December offers some of the year’s strongest reasons to travel: from Christmas markets and festive events across Europe to the opening of the ski season on the peaks. And for those who are allergic to winter and bulky coats, there are plenty of sunny destinations where you can seek refuge from the cold.
However, since it is the festive season, many destinations become particularly expensive, and those who want to travel on a budget must choose their destination carefully. If you’re looking for inspiration, these are our low-cost destinations favorites: perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in the Christmas atmosphere, as well as for those dreaming of a trip with a light suitcase and sunglasses at hand.
Craiova, Romania
The first destination lies in the southern part of Romania, a city that in December looks as if it has stepped out of a fairy tale. Craiova, which features on European Best Destinations’ list of Europe’s most fairy-tale destinations, has also clinched the top spot among the best Christmas markets of 2026.
This year the theme is the Elf Kingdom and Christmas isn’t confined to a single square: millions of lights stretch across five squares and along all the avenues of the city center. In Mihai Viteazul Square you can skate under the giant tree, while from the 40‑meter Ferris wheel, the tallest in the country, you can see the entire illuminated city.
From Italy you can reach Craiova with direct flights operated by Wizz Air from Milan Bergamo, or, if you stop in Bucharest first, you can reach it in about three hours by train.
Debrecen, Hungary
Those dreaming of a Hungarian Advent without Budapest’s prices can go as far as Debrecen, the country’s second city and fifth in the European Christmas markets ranking for 2026. From November 20 to December 23, stalls gather in front of the Great Reformed Church, the largest Protestant church in Hungary, amidst gingerbread, mulled wine and kürtőskalács, chimney-shaped pastries baked on embers.
Right at the foot of the church is a skating rink considered among the most beautiful in Europe at Christmas, to be tried in the evening under the lights. On weekends there are concerts, craft workshops and candle-lighting ceremonies. To reach it, fly to Budapest and continue by train or bus; it’s about a two-and-a-half-hour journey.
Riga, Latvia
This recommendations list would be incomplete without Riga, which, thanks to its Christmas illuminations, has earned the title of Europe’s best destination. A stroll through the Old Town is enough to understand why! From November 27 to January 3, even after Christmas, the stalls at Cathedral Square smell of mulled wine and piparkūkas, Latvian gingerbread, and entry is free.
Between stalls you can admire the House of the Blackheads and the elegant Art Nouveau palaces. To save money, it’s best to lunch at the Central Market and stay in the Centrs district. From Italy there are direct Ryanair flights from Milan Bergamo.
Agadir, Morocco
For those seeking a Christmas that’s off the beaten path, Agadir is the right destination. In Morocco, December 25 is just another day, and the city facing the Atlantic offers one of the mildest winters in the country: sun almost every day and temperatures up to 22 degrees. You can stroll along the seafront at sunset, wander among the stalls of Souk El Had, one of the largest markets in Morocco, and take a cable car up to the ruins of Kasbah Oufella, with the bay at your feet. Those who feel like moving can reach Taghazout, the surfing village, or Essaouira in a day trip. Direct flights from Milan Bergamo with Ryanair are also available.
Algarve, Portugal
Looking for sunshine without flying too far? The Algarve is the right choice for you (and your budget). The southernmost region of Portugal is among the warmest and most affordable winter destinations according to the Post Office Travel Money barometer, which had already crowned it last summer as Europe’s cheapest family destination. December here is off-season: staying, eating out, and sleeping cost less than in many other European destinations, especially for those who depart before December 21. Temperatures hover around 16-18 degrees, not ideal for swimming but perfect for strolling along the cliffs of Lagos or wandering the lanes of Silves. On Christmas Eve, locals toast the festive season with cod and Bolo Rei.
