💼 Top Tips

Whether you’re heading to Nuremberg’s candlelit stalls, Vienna’s sparkling squares, or Edinburgh’s Castle Market, these simple Christmas Market tips will help you plan like a pro.

💳 Money & Payments

• Cards are accepted almost everywhere, but a little cash is handy for smaller stalls or tips.
• Open a Monzo account for fee-free spending abroad and instant currency updates.
• Always keep a small reserve of local currency — not every mulled wine stand takes cards!

🧳 Storage on the Go

• Exploring before check-in or after checkout? Use Bounce Luggage Storage to drop your bags safely near train stations or markets.
• Available in 9,000+ cities worldwide — perfect for festive travel days!

🗓️ When to Go

• Late afternoon into evening is when the magic happens — lights twinkling, choirs singing.
• Weekdays are quieter; early December offers the best mix of atmosphere and smaller crowds.
• Check local calendars for parade nights and late shopping hours.
• Drizzle = magic: Light rain makes cobblestones glow—best photos of the trip.
• Mid-week + early December = lowest crowds with full vibes.
• Check if the city has a late-night market day (often Thu/Fri).

🎄 Christmas Market Calendar — 2025

🧣 What to Pack

• Layer up! Gloves, hat, and waterproof shoes are essential.
• Keep a fold-up umbrella and handwarmers — ideal for open-air markets.
• Pack a fold-flat tote for gifts; keeps hands free for glühwein. We’ve got some nice ones in the shop.
• We have some great items in the shop to keep you warm.

🍷 Food & Drink

• Glühwein (mulled wine) mugs usually come with a refundable deposit — return it or keep it as a souvenir.
• Join a foodie adventure — search food & drink experiences.
• Don’t miss local treats: trdelník in Prague, gingerbread in Nuremberg, and waffles in Bruges.
• Bring a reusable water bottle and a tote bag for eco-friendly shopping. We have some great items in the shop.
• Try-two rule: Pick one sweet + one savoury at each market so you sample more without queue FOMO.

🚆 Getting Around

• Public transport is usually fastest; day passes often include trams and metro, take a look on GetYourGuide for options.
• For late finishes, pre-book a transfer or use official taxi stands.
• Stay connected abroad — pick up a Voxi SIM for UK/Europe trips or a Drimsim SIM for worldwide coverage.
• Side-street shuffle: Parallel streets are faster and prettier than the main drag.
• Meet-point hack: Choose a visible landmark (tree/clock) as a group fallback.

🎟️ Save on Costs

• Compare Flights, Accommodation, Transfers, and Tickets before booking.
• Check Package Deals for bundle savings — sometimes cheaper than DIY!
• Join airline and hotel loyalty programmes for extra festive perks.
• Check our Offers and Discounts page.
• Don’t forget travel insurance for winter trips — compare cover with Compare Your Travel Insurance
• Early bird tours are often cheaper and emptier.
• Look for combo tickets (ice rink + lights bus).