European Christmas market with giant Advent calendar has £26 flights | Europe | Travel

Christmas markets are among the most magical highlights of the festive season. They transform cities into glittering winter wonderlands filled with twinkling lights, seasonal tunes, and the irresistible scents of gingerbread, hot chocolate, and mulled wine. Across Europe, these markets have become a beloved tradition, drawing visitors eager to browse handcrafted gifts, sample delicious treats, and soak up the enchanting atmosphere against historic backdrops.

This year, one particularly captivating European market is just under three hours from London, making it the perfect festive escape. With flights starting from only £26, travellers can wander through charming wooden stalls, admire a giant Advent calendar at the heart of the celebrations, and even meet Santa Claus himself.

Whether you’re planning a family adventure or simply looking to bask in Christmas magic, this destination offers everything you need to kick off the holiday season in style. Recognised by Get Your Guide as one of the best Christmas markets to visit in 2025, Budapest, Hungary, promises the ultimate winter retreat this year.

The travel specialists outlined why holidaymakers ought to explore Budapest, stating: “(There are) two Christmas markets just a few minutes’ walk from each other in Budapest, so all tastes are easily catered for.

“Advent Bazilika takes place on St Stephen’s Square, where festive scenes are projected onto the magnificent basilica every evening of Advent, above 160 stalls peddling festive fare in a market so good it’s been crowned the best in Europe for 2023. Or for a dose of tradition and history, the Budapest Christmas Fair is the city’s oldest and biggest Christmas market, held in the gorgeous Vörösmarty Square.”

They went on: “Both markets are perfect for picking up handmade gifts, trying delicious Hungarian winter dishes – don’t miss the chimney cake and plenty of fun activities. There’s a schedule of Christmas and classical concerts at St Stephen’s Basilica, and skate rental and entry are free at the ice rink under the Christmas tree.”

All the details about Budapest’s twin Christmas markets

The festive market beside St Stephen’s Basilica operates from November 15, 2025, until January 1, 2026. Guests can enjoy complimentary access to browse culinary stalls and artisan boutiques, whilst witnessing the breathtaking Christmas illumination display.

The market additionally provides ice skating facilities, a customary Advent candle lighting ritual and chances to contribute to neighbourhood charities. The festive market on Vörösmarty Square similarly offers free admission but features somewhat different attractions.

The sprawling Budapest market has been captivating visitors since 1998, and this year it will operate from November 15, 2025, to January 1, 2026. Visitors can browse handicraft stalls (open November 18–December 28) offering exquisite gifts, whilst Santa Claus will make a special appearance on December 6.

Why you should visit Budapest

“What makes many of the Christmas markets really enticing and outstanding in Budapest is that there is a real focus on trying to preserve authentic Hungarian folk art, traditions and offer really good quality handcrafts rather than commercialised kitchy Christmas gifts,” shared writers at the official Budapest Christmas site.

Additionally, highlighting Budapest as amongst Europe’s finest Christmas markets, a blogger known as the Travel Expert described their visit: “Gerbeaud House is transformed into a giant Advent Calendar, and each day, a new window opens at 5pm.

“There are many street performances and Santa Claus programs, and lots of places to chill out and watch them. At night time visit the market at St Stephen’s Basilica, the whole area is lit up like something from a Disney movie.”

The festive period in Budapest holds particular significance and charm, as the city organises a charitable initiative to support underprivileged children. Participants don Santa costumes and take part in long-distance runs, featuring 5km, 2.3km, and 1km routes (designed for families). The event, which will occur on December 7 this year, welcomes all participants.

How much does it cost?

Budapest is topping the list of budget-friendly cities to visit this Christmas. As mentioned earlier, all Christmas markets are free to enter, and what’s more, you can snag direct flights from Stansted Airport to Budapest for just £26 via Ryanair (at the time of writing).

If you’re keen to spot Santa Claus on December 6, your cheapest flight option is on 1 December, or you can jet off on December 4 for a mere £33. For accommodation, Expedia has rooms available for just £32 per night; click here to find out more.