Christmas Markets in Europe: Top Cities to Fly to with Avios

The aroma of roasted chestnuts mingles with the sweet scent of Glühwein, Germany's traditional mulled wine, inviting visitors to take a sip and warm their hands. For a true taste of Cologne during the holidays, look for 'Reibekuchen.’ These crispy potato pancakes are a beloved treat, especially when paired with tangy apple sauce. Another must-try is 'Stollen,’ a traditional Christmas bread packed with dried fruits, nuts, and marzipan, dusted with a snowy layer of powdered sugar, encapsulating the spirit of a Cologne Christmas in every bite.

For those looking to book flights with Avios, mark your calendars for November 23 to December 23, 2023. There's excellent Economy reward seat availability throughout the market's duration. Many dates even boast up to six seats available. If you’re wondering how many Avios to book a flight, return off-peak seats are at a steal at 18,500 Avios plus £1. 

Salzburg, Austria

Known to many as the birthplace of Mozart and the backdrop for the timeless 'Sound of Music', Salzburg takes on a new meaning come winter. Nestled among historic buildings with snow-capped Alps in the distance, the city's markets become a visual treat for visitors. The air gets filled with the melodies of carol singers, serenading shoppers beneath the towering Hohensalzburg Fortress.

Steeped in tradition, these markets are set against centuries-old buildings that tell tales of yuletides past. As you wander, it's not uncommon to find artisan stalls displaying handcrafted 'Mozartkugeln', a chocolate and marzipan delight named after the maestro himself. And while the scents of roasted almonds and freshly baked pastries guide you through the market, don't be surprised if you stumble upon a spontaneous string quartet performance.

If Salzburg's blend of history and festivity calls you, visit between November 23, 2023, and January 1, 2024, for the best winter market experience. While Economy reward seats are plentiful throughout November and early December, they become rarer as the month progresses. But with return, off-peak seats priced at 18,500 British Airways Avios plus just £1, the allure of a musical Christmas in Salzburg is hard to resist. 

Prague, Czech Republic

In the heart of Central Europe, Prague is often likened to a storybook setting, and when Christmas descends, this reputation only magnifies. As December's chill sets in, the city's medieval squares transform into festive extravaganzas. Perched high above the city, the iconic Prague Castle overlooks a sea of red-roofed houses, their chimneys releasing gentle spirals of smoke into the air.

Wandering the city's cobbled streets, one can't help but be captivated by the golden glow of fairy lights draping the ancient stone buildings. Every corner seems to hide a festive surprise, be it a pop-up stall selling steaming cups of 'svařák' - the local spiced hot wine, or vendors showcasing delicate handcrafted ornaments. As you stroll, the inviting aroma of freshly baked trdelník, a traditional Czech pastry, wafts through the air, drawing you towards stalls where it's spun and grilled to perfection over open flames.

Travel Details: Dates: December 3, 2023 to January 6, 2024. During this magical window, Prague invites visitors worldwide to partake in its festive traditions. If you book flights with Avios, Economy reward seats for the journey show good availability from the end of November to mid-December, and towards the end of December and the beginning of January. With return off-peak seats going for a mere 18,500 plus £1, it’s an invitation hard to resist.

Gothenburg, Sweden

Sweden's beautiful coastal city, Gothenburg adds its own Nordic charm to the Christmas tapestry. As winter cloaks the city, Gothenburg gleams with a unique blend of maritime charm and festive fervour. The harbour, usually bustling with ships, transforms into a relaxed scene, reflecting the thousands of lights that decorate the city's streets and squares.

Walking through Gothenburg, you'll be introduced to an array of Swedish Christmas traditions. From the ceremonial 'Advent' candle lighting to families gathering around to watch the annual 'Julkalendern' (Christmas calendar) on TV, the city exudes warmth amidst the cold. The markets brim with stalls offering traditional Swedish delicacies. It's impossible to resist 'pepparkakor' - thin gingerbread cookies, or the rich and warming 'glögg', a spiced wine with almonds and raisins. And no Yuletide celebration would be complete without partaking in a 'julbord,’ a grand Christmas buffet showcasing a smorgasbord of Swedish culinary delights.

Travel Details: Dates: 19 November, 2023 to 30 December, 2023. During this festive period, Gothenburg welcomes locals and travellers to embrace the spirit of a true Nordic Christmas. Those looking to join in the festivities will find ample opportunity, as economy reward seats boast excellent availability throughout both November and December with return off-peak seats priced at 18,500 plus £1.

Copenhagen, Denmark

In the heart of Scandinavia, Copenhagen comes alive during winter, embracing its cherished tradition of 'hygge.’ For the uninitiated, 'hygge' (pronounced hoo-ga) encapsulates the Danish philosophy of warmth, togetherness, and well-being, especially during the colder months. As the city dons its festive garb, every corner of Copenhagen invites visitors to experience this sentiment.

Cobblestone streets are illuminated by the soft glow of a thousand lights, leading visitors towards intimate Christmas markets. Here, candle-lit stalls offer a range of handcrafted goods, from artisanal ceramics to hand-knitted scarves. As you wander, you're enveloped in the rich aroma of 'æbleskiver', traditional Danish pancake puffs, often served with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a dollop of raspberry jam. To warm the soul, nothing beats a mug of 'gløgg', Denmark's take on mulled wine, enriched with raisins, almonds, and a touch of brandy.

Travel Details: Dates: 17 November 2023 to 31 December 2023. For those keen on soaking in the city's 'hygge' atmosphere, there is excellent availability for economy reward seats throughout November and December. As for how many Avios to book these flights, they’re priced at a competitive 18,500 Avios plus £1.