A visit to a Christmas market in the United Kingdom can be quite expensive, as highlighted by reports of vendors charging £9.50 for hot chocolate and £8 for bratwurst at the renowned Manchester Christmas market. This has led many individuals to explore more budget-friendly options on the European continent.
SumUp, a card terminal provider, has compiled a list of Europe’s most affordable Christmas markets, with a lesser-known city in Poland taking the top spot. Poznan, the fifth-largest city in Poland, often overlooked in favor of Warsaw or Krakow, offers a picturesque Renaissance-era old town setting for its charming Christmas market during the winter season.
Traveling to Poznan is convenient, with flights taking just over two hours from London and a short distance from regional airports in Birmingham, Bristol, Manchester, or Edinburgh. December flights from London Stansted on Ryanair can cost as little as £30 each way, while budget airlines like Wizz Air also service this route.
According to data, a one-night stay in Poznan can be as affordable as £30.40, and enjoying a beer at the Christmas market may only set you back £2.50. The market, known as Betlejem Poznańskie, is held in Stary Rynek (the Old Town Square), adorned with festive lights, cozy wooden stalls selling gifts, a Ferris wheel, and an ice rink, creating a magical holiday ambiance.
Running from November 15 to January 6, the market offers various entertainment options like carolers, Christmas shows, silent discos, and opportunities to meet Santa. Additionally, from December 12 to 14, Poznan hosts an annual ice festival featuring stunning ice sculptures, carving events, and workshops for children.
While in the city, visitors can explore attractions such as the historic Poznan Cathedral, the unique Croissant Museum, and the Muzeum Narodowe w Poznaniu, which showcases works by renowned artists. Accommodation options range from the unconventional Blow Up Hall 5050 featuring interactive art installations to the more traditional Hotel Palazzo Rosso Old Town, offering a cozy stay just a short walk from the market.