Is the Edinburgh Christmas Market any good?

PUNTERS have blasted Edinburgh's Christmas markets as the attraction rakes in HUNDREDS of brutal one-star reviews. Visitors to Scotland's capital were less than impressed with the city centre markets. The huge Christmas event takes over Princes' Street Gardens every year.

What's the best Christmas market in the UK?

Bath Christmas Market was named the UK's best Christmas market. And it deserves the crown.

Is it worth going to Edinburgh at Christmas?

It's the most wonderful time of the year! Edinburgh is known for their incredible Christmas market, and it really is magnificent which I'd recommend visiting at least once in your life. But amongst the markets, there are also so many other Christmassy things to do.

How much does it cost to go to the Edinburgh Christmas market?

Entry into Edinburgh's Christmas sites is free, but you may have to pay for additional rides and attractions, either by pre-booking tickets or purchasing on the day. Please note that each site is cashless, and so will be taking card payments only.

Where does Edinburgh Christmas market rank?

It is voted sixth in Europe in the "European Best Christmas Markets" online voting this year and 1# Most Sustainable Christmas Market in Europe. The Christmas market, which stretches across the entire city centre, impresses with a variety of goods from almost 20 countries around the world.

Edinburgh Christmas Markets 2024: First look, Stall Overview, Day vs. Night visit on opening weekend

What is the most beautiful Christmas market in the world?

Viennese Christmas Market, Vienna (Austria): The popular Viennese Christmas Market in front of Vienna City Hall is as picturesque as the Austrian capital city itself.

What is the best Christmas market in Scotland?

How far is Edinburgh Christmas Market from train station?

The nearest railway station to Edinburgh's Christmas is Edinburgh Waverley which is approximately 2 minutes' walk to the entrance to East Princes Street Gardens. The most direct route is via the Waverley Bridge exit, which is also step-free.

Is Edinburgh Christmas Market big?

East Princes Street Gardens Christmas Market

Featuring around 70 stalls with some of the best local and international producers selling everything from handmade gifts, bespoke products, to tasty treats and delicious drinks.

Is Edinburgh Christmas market cash or card?

Certain activities will require a ticket (such as the Ice Rink, Santa's Stories, The Big Wheel) and these can be pre-booked. All rides can also be paid for at the point of entry and staff will be on hand to help. All sites don't accept cash, so card payments only please.

Is Edinburgh too cold in December?

Edinburgh and the Lowlands in Winter

Edinburgh in December is a festive delight, with temperatures ranging from 1°C to 6°C. Edinburgh comes alive with Christmas markets, festive lights, and seasonal events such as the famous Edinburgh Christmas market.

Is Edinburgh or Glasgow better for Christmas?

Which city has better Christmas markets, Edinburgh or Glasgow? Both cities offer wonderful Christmas markets, but Glasgow's are larger, with a more diverse range of international goods, while Edinburgh offers a more traditional experience.

How busy is Edinburgh at Christmas?

Christmas and Hogmanay (New Year's Eve) are major holidays in Edinburgh and are anticipated each year. As a result, locals and tourists crowd the city to enjoy the merry atmosphere and jolly environment present in Edinburgh. One important reason the city is filled with people even before Christmas is for the shopping.

What is the easiest Christmas market to get to from the UK?

Brussels Christmas market is voted one of the best Christmas markets in Europe and is a great market for a family break or weekend shopping trip at only 1 hour 53 minutes from London by Eurostar. The Brussels Christmas market 2025 runs from 28 November 2025 to 4 January 2026.

Which city is nice for Christmas in the UK?

London. Christmas in Britain's capital is all one could hope for. Oxford, Carnaby and Bond Streets are strung top to bottom with festive lights, and Covent Garden's cobble-stoned shopping square is bursting with holiday cheer.

Where is the oldest Christmas market in the UK?

The Lincoln Christmas Market is the oldest in the UK, starting in 1982. Set against the backdrop of Lincoln's stunning cathedral, it feels like stepping back in time. The market was inspired by traditional German Christmas markets and has grown to feature over 200 stalls.

Is the Edinburgh Xmas market worth it?

We managed to walk the entire market whilst looking within about 30 mins. We were really underwhelmed as we thought it would be bigger than what it was. Overall, it was probably one of the worst Christmas markets I've been too. Incredibly disappointed.

What is the most beautiful Christmas market?

Is it free to get into Edinburgh Christmas Market?

Do I need an entrance ticket to Edinburgh's Christmas? Entry into all Edinburgh's Christmas sites is free!

How much are tickets to Edinburgh Christmas Market?

Entrance to the market is free. The helter skelter costs £4 a time - card payments only - and for local residents there's an EH discount of 20 per cent with proof of address.

Is it cheaper to buy train tickets on-the-day at the station?

No, it is always best to book advance train tickets up to 12 weeks in before your journey for the cheapest fares. However, if that's not possible and you are traveling last minute, an Advanced on-the-day ticket is a cheaper option and is available up to 15 minutes before the train departs.

Is Edinburgh worth visiting at Christmas?

Edinburgh is a stunning city at any time of the year but even more so in December. The streets are filled with twinkling lights and Christmas trees and the photo opportunities are endless.

Where is the most Christmassy place in Scotland?

Edinburgh. Edinburgh is the ultimate destination for a world-famous Christmas in Scotland. The iconic Edinburgh Christmas Market features rows of cosy wooden chalets offering handmade gifts, artisanal crafts, and a mouth-watering selection of festive treats.

Does Edinburgh have a good Christmas market?

Edinburgh Christmas Market, East Princes Street Gardens

And when hunger calls, the tempting aromas from the various local and international food and drink stalls are sure to tempt you. The market is also where Scotland's largest Ferris-wheel, the LNER Big Wheel is found.

What is the most Christmassy street in Scotland?

Lavender Drive, dubbed one of Scotland's most festive streets has been lighting up their local community by raising money for good causes with their attraction for four years.