Five underrated European Christmas markets worth visiting this winter, without the crowds

With Christmas fast approaching, many people across Northern Ireland will already be thinking about festive getaways, whether it's a weekend of Christmas shopping, sipping mulled wine or exploring a beautiful European city.

And while Belfast's Christmas Market remains a popular festive attraction closer to home, those looking to travel a little further afield might want to consider somewhere different this year.

Popular European Christmas destinations such as Vienna, Prague and Strasbourg attract millions of visitors during the festive season, but some equally charming markets can be found away from the traditional tourist hotspots.

Now, travel experts at eShores have revealed five of Europe's most underrated Christmas markets for 2026, offering everything from medieval streets and traditional festive food to handmade gifts and impressive Christmas trees.

The destinations have been selected for their festive appeal and growing search interest, with Tallinn in Estonia topping the list with 10,000 monthly searches, according to figures supplied by eShores.

For Northern Ireland holidaymakers planning a winter city break, these five destinations could be worth adding to the list.

Tallinn, Estonia – 10,000 monthly searches

If you're dreaming of a picture-perfect Christmas getaway, Tallinn could be just the place.

Located in Estonia's UNESCO-listed Old Town, Tallinn's Christmas market feels like stepping straight into a festive postcard.

Traditional wooden stalls fill the historic Town Hall Square, where visitors can browse handmade Christmas decorations, locally produced crafts and gifts while enjoying traditional Estonian food and warming drinks.

The city's medieval buildings, cobbled streets and historic squares create a magical atmosphere, particularly when covered in a dusting of snow.

With its fairytale surroundings and traditional festive celebrations, Tallinn is an appealing option for couples and families looking for a memorable Christmas break.

Gdańsk, Poland – 8,000 monthly searches

Poland might not be the first place that springs to mind when planning a Christmas market getaway, but Gdańsk offers plenty of festive charm.

The city's beautifully restored Old Town provides the backdrop for a Christmas market filled with artisan stalls selling handmade decorations, jewellery and locally produced gifts.

Food lovers will also find plenty to enjoy, with traditional Polish pierogi, smoked cheeses and warming winter drinks among the seasonal favourites.

Gdańsk's coastal location gives it a different feel from many of Europe's better-known Christmas destinations, while its colourful architecture and historic streets make it a wonderful place to explore.

For Northern Ireland travellers looking for a city break that combines Christmas shopping, sightseeing and traditional food, it could be well worth considering.

Riga, Latvia – 7,000 monthly searches

Often overlooked in favour of bigger European capitals, Riga is another city that comes into its own during the Christmas season.

Latvia's capital is known for its stunning Art Nouveau architecture, historic squares and charming Old Town, which provide the perfect setting for a festive break.

Its Christmas market features local craftspeople selling handmade ornaments, traditional knitwear and gifts, alongside stalls offering Latvian festive food and warming drinks.

Seasonal entertainment and performances also help create a welcoming atmosphere throughout the Christmas period.

For visitors who enjoy combining a Christmas market with sightseeing and exploring somewhere new, Riga offers plenty to discover.

Bratislava, Slovakia – 5,000 monthly searches

Vienna might be one of Europe's best-known Christmas market destinations, but nearby Bratislava offers a charming alternative.

Slovakia's capital has all the ingredients for a traditional festive getaway, including historic squares, Christmas lights, handmade gifts and plenty of seasonal food and drink.

Visitors can explore markets spread across the city centre, browsing locally made crafts while sampling Slovak winter favourites such as roasted meats, pastries and hot drinks.

Bratislava is also relatively compact, making it particularly appealing for a short weekend break.

Its smaller scale means visitors can enjoy the Christmas atmosphere while still finding time to explore the city's historic attractions.

Vilnius, Lithuania – 2,000 monthly searches

Rounding off the list is Vilnius, Lithuania's capital, which transforms into a festive wonderland during the Christmas season.

The city's celebrations centre around Cathedral Square, where a spectacular Christmas tree takes pride of place.

Visitors can browse traditional market stalls, enjoy seasonal food and drinks and explore the city's beautiful Old Town.

With its historic buildings, atmospheric streets and traditional festive celebrations, Vilnius offers plenty of Christmas charm.

And for travellers hoping to discover somewhere different from the usual festive hotspots, Lithuania's capital could be a particularly appealing choice.

Why lesser-known Christmas markets are worth visiting

Gavin Lapidus, founder of eShores, believes travellers could be missing out on some fantastic festive experiences by sticking to Europe's most famous Christmas markets.

"Many travellers automatically think of destinations like Vienna or Prague when planning a Christmas market break, but some of Europe's most memorable festive experiences can be found in lesser-known cities.

"These markets offer a fantastic opportunity to experience local culture, enjoy traditional food and drink, and soak up a magical festive atmosphere without the crowds often found in more famous destinations."

With Christmas markets offering everything from traditional crafts and local delicacies to historic surroundings and seasonal entertainment, there are plenty of reasons to consider a different European destination this winter.

And for Northern Ireland holidaymakers looking to make the most of the festive season, a trip to one of these underrated cities could offer a Christmas break to remember.

For more travel inspiration and tailor-made holiday advice, visit www.eshores.co.uk.