I visited one of Europe’s best hidden Christmas markets two hours from the UK | World | News

It’s almost Christmas time,and for me personally, the month leading up to the big event has to be filled with visits to markets. 

It just simply wouldn’t be the same without visiting some gorgeous Christmas markets and trying all the food.  

Well in that spirit, I recently had the chance to visit one of Europe’s most amazing Christmas markets in Wroclaw, Poland. 

As someone with family in the city, I often have an excuse to return, and each time it feels like stepping into a winter fairytale. This year’s market certainly did not disappoint.

The Wroclaw Christmas Market runs from November 29, 2024, to January 7, 2025, and spreads its magic across four areas: Market Square, Salt Square, Świdnicka Street, and Oławska Street. 

It’s very hard to miss the glittering lights and wooden chalets lining the streets, all connected in a festive maze. 

The city’s beautiful Christmas tree was lit on December 6, and let me tell you, it’s even better than in previous years. 

But as always, the biggest highlight for me was trying the food. The Oscypek, a smoked cheese from the Polish mountains served with cranberries, was a personal favorite. It’s a must-try! 

If you prefer the classics, there’s no shortage of sausages, potato pancakes, and bigos (a traditional Polish stew). 

For something sweet, you’ll find waffles, chimney cakes, and churros. And of course, no Christmas market experience is complete without mulled wine, available in a variety of flavours. 

We also sampled a honey-based alcohol that was as delicious as it was warming.

Prices have gone up slightly this year. A mulled wine now costs 20 PLN (around £4), with a 20 PLN deposit for the festive mug. 

But if you’re on a budget, local bars around Market Square offer mulled wine for as little as 13 PLN (£2.50) – just ask for “Grzane Wino.”

Top tip: you can even sneakily refill your souvenir mug.

Beyond the market, Wroclaw itself is a fantastic place. The city is filled with history and charm, and one of its quirkiest attractions is the collection of gnome statues scattered throughout. We spent hours hunting for them, which is a fun activity for everyone.

Despite the crowds, Wroclaw’s Christmas Market is truly one of Europe’s hidden gems, in my opinion.

From its delicious food to its festive atmosphere, it’s an experience I can’t recommend enough. Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, it’s a magical way to embrace the season.

As far as getting there is concerned, there are frequent Ryanair flights to Wroclaw from several UK airports including London Stansted, Bristol Airport, and Manchester Airport. 

The flight takes less than two hours and tickets can be found for as little as £15 one way.