Want to get away but not sure where to begin? With the right travel inspiration, finding your next adventure will be a breeze. From bustling cities to deserted beaches, KAYAK can help you discover them all. Explore our guides to uncover the best holiday destinations.
Want to get away but not sure where to begin? With the right travel inspiration, finding your next adventure will be a breeze. From bustling cities to deserted beaches, KAYAK can help you discover them all. Explore our guides to uncover the best holiday destinations.
Think you know the best places to visit in the UK? Think again. Our UK travel guides will inspire you to look beyond the big attractions. Discover the unique hidden gems that make exploring the British isles such a treat.
With so many amazing places to visit around the world, it can be hard to pick your next travel destination. Luckily, we’ve done the legwork for you. Get inspired to try somewhere new with our guides on the best holiday destinations and places to travel.
Whether you love warm weather or colder climates, there’s always a right season to travel. From January to December, close to home or the other side of the world, get inspired with our guides to choosing where to go, when.
One of the best things about going away is the new and unique travel experiences. From natural wonders to curated excursions, the best holiday experiences are waiting to be discovered – no matter where you’re going or what you love to do.
At KAYAK, we have the best travel tools to help you make confident decisions about how to travel and where to go. From deal hunting to holiday inspiration, metasearch to budget planning, our KAYAK travel tools take the hassle out of holiday planning and booking.
Fantastic food is one of the many great reasons to travel abroad. But the best places to travel for foodies aren’t always where you might expect. Get your mouth watering with our foodie travel guides for everything from street eats to haute cuisine.
Everyone deserves the right to travel freely and without discrimination. But accessible travel isn’t always that accessible, and different laws can make visiting new places challenging for LGBTQ travel too. Get insight and inspiration with travel stories from the KAYAK community, as told by travellers.
Air travel isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. Busy airports, cramped planes and long journeys are much easier to manage if you know what to expect when flying. From flight guides to air travel tips, get the flying essentials that make every journey easier.
Air travel isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. Busy airports, cramped planes and long journeys are much easier to manage if you know what to expect when flying. From flight guides to air travel tips, get the flying essentials that make every journey easier.
Not all airlines offer the same service and standards, which is why there are so many types of flights to choose from. Let us clear up the confusion with tips and tricks to help you understand flight classes so you can make the right flight bookings.
Does the thought of navigating airports fill you with dread? You’re not alone. Our airport guides provide practical advice on everything from security to duty-free shopping. Uncover airport tips that will see you to your plane safe and sound – be it a regional landing strip or multi-terminal megahub.
Whether you travel light or take a wardrobe on wheels, good packing tips will save you hassle every time you embark on an adventure. From luggage size restrictions to luggage fees explained, our guides help show you how to pack for a flight and more.
Planning your next international adventure? Don’t forget your travel documents! Explore our detailed passport guides that cover everything you need to travel internationally, from applying for the right travel documents and visas, to passport tips that help make your journey as smooth as possible.
Not all hotels are created equal. From cozy B&Bs to convenient roadside motels to luxurious resorts, our hotel recommendations will help you find the best places to stay. Whether you’re on a budget or blowing it, here’s how to find and book your next favourite home away from home.
Not all hotels are created equal. From cozy B&Bs to convenient roadside motels to luxurious resorts, our hotel recommendations will help you find the best places to stay. Whether you’re on a budget or blowing it, here’s how to find and book your next favourite home away from home.
Choosing the right place to stay can make or break a trip. From different hotel types to booking for the best price, knowing all about hotels can make the difference between sleeping soundly and having a nightmare. Here’s what you need to know before you go.
Discover the best places to stay around the world. Our expert-curated hotel recommendations will help you find the right accommodation for your next trip. Searching for a little luxury, something budget-friendly or a balance of both? Our guides will help you find the best hotels wherever you’re going.
Did someone say road trip? Let our car hire guides help you hit the road in comfort and style, whether it’s in a cool convertible or family-friendly 4×4. But first you have to navigate the minefield of car types, insurance options and rules of the road. Here’s how.
Did someone say road trip? Let our car hire guides help you hit the road in comfort and style, whether it’s in a cool convertible or family-friendly 4×4. But first you have to navigate the minefield of car types, insurance options and rules of the road. Here’s how.
