Christmas magic in Europe: Cheap alternatives to UK trips!
Discover festive destinations in Europe that are cheaper than holiday breaks in the UK. Experience Christmas markets and local traditions.

Christmas magic in Europe: Cheap alternatives to UK trips!
The run-up to Christmas in the UK can be expensive for a family of four, with costs topping £1,600. Eurochange travel experts therefore recommend considering alternatives in Europe that can offer both a festive atmosphere and a lower budget. For those looking to enjoy something special this Christmas, there are some great destinations that shouldn't be ignored.
One of the best options is picturesque Zakopane in Poland. The town is not only known for its breathtaking ski resorts in the Tatra Mountains, but also offers a wonderful Christmas market. Here visitors can enjoy regional specialties such as oscypek, a smoked sheep's cheese. You can also expect hot wine and a variety of local crafts. Accessibility is cheap, with return flights from London starting from just £34.
Festive destinations in Europe
Another recommended destination is Kakheti in Georgia, known for its wineries and festive events in December. Visitors can experience the tradition of “Supra” and taste local delicacies such as churchkhela, a type of nut confectionery. Return flights to Tbilisi cost from £152 per person, while winery accommodation is available for £391 (five nights for four people).
Cologne in Germany is considered one of the most festive cities, offering numerous Christmas markets. Here, lovers of mulled wine will get their money's worth while enjoying traditional snacks such as potato pancakes and bratwurst. Flights from Manchester start from £41 and from London from £64. Visitors can stay in the Mercure Hotel Köln West or in centrally located FeWo Central Apartments.
More Christmas highlights
Courchevel in the French Alps not only offers festive lights and decorations, but also a variety of family activities such as skiing and ice skating. Flights are available from £46, while accommodation in stylish apartments is available for £370 (five nights for four people).
A very special experience awaits travelers in Tallinn, Estonia. The city has a historic center that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the oldest Christmas market in Europe, which has existed since 1441. Return flights from London start from £44 and accommodation is available from £413.
For those who prefer to stay in Germany, the Christmas markets in cities like Lübeck, Stralsund and Bad Kissingen are an absolute must. In Lübeck, romantic fairy-tale forest houses await visitors, while Stralsund impresses with its historic town hall. Bad Kissingen attracts with a Christmas market with lights in a charming setting.
Additionally, cruises on the Danube are a highlight, with guests able to take part in themed evenings and enjoy shore excursions to Christmas markets in Passau, Linz and Vienna. Passau is known for its St. Stephen's Cathedral, which impresses with its impressive architecture.