BY TIM HEDGLEY , GROUP TRVEL EDITOR

Ryanair, Europe’s No.1 airline, has unveiled its top alternative Christmas weekend destinations for passengers from the UK. Perfect for travellers looking to trade crowded markets, for sunshine or something entirely different. Whether you’re looking to book a sunny Christmas weekend getaway, festive city break, or explore somewhere entirely new this Christmas season, Ryanair has you covered with over 235 destinations to choose from.

 ·       Poznań (Poland): Poznań offers a quieter, more authentic winter escape, pastel townhouses, steaming street food, and one of Europe’s most charming Christmas squares. Expect frosty mornings, cosy pubs, artisan markets and a festive atmosphere that feels welcoming rather than overwhelming.

Ryanair flights available from Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh, Leeds Bradford, Liverpool, London Stansted & Manchester

 .       Porto (Portugal): Porto delivers golden riverfront sunsets, cosy wine cellars, and stunning architecture. Wander the Douro, enjoy world-class food, and experience a calmer, authentic kind of winter magic this festive season.

Ryanair flights available from Belfast, Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh, Leeds Bradford, Liverpool, London Stansted & Manchester.

 ·       Malta: Think crystal-clear coastline, mild Mediterranean days and ancient fortress towns instead of jumpers and jingles. Malta is perfect for travellers wanting laid-back winter sun with plenty of sightseeing, sea views, and relaxed island vibes.

Ryanair flights available from Belfast, Birmingham, Bournemouth, East Midlands, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Liverpool, London Luton, London Stansted, Manchester, Newcastle & Norwich.

 ·       Stockholm (Sweden): Think snowy islands, candlelit cafés, wooden Christmas markets and serene waterfront walks. This is a festive escape shaped by simplicity, style and winter magic, perfect for travellers who prefer hygge over hustle.

Ryanair flights available from Birmingham & London Stansted

 ·       Málaga (Spain): Warm, cosmopolitan, and blissfully laid-back, Málaga is a go-to for travellers wanting to unwind. Enjoy beaches, art galleries, tapas bars, and Andalusian sunshine, with as much (or as little) Christmas spirit as you choose.

Ryanair flights available from Aberdeen, Belfast, Birmingham, Bournemouth, Bristol, Cardiff, East Midlands, Edinburgh, Exeter, Glasgow, Glasgow Prestwick, Leeds Bradford, Liverpool, London Luton, London Stansted, Manchester, Newcastle, Newquay Cornwall & Teesside

If you’re planning a Christmas weekend getaway this winter,  why not treat someone special in your life to one too with aRyanair Gift Card.

Starting from just £25, you can now choose either a digital gift card sent straight to the recipient’s inbox or for those looking for something extra special, you can now choose a physical gift card, with an inscribed personal message, delivered straight to their front door.