A travel expert has revealed how you can visit Europe’s best Christmas markets on the cheap this year.
TikTok user @groundedinlondon, real name Emma, walked fellow travellers through her itinerary and how they can replicate the “magical” Budapest and Prague Christmas market trip for themselves.
The three-night city break is perfect for those wanting to spend a bit of time in another country around the holidays, and the culturally rich stop-offs of Budapest and Prague are the perfect, cheap holiday.
Emma says the “whole thing” including flights, a coach journey and accommodation came to £220, making for an amazing saving while visiting a wonderful part of the world.
She said: “I’ve been to both these cities and I absolutely love them, and I think a great thing about both of them is they are really affordable. They’re just such magical places to visit, there’s so much to see, so much to do, super walkable, full of history, and at Christmas time it’s even better.”
Emma planned everything, from the airport and flights to the coach journey upon arrival. She said a flight from Gatwick cost £28 with Wizz Air. The two hour and 25 minute flight took her to Hungary’s capital, where she opted for a hotel costing £115 over two nights.
For those travelling with a friend, two nights in a hotel can work out at £57.50 each, should it be split. Emma suggested earlier flights as they mean “you still get a really good chunk of the afternoon and evening to explore Budapest”. Budapest’s Christmas markets are open from November 17 to January 1.
After two nights in Budapest, a Flix Bus to Prague cost £48.99. While Emma said the seven-hour coach is “not for everyone”, it is the best way to budget for a two-city break. Planes and trains are also available, but could be more expensive.
Emma recommended the Old Town markets for those heading to Prague, and a return flight from Prague to Stansted cost her just £38. One TikTok user asked how the cities fared after dark and if it was a safe trip for solo travellers.
Emma replied: “Good question! I didn’t go on my own so probably am not the best person to ask! I always felt safe with my friends at night but safety always depends on so many factors.”