Before you get behind the steering wheel in a rental, make sure you’ve got your car hire essentials sorted. Read up on all you need to know about hiring a car, from choosing the right model to understanding the often-confusing car hire insurance options.
The rules of the road aren’t the same in every country. If you’re planning on driving abroad, it’s vital to know what to expect before you get behind the wheel. Get our tips for driving a car abroad safely, from international car hire rules to local traffic culture.
Can you hear the call of the open road? From epic cross-country journeys to scenic coastal drives, our road trip guides will spark your wanderlust. Find road trip tips and ideas on planning your route, packing your car, and finding the best pit stops.
Explore the world without breaking the bank. Our budget travel guides can help you save money on flights, stays, meals and activities. Discover affordable destinations, learn how to travel on a budget, and unlock the secrets to stress-free, cost-effective travel that doesn’t compromise your fun.
Explore the world without breaking the bank. Our budget travel guides can help you save money on flights, stays, meals and activities. Discover affordable destinations, learn how to travel on a budget, and unlock the secrets to stress-free, cost-effective travel that doesn’t compromise your fun.
Travel can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. We’re dedicated to opening the world to everyone – our budget travel tips will help you cut costs without cutting corners. Discover how to find cheap flights, save on stays, and make every pound count.
From affordable European cities to sweltering Southeast Asian escapes, there are plenty of cheap places to travel if you know where and when to go. In fact, the best places to travel on a budget are often also the most fun – find out for yourself.
Want to get away but not sure where to begin? With the right travel inspiration, finding your next adventure will be a breeze. From bustling cities to deserted beaches, KAYAK can help you discover them all. Explore our guides to uncover the best holiday destinations.
Want to get away but not sure where to begin? With the right travel inspiration, finding your next adventure will be a breeze. From bustling cities to deserted beaches, KAYAK can help you discover them all. Explore our guides to uncover the best holiday destinations.
Think you know the best places to visit in the UK? Think again. Our UK travel guides will inspire you to look beyond the big attractions. Discover the unique hidden gems that make exploring the British isles such a treat.
With so many amazing places to visit around the world, it can be hard to pick your next travel destination. Luckily, we’ve done the legwork for you. Get inspired to try somewhere new with our guides on the best holiday destinations and places to travel.
Whether you love warm weather or colder climates, there’s always a right season to travel. From January to December, close to home or the other side of the world, get inspired with our guides to choosing where to go, when.
One of the best things about going away is the new and unique travel experiences. From natural wonders to curated excursions, the best holiday experiences are waiting to be discovered – no matter where you’re going or what you love to do.
At KAYAK, we have the best travel tools to help you make confident decisions about how to travel and where to go. From deal hunting to holiday inspiration, metasearch to budget planning, our KAYAK travel tools take the hassle out of holiday planning and booking.
Fantastic food is one of the many great reasons to travel abroad. But the best places to travel for foodies aren’t always where you might expect. Get your mouth watering with our foodie travel guides for everything from street eats to haute cuisine.
Everyone deserves the right to travel freely and without discrimination. But accessible travel isn’t always that accessible, and different laws can make visiting new places challenging for LGBTQ travel too. Get insight and inspiration with travel stories from the KAYAK community, as told by travellers.
Air travel isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. Busy airports, cramped planes and long journeys are much easier to manage if you know what to expect when flying. From flight guides to air travel tips, get the flying essentials that make every journey easier.
Air travel isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. Busy airports, cramped planes and long journeys are much easier to manage if you know what to expect when flying. From flight guides to air travel tips, get the flying essentials that make every journey easier.
Not all airlines offer the same service and standards, which is why there are so many types of flights to choose from. Let us clear up the confusion with tips and tricks to help you understand flight classes so you can make the right flight bookings.
Does the thought of navigating airports fill you with dread? You’re not alone. Our airport guides provide practical advice on everything from security to duty-free shopping. Uncover airport tips that will see you to your plane safe and sound – be it a regional landing strip or multi-terminal megahub.
Whether you travel light or take a wardrobe on wheels, good packing tips will save you hassle every time you embark on an adventure. From luggage size restrictions to luggage fees explained, our guides help show you how to pack for a flight and more.
