Jet-Set for Jingle Bells: Best Christmas Markets from Dublin, Cork and Shannon
Vienna - with Aer Lingus and Ryanair both offering direct flights from Dublin and nearly 20 different markets within the city at Christmas, Vienna is not to be missed. The main “Christkindlmarkt” is the most famous, but there are lots of smaller and alternative markets as well as lots of different lights and displays. The markets open from mid-November right up until 26th of December, with one or two extending past this. For Families: There is a market in the courtyard of the Schönbrunn Palace and while you’re there check out the hands on children’s museum. Flight time: 2 hours 50 minutes
Berlin – again with Aer Lingus and Ryanair offering morning flights out and back this is just a hop skip and a jump from Dublin. Enjoy the famous German tradition of Christmas Markets in the wide variety of markets all over the city. There are over 60 markets here, so if you are looking for variety Berlin is the best option. The markets open from late November until early January. Flight time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Prague – with nearly daily flights from Dublin picturesque Prague is a no-brainer. There are lots of events and concerts to take advantage of as well as smaller markets in the city centre and more local themed market in Peace Square and Tyl Square. The markets open from late November to early January. For Families: There is a petting zoo in the Old Town Square as well as lots of sweet treats to indulge in. Flight time: 2 hours 35 minutes
Here are my top picks for Christmas Market departures from Shannon:
Budapest - with Wednesday and Sunday flights from Shannon (and nearly daily departure from Dublin) the award winning Budapest markets are not to be missed. Budapest has a fantastic ice rink and a laser light show which really makes it stand out from the crowd. The markets open from mid to late November to early January. For Families: On weekends there is a puppet theatre, music and dance performances as well as arts and crafts workshops. Flight time: 3 hours
Krakow – with Ryanair’s offerings of nearly daily departures from Shannon and Dublin Poland's perfect capital is a highlight for anyone looking for something a little bit quirky or different. The medieval square will bring you back in time. A number of different ice rinks pop up around December for that extra festive feeling. The markets open from late November to early January Flight time: 3 hours.
Last, but not least here are my top picks for Christmas Markets from Cork Brussels Ryanair have plenty Cork departures to Brussels South Charleroi Airport to get your on your way to devouring some Belgian chocolate or waffles. Brussels Christmas Market is a foodies heaven! The markets open from late November to early January. Flight time: 1 hour 50 minutes, plus an hour by public transport to the centre.
Gdansk – with Friday and Monday departures from Cork and some Dublin departures, the Gdansk Christmas markets make for a perfect long weekend. The city is very romantic, with a special spot set up for kissing under the mistletoe! The markets open mid to late November until 23rd of December. For Families: Previous years have included Santas corner, elf parades, and a talking moose! Flight time: 2 hours 40 minutes.
Seville – again with Ryanairs offerings from Cork and Dublin, these Andalusian Christmas markets have quite an artistic element. For Families: Storytelling, face-painting, and kids theatre. The markets open from late November to early January. Flight time: 2 hours 35 minutes.
On top of these fantastic options, Edinburgh Christmas markets are fantastic and flights are available from Dublin, Cork and Shannon. Alternatively, you could head to Hyde Park in London for Winter Wonderland, which has endless food, drink, stalls, and a fairground. Please note that the opening dates change every year.
Get in touch today to book your Christmas Market trip, I have some beautiful hotels that will work with each destination.
