There’s no denying that a visit to a Christmas market is a sure-fire way to embrace the festive spirit.
Traditionally found on the continent, Christmas markets have soared in popularity on UK shores over the past few years.
With mulled wine, ice skating and festive gifts, these markets are always popular among families and couples.
However, Christmas markets here in the UK have a reputation for being a bit on the expensive side.
For this very reason, thousands of Brits each year jet off for one of the magical Christmas markets found in mainland Europe.
Many such markets are covered by a blanket of snow during November and December, providing visitors with a much more Christmassy feel than those in the UK.
Last year The Times produced a handy guide to the 13 most affordable Christmas markets in Europe - and several of them can be reached directly from East Midlands Airport.
Here are 6 of the cheapest European Christmas markets that you can reach direct from East Midlands Airport during winter 2025:
1. Riga, Latvia
The Times said: "For five successive years, Riga has topped a Post Office Travel Money report comparing the costs of getting to, staying near and shopping at a dozen Christmas markets in Europe. The Latvian capital’s chief fair is held in the heart of its maze-like medieval old town on Dome Square." Ryanair operates flights from East Midlands Airport to Riga. | AFP via Getty Images Photo: Getty
2. Prague, Czech Republic
The Times said: "The fact that its flights and accommodation are so reliably cheap only adds to pretty Prague’s appeal. Breathe in the scent of cinnamon in the magnificent Old Town Square, where brightly decorated food and craft stalls vie for attention between the 15th-century astronomical clock and the gothic Church of Our Lady before Tyn." Ryanair operates flights from East Midlands Airport to Prague. | AFP via Getty Images Photo: Getty
3. Budapest, Hungary
The Times said: "Wallet-friendly Budapest spoils visitors with several markets — the two biggest and glossiest are in the heart of the city. Head to Vorosmarty Square for traditional Hungarian gifts and rib-sticking food — with plenty of tables where you can enjoy your wintry feasts." Ryanair operates flights from East Midlands Airport to Budapest. | AFP via Getty Images Photo: Getty
4. Krakow, Poland
The Times said: "It’s hard not to fall in love at first sight with Krakow’s main square, Rynek Glowny, especially when it puts on its Christmas sparkle. Here in the largest medieval square in Europe, dominated by the enormous Renaissance Sukiennice (Cloth Hall), you can buy trinkets, toys, decorations and other gifts under glittering lights." Ryanair operates flights from East Midlands Airport to Krakow. | MFA of Poland Photo: MFA of Poland