Europes

A YouTube star was left gobsmacked at the cost of a fairly basic dinner in what is reputed to be the continent’s most expensive city when he visited a chain of the 7-Eleven convenience store

There are a number of European cities that have a reputation for being the most expensive cities in Europe. And certainly the prices of some basic items backs up that claim where one particular YouTuber visited.

YouTube content creator Ed Chapman set off for Oslo, Norway to find out for himself, and was stunned to find the huge cost of a basic meal at a 7-Eleven convenience store.

Ed’s fact-finding mission started badly when a train from the airport to the city centre left literally seconds after he bought his £9 ticket. That left him with time to kill, so he went for a pit stop at Danish chain Joe and the Juice.

There, he explained on his YouTube channel, a medium milkshake and a small pot of yogurt and granola set him back just over £13. There was better news when Ed arrived at his £140-a-night three-star hotel, which he said was a good deal plusher than several other three-star establishments he’d stayed in previously.

Admiring his businesslike-looking desk he said: “For a three-star hotel, this is looking pretty good.” While the view out of his hotel room window was nothing to write home about, the “view of a wonderful metallic pipe and some stained glass windows” could have been worse, he added.

The following morning saw another impressive performance from his hotel: “Absolutely smashed breakfast by the way,” he enthused. “Lovely little spread for a three-star.”

But venturing outside, Ed was faced with some dizzying expenses. A hot dog at the city’s Christmas market cost him £7.30. The sausage was, he admitted, a cut above the average but it was undeniably pricey.

Just the chance of a simple bar of chocolate ended up costing him £3.57 when he tried his luck at a roulette game that had a Daim bar as a prize, Sadly, his number didn’t come up and he left the stall empty-handed.

After taking in the sights, including some very impressive ice-skating by the locals, Ed decided to get himself a cocktail. His vodka-and-cranberry concoction, called a woo-woo, set him back just under £11. While not cheap, the drink was “gorgeous,” he said. “Not too tangy on the cranberry.”

While Ed splashed out £23 on a classically Scandinavian sauna, and then just under £12 on a museum visit that included fewer viking artefacts that ne’d hoped for – but made up for it some truly grisly human skulls, most of his holiday budget went on food.

While you might think £21 would be enough to get a decent meal, Ed’s supper from 7-Eleven was a pretty basic affair. Surveying his chicken caesar wrap, pesto salad bottles of water and a Norwegian Kit-Kat, he said: “I’m not quite sure how I spent £21 here.”

He added, though, that Norway’s answer to the Kit-Kat was a cut above, with a “solidity” that gave it an air of quality. He theorised that it was probably healthier than the British equivalent too: everything Scandinavian is healthy. There’s not a single fat person here.”

In conclusion, Ed said, Oslo probably isn’t the most expensive city in Europe. He said it probably came second to Zurich. “However,” he added, “it is expensive. Just not as expensive as Zurich.”

Prague has been crowned the cheapest Christmas market destination in Europe with £2 pints and £74 hotels, and it’s also one of the most photographed festive spots on the continent

If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate Christmas market to explore this December, then you’re in luck. Hoppa has done the legwork for you and identified the most affordable destination to soak up the festive atmosphere.

The airport transfer experts have scrutinised dozens of European winter holiday spots, considering factors such as average accommodation costs, Tripadvisor reviews, and even the price of a pint.

And the European location that offers the best value for money this Yuletide is…Prague!

I agree with them after visiting the scenic city of Prague two years ago during the Christmas period. The Old Town Square has an iconic Gothic Church, a 20-Metre Christmas tree and is the most festive place I’ve ever experienced.

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It truly comes alive in December when the Christmas lights sparkle, locals sing traditional Czech carols and chalets sell everything from Trdelník (chimney cake) to hand-painted Czech Marionettes and puppets.

In addition to a visually stunning Christmas market, you’ll find an impressive 4,811 attractions to keep you entertained. With a score of 7.5 out of 10, the average cost of a 3-star hotel in Prague is a mere £74, and a pint will set you back just £2.17, according to secretldn.com.

The square is lined with eateries where you can sit back, enjoy reasonably priced food and drink, and indulge in some people-watching. Dinner with drinks typically costs between 250-400 CZK (roughly £8 to £14), with street food being even more affordable.

You can enjoy traditional dishes like Goulash, Svíčková (beef in cream sauce) or Vepřo knedlo zelo (pork, dumplings, sauerkraut) washed down with mulled wine, beer or Tatratea : A popular tea-based spirit.

In fact, the Christmas market is so picturesque that it’s been dubbed the most photographed Christmas market in Europe by various media outlets and Prague City Tourism.

There’s still ample time to visit – the market operates annually from late November until early January, transforming the square into a magical scene dominated by the towering Gothic spires of Týn Church and the Astronomical Clock.

One of the best aspects is that despite being only a two-hour flight from the UK, once you set foot in the Old Town Square, it feels as though you’ve travelled back in time. And you can get there for as little as £27 return (if you book well in advance), leaving plenty of spare change for a few £2 pints of beer.

The 10 most budget-friendly European winter getaway destinations:

Prague, Czech Republic.

Bansko, Bulgaria.

Sofia, Bulgaria.

Budapest, Hungary.

Tallinn, Estonia.

Kraków, Poland.

Tirana, Albania.

Belgrade, Serbia.

Bratislava, Slovakia.

Vilnius, Lithuania.

The Eurovision likes to sell itself as a glittering exercise in European unity, colorful, loud, proudly diverse, and (officially) above politics. Yet anyone who has watched the contest with both eyes open knows that “apolitical” has always been more of a brand promise than a lived reality. In late 2025, that gap widened into a full-blown crisis, as a number of broadcasters reported across outlets that Spain, Ireland, Slovenia, the Netherlands, and Iceland signaled they would not take part in Eurovision 2026 after the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) decided not to exclude Israel amid the ongoing war in Gaza, Palestine.

