Posted on Monday, 24 November 2014

By now you'll be aware that something called 'Christmas' is on its way. Whether you love or hate the festive season, one thing's for sure: it's a great excuse for a short break – or even a long one.

And wherever you go, Santa Claus and his omnipresent reindeer will be waiting for you, so you might as well embrace Christmas in all its colourful, twinkly wonder. And what better way to do that than visiting a Christmas market? Europe boasts a dazzling array of festive markets, where you can score a double whammy by delighting your nearest and dearest with a short break, and getting all your Xmas shopping done in one go.

Perhaps you'll head for the Austrian Tyrol, where Innsbruck's beautiful Christmas markets (November 15–January 6) are not the only attraction; here you can enjoy a horse and carriage ride during the day and traditional Tyrolean music at night. The markets themselves feature gingerbread stalls, unique wooden toys and hand-blown glass ornaments. Make sure you try the mouth-watering Kiachln – advent doughnuts served hot with cranberry sauce. Special coach trips to these markets are available from a range of holiday firms, or if you prefer organising your break independently, Austrian and Lufthansa fly direct to Innsbruck from London.

If you fancy adding a maritime element to your Christmas market break, DFDS offer multi-night trips to Bruges (November 21 to January 2, 2015), Cologne (November 24 – December 23, 2014) and Amsterdam (various markets, dates vary). All three destinations served by the firm's Newcastle-Amsterdam ferry route. All include coach trips to and from your chosen Christmas market, on-land hotels and en-suite cabins.

Christmas in Bruges, Belgium

Bruges offers stunning medieval architecture alongside its colourful markets, while Amsterdam promises a big-city buzz as well as glorious festive flower stalls. And Cologne's old cathedral creates a magnificent backdrop to the city's seasonal markets – of which there are seven. The city also boasts the biggest Christmas tree in the Rhineland!

Indeed, Germany plays host to a great many Christmas markets – perhaps unsurprising since the country gave us so many festive ornaments and traditions, including the Christmas tree. Of all German markets, Hamburg's is perhaps the most diverse, with no less than 15 markets. If you've never savoured German festive baked goods (such as the truly delicious stollen Christmas cake), then check out the sweet treat themed market. And if you're travelling with young ones, make sure you explore the spellbinding Toy Street, where a colourful and unique selection of playthings could make you parent of the year!

Traditional German Christmas cake

Get Christmas Covered

Before you head off, don't forget to protect yourself and your loved ones against unwanted events with good travel insurance cover. Here at starttravel.co.uk we offer Essential, 4-Star and 5-Star options, all of which can be bought quickly and simply online. It could be the easiest purchase you'll make all Christmas!

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