What most people said
- Most say Irish Christmas markets are smaller than mainland Europe's, and some find them heavy on mass-produced goods.
- Waterford's Winterval is the most praised; Galway and Belfast are named as the two biggest markets, both reachable by train.
- In Dublin, Dublin Castle's market is usually the best, but several said it wasn't running this year; Smithfield had stalls and ice skating.
- For locally made gifts, Gifted at the RDS in early December is recommended; Kilkenny and Killarney also have markets.
What people said
- We don't do Christmas markets on the same scale as mainland Europe. The one at Dublin Castle is probably the best, go early as there can be long queues to get in. If you're in Waterford, Winterval is nice.
- If you are looking for holiday gifts, Gifted at the RDS in early December is always well worth attending; it's all high-quality art, clothing, crafts and food from around Ireland.
- Kilkenny would be good and you can get the train easily to Waterford to see Winterval (35 mins).
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