Discover the Best Days for Affordable Christmas Flights in 2025

As the festive season draws near, many are planning trips to Europe and beyond for Christmas. According to travel experts, December offers a range of options for those seeking both affordable flights and unique holiday experiences. Research indicates that the demand for budget-friendly flights is surging, with searches for “cheap Christmas flights” increasing by 609% globally over the past three months.

To navigate the busy holiday travel period, experts from Netflights have identified key dates that not only offer cheaper flights but also promise a more relaxed airport experience. Amanda Parker from Netflights emphasizes that many travelers mistakenly believe the days leading up to Christmas are optimal for flying. She notes, “The busiest days to fly are December 21 and 22, so we recommend avoiding the airport during this hectic time.”

Flying on Christmas Day itself can yield significant savings. Morning flights on December 25 are often less crowded, making for a smoother travel experience. Parker highlights, “Passengers can expect shorter queues and quicker security checks, which reduces the likelihood of delays.” Additionally, some airlines offer festive treats and special services on flights that depart on Christmas Day, enhancing the travel experience.

Travelers eyeing popular destinations such as Italy, Spain, and Brazil will find that flights on December 25 are typically less expensive. For instance, a return flight from the UK to Brazil on January 1, 2026 often comes with a reduced fare. According to Skyscanner, flying on Christmas Day can save travelers over £20 per person compared to peak travel dates.

While December 25 is ideal for budget-conscious flyers, many also wish to visit European Christmas markets before the holiday. For those seeking a festive getaway in December, Netflights has outlined additional advantageous travel dates.

Cheapest Dates for Popular Christmas Markets

Traveling during the festive season not only allows for affordable flights but also the chance to explore enchanting Christmas markets across Europe. Here are some of the most sought-after destinations:

– **Rio de Janeiro, Brazil**: Flights from December 1-8, 2025 start at £699. Visitors can enjoy the world’s largest floating Christmas tree, set against a stunning beach backdrop.

– **Berlin, Germany**: From December 1-8, 2025, flights to Berlin are available for around £134. The city’s festive atmosphere is enhanced by over 70 Christmas markets, making it a prime destination for holiday cheer.

– **Prague, Czechia**: With flights costing approximately £193 from December 1-8, 2025, Prague’s Old Town Square Christmas Market is renowned for its picturesque setting and traditional holiday treats.

– **Cologne, Germany**: Flights to Cologne during the same period are priced at around £243. The city’s Christmas markets, particularly the Cathedral Christmas Market, offer a vibrant holiday experience along the Rhine River.

– **Tallinn, Estonia**: For those looking to travel from December 23-30, 2025, flights to Tallinn are available for about £214. The medieval Old Town hosts a delightful Christmas market, perfect for experiencing a winter wonderland.

– **Bozeman, Montana, USA**: For a long-haul vacation, flights from December 12-19, 2025 are approximately £919. Bozeman’s annual Christmas Stroll offers a quaint charm with local traditions and festive activities.

– **Vienna, Austria**: Those planning to travel from December 31, 2025, to January 7, 2026 can find flights for around £147. Vienna’s Christmas markets, particularly at Rathausplatz, create a magical atmosphere full of holiday spirit.

Parker advises travelers to book long-haul flights several months in advance to secure the best deals and avoid the risk of sold-out flights. With the holiday season approaching, now is an opportune time to plan a memorable Christmas getaway.