Discover the Perfect Eastern European Winter Getaway this Christmas

When planning your winter city break around Christmas, Eastern Europe offers a unique blend of festive markets, cultural attractions, and outdoor adventures. Here, we explore some of the top contenders, from medieval towns with charming markets to the ancient history of Romania, ensuring you have a memorable and enjoyable holiday experience.

Prague: A Winter Wonderland

Prague is a must-visit for a Christmas break. The city is incredibly lively at this time of year, especially with its attractive markets, most notably the one in Old Town Square. Locals and visitors alike enjoy the festive atmosphere, allowing you to immerse yourself in the spirit of Christmas.

A Group of Cities, A Variety of Experiences

I recommend a group of cities rather than just one, as Christmas is usually a time of limited opening hours for most businesses. However, with some local friends or a mix of locals and tourists, your trip can be made even more enjoyable and memorable.

Tallinn: Medieval Charm and Skiing

Starting your adventure in Tallinn, the world-famous medieval town with an impressive Christmas market. From here, you can easily make your way to Crakow, where you can enjoy skiing, husky sleigh rides, and other winter sports.

Budapest: Thermal Baths and Beer Spa

After visiting Krakow, head to Budapest, a city famous for its thermal baths. However, the city has more to offer than just relaxation; you can also experience a unique beer spa, adding a modern twist to the traditional thermal bath routine.

Ljubljana: A Festive and Safe City

Ljubljana is a lovely and safe city in a beautiful small country. December 26 is the city's National Independence Day, making it a festive experience like no other. If you visit during this time, you'll get three times the festivities. Lake Bled, while not personally visited by me, is described as incredibly stunning. Flights from London Stansted to Trieste, Italy, via Ryanair are exceptionally cheap, making this an affordable option for your winter holiday.

Conventional and Unconventional Roadtrips

For a more unconventional approach, consider a road trip through Romania. Starting in Luton/Birmingham and traveling to Bucharest via Wizzair. The journey begins with a visit to the Therme relaxation center near the airport, approximately a 10-minute drive away. You can opt to stay in Bucharest for a couple of days, as the city offers plenty to explore, including tourist activities, dining, and accommodation options. However, it may not be the most aesthetically pleasing city due to its industrial nature.

For a more scenic journey into the mountains, visit Brasov, Busteni, Bran, and Sibiu. A cable car ride to the mountain top is highly recommended, but it's advised not to venture too far. The Castelul Bran, or Dracula's Castle, offers a fascinating insight into the history of the Vlad The Impaler. You can also explore Sighisoara, the birthplace of Vlad The Impaler, now home to a restaurant in the house where he was born.

Romania, despite being unfairly disregarded by many, has much to offer for both budget and adventurous travelers. With its cheap cost and rich history, Romania is definitely a hidden gem worth exploring. A budget of ￡150 for a four-day trip in Bucharest, including visits to the Therme, dining out, taxi rides, and a trip to the Coast of Constanta, is very achievable. However, visitors may face challenges with traffic and the language barrier, but Romanians generally try to accommodate visitors.

These tips and recommendations will ensure that your winter break in Eastern Europe is filled with unforgettable experiences and memories to last a lifetime.