December is no longer just a month for Hanukkah. For many Israelis, it is the month to leave everything behind for two or three days, fly to Europe, and enjoy Christmas markets, football matches—such as the English, Spanish, and Italian leagues, and of course, the Champions League—and Boxing Day shopping. Travel companies report a significant increase in bookings, and they are noticing a new trend:Packages that include everything.
Roy Ezra, CEO of Arena Tickets, which provides sports packages and tickets, explains: "In December, the Champions League knockout matches take place, attracting the teams beloved by Israelis. In addition, many league matches are held in England, Spain, and Italy. Shopping enthusiasts prefer to schedule their trips for December 26, Boxing Day, when many stores offer significant discounts."
The company notes that the rise in bookings is felt as early as September, when many request to reserve tickets and packages in advance. Among the most sought-after matches are Real Madrid vs. Manchester City in the Champions League and Tottenham vs. Arsenal in the Premier League. Arena Tickets specializes in selling packages that include flights and hotels, which makes it especially convenient for Israelis during this period, particularly given the security situation.
Christmas Markets You Shouldn’t Miss
And if you are already flying, which markets are a must-see? Tali Noy, Vice President of Strategy and Marketing at Issta, offers some tips and prices.
London: Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park is one of the largest and most famous markets in Europe, featuring traditional food stalls, hot chocolate, roasted chestnuts, German sausages, and marshmallows on the fire. Alongside the food, the park offers roller coasters, carousels, ice performances, and a skating rink. Main streets, including Oxford and Regent, are illuminated with spectacular holiday decorations.
Sample package: Direct flights with Arkia, 3 nights at the Hilton Olympia Hotel, 3-star, breakfast included, starting from $870 per person in a double room.
Budapest: Offers authentic markets with ceramic, textile, and wooden crafts, as well as warm local foods such as langos, goulash, seasoned sausages, and trdelnik. The central Vörösmarty Square market and the markets in front of St. Stephen’s Basilica provide a romantic and photogenic holiday experience.
Vienna: Christkindlmarkt near the City Hall offers hundreds of stalls with wooden toys, ceramic works, natural soaps, angel figurines, and scented candles. The market combines a classic atmosphere with festive warmth, offering Austrian sausages, hot punch, and famous strudel.
Sample package: December 28–31, 3 nights at the Mercure Wien Westbahnhof Hotel, including direct flights and breakfast, starting from $570 per person in a double room.
Prague: The market at the Old Town Square features a huge Christmas tree, choir performances, Bohemian glass stalls, wooden toys, and jewelry. Local foods, including grilled Czech sausages and trdelnik, complete the experience. Another market at Wenceslas Square is suitable for those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere.
Christmas markets in Europe have become international attractions: London with its modern grandeur, Vienna with classic elegance, Budapest with local warmth, and Prague with legendary charm. Beyond the lights, decorations, and food, it is an experience of culture and human connection during the coldest season. For those seeking the perfect winter experience, a Christmas vacation in Europe is the ideal destination.