Planning your next international adventure? Don’t forget your travel documents! Explore our detailed passport guides that cover everything you need to travel internationally, from applying for the right travel documents and visas, to passport tips that help make your journey as smooth as possible.
Not all hotels are created equal. From cozy B&Bs to convenient roadside motels to luxurious resorts, our hotel recommendations will help you find the best places to stay. Whether you’re on a budget or blowing it, here’s how to find and book your next favourite home away from home.
Not all hotels are created equal. From cozy B&Bs to convenient roadside motels to luxurious resorts, our hotel recommendations will help you find the best places to stay. Whether you’re on a budget or blowing it, here’s how to find and book your next favourite home away from home.
Choosing the right place to stay can make or break a trip. From different hotel types to booking for the best price, knowing all about hotels can make the difference between sleeping soundly and having a nightmare. Here’s what you need to know before you go.
Discover the best places to stay around the world. Our expert-curated hotel recommendations will help you find the right accommodation for your next trip. Searching for a little luxury, something budget-friendly or a balance of both? Our guides will help you find the best hotels wherever you’re going.
Did someone say road trip? Let our car hire guides help you hit the road in comfort and style, whether it’s in a cool convertible or family-friendly 4×4. But first you have to navigate the minefield of car types, insurance options and rules of the road. Here’s how.
Did someone say road trip? Let our car hire guides help you hit the road in comfort and style, whether it’s in a cool convertible or family-friendly 4×4. But first you have to navigate the minefield of car types, insurance options and rules of the road. Here’s how.
Before you get behind the steering wheel in a rental, make sure you’ve got your car hire essentials sorted. Read up on all you need to know about hiring a car, from choosing the right model to understanding the often-confusing car hire insurance options.
The rules of the road aren’t the same in every country. If you’re planning on driving abroad, it’s vital to know what to expect before you get behind the wheel. Get our tips for driving a car abroad safely, from international car hire rules to local traffic culture.
Can you hear the call of the open road? From epic cross-country journeys to scenic coastal drives, our road trip guides will spark your wanderlust. Find road trip tips and ideas on planning your route, packing your car, and finding the best pit stops.
Explore the world without breaking the bank. Our budget travel guides can help you save money on flights, stays, meals and activities. Discover affordable destinations, learn how to travel on a budget, and unlock the secrets to stress-free, cost-effective travel that doesn’t compromise your fun.
Explore the world without breaking the bank. Our budget travel guides can help you save money on flights, stays, meals and activities. Discover affordable destinations, learn how to travel on a budget, and unlock the secrets to stress-free, cost-effective travel that doesn’t compromise your fun.
Travel can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. We’re dedicated to opening the world to everyone – our budget travel tips will help you cut costs without cutting corners. Discover how to find cheap flights, save on stays, and make every pound count.
From affordable European cities to sweltering Southeast Asian escapes, there are plenty of cheap places to travel if you know where and when to go. In fact, the best places to travel on a budget are often also the most fun – find out for yourself.
Few places elicit festive feelings more than the best Christmas markets in Europe. From the scent of mulled wine and roasting chestnuts to the sound of Christmas carols, these markets are sure to bring out some festive cheer whatever your age.
Many of the oldest and most authentic Christmas markets are in Germany (where I’m lucky to live). Today the most magical markets are located in northern and central Europe, so that’s the region I’ve focused on here. Based on my personal experiences and plenty of research, here are my favourites.
Germany has long set the global standard for the quintessential Christmas market. Their combination of old city settings, warming and filling food and drink, and artisanal crafts is a model copied around the world. But Germany still does it better than anywhere else.
Marienplatz Christkindlmarkt, Munich
Address: Marienplatz 26, 80331, Munich, Germany
Dates 2025: November 25 to December 24, Monday – Saturday 10am – 9pm, Sundays 10am – 8pm, December 24 10am – 2pm
Marienplatz Christkindlmarkt is one of the most famous Christmas markets in Europe. Hosted in Munich’s main square, Marienplatz, it’s been held since Medieval times and is bursting with atmosphere and authenticity.
The neo-Gothic town hall provides a stunning backdrop. Never more so than Sunday to Thursday evenings, when Bavarian bands take to its balcony to entertain the crowds below. There are plenty of activities among the market stalls. Kids can make their own presents in the town hall workshops. Adults, meanwhile, can indulge in glühwein and feuerzangenbowle or “fire tongs punch”.
