Newcastle Airport is offering direct flights to nine European Christmas market destinations this winter, including Prague, Vienna, Krakow, and Berlin. Travellers can choose from airlines such as Jet2, easyJet, Ryanair, and Norwegian.
Berlin
Berlin will host more than 50 markets in the run-up to Christmas, with the one at Potsdamer Platz already open since Halloween. Three new markets are set to debut, including one in the former Tegel Airport's freight canteen. Jet2 operates flights on Thursdays and Sundays, while easyJet flies on Mondays and Fridays.
Budapest
Direct flights to Budapest finally launched in October 2025, a long-requested destination. The city's Christmas markets open in mid-November, with popular ones near Stephen's Basilica and in Vorosmarty Square. Visitors can also enjoy the Szechenyi Baths, one of Europe's largest thermal spas. Jet2 flies on Thursdays and Sundays, and Ryanair on Mondays and Saturdays.
Cologne
Cologne is a top German Christmas market destination, featuring the Market of Hearts near the cathedral and the Market of Angels on Neumarkt Square. Jet2 offers direct flights on Mondays and Fridays during winter.
Copenhagen
Copenhagen has been popular since Norwegian Airlines launched flights from Newcastle in May 2025. Christmas markets are held in Tivoli Gardens and Højbro Plads, with a winter wonderland near Nyhavn Harbour. Norwegian flies on Fridays and Sundays, while Jet2 and easyJet operate on Thursdays and Sundays. Travellers can also visit Malmo's markets in Sweden, about an hour away by public transport.
Gdansk
Gdansk's Christmas markets were voted the best in Europe in 2025, beating Budapest. Christmas trees light up 15 districts, and the historic centre offers handicrafts, food, and mulled wine. Ryanair flies on Sundays, and Jet2 on Thursdays and Sundays.
Krakow
Krakow's market takes place in the Main Market Square, the largest in Europe. The city also hosts a nativity scene competition with displays in shops and squares. Jet2, Ryanair, and easyJet all offer direct flights.
Prague
Prague offers good value, with major markets in Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square, plus smaller ones at Republic Square, Na Kampe Square, and Peace Square. Jet2 and easyJet fly directly during winter.
Vienna
Vienna has over 20 Christmas markets, including the Viennese Dream Market in front of City Hall and the Christmas Village at Belvedere Palace. International choirs perform on weekends. Jet2 flies on Mondays and Fridays. Bratislava's markets are less than an hour away by train.
Wroclaw
Wroclaw in southern Poland features markets around a huge square, with handcrafted gifts and festive decorations. The city is known for over 250 gnome statues, which visitors can hunt for. Ryanair offers direct flights on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays.
