You’re right about budgeting airlines and last-minute deals. One thing I’ve noticed is that smaller towns in Europe—think a cozy town in Bavaria instead of Munich—often have their own charming Christmas traditions without the crowds, and are surprisingly affordable. Also, keep an eye on rideshare options or even renting a car if you’re traveling in a group; rural areas sometimes lack transit, but splitting fuel costs can work out well compared to pricey trains.