In terms of food, try local favourites including Lebkuchen (a type of spiced biscuit), magenbrot (gingerbread) or classic wurst (sausage) with mustard followed by a sweet plum cake. Stroll up to the foyer of the Michaelskirche church for around 5 pm to enjoy German advent carols.
Don’t miss: The Krampus Run – 300+ participants in sometimes scary mythological costumes parading through the market is hard to forget
Dates 2025: November 28 to December 24, 10am – 9pm, December 24 10am to 2pm
Halfway between Frankfurt and Munich, Nuremberg hosts one of the oldest Christmas markets in the world. “The little city of wood and cloth” is home to nearly 200 wooden booths with red-and-white-striped cloth roofs. For most of December, they transform Nuremberg’s Hauptmarkt (main market) Square into a festive wonderland.
Among its handmade decorations and gifts, the Nürnberger Christkindlesmarkt offers some unique quirks. Few are stranger than the popular Zwetschgenmännle. Figurines made of dried prunes, they’re dressed to look like everyone from a pastor to the devil. Pick up a chimney sweep for good luck over the coming year.
Food is at the heart of every German Christmas market, but is particularly special here. The famed bratwurst sausage can trace its origins back to Nuremberg in 1313, and it’s well worth a try. There are excellent self-guided tours available to help you find its hidden treasures. If you’re taking the whole family, don’t let your kids miss the Kinderweihnacht party on Hans-Sachs-Platz.
Don’t miss: The Lantern Procession up to Nuremberg Castle is pure Christmas theatre – great for kids and adults alike
Call me biassed, but my ‘local’ Christmas market, Weihnachtsmarkt am Kölner Dom, is also one of the best. Held below the looming twin towers of Cologne’s 515-foot-tall, 600-year-old cathedral (Germany’s most visited tourist attraction) it oozes history and atmosphere. The market is soundtracked from the central stage by a roster of live music.
At its heart, a massive Christmas tree dominates the 150 stalls. From its trunk, a huge net of twinkling lights stretches from it in all directions, bathing all of Roncalliplatz in a Christmas glow. Stalls overflow with artisan gifts, hand-crafted from wood, glass and ceramics.
You’ll find little to no throwaway plastic here – Cologne’s market was the first in Germany to receive an ISO certificate for sustainability. That’s not to say things aren’t indulgent. The aroma of glühwein and melting cheese lingers in the air (the Swiss raclette stand is always a highlight).
Local tip: This is just one of many amazing Christmas markets around Cologne. While you’re there visit the magical Markt der Engel, the local favourite at Stadtgarten and ice skating at Heumarkt.
Beyond Germany, the best mainland European Christmas markets have a unique festive charm. Most are ancient and draw on weird and wonderful local traditions to create unique experiences. Each is an insight into a different interpretation of Christmas, all are worth visiting.
Wiener Christkindlesmarkt, Vienna, Austria
Address: Rathausplatz 1010, 1st District, Vienna
Dates 2025: November 14 to December 26
The Wiener Christkindlsmarkt is one of the largest and longest-running Christmas markets in Europe. One of 20 advent markets in Vienna, its roots reach back to the first winter market from the 14th century. That history oozes from every stall, as well as from the gorgeous buildings that surround the Rathausplatz.
Its 150+ stalls are a showcase of local goods and produce. Shop for winter clothing, jewellery, toys and Christmas decorations. Try local delicacies like roast goose washed down with punch (with or without the rum). For a sweet kick, ground almond vanillekipferl biscuits always hit the spot.
In front of the impressive Christmas treesits a lifesize nativity scene soundtracked by traditional Austrian music. The market’s most famous tree isn’t the traditional fir, however. Rather, a Sycamore tree decorated with 200 glowing hearts.
Local tip: The children’s ice rink is free and magical. The vintage Ferris wheel gives lovely views over the market and a huge advent calendar dishes out daily prizes.
Running for an epic 51 days, no one can claim the town of Valkenburg doesn’t take its Christmas market seriously. And when you have something as special as themarl caves to show off, why wouldn’t you?
