Christmas Market Breaks
Christmas Market City Breaks
There's something quite special about heading to a foreign city for a weekend in winter, wrapping up warm and wandering around the Christmas markets with a cup of Gluhwein to warm you up and a chance to buy a few presents. If a Christmas market break doesn't get you in the festive spirit then we are not sure what will.
Top Cities For Christmas Markets
Bruges Christmas Markets
Bruges is quite a romantic city break at any time of the year but as December comes round, a break in Bruges to experience the Christmas markets is extra special. Hop over in the Eurostar and explore the markets and delicious chocolatiers for some Christmas gifts with a difference.
Copenhagen Christmas Markets
For many, Copenhagen isn't often thought of as a city break, let alone a Christmas market destination, but with cheap flights and affordable accommodation it can be a great option. Be sure to check out the statue of the Little Mermaid while you're in town, head across the sea to Sweden for a day trip, or catch a local game of ice hockey one evening.
Hamburg Christmas Markets
The port city of Hamburg offers a couple of Christmas market offerings in the city, with the main market outside of the town hall. Head to other places for a winter wonderland style theme park, before seeing what else Hamburg has to offer, including Minatur World.
Berlin Christmas Markets
Berlin has become synonymous with the idea of a Christmas market city break. A city rich in culture and history, many visitors flock here from across Europe to experience the Christmas markets in this fantastic city. After a trip round the markets, head out and explore some of Berlin's cool and quirky bars.
Birmingham Christmas Markets
If you don't fancy travelling abroad but still want to get all cosy and experience a Christmas market break in the UK, try Birmingham which has previously claimed the spot for the biggest Christmas market in the UK. Combine your trip with a visit to Cadbury World, whether or not you have kids, and you'll be able to get a few chocolate gifts there too.
What To Expect From A Christmas Market Break
Christmas markets are a great way to spend time together, get into the festive spirit, grab a few presents and see somewhere new. If you've not experienced one before, you're in for a treat. At a Christmas market in Europe you can expect plenty of stalls selling gifts, trinkets, knick knacks, as well as food stalls offering sweet treats, churros, waffles and all types of hot dogs. Be sure to try a tasty Gluhwein (mulled wine) or mulled cider to keep you warm in the winter cold.
While you generally won't be charged to go into a Christmas market, you may find that prices are a little higher than other shops, however it's really the experience you are paying for. Be sure to check if you are paying a deposit for your Gluhwein cup and therefore needs returning, otherwise it's a great keepsake from your festive break.