While we’ve only just entered November, people are already snapping up their panto tickets and deciding which Christmas markets they’ll frequent. The UK showcases some truly stunning ones, such as the Galway Christmas Market on Eyre Square and Winter Wonderland in London, but mainland Europe really steals the show when it comes to the festive season.

One Christmas market consistently tops the list as Europe’s finest—Budapest in Hungary, as voted by European Best Destinations. Galway Beo reporter Shauna Bannon Ward went on holiday there last year. She glimpsed images of towering Christmas trees, ice-skating rinks, and crowds of people perusing brightly lit stalls and was completely enchanted before even setting foot there. However,  she admits, “I’m sorry to say that it was somewhat disappointing”.

“This is not a criticism of Budapest. It’s an extraordinary city overflowing with culture, stunning architecture, incredibly friendly locals, and some of the best cuisine I’ve ever sampled.

“But when it came to the Christmas markets, I fear I set my hopes too high. Instead of a bustling ice rink, I found myself sidestepping soggy cardboard scattered across the ground.”

Rather than a plethora of stalls overflowing with festive items and gifts, Shauna stumbled upon a handful of stalls dotted around the square, most of which did not offer anything remotely festive.

And instead of weaving through throngs of fellow market-goers, she spotted groups of stall workers lounging on metal barrels, puffing away at their cigarettes.

She went on to say, “Honestly, I estimate there were fewer than 20 other people present, which is understandable considering many of the stalls were completely shut despite the market supposedly opening two hours earlier.

“I’m inclined to give them the benefit of the doubt. Perhaps a visit during the evening would have provided a better experience, or if the weather wasn’t drizzling, or maybe later in December.

“However, it’s important to mention that my visit was at the beginning of December, and the markets were planned to open in mid-November. Plus, the weather wasn’t exactly pouring – it was more of a mist or drizzle.”

Shauna continued: “If someone were to ask me for recommendations, I’d suggest skipping the Christmas markets or perhaps just a quick visit to say you’ve been.

“Instead, I believe people should head straight for the Central Market Hall – it’s indoors, offers a wider variety of items to buy, has multiple levels and plenty of fantastic places to eat or grab a drink right outside.”