A charming Alpine village in Italy has been named as the top hidden gem Christmas market in Europe, as per a recent travel ranking. Aosta, situated just over an hour from Turin, claimed the first position after a study of mulled wine and sausage prices, the likelihood of snowfall, and the quality of entertainment available.
Featuring mulled wine starting at £2.55 and sausages priced around £4.25, Aosta’s Marché Vert Noël emerged victorious for its affordability and festive atmosphere. Surrounded by Roman gates and medieval towers, the market also offers a high chance of snow in December.
Innsbruck in Austria secured the second spot, benefiting from its stunning mountain backdrop and consistently high chances of snow. Mulled wine there starts at approximately £3.80, with sausages priced from £4.25, while the city hosts various themed markets across its historic center.
Kevin Doyle, the UK country manager for easyJet, the compiler of the index, commented: “Our Hidden Gems Index reveals that some of Europe’s most enchanting holiday experiences are not necessarily the most well-known ones.
“From Aosta’s snow-covered square to the glowing riverside of Ljubljana, these markets show that you don’t need to spend a fortune or deal with large city crowds to experience the true essence of Christmas.
“With direct flights and package vacations to all ten destinations, travelers now have an easier time swapping the high street for a holiday filled with sparkle, culture, and a warm cup of mulled wine.”
The UNESCO-recognized old town of Lübeck in Germany secured the third position, with its chances of December snowfall and mulled wine prices starting from £3.40 contributing to its ranking.
Further down the list, Salzburg in Austria also performed well, boasting a high probability of snow and a schedule packed with classical concerts and choirs at its Christkindlmarkt.
Meanwhile, Grenoble in France claimed the fifth spot, thanks to its moderate to high chances of snow, mulled wine starting from £2.55, and a laid-back local ambiance that researchers commended.
Ljubljana in Slovenia impressed with its riverside market adorned with fairy lights and mulled wine priced at around £3. Despite its low to moderate snowfall chances, it scored well due to its concerts, riverside events, and the popular ‘Grandpa Frost’ procession featuring Santa’s arrival by horse-drawn carriage.
Toulouse also made it to the top 10, owing to its affordable prices and family-friendly activities in Place du Capitole.
Rounding up the list, Verona combined Italian Christmas charm with Alpine elements, while Basel in Switzerland offered moderate snowfall chances, premium festive delicacies, and choirs resonating around Barfüsserplatz.