There’s no better way to get into the festive spirit than visiting one of Europe’s Christmas markets. But with so many to choose from, how do you know which one is right for you? Specialist European tour operator, Dertour – which offers trips from £199 to markets in 14 European countries – is giving you a helping hand. Their expert team, which has visited more than 70 markets, have hand-picked the following “Christmas Markets with a Difference”. Best for:
Off the beaten track – Rothenburg ob der Tauber from £349pp: This charming medieval town is transformed into a winter wonderland and Christmas Market, known as the “Reiterlesmarkt”, is one of the oldest in Germany dating back to the 15thCentury. Narrow winding streets and historic squares. Two nights B&B at the three-star Hotel Schranne, return flights from London to Frankfurt and train tickets to and from Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Weekend departures between November 30 and December 23.
Romance – Venice from £269pp: With its labyrinth of grand canals and alleyways lined with stunning architecture, Venice is one of the most romantic cities in the world. Its small, yet charming, Christmas Market is held in the historic piazza near the Palazzo Grassi and stalls offer a range of traditional hand-made gifts including lace, paper, perfumes, glass and leather goods. Two nights B&B at the three-star Hotel Bisanzio with flights from London. Weekend departures between November 29 and December 24.
All the family – Dresden from £199pp: With its elves’ house, Santa’s grotto and puppet theatre, The Striezelmarkt is one of the best in Europe for families and even features a children’s bakery serving festive delights. There’s also the charming medieval market with its costumed stall-holders and medieval re-enactments. Two nights B&B at the three-star Holiday Inn Express City Centre with fights from London Southend. Weekend departures between November 30 and December 24.
Hand-made gifts – Eisenach from £449pp: Set in the old stone courtyard of Wartburg Castle, which is perched on a steep hill overlooking the picturesque town of Eisenach, this medieval-themed Christmas market is perfect for those looking to find that extra special gift. Watch glass blowers, stone cutters and candlemakers create unique presents. Two nights B&B at the Hotel auf der Wartburg with flights from London. Weekend departures between November 26 and December 21.
Foodies – Freiburg from £309pp: Close to the Swiss and French border and on the western edge of the Southern Black Forest, one of Germany’s most popular holiday regions, Freiburg is a lively university city with a charming atmosphere during Christmas time. And because of its location, it offers an excellent choice of regional wine, plus the famous Black Forest gateaux which adorns every café window! Two nights B&B at the three-star InterCity Hotel, flights from Gatwick to Basel and rail transfer. Departures between November 26 and December 23.
Picture postcard winter wonderland – Tallinn from £219pp: Tallinn in Estonia is home to one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe. Its snow covered streets and twinkling fairylights combine to create a picture postcard backdrop for a winter wonderland Christmas market experience. Wander around the cobbled streets of this UNESCO world heritage site to see the “fairytale-themed” stalls. Two nights B&B at the four-star Sokos Hotel Viru with flights from Gatwick. Departures between November 26 and January 6.
History & culture – Budapest from £239pp: Explore Hungary’s vibrant capital city and enjoy the historical sights and attractions. The enchanting Budapest Christmas Fair in Vörösmarty Square features more than 100 wooden stalls selling a unique array of arts and crafts reflecting the country’s rich and dynamic cultural heritage. You can also enjoy mulled wine, sweet Hungarian pastries, roasted chestnuts and other market snacks. Two nights B&B at the three-star Best Western Hotel Orion with flights from Gatwick. Various departures between November 18 and December 30. Book four nights for the price of three on selected departure dates.
Visit www.dertour.co.uk or call 0207 290 1111.
