I mean, who else is going to compare mulled wine and tell you which one is better?

It’s a tough job, but someone has to do it!

Of course, Prague Old Town Square is the most sought-after market, given its postcard backdrop of amazing historical wonders and overflowing stalls with every Christmas goodie imaginable.

The other option is a little less known Wenceslas Square, with unique offers such as hot honey wine and more space to enjoy the holiday feeling.

2) Budapest, Hungary

Those who have had the pleasure of visiting Budapest would probably all agree that it is safe to say that it is the most underrated capital in Europe.

Visiting during the holidays makes it even more appealing, raising the question of why it is so overlooked.

At Christmas, the beauty of Budapest only increases with twinkling lights and a glow along the river all year round.

Ryanair highlights Vörösmarty Square as the place for Christmas cheer in the coming months.

Here you will find the usual selection of mulled wine and various sweets, such as their special chimney cake, as well as a popular 3D light show spectacle.

But if the crowds get too big, feel free to take a nice walk along the Danube River for fantastic views of the city with a luminous holiday decor.

1) Vienna, Austria

As someone who has visited Vienna over the holidays, I can confirm that Vienna is a must-visit.

When I think of European Christmas markets, the first thing that comes to mind is Vienna, where I would love to go back.

Plus, Vienna fully embraces Krampus, the nightmarish anti-Santa Claus who haunts the Austrian holidays – a far cry from the holly-cheered, rosy-cheeked Santa Claus if you feel like throwing your next winter outing a curveball.

But most are not weirdos like me and come solely to immerse themselves in traditional Christmas treats among some of Central Europe’s most striking architectural wonders, such as the world-class palaces of Vienna.

Tuned in to Ryanair, my favorite Rathausplatzwhich even opens before Thanksgiving on November 14th.

Sam Sears

Sam, our lead writer and San Diego-based journalist, has visited 36 countries and written more than 1,000 articles with an emphasis on sharing his own travel experiences and highlighting lesser-known gems.

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