Christmas markets are a magical festive activity, with Europe offering hundreds to visit and explore.

In recent years, festive markets have garnered a reupation for being very expensive, whether that’s prices of food, beer or fairground rides. 

If you’re looking for an exciting and economical Christmas break, then there’s a little-known city which has been awarded the title of the cheapest Christmas market in Europe for an five years in a row.

Riga, the capital of Latvia was crowned the cheapest market in a Post Office Travel Money report comparing the costs of getting to, staying near and shopping at a dozen Christmas markets in Europe for the last five years. 

According to Post Office, a two night stay in Riga, including flights and festive essentials like mulled wine and cakes will only cost £505.73

Even better, British Airways launched direct flights to Riga last winter. The airline has added three direct flights taking off each week from London Heathrow to Riga International Airport. Flights are currently sitting at around £115 return. 

The market is held at the centre of its labyrinthine mediaeval old town in Dome Square.

It’s jam-packed with all kinds of treats to marvel at and eat including handmade woollen mittens, jewellery and of course, local delicacies.

After you’ve worked up an appetite browsing the beautiful wares for sale, you could sample some delicious piragi (bacon buns) or the festive classic gingerbread men.

Of course there’s plenty to drink as well: mulled wine, tea and coffee with festive themes.

The Old Town Christmas Market will open in early December 2024 in Doma Square and will run until the first week of January 2025. 

There’s also a secondary market which is slightly further away, around a 15 minute wander from the old town.

This market is for families, famed for its rides and petting zoos that kids can enjoy as well as adults. 

The Latvian capital has come out on top when it comes to price due to its low-cost flights and competitively priced accommodation.