Brits rush to book home of 'hidden gem' Christmas market where pints are less than £1

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Brits are rushing to book a cheap weekend at the home of Europe’s ‘hidden gem’ Christmas market - where pints are less than £1.

The Christmas market in question has been doing the rounds on TikTok, and travellers say ‘it’s one of the best’.

On Tripadvisor, one happy traveller wrote: "The Christmas markets were my favourite. Lots of local Slovakian foods, all delicious, with many varieties of mulled wine... the local honey wine was amazing. Cheaper than neighbouring Austria. Well worth a day trip!"

Another visitor added, "We were there touring Eastern Europe and visiting the Christmas markets. None of us had never been to Bratislava, but had read the market there was quite good, and we were blown away. The market was great and the city itself appears to be booming."

If that's not enough to convince you, a third five-star review reads: "An underrated gem of a place. We came to Bratislava mainly to see an old friend and also for the Christmas market. As such, we didn’t have many expectations and it wasn’t somewhere many people had been to or had a view on in terms of a city break. All I can say is what a beautiful city and the Old Town especially is bustling with curiosity, history, and interest. I will definitely be back."

Well, there you go.

Why do people love the Bratislava Christmas markets?

Since its debut in 1993, the Bratislava Christmas markets, which take place in the capital's old town, have drawn thousands of visitors from around the world every year.

In true tradition, it’s a chance to take home last-minute Christmas presents, from local crafts to ornaments and wooden toys.

Make sure to go hungry, as it’s also a welcome opportunity to sample some of Slovakia’s homegrown cuisine, from the traditional potato pancake known as lokša to the hamburger locally referred to as cigánska. Wash it all down with a cup of mulled wine or if you’re feeling brave, hriatô, the country’s hot brandy cocktail.

As though that isn't enough to get Brits on the next flight out of here, a recent survey revealed that Slovakia is home to some of the cheapest beer in Europe, at just 79p a pint*. We're feeling festive already.

How to book a cheap weekend at the Bratislava Christmas markets

You can now book a cheap weekend at the Bratislava Christmas markets in Slovakia for £119 on Wowcher. To secure the limited-time deal, you'll need to fly from London on Sunday 1 December and return on Tuesday 3 December.

The city break includes a two-night stay at ibis Bratisalva Centrum, which has also earned decent reviews. One traveller said: "I think Ibis is the best choice in Bratislava, which doesn't have many hotels. The hotel is centrally located and is a 10-minute walk to the old town." What more could you want?

If you'd prefer to stay on a weekend and don't mind spending a bit more dosh, the cheapest deal departs from London on Friday 29 November and returns on Sunday 1 December for £149. See you there?

*Prices indicate the average cost of a pint in Slovakia.

Book your winter escape now.