3 Cheapest European Christmas Markets in 2017

Planning a short break to one of Europe’s famed Christmas markets? Did you know you could pay up to 16% more for a two night trip, depending on the location you choose? Research by the UK’s Post Office Money shows a significant difference in price from one city to another. Fortunately, the top 3 cheapest European Christmas markets in 2017 are easy to get to from Dublin.

1. Riga

The Latvian capital came out least expensive for a Christmas market break in 2017. This chocolate box European city is the perfect place to get into the Christmas spirit. Arriving in the city (return train from the airport is only €4.71 for two!) around Christmas you can expect to be greeted by the seasonal scent of mulled wine and gingerbread. Follow your nose to one of two Christmas markets that take place in Doma laukums and Līvu laukums, squares in the city centre. Don’t pack too much as it is the perfect place to pick up handmade gifts like shawls, wool mittens, scarves, socks, baskets or woodwork. Finish off the day with a visit to one of the city’s many restaurants. 

2. Munich

What this beautiful German city offers, when it comes to Christmas markets is volume, as well as value. There are Christmas markets in a variety of different locations in and around this ancient German city, all offering something slightly different. There is the traditional Christmas market on Marienplatz, right in the center, surrounded by the old town hall, the Gothic new town hall and world famous Glockenspiel clock. Other places to pick up gifts for family and friends include the Medieval Christmas market in Wittelsbacher Platz or the Magic Christmas Forest, in Festivalgelände on the outskirts of the city. Try and include a visit to the inspiration for Walt Disney’s Cinderella Castle, Neuschwanstein it is magical in winter, particularly if it snows.

3.  Lille

If you are thinking about visiting a Christmas Market in France in 2017, consider Lille. There are direct flights from Dublin with Air France and its one of the oldest in the country. While it isn’t on the scale of Munich, what it lacks in size it more than makes up for in atmosphere. More than 80 chalet stalls in Place Rihour offer a wide selection of Christmas gifts, ornaments and local baked goods like waffles, ginger bread and mulled wine. Four glasses of mulled wine will only set you back a reasonable €12. The Christmas Ferris wheel is not to be missed. At 50 meters, it is one of the highest in France. The views from the top of Lille and beyond are stunning. Best of all it’s only €4 per person so won’t break the bank either.

Don’t forget travel insurance when you are booking your trip to the Christmas markets this year. Make sure you and yours are protected on your short break.