Top News

Many argue that there's no finer way to soak up the festive atmosphere than with a warm cup of mulled wine whilst browsing a European Christmas market. However, these events can often carry a hefty price tag.

For instance, a cup of mulled wine at the Berlin Christmas market could cost you five euros, and an extra three if you wish to keep the mug as a souvenir.

Staying on home turf doesn't necessarily equate to saving pennies either. It's widely recognised that UK Christmas markets are among the most expensive in Europe.

For example, a trip to the Manchester Christmas markets this year could see you parting with around £25 for a beer and a bratwurst.

If you're keen to organise a festive outing but don't want to empty your wallet, some of the 'less popular' European Christmas markets offer much more reasonable prices. Plus, they're typically less packed than their UK equivalents.

In need of some inspiration?

The team at Eurochange have delved into the best alternative Christmas markets across Europe, including the cheapest flights from the UK and average hotel costs. They've also researched which cities offer the best exchange rates, so you know where your money will stretch furthest.

Laura Evans-Fisk, head of digital and engagement at Eurochange, said: "Our research shows the Christmas market in Wroclaw, Poland, is one of the best in Europe if you're looking for excellent value for money and a truly authentic experience. Two nights of accommodation for two adults costs just £47, and food and drinks are very affordable. Sibiu in Romania is a close second when it comes to the cheapest Christmas markets in Europe. Here, you can get a mulled wine for just 86p."

Sibiu, Romania

Laura describes Sibiu as Romania's premier Christmas market destination, outshining even the capital Bucharest. The Transylvanian festive event, known as 'The Fair In Sibiu', draws Romanian visitors in their droves, operating from November 14, 2025, until January 4, 2026.

The town showcases a unique fusion of Hungarian, Romanian and German heritage, offering a cultural diversity unrivalled anywhere else in Transylvania, according to Laura. Located in the historic old town at Piata Mare, the markets are "beautifully decorated with thousands of fairy lights and festive trinkets", she observed.

The value for money is especially remarkable, she highlights. Mulled wine generally costs between five and 10 leu (just £0.86).

Tourists ought to try local specialities, such as Kurtoskalacs (spit cakes) and cozonac (sweet bread).

Wroclaw, Poland

Laura describes Wroclaw as one of Poland's most magnificent and beautiful Christmas markets. "It is an idyllic, real-life winter wonderland, scattered across the city," she said.

Spread throughout Rynek Market Square, Place Solny, Swidnicka Street and Oawska Street, countless stalls greet visitors. Laura highlights that many sellers provide handcrafted goods and treats, predominantly from independent vendors.

Laura points out that costs stay remarkably reasonable, with mulled wine priced at only 15 PLN (£3.08) alongside a 15 PLN mug deposit. Though, should you choose against keeping the mug, nearby restaurants and bars serve warming mulled wine for a mere 9 PLN (£1.85).

Innsbruck, Austria

Laura said: "Nothing will give you the 'festive feels' like roaming the streets of Innsbruck in the run-up to Christmas. The aroma of freshly made Kiachln (piping hot doughnuts laced with Sauerkraut) and the sound of Christmas carols are guaranteed to get you in the festive spirit.

"Fairy lights give the medieval alleys a magical glow, and in front of the city's famous 'Golden Roof', you will find the Christmas markets. Visitors can also wander across to Innsbruck's main shopping street, Maria-Theresien Straße, where there are even more chalets offering tasty snacks and handmade crafts."

Tallinn, Estonia

"Tallinn Christmas market is a real-life fairytale in the heart of Estonia's capital", Laura explained. Guests can enjoy traditional local fare, including black pudding, sour cabbage, gingerbread and warming festive drinks from 1-2 euros, positioning it amongst the most affordable and genuine Christmas markets across Europe.

She added: "The real star of the show is the incredible market Christmas tree, which has been set up every year in the Town Hall Square since 1441, making it the first ever Christmas tree to be put on display in Europe."

Zagreb, Croatia

Croatia may not be the initial destination that comes to mind when considering a 'festive' location, but Laura insists Zagreb's Christmas market shouldn't be dismissed. Also known as 'Advent Zagreb,' the city "truly comes to life" during the festive season with a spectacular Christmas market, an extensive programme of music and art exhibitions, and a striking ice-skating rink in King Tromislav Square.

---