Yorkshire.com Editorial Team
Published on September 17th, 2026
•As Christmas approaches, the excitement for festive markets is palpable, with only 100 days left until the celebrations begin. These markets are renowned for their enchanting atmosphere, and 2026 promises to be no different. Leading hotel provider Accor has crafted an ultimate Christmas Market Crawl, taking visitors through some of Europe’s most magical cities, including Budapest, Tallinn, Krakow, and Prague. Each location offers unique experiences, delicious treats, and the chance to soak up the holiday spirit.
Budapest, Hungary
From mid-November to January, Budapest transforms into a winter wonderland, with numerous festive experiences to enjoy. The Basilica Christmas Market, located in St. Stephen’s Square, is a highlight. This vibrant public plaza features a stunning 12-metre Christmas tree, light projections, and a variety of craft and food stalls. Visitors can also explore the quieter Buda Castle Christmas Market, which offers breathtaking views of the city from above. Free open-air concerts on weekends and the Advent Fair near Matthias Church provide additional festive cheer.
For those looking to make the most of their visit, a 3-hour Christmas Walking Tour is available, guiding participants through key sites and highlights of the city while indulging in traditional Hungarian delights like kürtőskalács (chimney cakes), lángos (fried flatbreads), Goulash soup, and warming spiced mulled wine.
Stay at: Mercure Budapest City Center Hotel. This newly redesigned hotel is perfectly situated on the famous Váci Street, allowing easy access to top attractions like St. Stephen’s Basilica and the Hungarian Parliament Building. After a day of exploring, guests can unwind in the hotel’s modern fitness area or enjoy a meal at the new Winestone Restaurant, which serves contemporary dishes and premium Hungarian wines.
Tallinn, Estonia
Known as the birthplace of the Christmas tree tradition in 1441, Tallinn is a must-visit for Christmas market enthusiasts. The Town Hall Square will host a grand 14-metre tree this year as it celebrates the 25th anniversary of its Christmas Market. Visitors can expect an array of festive offerings, including local delicacies like gingerbread, reindeer sausages, and hot glögi, a mulled wine infused with Vana Tallinn liqueur. The market opens on 21 November, coinciding with the tree lighting ceremony and festive concerts featuring jazz music.
This year, the adventure company 360 KRAADI will offer city tours in the Old Town, providing a unique way to experience the festive atmosphere. The market will also feature a colourful cultural programme each weekend, showcasing performances from local choirs and dancers.
Stay at: Novotel Tallinn. This hotel is ideally located between the Old Town and the harbour, making it easy for guests to explore the Christmas Market. With family-friendly rooms and a vibrant restaurant, it’s the perfect base for enjoying Tallinn's winter charm.
Krakow, Poland
Krakow is steeped in Christmas history, with its main market dating back to the 14th century. The Old Town’s Rynek Główny, surrounded by timber market stalls, is filled with the scents of hearty local food, warm drinks, and traditional Christmas souvenirs. The market features a giant illuminated Christmas tree, and visitors can explore the various stalls offering everything from wooden toys to handmade chocolates.
For a more intimate experience, there are smaller markets outside Galeria Krakowska with an ice rink and at plac Wolnica in Kazimerz, which offers a relaxed atmosphere. To fully enjoy the variety of Polish cuisine, joining a guided food tour is recommended, allowing visitors to taste their way through Krakow’s festive offerings.
Stay at: TRIBE Krakow Old Town. Located just a short walk from the Main Market Square, this stylish hotel provides convenient access to many of the city’s attractions, including Barbican, Planty Park, and St. Mary’s Basilica.
Prague, Czech Republic
Prague is often described as a ‘snow globe of winter’, making it an idyllic setting for Christmas markets. The Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square are home to stalls brimming with handcrafted goods, Czech delicacies, and festive treats. Live music and cultural performances enhance the holiday atmosphere, with beautifully decorated wooden chalets offering spiced mulled wine and rich hot chocolate.
Additional markets can be found in Republic Square and Peace Square, each providing a local vibe and a variety of seasonal offerings. The beautifully decorated Christmas tree and hand-painted nativity scene at Peace Square are particularly popular among visitors.
Stay at: Novotel Praha Wenceslas Square. Located in the heart of the city, this hotel is just a short walk from the main Christmas Market, making it easy for guests to explore all that Prague has to offer during the festive season.
With each city offering its unique charm and festive spirit, the Christmas Market Crawl curated by Accor is sure to create unforgettable memories for visitors. The blend of culture, cuisine, and celebration makes these markets a highlight of the holiday season in Europe.
