December 14th 2024.
Hayley Merconi had always been a lover of all things Christmas. So when the holiday season rolled around, she knew exactly how she wanted to embrace the festive spirit - by visiting Europe's traditional Christmas markets. And let me tell you, she did not hold back. In just 72 hours, she managed to visit 12 different Christmas markets across three different countries. Talk about dedication!
With flights from London to Vienna costing as little as £36, Hayley, along with her son Jamie, sister-in-law Terri, nieces Huni and Maya, and friend Kristyn, set off on their budget-friendly adventure. They even managed to find accommodation for under £65 per person. Hayley was determined to make the most out of her trip without breaking the bank.
Their journey began with a direct flight from London to Vienna, where they rented an apartment for two nights in the center of the city. They spent their first day and night exploring all that Vienna had to offer, from the bustling Christmas markets to taking a horse-drawn carriage ride through the city. And of course, they couldn't miss out on trying some Glühwein.
Next, it was off to Bratislava in Slovakia. They took a train, which cost less than €12 per person for a round trip, and arrived in just over an hour. Hayley and her family were in awe of the beautiful city and even got to meet the traditional Christmas legend, Krampus. After a full day of exploring, they caught a late train back to their apartment in Vienna.
On their third and final day, Hayley and her group hopped on a train to Prague in the Czech Republic. They only booked a one-way ticket as they had two nights in Prague. The train journey took about four and a half hours, but it was a comfortable ride with private family cabins and a restaurant on board.
Hayley highly recommended this route for anyone looking to experience the European Christmas markets. When asked which city they enjoyed the most, she found it difficult to choose as they were all stunning in their own way. Vienna was bustling with activities, while Bratislava had a more traditional feel with Krampus making an appearance. And Prague's architecture, especially the Christmas tree near the clock tower, left a lasting impression on Hayley.
The Christmas markets in each city were beautifully lit and came alive at night. Hayley described them as a must-see for anyone visiting Europe during the holiday season. And as for her personal favorite, she couldn't pick just one. Each country had its own unique charm that made the trip unforgettable.
Hayley's love for Christmas and her determination to make the most out of her budget-friendly trip to Europe's Christmas markets is truly inspiring. Do you have a similar story to share? We would love to hear it! Get in touch by emailing us.
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