Enter the Valkenburg Market at the foot of Cauberg Hill and you’ll find a typical Christmas scene. Twinkling stalls, vendors selling handmade ornaments and gifts. All very lovely, but it’s underground where the real magic happens.
A labyrinth of tunnels in the Gemeentegrot and Fluweelengrot quarries play host to Europe’s largest underground Christmas market. (Though I do wonder how many rivals it has for that title!) Illuminated festive statues and fir trees light the way revealing drawings from the original miners on the tunnel walls.
Stalls line the pathways selling all manner of everything. The deeper you go, the wider and more amazing the caves get. The Gemeentegrot in particular has huge caverns. Fly into Maastricht and it’s just a 20 minute drive to Christmas Town.
If you’re heading north, perhaps on a family trip to Lapland, a stopoff in Gothenburg is a treat. Make it extra special for the kids with a visit to Liseberg Gardens. There the Liseberg theme park is recast as a children’s Christmas fantasy land called Tomtebyn.
There’s a lot to get involved in. The Elves’ Adventure invites children to navigate their way around Santa’s Village with a map and compass. Prizes await. In the Elves’ Cottage, they can write their Christmas wish lists whilesnacking on treats and listening to stories. Then, in Santa’s Workshop they can feed their lists into the magical wish machine.
All the while, adults can browse the myriad market stalls, take on the ice rink and refuel on traditional Swedish treats. You won’t even need to take your skates off at the Ice Bar and Lisebergs Wärdshus serves up regional, seasonal and organic local dishes. Not just a vacation for the kids after all.
Don’t miss:Kolbulle – a charcoal bun cooked over open fire with salted pork and lingonberry jam. So, so good
Address: Cathedral Square & Place Broglie, Strasbourg, France
Dates 2025: November 26 to December 24, from 2pm to 9pm
The streets, alleys and squares of Strasbourg glow withChristmas cheer in December. More than 300 chalets flood the city, with the main markets at Place Broglie and Place de la Cathédrale.
Connecting them are thousands of lights draped across trees, churches and a forest’s worth of fir trees. Start at the Corbeau Bridge and walk up to the Porte des Lumières to see the best of the lights. Follow the decorations to reach the Grand Christmas Tree where a troupe of musical angels lead you to the Cathedral Square.
The scale of the market helps thin the crowds and gives you plenty of room for browsing. As is the Christmas market norm, local artisan goods are the mainstay. In Strasbourg that means exquisite blown-glass baubles and candles and handmade decorations. Alsatian food is also at the forefront – don’t miss the bredle butter biscuits and manele brioche figures.
Don’t miss: The walk to the stars – stroll from Corbeau Bridge to Saint-Guillaume Bridge under a magic carpet of stars with incomparable views of Rohan Palace
Dates 2025: November 29 to January 6 2026, from 10am to 10pm
Prague has two Christmas markets spread over Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square. Just a ten minute walk separates them so it’s easy to cover both in one extremely festive night.
Start in the magnificent Old Town Market. On one side the gothic spires of the Church of Our Lady before Týn, on the other, the extraordinary 15th-century astronomical clock. It’s a pretty sight, lit by the constant twinkle of Christmas lights, the towering Christmas tree and usually, plenty of snow.
Amid the market stalls and local wares (sword making is a thing), there’s plenty to enjoy. The cinnamon aroma you can smell wafts from vats of ‘svarak’, the local equivalent of mulled wine. Soak it up with a local bite – cheesy bread, fatty sausages or sweet ‘trdelnik’ pastries.
Head to the main stage to enjoy a roster of carol singers and performances. When the kids get restless, visit the impressive nativity scene where sheep, goats and donkeys await.
Don’t miss: Visiting the neighbouring market at Wenceslas Square
Dates 2025: November 21 to December 23, Sunday to Thursday noon to 8pm, Friday to Saturday noon to 9pm
Christmas time in Poland is very special; however, no city does it better than Gdańsk. The Gdańsk Christmas Market, or Gdański Jarmark Bożonarodzeniowy, was voted best Christmas market in Europe by Europe’s Best Destinations in 2024. That’s reason enough to check out this charming market, which dates back to the 17th century, this year.