This episode is not simply “politics invading culture.” It reflects a shift in how legitimacy is demanded and contested in Europe’s cultural diplomacy, particularly when public broadcasters operate under constant online scrutiny. A constructivist lens helps explain why withdrawal can become socially “appropriate” not only because of interests, but because identities, norms, and public expectations set the boundaries of acceptable action.

Eurovision’s political DNA

Eurovision was launched in 1956 as a post-war cultural bridge. Its origin story is important: a shared stage was meant to build familiarity, and familiarity was meant to soften rivalry. That heritage still shapes the contest’s self-image. But Eurovision has long functioned as a stage where politics appears in coded ways through voting patterns, representation debates, and symbolic messaging.

In 2026, the argument is no longer coded. The EBU’s insistence that Eurovision must remain apolitical is being tested by publics who increasingly expect cultural institutions to reflect basic humanitarian values. This tension has been building for years, but the Palestine crisis and the EBU’s decisions have turned it into a legitimacy problem, not merely a public relations headache.

Why withdrawal became “appropriate”

Constructivism in international relations focuses on how identities and norms shape behavior. States and national institutions do not act only from material interests; they also act from what is socially acceptable, what fits their self-image, and the expectations of their audiences.

Three dynamics stand out.

Identity signalling, domestically and externally

For several withdrawing countries, participation carried an identity cost. Public broadcasters—especially those that see themselves as guardians of civic values—operate within national narratives about solidarity, rights, and moral responsibility. Remaining in the contest while public debate framed Israel’s participation as incompatible with humanitarian concerns risked looking like complicity or indifference. Withdrawal, by contrast, functioned as a signal: this is who we are, and this is the line we will not cross.

Importantly, this signalling was not addressed only to external audiences. It was also addressed inward towards domestic publics, artists, and civil society networks. In many European societies, those constituencies are no longer passive consumers of cultural events; they are active participants in the reputational economy surrounding public institutions.

Norm cascades and moral momentum

Once a few broadcasters moved towards withdrawal, the decision quickly gained social momentum. This is what Finnemore and Sikkink described as a “norm cascade”: when a norm shifts from being optional to being expected, and the reputational cost of non-compliance rises. In practical terms, it can start to feel safer to leave than to stay—because staying invites condemnation, while leaving can be framed as moral coherence.

This is also why the dispute escalated so quickly. A single broadcaster withdrawing is a story. Multiple broadcasters withdrawing is a pattern, and patterns trigger moral comparisons. The question changes from “Why did they leave?” to “Why are you still staying?”

The ‘apolitical’ norm is under strain because it looks selective.

The apolitical claim does not collapse simply because people become more emotional. It collapses when it appears inconsistent. Critics repeatedly pointed to Russia’s exclusion in 2022 after the invasion of Ukraine and asked why a different standard was being applied now. The EBU, for its part, has emphasized the contest’s non-political ethos and introduced new rules aimed at insulating Eurovision from government influence.

But in the public sphere, the argument is not purely procedural. It is moral and comparative: if Eurovision can act decisively in one case, why not in another?

Constructivism predicts that institutions struggle when the norms they rely on no longer align with the moral intuitions of their audiences. That is exactly what this crisis reveals.

Digital activism as a legitimacy engine

If this controversy had happened twenty years ago, it would likely have moved more slowly, mediated by newspapers and official statements. Today it unfolds in a real-time digital public sphere where narratives travel quickly across borders and reputational costs escalate fast. Online mobilization—through petitions, artist statements, and hashtag campaigns—helped turn Eurovision into a symbolic battleground, pressuring broadcasters to respond to highly visible moral claims.

Two effects matter most. First, digital dynamics accelerate moral consolidation, which means once “selective neutrality” becomes a dominant frame, hesitation itself is read as a political stance. Second, institutions face continuous visibility. Decisions are no longer a single event but an ongoing justification process, renewed by viral moments and high-profile protest actions linked to Israel’s inclusion.

For cultural diplomacy, this shifts the logic of soft power from image-making towards moral credibility under public scrutiny.

Withdrawal as cultural diplomacy

Withdrawal from Eurovision is, in a strict sense, symbolic. But symbolism is precisely what cultural diplomacy trades in. The act of leaving, particularly when done by public broadcasters, served three strategic functions.

First, moral signalling, which meansbroadcasters and states communicated alignment with humanitarian values and a refusal to normalize perceived injustice.

The second one is reputation management.  In a digital environment, silence can be more costly than action. Withdrawal can reduce domestic backlash and preserve trust in public institutions.

Last, this is ethical positioning as soft power.  The logic of soft power is shifting from colorful branding to ethical coherence. A state may gain credibility not by appearing “fun,” but by appearing consistent with its professed values.

These functions help explain why the controversy is bigger than Eurovision. What is being tested is the idea that cultural platforms can remain insulated from global crises. Many audiences no longer accept that separation.

The EBU’s dilemma: rules, legitimacy, and consistency

The EBU now sits at the center of competing demands. On one side is the institutional need for predictability: rules that keep Eurovision from becoming an arena for state-to-state confrontation. On the other side is the public demand for moral consistency: rules that do not appear selective or politically convenient.

The EBU’s recent approach of avoiding an immediate exclusion decision while adjusting rules—may be defensible from a governance perspective.

Yet governance solutions do not automatically restore legitimacy, because legitimacy is also emotional and relational. It depends on whether audiences believe the institution is acting in good faith and applying standards fairly.

This is where cultural diplomacy meets a hard truth: neutrality is not simply declared; it is earned. And in the digital age, it is re-earned continuously.

What this means for Europe’s cultural diplomacy

Three implications stand out.

First, moral expectation is becoming structural.  European publics increasingly demand moral coherence not only from governments but from cultural institutions as well. Cultural diplomacy is being asked to carry ethical weight.

