With winter holidays around the corner, many families and travellers are searching for affordable city break destinations across Europe. A recent analysis by Disneyland Tickets has revealed a list of the best budget-friendly cities to visit this season, with Frankfurt, Germany, taking the top spot. For families and budget-conscious explorers, this study breaks down the average costs, including flights and accommodation, to show how far your travel budget can go in popular European spots.
In Frankfurt, a family of four can enjoy a city break for an average of £656. Affordable round-trip flights from London average just £116, while a four-night Airbnb stay comes to around £540. Despite being an underrated family destination, Frankfurt offers an array of engaging activities, from historic sites in the old town to boat trips on the River Main and family-friendly spots like Frankfurt Zoo.
Ranking second on the list is Krakow, Poland, which offers an excellent value for a winter getaway. A total cost of £724 includes budget-friendly accommodation at £259 and round-trip flights costing £464. Known for its rich history and vibrant cityscape, Krakow provides families with affordable options for sightseeing, including beautiful squares, museums, and seasonal markets that make the winter season extra special.
Close behind Krakow, Budapest, Hungary, claims third place with a total family trip cost of £725. Travellers can find Airbnb options averaging £253, with flights coming in around £472. Budapest’s stunning architecture, river views, and family-friendly thermal baths make it a memorable and cost-effective winter city break.
Venice offers families an unexpectedly affordable winter experience, coming in fourth on the list with a total cost of £969. Though famous for its canals and scenic gondola rides, Venice becomes less crowded in the winter months, allowing visitors to enjoy iconic landmarks at a leisurely pace. Airbnb rates are about £513, and flights cost around £456 for a family, making it an ideal winter escape.
In fifth place is Bergen, Norway, where families can witness the stunning Norwegian fjords for £1,014. Known for its natural beauty, Bergen provides travellers with a unique opportunity to experience scenic landscapes and winter activities. Airbnb stays average around £554 for four nights, with return flights at £460. Bergen offers a taste of Norway’s outdoor splendour at a fairly reasonable price.
For those with a larger budget, Reykjavik, Iceland, tops the list as the most expensive winter destination, with an average total of £1,982. Flight costs alone can exceed £1,088 for a family, so budget-conscious travellers might prefer other destinations. Reykjavik offers unparalleled natural wonders and unique winter experiences, but at a cost that reflects its popularity.
In second place for expense is Athens, Greece, with a total trip cost of £1,634. Accommodation in Athens is surprisingly affordable at £314 for four nights, but flights from London, averaging £1,320, drive up the overall cost. For those willing to splurge, Athens provides a mild winter climate, historical sites, and a cultural experience that’s ideal for off-season exploration.
Barcelona ranks as the third most expensive city to visit this winter, with a total family cost of £1,577. Round-trip flights average £820, and Airbnb costs around £757, making it a pricier option. However, Barcelona’s rich architecture, mild winter weather, and bustling market scene make it a popular choice for those seeking a warmer city escape.
Prague and Amsterdam round out the top five most costly destinations, with Prague totalling £1,504 and Amsterdam at £1,432. Both cities offer rich cultural experiences, but higher flight prices and Airbnb rates place them at the higher end of the budget spectrum for European winter travel.
Magdalena Petrusic from Disneyland Tickets commented on the study’s findings, noting that winter offers excellent opportunities for families to travel affordably, especially in destinations like Frankfurt, Krakow, and Budapest. “Winter is a great time to explore Europe with fewer crowds and often lower prices,” she remarked. “These cities offer fantastic cultural experiences, and for those who plan strategically, there are plenty of ways to enjoy a memorable winter holiday without overspending.”
With Frankfurt and Krakow leading the way in affordability, families and travellers can embrace European winter city breaks that combine cultural richness with budget-friendly options. Whether exploring Frankfurt’s festive markets or Budapest’s thermal baths, there are plenty of choices for a memorable and affordable winter escape.
