Christmas Market Holidays

Explore the glittering stalls of the "Christkindlmarkt" in the fabulous city of Vienna. Take in the sights of the city, visit Schönbrunn Palace, St Stephen’s Cathedral or the Ringstrasse before touring some of the beautiful markets. The plaza in front of Vienna’s City Hall is transformed into a shopper’s playground and this isn’t just the only Christmas market, there are many others worth visiting throughout the capital, such as the Christmas Village at Altes AKH, Spittelberg and Belvedere Palace.

The fairytale city of Prague is truly magical during the festive season. Snap up some bargains at the Prague Christmas markets, which are usually held in the Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square. Soak up the jubilant atmosphere, browse the stalls and enjoy Christmas carols, hearty food and mulled wine. Prague is your destination for a fantastic city break where a 'winter wonderland' awaits.

Wrap up warm, as a Krakow city break in the winter usually guarantees snow, and head to the glittering Christmas Markets which take place in the historic Old Town square. The stallholders sell a variety of handicrafts, Christmas decorations and everything from sausages and the distinctive fried oscypek cheese to festive trinkets and woolen slippers. A Polish speciality are hand-painted colourful glass baubles.

The Munich Christmas markets date back to the 14th century and the city has a rich history, beautiful architecture, and it is home to delicious Bavarian cuisine. Today the market is still held in the gothic Marienplatz, in the centre of the Old Town. Munich is perfect for a laid back festive break, as the city centre can easily be navigated on foot and is packed with numerous attractions like Hofbräuhaus am Platzl, Pinakotheken Art Museums and the Royal Palace. Enjoy the market's seasonal delights and pick up some traditional Bavarian Christmas gifts.

The striking city of Budapest is often called the "Pearl of the Danube” and is commonly regarded as having one of the best Christmas markets in Europe. The biggest fair is located in Vörösmarty Square, the heart of Hungary’s capital, where you can enjoy live entertainment and explore over 100 stalls offering handmade crafts, Christmas ornaments and local dishes. The facade of the Gerbeaud building, a historical coffee house famous for its delicious cakes and desserts, transforms into a colossal advent calendar.