Christmas is an enchanting time of year. The sparkling lights, bustling markets, cosy atmosphere and traditions make it a holiday that is worth celebrating. But for many, the thought of an expensive Christmas holiday can be daunting. Not everyone has the time or the budget for a two-week tropical escape or a luxury ski trip. That’s where cheap Christmas weekend trips come in.
A weekend getaway in the Christmas season can give you a welcome rest, a chance to make memories, and a change of scenery – all on a budget. Whether you like to travel solo, with friends or as a family, there are plenty of cheap weekend trip ideas that can fit into your budget.
This guide will tell you everything you need to know about cheap Christmas weekend trips, including:
Why a weekend Christmas trip is worth it
Budget-friendly weekend trip ideas
Tips for saving money on accommodation and travel
Budget-friendly activities and ideas
How to plan a cheap Christmas weekend trip without the stress
Why Book a Cheap Christmas Weekend Trip?
1. Escape the Holiday Routine
If you’re lucky, the holiday season can be a wonderful time full of joy and celebration. But even if you love Christmas, spending several weeks at home can start to feel monotonous. If you’re feeling stuck in a rut, a weekend away can provide a refreshing change of scenery.
2. Celebrate Differently
Not everyone enjoys the traditional Christmas routine. A Christmas weekend trip can be a way to celebrate in a different way. Visit a nearby city to explore its festive markets, indulge in some seasonal food or treat yourself to a quiet weekend away from the Christmas hullabaloo.
3. Affordable Travel Options
Christmas weekend trips don’t require flights to the other side of the world or weeks in a luxury hotel, so they are much easier to fit into your budget. Even if you are a last-minute traveller, there are usually ways to find a cheap deal.
4. Lasting Memories
A Christmas weekend trip, even a short one, can create lasting memories. Think of cosy evenings by the fire in a cottage, ice skating under Christmas lights, or hiking in winter wonderland. A simple trip can be as memorable as a lavish holiday, if not more so.
Affordable Christmas Weekend Destinations
Finding the right destination is essential to a cheap Christmas weekend trip. Here are some of our budget-friendly weekend trip ideas that are sure to offer festive cheer without breaking the bank.
1. Nearby Small Towns and Villages
Small towns have a festive charm that big cities often lack. Find a small village nearby that has Christmas markets, twinkling lights, and winter activities.
Why it works: Travel costs are low, nearby B&Bs or Airbnb stays are cheaper, and there are often local Christmas events.
Activities: Holiday craft fairs, tree lighting ceremonies, winter hikes, cosy cafés
2. Regional Cities
Cities can be expensive, but if you search outside the capital you will find many regional cities offering lower accommodation prices, discounted attractions, and plenty of festive fun.
Why it works: Public transport is available, Christmas events are localised, and food is less expensive than big metropolitan areas.
Examples: Portland (USA), Edinburgh (UK), Salzburg (Austria), Krakow (Poland)
3. Coastal Towns
Winter may not be the beach season, but coastal towns have a restful charm year-round. Many towns will have off-season deals, quieter beaches, and seasonal events without the summer crowds.
Why it works: Accommodation deals, bargain seafood, scenic winter walks along the coast.
Activities: Beach bonfires, coastal hikes, boardwalk town Christmas markets.
4. Countryside Retreats
A Christmas weekend in the countryside can be peaceful and budget-friendly. Cabins, farm stays, or small country inns are often much lower than city hotels.
Why it works: Lower priced accommodation, relaxing atmosphere, and outdoor winter activities.
Activities: Horseback riding, winter hiking, farm visits, homemade Christmas crafts.
5. Ski Towns Off-Peak
Snowy weekend getaways don’t need to be Aspen. Smaller ski towns can have affordable rentals and less crowds.
Why it works: Shorter trips, lower priced lodging, discounted ski passes on weekends
Examples: Vermont towns (USA), Czech ski resorts, small alpine towns (Austria/Switzerland)
6. Nearby National Parks or Nature Reserves
National parks and nature reserves often have stunning winter landscapes and are usually low entry cost. Ideal for the outdoor enthusiasts wanting to escape Christmas crowds.
Why it works: Low cost, self-catering, scenic areas
Activities: Snowshoeing, winter hikes, wildlife watching, photography
7. Cultural Cities With Free Holiday Events
Check for cities that have free or low-cost festive events. Holiday discounts for museums, light displays, or city-sponsored concerts can be ideal for a cheap Christmas weekend trip.
Examples: Berlin, Prague, Budapest, or your own country’s smaller cities
Activities: Walking tours, outdoor concerts, window displays, Christmas markets
Tips for Saving Money on Christmas Weekend Travel
1. Book Early, But Stay Flexible
Booking early can lock in cheaper accommodation and transport. But late deals can be affordable, if you’re flexible with your destination or dates.
