Edinburgh Christmas Market has been named the best in the UK, according to an analysis by Idealo that compared visitor ratings, opening days, Instagram popularity, global Google search volumes and walking distance to the nearest major train, tube or tram station.
The Scottish event, open for 50 days from November 14 to January 3, scored 7.56 out of 10, placing it above London's Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, which came second with 7.38. Birmingham's Frankfurt Christmas Market took third with 7.04.
How the ranking was decided
Idealo compared a range of factors including average reviews on Google and Tripadvisor, as well as practical travel considerations such as how long it takes to reach the market from the nearest station. Edinburgh's market is around a four-minute walk from the nearest train station.
London's Hyde Park Winter Wonderland has a higher average review score of 4.2 stars, compared with Edinburgh's 3.8 out of 5, but still finished behind Edinburgh in the overall ranking.
What visitors say about Edinburgh
Reviews of Edinburgh's Christmas market are mixed, with some visitors complaining about high prices and crowds while others praise the festive atmosphere and the range of attractions on offer.
"Full of outstanding stalls to buy things from," one TripAdvisor reviewer shared. "If you're thinking you can't do the markets in one day, you absolutely can!"
Another said: "It was busy but not to the point of spoiling our enjoyment. There were lots of great stalls selling gifts and food and beverages. There were also rides - a big wheel and a high swing. Really good atmosphere and range of stalls."
"The grounds were beautifully decorated with a gorgeous Christmas atmosphere throughout," said a third. "A great variety of vendors who were all warm and welcoming, and a marvellous range of food stalls throughout."
Full UK rankings and hidden gems
According to Idealo's analysis, the best Christmas markets to visit in the UK this winter are: Edinburgh (7.56), London (7.38), Birmingham (7.04), Nottingham (6.70), Manchester (6.63), Bath (5.50), Glasgow (5.31), Exeter (5.03), Liverpool (4.76) and York (3.89).
The analysis also highlighted 'hidden gem' Christmas markets for those wanting to avoid large crowds, naming Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market as the top pick, followed by the Christmas Market at Southbank in London and the Canterbury Christmas Market.
In Europe, the Gendarmenmarkt Christmas Market in Berlin took the top spot, ahead of Advent Zagreb in Croatia and the Prague Christmas Market in Czechia.
