Gatwick Shares Practical Tips for Europe’s Christmas Market Rush
London Gatwick has shared updated advice for passengers heading to Europe’s Christmas markets, following a year in which more than 1.4 million people passed through the airport for festive travel. With 122 European destinations on the winter schedule, the airport points to rising interest in Christmas breaks, from Vienna and Strasbourg to Rovaniemi and dozens of smaller regional markets. Gatwick has also announced in-terminal Christmas huts between 15 and 24 December, offering food, tastings, and seasonal activities.
The airport notes that festive travel often involves busy terminals, colder weather, and short-day itineraries, so practical planning can make a noticeable difference. Gatwick’s guidance covers common issues such as parking, local currency, footwear, and onward transport. Market stalls do not always take the same forms of payment, and the distances between different Christmas markets can vary widely depending on the city. Travellers using a UK passport may also need to register their fingerprints and photo on arrival when entering some Schengen countries. By highlighting these points, the airport aims to help passengers avoid confusion during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.
“Christmas market breaks have really increased in popularity in recent years and we’re delighted to offer such a diverse mix of destinations for passengers to choose from. As well as increased choice and connectivity, we’re excited to bring the festive spirit into our terminals with our own Christmas market experience. We’re ensuring every journey through London Gatwick feels special this festive season, which is all part of our vision to be the airport for everyone, whatever your journey."
To support festive departures, Gatwick’s terminals will host Christmas-style huts run by food and beverage partners, offering small tastings and seasonal deals. Additional services, such as airport parking booking and advance currency pick-up, are also promoted as ways to simplify the journey. Santa Claus is expected to make short appearances across the terminals, adding a lighter touch for those travelling with children. The airport’s commercial team notes strong demand for short breaks, with people using long weekends to explore markets across 14 European countries.
Gatwick’s key tips for Christmas market trips
- Compare prices across dates; midweek flights are often quieter and more affordable.
- Book airport parking early.
- Take some cash, as not all stalls accept cards.
- Check Schengen biometric registration rules for UK passport holders.
- Wear warm, comfortable clothes suitable for long walks.
- Know the UK rules on bringing back meat and dairy products.
- Carry a reusable cup for hot drinks.
- Download local transport maps for offline use.
Many popular destinations are easy to reach thanks to Gatwick’s frequent winter services.
Festive highlights include:
- Austria: Salzburg’s Christkindlmarkt
- Czech Republic: Prague’s Old Town Square
- Denmark: Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens
- Estonia: Tallinn’s medieval centre
- Finland: Rovaniemi’s Arctic celebrations
- France: Strasbourg and nearby Colmar
- Germany: Munich’s historic market stalls
- Hungary: Budapest’s riverside lights
- Poland: Krakow’s festive squares
- Switzerland: Zurich and its large indoor market
Gatwick’s guidance makes it easier for passengers to choose the type of Christmas trip they want, whether they prefer Alpine villages, riverside markets, or classic city celebrations.