2. Travel by Car or Bus
Air travel can be expensive for short breaks. Driving or taking a bus can be cheaper and more flexible for regional destinations.
3. Budget-Friendly Lodging
Choose hostels, motels, Airbnbs, or B&Bs instead of hotels. Many smaller and older establishments have more festive charm at lower prices.
4. Go Self-Catering
Prepare some meals instead of eating out every time. Bringing snacks or holiday treats from home can also cut costs.
5. Look for City Passes or Discount Tickets
Some cities have discounted bundles for multiple attractions. These can save you money on museums, ice skating, and other seasonal activities.
6. Avoid Peak Travel Times
Try to avoid the most crowded travel days, like December 23–26. Flights, trains, and hotel prices can all be cheaper just before or after.
7. Embrace Free Holiday Events
Christmas markets, light displays, carol concerts, and seasonal parades are often free or very cheap. Plan your trip around these events to get the most festive fun at minimum cost.
Budget-Friendly Christmas Activities
Even on a tight budget, there are lots of ways to make a Christmas weekend trip feel festive and memorable.
1. Christmas Markets
Markets are often free to enter, and you can window shop, listen to festive music, and taste local food without spending much.
2. Holiday Light Displays
Many towns and cities have whole neighbourhoods or public spaces decked with lights. Wrap up warm and take a stroll to enjoy the magic of Christmas lights.
3. Ice Skating
Public ice rinks are often inexpensive and provide a fun winter activity for the whole family. Some rinks even have free entry with only a small rental fee for skates.
4. Winter Hikes or Nature Walks
Parks, forests, and hiking trails are a great way to enjoy the season for free. Bring a thermos of hot cocoa and make it a festive hike.
5. Visit Local Attractions
Check out small museums, historic houses, or cultural sites which may have low-cost admission and seasonal events.
6. DIY Holiday Fun
Pack along a small kit of holiday crafts or even a portable speaker for Christmas tunes. Little personal touches can make a cheap trip feel special.
7. Attend Community Events
Local churches, community centres or town halls can host free concerts, plays or workshops around Christmas. They are budget-friendly and often charming.
How to Plan a Stress-Free Cheap Christmas Weekend Trip
1. Set a Budget
Decide on a maximum amount you are willing to spend, and factor in for all travel, accommodation, food, and activities. This will help you make realistic decisions and avoid overspending.
2. Pick a Nearby Destination
Limit travel distance to reduce transportation costs and get the most time at your destination.
3. Plan Key Activities
Prioritise a few special things you really want to do, rather than trying to cram in everything. Quality rather than quantity makes a trip more memorable.
4. Pack Appropriately
Bring warm layers, walking shoes, and anything else you’ll need. Packing sensibly means you won’t buy extras that cost money.
5. Make Reservations Where Needed
For budget trips, it still pays to book accommodations or popular activities in advance to avoid being priced out or sold out.
6. Utilise Free Amenities
Many places offer free breakfast, wifi or parking. Take advantage of these to stretch your budget.
7. Consider Travel Buddies
Sharing accommodation, food and transport with friends or family can save a lot of money.
Sample Cheap Christmas Weekend Trip Ideas
1. Cozy Mountain Cabin
Location: Nearby state park or mountain town
Accommodation: Cabin or lodge rental
Activities: Winter hiking, fireplace relaxation, Christmas movies, board games
Estimated Budget: $150–$300 for two nights
2. Christmas in a Small Town
Location: Local town with market or holiday festival
Accommodation: Bed-and-breakfast
Activities: Market browsing, holiday lights, local café treats
Estimated Budget: $100–$250
3. Coastal Winter Escape
Location: Beach town near your city
Accommodation: Budget inn or Airbnb rental
Activities: Stroll along the beach, seaside holiday dining, sunset photography
Estimated Budget: $120–$300
4. Urban Cultural Weekend
Location: Regional city with museums, holiday events
Accommodation: Hostel or budget hotel
Activities: Museum visits, walking tours, holiday performances
Estimated Budget: $150–$350
Final Thoughts
Christmas can be magical without being expensive. Cheap Christmas weekend trips mean you can celebrate the season without the financial worry, while still making memories and experiencing somewhere new.
Whether it’s a cosy cabin, a festive small town, a seaside escape or a budget city break, a weekend getaway can provide a perfect balance of relaxation, adventure and festive spirit.
With a little smart planning, flexibility and creativity, a budget Christmas weekend can be as memorable – and often more meaningful – than an indulgent holiday.
This year, instead of stressing over the cost of a long break, why not plan a short, cheap weekend trip instead. You’ll return relaxed, inspired, and full of festive cheer – without emptying your wallet.
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