A travel guru has shared her top tips on how to experience Europe’s finest Christmas markets without breaking the bank this year.
TikTok user @groundedinlondon, also known as Emma, guided fellow globetrotters through her itinerary and explained how they could recreate the “magical” Budapest and Prague Christmas market trip for themselves.
The three-night city break is ideal for those wishing to soak up a bit of foreign culture during the festive season, with the culturally rich cities of Budapest and Prague offering an affordable holiday option.
Emma revealed that the whole trip including flights, coach travel and accommodation, totalled £220, providing an incredible saving while exploring a beautiful 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 meticulously planned everything, from airport and flight details to the coach journey upon arrival. She disclosed that a flight from Gatwick cost her £28 with Wizz Air. The two hour and 25 minute flight transported her to Hungary’s capital, where she chose a hotel costing £115 for two nights.
For those journeying with a companion, splitting the cost of two nights in a hotel can result in a reasonable £57.50 each. Emma advised opting for earlier flights as “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 a two-night stay in Budapest, a Flix Bus to Prague is priced at £48.99. While Emma acknowledged that the seven-hour coach ride is “not for everyone”, it is the most budget-friendly option for a two-city break. Planes and trains are also options, but may come with a heftier price tag.
For those visiting Prague, Emma suggested the Old Town markets, and her return flight from Prague to Stansted was a mere £38. One TikTok user queried about the safety of the cities after dark and if it was suitable for solo travellers.
To which Emma responded: “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.”