Second, “European values” are being operationalized. They are no longer abstract slogans. They are used as benchmarks to judge institutions and to accuse them of hypocrisy when they fall short.

Third, public opinion has become a strategic force, not background noise.  Digital mobilization can shape state behavior indirectly by pressuring broadcasters, artists, and institutions that sit at the heart of national identity.

Policy takeaways

If the EBU seeks to protect Eurovision’s legitimacy without turning it into a geopolitical tribunal, three steps would help. First, it should clarify participation principles by defining what “neutrality” means operationally and what thresholds trigger institutional action. Second, it should build a credible consistency mechanism, as audiences will continue comparing cases and demanding transparent reasoning. Third, the EBU should treat the digital sphere as part of governance: proactive engagement and rapid clarification now shape institutional survival as much as formal rule-making.

Conclusion

Eurovision 2026 is not simply a cultural controversy with political noise attached. It is a case study in how identity, norms, and digital activism are reshaping Europe’s cultural diplomacy. Constructivism helps explain why withdrawal became not only possible but, for some, necessary: it aligned state-linked institutions with the moral expectations of their publics.

Eurovision was built to bridge Europe after war. Ironically, its newest crisis shows that unity today is conditional: audiences increasingly expect cultural institutions to be transparent, consistent, and ethically credible, especially when global suffering is impossible to ignore.

This week is shaping up to be crucial for the European Union’s policy on Ukraine. EU foreign ministers met in Brussels on Monday; EU heads of state will gather on Thursday. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is meeting United States envoy Steve Witkoff. At the top of the agenda is the peace plan put forward by US President Donald Trump and continuing funding for Ukraine’s war effort.

The European strategy so far has been to alter the US-proposed peace plan in such a way that it becomes completely unacceptable to Russia. This, as European leaders hope, will reinforce the core narrative emanating from their capitals over the past two months – that Russian President Vladimir Putin is just playing games and doesn’t really want peace.

The idea behind it is to try to sway Trump to their side and have him apply additional military and economic pressure on the Kremlin rather than pressing Ukraine into signing an unsavoury peace deal right away. But this effort could easily backfire.

The main practical issue with regards to Ukraine’s capacity to withstand Russian aggression during 2026 is who is going to fund its army as well as its state and social welfare system. Trump proudly states that the US is no longer financing Ukraine’s war effort because, in his parlance, it is “Biden’s war” – ie, his predecessor Joe Biden is to blame.

The burden of funding is now squarely on Europe – the EU and rich non-EU countries, such as the United Kingdom and Norway. The US keeps providing weapons to Ukraine, but these are being paid for with money from European coffers. US intelligence support, crucial in Ukraine’s war planning, is currently available to Kyiv for free.

European leaders have been vocal and aggressive throughout the year in rejecting any realistic compromise that could end the war. But even as 2025 is ending, there is no clarity as to how they are going to back up their jingoistic rhetoric with sufficient funding that would allow Ukraine not just to stay afloat but tip the balance in the conflict in its favour.

Their plan A is what they call the reparations loan. It envisages using the assets of the Russian Central Bank frozen by European banks to fund the Ukrainian defence. This means that rather than spending the money on actual reparations – as in Ukraine’s post-war restoration – it would be spent on the war itself.

The thinking behind this plan is that once Russia suffers a strategic defeat, it would retroactively agree to the confiscation rather than demand its money back, so European governments would not have to reach into their coffers to return the money to the Russians.

The obvious problem here is that exactly nobody – except war cheerleaders who have been promising Russia’s defeat for the past four years – believes this outcome is even remotely realistic. Belgium, which holds the bulk of these assets, is equally sceptical, which is why it opposes this plan. It has been joined by a growing number of EU states, including the Czech Republic and Italy.

The other big problem is that Trump’s peace plan has radically different designs for the assets in question. It envisages using them as actual reparations, as in spending them on restoring Ukraine’s economy. Most crucially, Moscow has on numerous occasions signalled that it agrees with this part of the plan. It considers the money lost and wants to make sure neighbouring Ukraine does not turn into a failed state.

This means that if the reparations loan plan goes ahead, it would undermine the most attractive provision of Trump’s plan. If this happens, the US and the EU may find themselves more at odds with each other than they already are, and that would hardly sway Trump.

His administration has indicated on a number of occasions that it could walk out of the peace process if it is derailed, which means ending any help to Ukraine, be it with weapons or intelligence.

The reparations loan plan also comes with an enormous risk for the European economy. The confiscation of Russian assets would discourage any central bank in the world from keeping its money in Europe, meaning the European banking system stands to lose.

More importantly, this move cannot guarantee that Ukraine would be able to stop Russia’s slow but steady advancement. Securing funding for another year under the current circumstances basically means that more Ukrainian lives and territory will be lost in 2026.

This money cannot in effect counter the biggest threat to Ukraine and its neighbours right now: that of Russia precipitating a humanitarian catastrophe that could spill over into the region by devastating Ukraine’s energy infrastructure this winter. The latest blackout in Odesa when the whole city was left without water and heating in the middle of winter is a dark prelude of things to come.

All this warrants the question of why European leaders are acting the way they are now. Could their irrational radicalism be explained by their extensive political investment in delusional outcomes of this war that they have been selling to voters for the past four years? Or are they engaging in incessant moral posturing so as to avoid being scapegoated for the real outcome of the war?

There is probably a bit of both. But there is perhaps also an even more sinister motive, recently expressed by Wolfgang Ischinger, chairman of the Munich Security Conference: the idea that “as long as this war is being fought, … Europe is safe because the Ukrainians have successfully tied down this mighty Russian army.” In other words, there are some within the European political elite who perceive ending the war as being against European interests.

But regardless of what those on top think or are motivated by, the war fatigue in Europe is real. The rise of pro-Russia far-right groups in Germany and elsewhere, capitalising on the ruling elites’ shining ineptitude in handling the conflict with Russia, is a clear sign of that.

