HomeToGo Unwraps the Data on Europe’s Most In-Demand and Affordable Cities for Christmas Market Trips in 2024

HomeToGo, the marketplace with the world’s largest selection of holiday homes, has released a list unveiling Europe’s most in-demand and budget-friendly cities for Christmas market getaways this year.

Using exclusive internal search and affordability insights for 50 European cities – all of which boast a selection of Christmas markets – the holiday rentals marketplace pinpointed the most popular destinations for the festive season ahead, alongside the locations in which bargain accommodation prices can be found. London, Paris, Colmar, Amsterdam, and Strasbourg ranked as the hottest spots to visit during the chilly months ahead, while Poznań and Krakow in Poland, Graz and Linz in Austria, and Malmö in Sweden landed on top for their economical places to stay. 

Find a preview of the top five most in-demand and low-cost destinations below, or see the full list at www.hometogo.com/europe/christmas-markets/#round-up-2024.

More about the top 3 most popular cities for Christmas market holidays:

1. London, England (UK)

London transforms into a festive wonderland during the holiday season. The city’s Christmas markets buzz with energy, especially around Southbank and Leicester Square, where visitors can pick up unique gifts and indulge in mince pies. Don’t miss the dazzling Christmas lights on Oxford Street or ice skating at Somerset House for a dose of winter magic.

2. Paris, France

Paris turns up the charm at Christmas, with lights lining the Champs-Élysées and festive stalls popping up at La Défense. Skate at the Grand Palais des Glaces or admire the window displays at Galeries Lafayette, before warming up with a rich hot chocolate at a pâtisserie, or wandering through the magical Christmas market at Jardin des Tuileries.

3. Colmar, France

Colmar looks like it was plucked straight from a Christmas card. Its half-timbered houses and cobblestone streets become even more enchanting under festive lights. The Christmas market is one of the most beloved in Europe, offering everything from vin chaud to handmade gifts. Don’t miss Little Venice, where canals reflect shimmering decorations.

More about the top 3 most affordable cities for Christmas market holidays:

1. Poznań, Poland

Poznań’s Old Market Square turns into a festive hub during the holidays. Stroll by the Renaissance buildings while browsing for artisanal crafts and sampling local festive specialties—and don’t miss a spin around the outdoor ice rink or the Venetian carousel. From warming pierogi to traditional piernik, Poznań’s Christmas markets showcase the flavours and customs that make a Polish winter special.

2. Graz, Austria

Graz, the capital of Austria’s southern Styria region, blends old-world charm with modern flair during the holidays. Explore the Baroque streets and festive stalls, then marvel at the contrast of historic architecture and the modern Kunsthaus, known as the Friendly Alien. The city’s ice nativity scene is a unique feature, while markets offer local delicacies such as apple strudel and pumpkin seed oil products.

3. Malmö, Sweden

Malmö captures the essence of Scandinavian Christmas cosiness, blending sleek modernity with timeless traditions. Wander through the Christmas market at Gustav Adolf Square before heading to the city beach for a winter walk. Visitors can enjoy specialties like saffron buns while admiring the Turning Torso—one of Scandinavia’s tallest buildings—against the backdrop of the winter sky.

For the full list of 50 cities for Christmas market trips, ranked by popularity and price, plus more destination descriptions and additional information, visit www.hometogo.com/europe/christmas-markets/#round-up-2024.