Christmas only comes around once a year, so why not escape for a day or two for a change of scenery? Here are Brig’s top festive locations for the mentally burnt-out student in need of a festive getaway.
Dublin, Ireland
Dublin is the perfect last-minute escape destination to fill your Christmas break with Guinness and Christmas markets.
Only a short, £16 flight from Glasgow, the beautiful capital of Ireland lights up for the festive season. The flight patterns, run by Ryanair, mean that a trip to the city can be made in a day trip, saving you both money and time.
There is a range of Christmas markets in Dublin. The main one is held at Dublin Castle and another (featuring an ice rink) at the Smithfield Christmas market. If you have had enough of Christmas markets then this is the perfect excuse to visit the Guinness Storehouse and get yourself warm on the inside.
Visit Wild Lights at Dublin Zoo to light up your evenings, and enjoy a festive tipple at the famous Temple Bar. It’s the perfect way to blow away your winter blues and enjoy a last-minute Christmas destination celebration.
Cologne, Germany
Feeling like branching further out? Cologne, Germany is renowned for its festive markets, as are many cities in Germany, with the Bavarian theme featuring in Christmas markets internationally.
Cologne Tourism is advertising a grand 12 Christmas markets taking place in the city this year, which is more than enough to fuel your festive getaway.
Ryanair flights to Dusseldorf cost £20-30, flying from Edinburgh Airport. Whilst not direct to Cologne itself, Dusseldorf Weeze airport puts you near Cologne while saving money on flights, making it an accessible and affordable getaway.
Brussels, Belgium
Belgium’s beautiful capital city, full to the brim with good beer and chocolate.
Ryanair (notice a theme?) flies to Brussels Charleroi for ~£30. Followed by a one-hour shuttle bus, you’re immediately embedded in the old city, surrounded by old, breathtaking architecture and more chocolate shops than you can count. Been craving waffles? There’s a waffle shop on every corner – indulge yourself.
The Grand Palace is home to Brussels’s main Christmas market, featuring over 200 chalets, an ice rink, and a Ferris wheel.
Whilst you’re there, head to a local pub for a few pints of cold Belgium beer and some iconic chips with mayonnaise. It’s a cheap, fun, and festive destination to help you make the most out of the Christmas holidays.
Edinburgh, Scotland
Fancy staying a little bit closer to home? The Christmas break is a time away from the stress of university, where you are finally given the space to breathe and take in some Christmas merriment – hopping on a train to Edinburgh (if you can brave the crowds) makes for a stunning Christmas getaway.
The Edinburgh markets are lively and welcoming, the shops warm and inviting, and the pubs are stocked and ready for you to enjoy a relaxed break. Don’t overlook it just because it may be closer to home – you never know what you might miss!
Christmas Destination Summary
Take this article as your sign to escape the world, by yourself or with friends or family, and experience the festive season somewhere new. The cost does not need to be high, the time does not need to be long – it’s worth putting in the effort, booking some flights, and eating pigs in blankets in a new country.
Featured Image Credit: Pexels.com
Journalism student at the University of Stirling & BRAW Magazine editor 24/25 and 25/26 🙂
You can see my portfolio here: https://www.clippings.me/alicepollard
