The cheap city just 2.5 hours from UK with Christmas markets and pints for just £1.80

Krakow, previously dubbed one of Europe's "most beautiful cities", is a budget-friendly choice for Brits looking for an autumnal weekend escape.

During the autumn season, Krakow's climate ranges from mild to chilly, with temperatures typically peaking between 5C and 7C. So, don't forget to pack your warm coats, scarves, and hats. But don't let the cool put you off, there are plenty of ways to warm up in Krakow.

Having personally visited Krakow a few years back, reporter Millie Bull already knew that not only is it a beautiful city, but it is also an affordable one. Flights from the UK to Krakow are reasonably priced and the city itself also offers great value compared to other European destinations.

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"In autumn, the city bursts into life with hues of golden brown and gold as trees turn a stunning orange-brown. This spectacle is especially breathtaking in Planty Park, located around the renowned Old Town," Millie shared in .

"The park boasts eight individual gardens forming a circular walking route. Sprinkled with benches, it's an ideal spot to sip a coffee while admiring the autumn foliage."

During her stay, Millie found Krakow's Old Town genuinely awe-inspiring and it quickly became one of her favourite parts of the city. "Brimming with magnificent architecture and the famous Market Square, known as Rynek Gowny, it's a fantastic place to wander while soaking up the city's rich history," she explained.

Rynek Gowny, Europe's second-largest market square, boasts the stunning 14th-century St. Mary's Basilica with its intricate Gothic spires and red-brick exterior.

The historic district of the city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Poland's official Historic Monuments. Its flat cobbled streets make it an ideal place for visitors who prefer to take their time exploring rather than rushing from one tourist attraction to another.

The Cloth Hall, or Sukiennice, stands at the heart of the market square. It's one of the city's most iconic monuments. Inside, you'll find a bustling gallery filled with stalls selling everything from sweet treats to clothes, jewellery and souvenirs.

The building also hosts the Sukiennice Museum on its upper floor, which showcases the largest exhibition of 19th-century Polish painting and sculpture.

Beneath the market square lies the Rynek Underground Museum, which takes visitors on a journey through the city's history using photographs, recreations and archaeological finds.

Situated on the Vistula River, a trip to the awe-inspiring Wawel Royal Castle is an absolute must. The castle is renowned as Poland's most historically and culturally significant site, boasting architectural styles from the Medieval, Renaissance and Baroque periods.

Inside, visitors can marvel at extensive collections of paintings, tapestries, armour, ceramics and period furniture.

Millie added: "If history isn't your thing and you'd rather kick back with a pint of beer and a pierogi, Krakow has a wealth of bars and pubs that are incredibly wallet-friendly. I'd suggest steering clear of the tourist hotspots and finding a hidden gem for the best deals.

"When compared to London or any other major UK city, beer in Krakow is a steal."

The Stag Company reports that a regular bottle of beer in a bar will set you back around £2.21 (including imported beers). If you stick to Polish brands, you're likely to save even more. According to Discover Cracow, tourists can expect to pay around 15 z for a pint of beer in the market square, which equates to £2.88.

However, on average, a pint of domestic beer in the city costs just £1.80. So, cheers!

As approaches, Krakow becomes a festive spectacle. The Market Square becomes a fantastic sight to behold during this season, brimming with stalls offering everything from gingerbread and wooden decorations to jewellery, cheese, chocolate and, naturally, comforting mulled wine.

At the time of writing, Skyscanner lists a return flight from London to Krakow for one adult for just £89, with flight times averaging around 2.5 hours.