Even today, it keeps its fairy-tale setting, making Christmas dreams come true – for big and small Christmas fans alike. This includes a festive chamber where you can sit on Santa’s throne, the perfect backdrop for your Christmas card this year.
Of course, you can do your Christmas shopping at the market, but you can also learn how to make your own arts and crafts. The Christmas Factory holds regular workshops for handicrafts, and the Artistic Cafe offers the perfect place to recharge with a cuppa and a good book.
There is also the fun Moose Corner, carousels including the interactive Santa’s Sleigh, the Angelic Corner for your next Instagram shot, and so much more.
Don’t miss: The Orzechowski family is a pair of nutcracker grandparents dressed in traditional Gdańsk Garrison clothing telling visitors all about the market’s history.
The Noël au Quai sits, as its name implies, right at the Quai du Mont-Blanc. Perfect to combine sightseeing with Christmas because you are directly on the shore of Lake Geneva with a fantastic view of the Jet d’Eau.
Geneva’s Christmas market was also voted as one of the best European Christmas markets, and with good reason. It shines not only due to its location, but thanks to plenty of sparkling chalets that enchant the whole family.
The Noël au Quai is not only home to these chalets selling raclette, mulled wine, and chocolates (this is Switzerland after all) but also has a Christmas Pub should the temperatures drop. If the mulled wine isn’t enough to keep you warm, head to the Chalet à Fondue, where you can have typical Geneva fondue overlooking the lake.
Little ones should head to the Kids’ Yurt for face painting, storytelling, arts and crafts or jump on the beautiful old-fashioned carousel. Lucky for you, adults are also welcome to take a ride.
While most travellers flock to Croatia during the summer months for the country’s stunning beaches and charming cities, Zagreb should be on your list for a European Christmas markets trip this year.
The Christmas market in Zagreb is also known as Advent Zagreb, though it is actually a full 40-day celebration of all things Christmas. A great opportunity to see a few other markets first and enjoy Christmas in January in Croatia afterwards.
The Advent Zagreb takes place throughout the city, but the heart of the market is at Ban Jelačić Square. You can admire the huge Christmas tree before moving to the Grič Tunnel. This former bomb shelter is now home to festive light installations and Christmas decorations, fun and festive with some interesting history sprinkled throughout.
A highlight of the Advent is undoubtedly the Ice Rink at King Tomislav Square, now in its 10th season and a beloved icon by now. Can it compete with the rink at Rockefeller Center in NYC? Why not give them both a fair chance this Christmas and find out!
Despite many markets being open for over a month, they are often hectic. Visit midweek to get a (slightly) calmer experience – especially if you have kids.
Europe’s best Christmas markets involve lots of walking, browsing stalls and watching performances. Much like the UK, it can get icy after sundown, so prepare to be colder than you expect and pack accordingly.
There are two things I never go to a Christmas market without. Cash is essential, especially in Germany where many stalls don’t take card payments. Wet wipes too, for kids and adults – mulled wine is super sticky and you’re guaranteed to spill plenty over yourself!
Christmas Markets in Europe FAQs
Germany has the best Christmas markets in Europe and the world. Every town and city hosts at least one advent market, and Dresden is home to the oldest Christmas Market in the world. For an extra special experience try the Ravenna Gorge Market in Germany’s Black Forest.
The Christmas markets in Berlin and Munich are amazing. Elsewhere, Paris has many unusual markets and is particularly charming at Christmas. Budapest features two wonderful markets within walking distance of each other at Vörösmarty Square and outside Saint Stephen’s Basilica. Lastly, Prague is like a fairytale – the markets at Wenceslas and Old Town squares are particularly special.
Biggest doesn’t always mean best! London’s Winter Wonderland, for example, is enormous but can’t compare to the regional markets found in the UK and Europe for atmosphere or authenticity. My favorite is the Nürnberger Christkindlesmarkt. In terms of the biggest, Vienna’s Christmas World has around 1,000 booths each year.
Duncan MaddenDuncan is a freelance travel writer, copywriter and book author in constant search of travel stories and the perpetual sensation of being on holiday. He’s never happier than when on a dusty trail in search of empty waves or ducking under the piste tape in search of snowbound solitude. British born, living in Germany, but happiest heading for the horizon. His first book, Found in Translation, explores the etymologies and stories of country names around the world and is out now.