If the reparations loan scheme does not pass this week, the EU would have to go to plan B, which envisages loaning money from the EU budget. That, of course, would be met with fierce opposition from the European public.

The failure to secure funding for Ukraine may be seen as an embarrassing failure in Europe, but it would make things easier for Zelenskyy. With his administration losing popularity amid continuing military upsets and a major corruption scandal, Ukraine’s president is well on his way to becoming the chief scapegoat in this debacle.

But no more funding from Europe would allow him to declare that the West has betrayed Ukraine and proceed with the inevitable: accepting an unsavoury peace largely on Russia’s terms.

The views expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect Al Jazeera’s editorial stance.

WHEN it comes to tasty food and drink, incredible historical sites to glorious art, and impressive fountains, Rome has it all.

But it can be a place where the hordes of tourists are easy targets, from being lured into inauthentic restaurants to expensive souvenir shops – so Sun Travel has spoken to a local expert to see just how Brits can avoid that, and discover where to go instead.

Gabriele loseffini who is the General Manager at Generator Rome, a hotel minutes away from iconic Colosseum and Roma Termini Station, has got some top tips for us.

First up, is food, which let’s face it, is part of the reason Brits travel to Italy. Gabriele told Sun Travel: “For authentic Roman cuisine, try Trattoria da Enzo, Hosteria Grappolo d’oro or Armando al Pantheon.

“Testaccio Market is another must-visit – a lively spot for street food, local produce and even an opportunity to go on a guided food tour with all the best recommendations.

“I would always recommend the Centrale Montemartini, a culturally rich museum where classical statues are displayed amongst industrial machinery.

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“The space is quiet and well-lit allowing, providing a haven from the rush of the city where you can experience the art.  For drinks, Enoteca il Piccolo and Vanda are excellent wine bars offering an intimate atmosphere both with an extensive wine menu.

“Those with a sweet tooth will love the family-run Biscottificio Artigiano Innocenti.”

If you go during the summertime and fancy a cool down with some gelato, Gabriele says to check out La Romana or Gelateria Fassi both of which are loved by locals.

Gelateria Fassi is recognised as Italy‘s oldest gelateria and was established in 1880 – it serves classic flavours like the classic Stracciatella, pistachio, lemon, strawberry, chocolate and hazelnut.

In popular cities, especially in peak summertime, you’re likely to be wading through crowds.

If that’s something you’ll want to avoid in Rome then steer clear of the Colosseum and Pantheon and head to these spots on Gabriele’s radar instead.

Gabriele said: “To avoid the crowds, visiting the Aventine Hill and looking through the keyhole at the Knights of Malta is an excellent option.

“Ostia Antica is also amazing, an old city just outside Rome. It’s like a mini-Pompeii but far less crowded. And the Palazzo Doria Pamphilj is a beautiful gallery that is significantly quieter than the Vatican Museums.

“Wandering through local areas such as Testaccio and Garbatella is also perfect to get a sense of the Italian community with its authentic streets and restaurants.”

“Don’t feel like you have to stick to the city of Rome either, just a short drive away are beautiful places like Tivoli is an ancient town filled with beautiful gardens and is only about 30 minutes away from Rome. You can explore the ruins of Hadrian’s Villa and Villa d’Este. 

“Another great day trip would be to Bracciano. Less than an hour from Rome you can explore the medieval streets, see the volcanic lake and the well-preserved castle Castello Orsini-Odescalchi.”

If you’d like to swap city for city, then Florence is another option where you can see landmarks like the famous Ponte Vecchio Bridge and Duomo di Firenze.

While you’re there, Gabriele also said to make sure you stop by Trattoria Sergio Gozzi for a taste of traditional Tuscan dishes.

Looking at the menu, Trattoria Sergio Gozzi serves filled tortellacci, Tuscan stews and steak.

When it comes to accommodation, of course Gabriele has one hotel that trumps all the others in the city.

He said: “My favourite place to stay in the city would be of course Generator Rome, as it’s close to the Colosseum and Termini Station, so it makes an excellent base to explore.

“Generator’s Roman house has guest experience at its core, with stylish and comfortable rooms that offer an ideal option for those looking for an authentic Roman stay.

“During the warm season the rooftop terrace also has incredible views of the city and is the perfect place to relax once aperitivo hour hits.”

Borough Market is a tourist trap right here in the UK – but Sun Travel has some authentic recommendations for you…

Kara Godfrey, Deputy Travel Editor said: “If you really want to try some of Borough Market’s best treats without the huge price tag – check out Too Good To Go. They have everything from Bread Ahead to cheese mongers.

“My favourite place to eat is El Pastor – one of two restaurants (the second at Kings Cross) where the tacos are huge and the horchata is deliciously refreshing.

“While not as cheap as they used to be, the All That Falafel van is a great quick eat that will fill you up all day, with a wrap being around £6.

“If you want a fancier drink, you’ll find me in Swift. Its small, but the bar crew are always happy to make you something off the menu (not that you’ll need it, with a whole book of options).”

Lisa Minot, Head of Sun Travel added: “Well it has to be Boro Bistro for me.

“I’ve been a loyal fan of the cosy Boro Bistro for more than a decade. This cute independent, fiercely French bar and restaurant has rarely changed in all those years.”

Veronica Lorraine, Gardening Editor and Associate Head of Features, told us: “Tabard Street Food Market is a proper hidden gem.

“Forget the chaos of actual Borough market – this has five or six stalls every lunchtime, is loved by locals – always a good sign – and serves everything from Filipino and Thai food to Jerk chicken, Falafal wraps, Souvlaki and Philly Steaks.

Travel Reporter Alice Penwill revealed her favourite spot: “Being fairly new to the area, when I ventured out for lunch, I was quite happy when I found a quiet spot away from the very busy Borough Market.

