Europes best Christmas breaks within 2 hours of London

Whether you are tasting some Glühwein from the Christmas markets of Frankfurt or taking in the glistening peaks of the Swiss Alps in Geneva. Essential Living has put together the best and cheapest destinations to travel from London for your Christmas break, all within 2 hours of travel from London.

Using data from Skyscanner and Essential Livings ‘Taxi Rank’ report, here’s how European cities stacked up on our list for easiest European city breaks to take.

https://www.essentialliving.co.uk/blog/the-taxi-ranking-the-best-cities-for-taxi-services/

 

1. Paris, France 

Via Pinterest

Taking our top spot is the French capital itself, every corner of this elegant city is just picturesque. Just one weekend is simply all you need to fall in love with the capital of fashion, romance and lights. Paris is truly enchanting all year round, but winter gifts this alluring city with an even more magical touch, and as the shortest flight on our list, you’ll have plenty of time to take in the sights.

According to SkyScanner, a flight from London to Paris will take just 55 minutes and can take you back for only £49 for a return flight. You can also get to the main attractions via Uber for just £7.33. Not bad for a break in the world’s most romantic city.

2. Amsterdam, The Netherlands 

Via Pinterest 

A city with more bikes than people, filled with flower-decked canals and inspiring artwork, Amsterdam in winter is a must-see. During the winter months, sparkling lights gleam throughout the city for the yearly light festival, bringing together both international and Dutch artists’ work to life. A weekend in Amsterdam will give you plenty of time to visit iconic cultural landmarks such as the Anne Frank House, Van Gogh Museum and its famous Red Light District.

So why not enjoy a full English breakfast by the Thames and a stroopwafel supper by the 50km of canals. A flight to Amsterdam will take just an hour, costing as little as £45 for a return.

3. Brussels, Belgium 

Via Brussels.be 

The classic and cosmopolitan city of Brussels is the perfect place to visit for your winter trip. Fill your time exploring the sites by the winding cobblestone streets, buzzing beer halls and cosy cafe’s that are always ready to welcome you in. With brightly coloured buildings and houses along every corner you turn, this festive city looks like it came straight out of a Christmas storybook. Oh, and Belgian waffles and chocolate are a must.

A flight to Brussels will cost you a £70 return and takes around an hour.

4. Dublin, Ireland 

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There are countless reasons why this capital city is amongst our top picks for a weekend winter city break. But, between cosy Irish pubs and festive markets, make sure to pack warm, because the weather will undoubtedly be chilly. Due to cold weather, you can enjoy Dublin as crowd-free as ever, with plenty of seasonal activities and places to visit to keep you busy, and you might even see some snow if you’re lucky.

A flight from London to Dublin will take an hour and 15 minutes, and can cost as little as £18! See how the index has rated Dublin for travel-friendliness to ensure you see as many sights as possible for your time there.  

5. Cologne, Germany 

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A weekend in Cologne might just be enough to experience its vibrant culture, celebrations and lots of Kölsch beer. Cologne doesn’t just have one Christmas themed market to its city, however, its main market resides right in front of Cologne Cathedral, leaving you in a truly festive spirit. The city is absolutely magical during the festive season and has many sights and stories that undoubtedly warrant a visit.

A flight from London to Cologne will take an hour and 15 minutes, and can return you home again for a reasonable fee of £20. It’s cheaper than the Uber to the airport, that’s for sure! 

6. Geneva, Switzerland 

Via Pinterest

If you’re dreaming of a Swiss Christmas, but don’t have too much time on your hands, a day in Geneva is sure to fulfil your wishes. As one of the quieter destinations on the list, Geneva might just be the perfect option for getting around with limited time. Surrounded by glistening snow-capped mountains, Lake Geneva offers panoramic views of the Alps, making this one of the most beautiful sites in the world.

A flight from London to Geneva will only take an hour and 35 minutes and will take you back again at just £77 for a return.  

7. Frankfurt, Germany 

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German markets are the pinnacle of Christmas, so here’s another German city topping our list for a festive day out. It’s a city that’s easy to get around, so not a moment of your day is wasted. Cologne is full of culture, museums, and an interesting mix of historical and modern architecture.

A flight to Frankfurt will cost you just £17 and takes around an hour and 35 minutes. 

8. Copenhagen, Denmark

 

Via Visit Copenhagen 

A picture-perfect city if we ever saw one. A day in Copenhagen during the jolly season of hygge, markets, wooly sweaters, and candle lit streets will leave you feeling as cosy as ever. A word of warning, the day will be cold and short, but the vibrant festivities certainly make up for it.

A flight from London to Copenhagen will take an hour and 45 minutes, and can cost as little as £21! 

9. Bordeaux, France 

Via Booking.com 

This stylish, contemporary city is well worth spending a winter’s day. This city is just as romantic as the country’s capital of Paris, but slightly more understated, and much cheaper. Naturally, as the ‘wine capital of the world’, you’ll want to take a trip to Bordeaux’s ‘Cité du Vin’ wine museum.

A flight to Bordeaux will cost you just £28 and takes around an hour and 45 minutes. 

10. Prague, Czech Republic 

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Winter brings to life this snow-covered city as something straight out of a fairytale. Prague’s stunning castle is a must-see in any season, but winter offers a whimsical and charming look to the city that you just can’t miss.

A flight to Prague will take an hour and 50 minutes, costing as little as £26 for a return.