Cork is one of the top three trending Christmas market destinations for 2024, according to a new study.Getty Images
According to a new study, Cork ranks in the top three world's trending Christmas market destinations for 2024, thanks to a 108% increase in online searches since this time last year.
All over the globe cities are brimming with anticipation for the Christmas markets that are about to open their doors: mulled wine is warming, chestnuts are roasting, and holiday stalls are being stocked with unique gifts.
But while the likes of Vienna and Nuremberg’s historic markets remain some of the most iconic to visit worldwide, there are many other fantastic destinations gaining attention each year, piquing the interest of people looking for more magic, and less crowds.
With the cozy season upon us, travel insurance specialists at InsureandGo have analyzed online search data to find the cities that have the most Christmas market hype compared to last year.
According to InsureandGo’s research, which looks at which cities are seeing the biggest spikes in online interest for Christmas markets compared to the same period in 2023, Australia’s Sydney leads the way as the top festive destination of 2024, with a 233% increase in searches. Following closely behind are Tokyo, Japan (116%), and Cork in Ireland (108%).
For those visiting Ireland this Christmas season, Cork offers a magical festive experience with its traditional Corkmas, featuring a beloved parade and switching on of the Christmas lights, as well as its local famous Ferriswheel and vintage carousel making a return appearance too.
Winterlee, brand new for 2024, is an immersive winter wonderland also opening in early November, where visitors can explore the usual wooden chalets, synonymous with Christmas markets, seasonal food and drink, a funfair, and even an Alpine Skate Trail.
🎄The countdown to the #Corkmas Christmas Parade is now on!
🎅The main man, Santa, will lead a festive parade full to the brim of music, dance, light and sparkle.
✨Stay tuned for more details! pic.twitter.com/eSbYSSaifW
— Cork City Council (@corkcitycouncil) November 1, 2024
With cities not usually associated with traditional European Christmas markets dominating the top 3, and Seattle coming in 4th, it's clear to see a growing global appeal for festive markets, even in places where they aren’t historically rooted.
Meanwhile, in the remainder top 10, the global enthusiasm for the holiday spans across Northern Europe - the Scandinavian style markets in cities like Helsinki (5th), Malmö (7th), and Oslo (9th), have been growing in popularity, offering a cosy experience amid the cold with local crafts and foods.
Chris Rolland, CEO at InsureandGo said: “Christmas is a thrilling time to visit new cities around the world, made all the more magical with the buzz of the festivities taking place around you, as well as getting to experience how other cultures celebrate this season. Last year it was fascinating to see Seattle, a brand-new Christmas market for 2023, top the rankings, and equally interesting to see that this year our research shows thatSydney, with its warm-weather Christmas, is the top trending Christmas Market destination for 2024.
“Whether you’re celebrating this year in a winter wonderland, or will be exchanging gifts under bright sunshine, we hope our research can give you some inspiration on where you could discover an enchanting new Christmas market adventure. Always be mindful, however, that popular events in big cities can attract pickpockets, so ensure you are prepared while travelling and remember comprehensive travel insurance to cover your festive getaway.”
Top 10 Trending Christmas Market Cities for 2024:
- Sydney, Australia
- Tokyo, Japan
- Cork, Ireland
- Seattle, United State
- Helsinki, Finland
- Montreux, Switzerland
- Malmö, Sweden
- Geneva, Switzerland
- Liverpool, United Kingdom
- Oslo, Norway