“Just a 10 minute walkaway on Crucifix Lane, I discovered Kin + Deum which is home to tasty Thai dishes like classic Pad Thai, pineapple rice, peanut satay and of course a katsu curry.

“They’re all reasonably priced and you get a lot for your money too, and wash it all down with a small cup of refreshing lemongrass tea at the end.”

For more on Rome with and without kids – here are the must-see tourist attractions and cheap pizzerias.

And if you fancy visiting more than one Italian city, one travel expert reveals the very clever way to see five in one day.

WANTED to try out life in a new country but don’t have the cash?

One stunning village in Tuscany is hoping to attract new residents, by offering to pay for their accommodation.

The local authority will cover half your rent for the first two years – and there’s an incentive for buyers too.

Tucked away on a hilltop in Tuscany is a little town called Radicondoli.

It has winding cobbled streets, stone houses and is surrounded by green fields.

What’s even better is that the local authority wants to encourage people to move there – and will even cover some rent.

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The plan to boost residents means the authority will cover half of the first two years’ rent for new residents who move in by early 2026 – if you want more details, take a look here.

For those wanting a more permanent move, Radicondoli offers grants to help with the cost of purchasing a property.

There is one catch however, as buyers have to commit to living there for 10 years, while renters have to stay for four.

Available homes range from apartments with one or two bedrooms all the way up to dreamy Tuscan farmhouses.

For anyone keen on an idyllic move, you’ll have to indulge in a quiet life as the town is in the middle of the countryside.

There are still a few places to pop into, like the local Piazza that serves up dishes like beef carpaccio., truffle Taglioni and Pappardelle with duck ragu.

Another serves up Pomodoro with mozzarella and salami, calzones and a variety of wines.

There’s also a beer hall, bakery, electrician, a shop selling handmade ceramics and a few B&B options.

For those who like a bit more going on, from Radicondoli, you can reach cities like Florence in an hour by car or Pisa in two hours.

The province of Siena has medieval buildings and a fan-shaped square called Piazza del Campo.

The region of Tuscany itself is one of Europe’s most popular holiday destinations.

Stats for 2023 revealed that there were over 52million overnight stays within the region.

Within the region are plenty of cities like Pisa, Siena, Lucca and Florence – which alone attractions over 10million visitors each year.

Flights don’t have to cost a lot either, in July 2026, one-way flights start from £38 with Vueling.

Travel Writer Hope Brotherton went on a Tuscan adventure last year where she discovered great food and historical excursions.

She said: “I’m spending my morning at Fattoria di Maiano, a sprawling farm on the outskirts of Florence that forms part of Italy’s largest botanical garden.

“Returning to Florence, there’s even time for one more tasting, this time at Villa Travignoli, a short drive from the farm. Sitting on a terracotta balcony overlooking the Fiesole Hills, I couldn’t think of a better spot to sample four glasses of Tuscan wine.

“With subtle hints of strawberry, the rosé had to be my favourite — and you can bet one found its way into my suitcase.

“After my six-hour outing in the Tuscan countryside, I arrived back in Florence, where I marvelled at the magnificent Duomo cathedral and strolled along the banks of Arno River, with its stone bridges such as the Ponte Vecchio.

“I grabbed dinner at eclectic Trattoria Zà Zà — the portion sizes are huge and I thoroughly recommend the parmigiana.

“And for a restful night’s stay, book a room at Hotel La Casa di Morfeo. Just a ten-minute walk from the centre, the rooms have all the essentials and the breakfast buffet is enough to keep anyone going.”

Plus, check out this other Italian town that’s selling houses for €1 and you don’t even have to pay a big deposit.

To relax on holiday, you can now stay in the Spanish villa designed by Alan Carr and Amanda Holden for just £28 each a night.

Amsterdam’s iconic Christmas market serves glühwein, raclette and festive treats just one hour from the UK – it needs to be on your radar this winter.

There’s only so much time to soak up the Christmas spirit before the big day, and despite work and life becoming more hectic than usual, I managed to swap the hustle and bustle of London for Amsterdam. It was my first trip back to the Dutch capital in a decade, with my arrival coinciding with the start of one of the city’s most iconic Christmas markets, reports the Express.

Christmas markets in the UK can be hit or miss, and I must admit, the ones I’ve visited over the years have never quite matched those on the continent. The first time I realised our markets didn’t measure up was just a few years ago when I visited Vienna, which can only be described as Christmas on steroids.

The largest Christmas market in Amsterdam springs up in the shadow of the Rijksmuseum on Museumplein, where you can blend the festive spirit with a visit to some of the city’s most renowned museums and galleries.

We arrived on its opening day, and even though we visited in the evening, we managed to dodge the wall-to-wall crowds. This was something I never experienced in Vienna, and on this occasion, I was extremely grateful for it.

Entry to the market is free, but you’ll have to fork out €16 for the joy of skating on its ice rink. Much like other European markets, Amsterdam’s was adorned with wooden chalets offering everything from knick-knacks to treats, piping hot cups of glühwein and food from all around the world.

There was even a cabin flying the Union Jack selling fudge. Who would have thought that British fudge was such a hit overseas?

No visit to a Christmas market would be complete without trying some of the local specialities. A Dutch wurst is a robust cured pork sausage typically served with stamppot, a blend of mashed potatoes and kale. However, it seemed we had arrived too late. No wursts for us.

So we settled for the next best thing: barbeque jumbo sausages served on toasted slices of bread with pickled onions and gherkins, topped with crispy onions and mayo. This isn’t your average sausage sandwich. Trying to tackle every bite is a mouthful, overflowing with chunks of smoky sausage and crumbly onions.

It was evidently a popular choice, with crowds gathering around the open flame grill right in the heart of the action, with sausages sizzling and emitting a tantalising aroma. A barbeque might not be what you expect in the depths of winter, but blimey, was it needed.

Sadly, the warmth emanating from the grill wasn’t enough to heat our bones while we waited, so two cups of glühwein were called for. Glühwein is traditional German mulled wine, delicately spiced with cinnamon, cloves, star anise.

