The 10 magical European Christmas market destinations you can visit from London Gatwick

London Gatwick is helping passengers make the most of Europe’s most magical Christmas markets this winter, alongside some hidden gems, revealing top travel tips to ensure stress-free journeys.

Last year, more than 1.4m passengers travelled through London Gatwick to Christmas market destinations in the lead up to Christmas.

With search queries for festive breaks soaring in recent years, the airport’s expanded schedule offers 122 European destinations this winter – making it easier to experience the continent’s most iconic seasonal celebrations, from twinkling alpine villages to grand imperial squares.

Whether it’s Vienna’s elegant Rathausplatz, the snowy streets of Rovaniemi – the official hometown of Santa Claus – or the fairytale charm of Strasbourg, London Gatwick will connect passengers to more than 20 festive cities across 14 European countries, with frequent services perfect for short breaks.

In addition to some special appearances across the airport from Santa Claus himself, London Gatwick will bring the magic into both the North and South Terminals, where Christmas market installations will run between December 15 and 24 .

Each terminal will feature beautifully decorated Christmas huts, occupied by London Gatwick’s food and beverage partners on a rotating basis.

Retailers will also offer passengers festive tastings, seasonal deals, make-up and skincare consultations, to ensure travelling through London Gatwick this festive season is as magical as the destination itself.

Jonathan Pollard, chief commercial officer, London Gatwick said: “Christmas market breaks have really increased in popularity in recent years and we’re delighted to offer such a diverse mix of destinations for passengers to choose from.

“As well as increased choice and connectivity, we’re excited to bring the festive spirit into our terminals with our own Christmas market experience.

“We’re ensuring every journey through London Gatwick feels special this festive season, which is all part of our vision to be the airport for everyone, whatever your journey.”

London Gatwick’s top tips for Christmas market travel this winter

• Look around for the best deals: Prices can vary depending on where and when you fly, so it’s worth comparing options to get the best value. Midweek travel often offers lower fares and quieter terminals, helping you make the most of your trip
• If driving to the airport, book parking in advance with Official London Gatwick Parking
• Take cash in local currency – some markets have stalls that may not accept card payments. You can pre-order your currency exchange to collect from the airport, for more information: Currency Exchange, Travel Money, ATMs | London Gatwick Airport
• If you are travelling to a country in the Schengen area for a short stay using a UK passport, you will be required to register your biometric details, such as fingerprints and a photo, when you arrive. For more information: EU Entry/Exit System - GOV.UK
• Wear comfortable footwear and warm clothing – most attractions are outdoors in lower temperatures, and there may be lots of walking around and between markets
• There are restrictions on what meat and dairy products you can bring back to the UK, which you will need to bear in mind when shopping. Find the latest data on gov.uk
• Take a reusable cup – whether it’s hot chocolates or mulled wine, a reusable cup will keep your hot drinks hot while enjoying the sights. Some markets may offer these for a (usually refundable) deposit fee
• Many cities on our list are considered walkable, but it’s best to download local transport maps for where you are visiting, and to make sure they’re available for offline use in case you can’t connect to the internet