Christmas is just around the corner, and Europe’s famous Christmas markets are popping up in beautiful cities across the continent.
This is particularly true in the UK, where Google searches for ‘European Christmas market’ have increased by 82 percent in the last month.
Many of these charming markets are within easy reach of the UK and make for a quick and affordable getaway during the festive period.
Maria Hughes, travel expert at the specialist travel insurance provider Good to Go, has shared some of the best festive destinations which are under three hours from the UK.
The Christmas markets are reachable via train or plane, perfect for those who want to use up the last of their annual leave this year.
9. Amsterdam, Netherlands (December 12 – December 26)
Hughes said Amsterdam is a vibrant and lively city that is full of culture, and its yearly Christmas markets don’t disappoint.
She explained: “You can expect to find ice skating rinks, as well as beautiful holiday lights, not to mention the stalls selling Dutch treats and handcrafted items perfect for Christmas gifts or decorations.
“Amsterdam can be reached in over an hour from most UK airports. Alternatively, you can take the Eurostar in under four hours, or for a longer trip, consider taking the ferry and using the city as a jumping off point for a longer driving holiday.”
(Image: Getty)
8. Prague, Czech Republic (November 30 – January 6)
Hughes said Prague’s world-famous Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square “truly come alive when hosting their famous Christmas markets”. She continued: “Available here are a wide selection of traditional Czech crafts, trinkets, and delicious pastries.
“Flights to Prague are commonly found throughout the UK, and take just under or just over two hours, depending on your airport of departure.”
(Image: Getty)
7. Brussels, Belgium (November 29 – January 5)
Brussels is known for its stunning Christmas market in the Grand Place. The travel expert said: “You can find unique gifts, as well as delicious Belgian chocolates, waffles and fries, and warm mulled wine.
“Brussels can be reached in under two hours via Eurostar or just over an hour by plane, making it an attractive destination for a quick festive city break.”
(Image: Getty)
5. Strasbourg, France (November 27 – December 27)
Strasbourg is a stunning city, and its Christmas market is known for being one of the oldest and most picturesque in Europe.
Hughes said: “The colourful, half-timbered buildings of the city’s historic centre are beautifully decorated with lights and ornaments and are a sight to behold.
“Strasbourg can be reached by Eurostar, taking under five hours on the train. Flights from London take around an hour and a half, or alternatively, or alternatively consider flying into the Swiss city of Basel, taking under two hours from Manchester and taking the hour-long train through the picturesque scenery of the French Alsace region.”
(Image: Getty)