I’m not entirely certain what the secret is, but somehow the Germans manage to perfectly balance the red wine and spices in a way that all the mulled wine I’ve sampled at UK Christmas markets always seem far too acidic. Glühwein is the ideal beverage to warm you to your core, particularly in a freezing city in December, even if the city is renowned for its beer.

When our sausages finally turned up, they were heaped with pickled onions and gherkins. Much like a Scandi open sandwich, it was bursting with diverse flavours, so unlike any festive fare you’d find back home.

You received an entire jumbo sausage on one slice of bread, quartered to actually fit into your mouth. The smoky pork was wonderfully offset by the sharp tang from the pickles, with a different texture provided by crispy onions. This isn’t your typical Christmas market grub, but it was delightful to sample some local specialities.

However, no Christmas is complete without a generous helping of cheese. A classic choice at European Christmas markets is bubbling, ooey, gooey raclette.

We opted for the traditional pairing of raclette and potatoes. What could be more perfect? The humble new potato smothered in smoky melted cheese.

The cheesy spuds were served with some more crispy onions and a fresh coleslaw. Now this is what Christmas is truly about. I would devour a bucketful of raclette if they’d offered one.

Sausages, glühwein and raclette: the holy trinity of Christmas market food.

Even though it was late at night and the crowds were thinning, there was still a buzz among the youngsters and families huddled around the electric heaters trying to stay warm, sipping from steaming cups, welcoming the festive season. Compared to Vienna, Amsterdam’s markets offer a more tranquil start to the Christmas season.

Is this the best Christmas market I’ve ever visited? Probably not, but I’m always fascinated to see how other countries embrace the festive season.

Amsterdam is one of those cities where you can spend hours just wandering around, and we certainly did plenty of that. You can meander from spot to spot with ease, particularly if navigating foreign public transport baffles you. That being said, Amsterdam’s public transport runs like clockwork.

From the moment you step out of Amsterdam Centraal, you can sense the Christmas spirit in the air. I returned to the city for the first time in ten years, and up until this point, I hadn’t felt all that festive.

Amsterdam served as a stepping stone into Christmas for me before I head back to Vienna again for round two of Christmas on steroids. If there’s anywhere you should flee to in December, it’s Amsterdam. It’s only a train journey away.

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This beautiful Christmas market has been dubbed one of the “most beautiful” in Europe thanks to its picturesque backdrop and winter atmosphere as travellers are left “in tears” at sight of it

If you are tired of the expensive Christmas markets nestled amongst city squares, this beautiful location could be your answer to feeling extra festive this season. The Ravenna Gorge Christmas Market offers something very different.

Hidden deep in the Black Forest’s Höllental (Hell Valley), this market doesn’t rely on medieval town halls for its backdrop. Instead, it is nestled in a steep, wooded canyon beneath a towering stone viaduct. The magic happens when the sun sets.

The massive stone arches of the railway bridge are illuminated in shifting violets, blues, and reds. Every twenty minutes or so, a regional train rumbles overhead, looking like a toy train in the distance, while snow (often reliable here) dusts the wooden huts below.

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Travellers Claudia and Kaan, from Toronto, US, visited the German market last week and were shocked when they stumbled upon the picture-perfect scene.

The couple wrote on their TikTok video: “We nearly cried. Tucked deep in the Black Forest with a massive stone viaduct glowing above you is one of Europe’s most beautiful Christmas Markets.”

Those who have visited have argued it’s one of the most romantic markets, with the isolation of the gorge meaning no background city noise and a backdrop of brass bands, the crunch of snow and the murmur of the crowd.

It’s also less busy than most Christmas markets thanks to its ticketed system and timed entry, avoiding the dangerous overcrowding seen at major markets like Cologne or Munich.

2025 Guide

Dates & Opening Hours

The market is only open on weekends (Fri-Sun) during Advent.

• Dates: Nov 28 – Dec 21, 2025
• Fridays: 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM
• Saturdays: 2:00 PM – 9:00 PM
• Sundays: 2:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Ticket Prices (2025 Estimates)

Entry is strictly ticketed. You cannot buy tickets at the gate.

• Adults: €6.50/£5.71 (entry before 4 PM) / €8.50/£7.46 (entry after 4 PM)
• Children (6-15): Free entry (but may need a shuttle ticket)
• Golden Rule: Tickets go on sale in mid-October (usually Oct 14th). Set an alarm; the evening slots sell out within days.

How to Get There

Due to its remote location, you can’t drive up to the market gate. Private parking is non-existent at the gorge itself for general visitors.

1. The Shuttle Bus

Most visitors take the shuttle bus. When you buy your market ticket online, you must select your shuttle departure point.

• From Hinterzarten or Himmelreich: These are the main shuttle hubs with parking lots and train stations. You park there (or arrive by train) and take the 10-minute bus ride.
• From Freiburg: There is a direct shuttle from Freiburg main station (approx 30 mins).
• Cost: Approx. €24/£21 (includes market entry and roundtrip bus). This is the stress-free “VIP” option if you are staying in the city.

2. The Winter Hike

For the full Black Forest experience, skip the bus and walk.

• The Route: Park in Hinterzarten and hike the Löffeltal path.
• Details: It is a paved, cleared winter hiking trail that takes about 45–60 minutes. It is downhill/flat on the way there.
• Torchlight: Many visitors bring headlamps or torches for the walk back, though the shuttle is a welcome sight for tired legs on the return journey.

Food and drink

The market hosts around 40 wooden chalets. The focus here is strictly regional, meaning local delicacies and small businesses.

A cup of mulled wine can be as cheap as €5/£4.30, while food costs vary.

• Wildschweinbratwurst: Wild boar sausage, a specialty of the forest.
• Flammlachs: Salmon smoked over an open fire on wooden planks.
• Black Forest Ham: Sold by the slab to take home.
• Glühwein: The mulled wine here is excellent, often made from local Badischer wine.
• Dünnele: A regional flatbread similar to Flammkuchen, topped with sour cream, bacon, and onions.

Tips for visiting

• Dress for the cold: The gorge traps cold air. It will be significantly colder here than in nearby Freiburg. Wear thermal boots; you will be standing on snow or frozen gravel for hours.
• Cash to hand: While some vendors take cards, signal in the gorge is spotty. Bring plenty of Euro coins and small bills.
• The “Magic Hour”: Book the 4pm-6pm slot. You arrive in twilight to see the gorge features, and by 5:00 PM, the lights are fully on for the complete experience.

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When French President Emmanuel Macron inaugurated France’s Space Command in Toulouse on 12 November 2025 and declared that “space is no longer a sanctuary; it has become a battlefield,” few expected such swift validation. Two weeks later, at the ESA Ministerial Council in Bremen on 26–27 November, member states delivered the largest budget in the agency’s history—€22.1 billion for 2026–2028, a 30% increase over the previous cycle—with an unprecedented focus on security, defense, and strategic autonomy. The Bremen decision has transformed Macron’s stark warning from rhetoric into funded reality and confirmed that Europe is finally awakening to the fact that the next decisive domain of great-power competition lies far above the Earth’s atmosphere.

Paris is preparing to invest about €4.2 billion in military space activities from 2026 to 2030 and around €16 billion in civilian and dual-use programs by the end of the decade. The ambition is to strengthen Europe’s resilience in orbit, reduce dependence on non-European systems, and create an industrial base capable of supporting long-term security objectives.

French planners are betting on a new generation of proximity‑inspection satellites to anchor this strategy, with demonstration flights envisaged in the second half of the decade and operational testing to follow. These satellites can approach, observe, and, if required, interdict suspicious objects in orbit. France is also exploring non‑kinetic tools—lasers and electromagnetic systems among them—designed to disrupt hostile platforms without creating debris. Paris has rejected destructive anti-satellite testing and argues that Europe must enhance space security without undermining international norms.

The European Union is entering this field late. Russia and China have already developed advanced inspection and interference capabilities. In September 2025, German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius revealed that two Russian Luch or Olymp satellites were shadowing Intelsat platforms used by the Bundeswehr. The episode underscored Europe’s lack of awareness and defensive capacity in orbit.

In Brussels, officials are floating the idea of a “European Space Shield”—a more integrated architecture to protect satellites and align EU and NATO postures. Success will depend on the willingness of member states to coordinate procurement, share data, and harmonize strategic objectives. Europe’s current system remains fragmented and is often slowed by national industrial preferences.

Macron has also called for reform of the European Space Agency’s geographic return rule, which distributes contracts according to member-state contributions rather than technical merit. The French position is that this rule limits innovation and prevents Europe from responding quickly to fast-moving threats in orbit.

There are challenges. Even non-kinetic defenses can be misinterpreted as escalatory. The orbital environment is crowded, vulnerable to miscalculation, and poorly regulated. France has therefore paired its military investments with calls for new rules of behavior and a European proposal for an orbital code of conduct. Such a framework would help prevent misunderstandings and promote transparency.

The ESA Ministerial Council that concluded in Bremen on 27 November delivered what many had doubted was possible: a €22.1 billion envelope for 2026–2028 that explicitly prioritizes space security, resilient navigation (FutureNAV), Earth-observation continuity, and dual-use technologies. Germany increased its contribution by nearly a third despite domestic fiscal constraints, while the package includes more than €1 billion for programs directly supporting defense and sovereignty. Crucially, ministers opened the door to greater flexibility on the controversial “geographic return” rule for critical security projects—a French demand that had been resisted for years. Bremen did not create a fully unified European space-defense policy overnight, but it transformed Macron’s Toulouse rhetoric into funded reality and gave the proposed European Space Shield its first serious financial and political tailwind.

Satellites underpin critical EU functions, including climate monitoring, secure communications, trade logistics, and border management. Rivals are developing tools that can dazzle, jam, or disable them. Europe cannot assume that these systems will remain safe without deliberate action.

Macron’s announcement in Toulouse should be seen as a strategic warning. Europe has the capacity to protect its interests in orbit, but only if it acts with coherence and political determination. The challenge for the European Union is not technological. It is the ability to work collectively and with a sense of urgency. In an era in which conflict begins long before military forces deploy, the EU’s strategic autonomy may depend on decisions made far above the atmosphere.

Switzerland’s largest city is often overlooked by tourists, but its Christmas markets offer unique food experiences including wasabi cheese and fondue served on a train

As Christmas approaches, many flock to Colmar in France for its enchanting half-timbered houses or Lapland in Scandinavia for guaranteed snow and Santa sightings. However, this year I decided to break away from the norm and kick-start the festive season with a hidden treasure.

From bracing dips in the river dressed as Father Christmas to sampling unfamiliar cuisine, this city offers a unique Christmas experience like no other.

This became evident as soon as I landed in Zurich, Switzerland’s largest city. Often overlooked due to its reputation as a financial hub rather than an Instagram hotspot, it’s frequently dismissed as merely a gateway to the country, a place to rush through on the way to the breathtaking alpine landscapes elsewhere. But that would be doing it a disservice.

Dig a little deeper, look past the clichés, and you’ll uncover one of Switzerland’s best-kept secrets – Zurich is just as vibrant at Christmas as any ski resort. The Weinachtsdorf Christmas market, situated in a city centre square near the lake shore, is a perfect example.

Switzerland may be famed for its world-beating cheese, but have you ever tried a variety that’s greener than your yuletide tree?

My palate was sent into raptures after tasting the wasabi-flavoured cheese at one particular stall, which caught the eye in a striking pistachio green hue. Alongside it sat “tricolore” cheese, spiced with paprika, chilli and carrot atop a goat cheese foundation, plus a black lemon version enhanced with charcoal (reminiscent of a Limoncello-infused Lindt chocolate bar, yet as dark as coals on a crackling festive hearth).

The range was so impressive that other typically “exotic” flavours, such as truffle, jalapeno and pesto, appeared almost commonplace by comparison.

The lively Christmas spirit was already in full flow. Salmon sizzled over open fires in preparation for lunch, fondue pots bubbled enthusiastically and vendors beamed warmly whilst seeking out customers.

The star attraction for those seeking refuge from the chill is a substantial fondue chalet, its interior wonderfully cheese-scented, leaving little doubt about the delectable fare on offer. Meanwhile, whilst everyone adores the classic Christmas favourites like mince pies and marzipan (and in Switzerland’s case, raclette and fondue), it’s equally simple to avoid predictability through an extensive selection of international food stalls, offering everything from Chinese dim sum to Mexican tortillas and Indian street food, each presenting their own distinctive festive twist.

The German bratwurst – a beloved sausage snack – is a must-try here, but I also came across a rather unexpected festive pudding that’s traditional in Switzerland: chestnut purée cheesecake. The artistic rendition is designed so that each portion resembles a snow-capped mountain peak.

After refilling my glass with cinnamon-infused gluhwein (mulled wine) followed by spiced apple punch, I wandered further through the market and quickly happened upon a delightful pick-and-mix stand advertising “old fashioned British fudges”. Flavours ranged from bubblegum to honey and pistachio, whilst neighbouring chocolate vendors left me utterly spoilt for choice with varieties including coffee, Irish cream, pink gin and cherry.

Whilst the market’s European-crafted presents carry hefty price tags, the food offerings are considerably more affordable, and sampling these culinary delights is an experience well worth having. Following a few hours meandering through the market, I headed to the locally celebrated Café Conditorei 1842, renowned for its legendary postcard-perfect interior, where I indulged in hot chocolate and cake.

Later, as dusk descended, I made my way towards the city’s celebrated shopping boulevard, the Bahnhofstrasse, joining the throngs of spectators gathered to witness the Christmas illuminations being switched on. Signalling the official start of the festive period, these lights are nicknamed Lucy, a moniker drawn from the Beatles’ classic ‘Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds’.

My scarf, adorned with twinkling stars against a midnight blue backdrop, mirrored the Lucy lights and shielded my ears from the biting wind when pulled over my head. While Audrey Hepburn may not have had to contend with freezing temperatures as she donned a headscarf in a vintage car along the European coast, my Swiss setting offered a festive touch with snowflakes….

After enjoying the city’s renowned Singing Christmas Tree, featuring Santa hat-clad choir members belting out tunes from Cher to the Backstreet Boys, it was time for supper. Zurich boasts an array of fantastic dining options – the festively decorated ceiling of Coco Grill and Bar deserves a special nod – but that evening, there was no doubt about my destination: the famed Fondue Express Train at Polerzauber.

Zurich’s globally celebrated fondue is displayed to its full glory on this charming little train, perched high above the Christmas markets at Zurich Central Station. From my elevated vantage point, I watched shoppers splurge at an impressive 120 stalls, all under the watchful gaze of a towering tree, the undeniable centrepiece of the station hall.

Dunking my bread and potatoes into the steaming pot, it became instantly clear why Switzerland boasts such a stellar reputation for world-class cheese – and you can elevate the experience further by incorporating additions such as “a pinch of blue cheese from the [local] dairy”, white Alba truffles, mountain herbs and even champagne. Vegans needn’t feel left out either, as a dairy-free alternative of this iconic dish is available.

One traditionally Swiss – though entirely optional – method of finishing the meal involves requesting a raw egg to be cracked into what remains of the cheese, creating a flavour combination that Polerzauber promises will deliver “probably the best scrambled eggs ever”. It’s undoubtedly unforgettable – and just to make certain it stays with you, the restaurant also stocks its own branded Christmas jumpers, which naturally all the staff sport whilst on duty.

Had I been blessed with additional time, I would have expanded my Christmas market tour to encompass the one situated on Zurich’s own mountain, the Uetliberg. It showcases handcrafted and locally sourced products, whilst on misty days, there’s the possibility of finding yourself enveloped by fluffy white clouds at eye level thanks to the elevation.

Conversely, should the skies be clear, you can drink in a panoramic view stretching to the distant Alps – meaning regardless of conditions, it appears you simply cannot go wrong. Finally, the locals of Zurich have a rather unconventional way to ring in the festive season – an icy dip in the nearby river.

This annual tradition takes place during the first week of December, and even brave tourists can join in if they complete the necessary paperwork in advance.

Despite temperatures potentially dropping to a chilly minus 5C, around 300 festive swimmers don their swimsuits and signature Santa hats each year for the so-called Santa Swim (or Samichlausschwimmen in German). It might be a challenge for the fearless, but it’s hard not to get swept up in the Christmas spirit in a city so committed to the cause.

Some locals boast about the cleanliness of their river, claiming it’s so pure there’s no food for fish, while others highlight the much-touted health benefits of ice bathing. Upon leaving, I was left with no doubt that Zurich’s quirky traditions and distinctive flavours create a unique Christmas experience that simply can’t be found elsewhere.

Book the holiday

Swiss International Airlines (SWISS) provides one-way flights to Zurich from various UK airports. The fare includes all taxes, fees and surcharges, one piece of checked luggage up to 23kg and one piece of hand luggage. Book at swiss.com.

Room rates at Hotel Seidenhof start from 320 CHF (£300) per night, including breakfast, based on two adults sharing a double room. Discover more and book at sorellhotels.com.

For further details on Zurich, head over to zuerich.com. You can also purchase the Zürich Card here, which offers unlimited 2nd class travel in Zurich, various lake cruises, free entry to popular museums, a 50% discount on selected public city tours, and a host of additional discounts and exclusive offers.