Why not take a short break this winter and combine it with a bit of Christmas shopping ?
Here are some ideas for Christmas market destinations, with some great prices -
BERLIN - STARTS 23 NOV
Whether you prefer a contemplative and magical Christmas market or a lively and urban one, this year Berlin offers you a choice of sixty Christmas Markets. Allow yourself to discover the vendor booths magic, charm and unique items along the large boulevards and squares as well as on the small side streets and even in several museums. this year marks the second time a Christmas market will be held in front of Charlottenburg Castle. Historic carriage rides, theme exhibits in the palace itself, and specialized lighting will feature the fascinating era between 1815 and 1848.
Hotel Residenz, Berlin 3* superior
2 night break from only £325 per person.
Includes flights with British Airways from Heathrow and 2 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast
Valid for departure dates in December 2009.
VIENNA - STARTS 14 NOV
You can find "Christkindlmarkte" on nearly every corner of the city right up to December 25th. Small huts provide you with potential Christmas presents, food and most important hot punch and "Gluhwein", heated sweetened wine. The biggest ones are the Christkindlmarkt at the Vienna City Hall, at the Spittelberg and inside the University Campus.
Hotel Karnterhof, Vienna (3* )
4 night break from only £374 per person
Includes flights from Heathrow with British Airways and 4 nights acommodation with breakfast.
Valid for stays up to 22 December.
PRAGUE - STARTS 28 NOV
The Prague Christmas markets light up the city centre in December, with a true winter wonderland setting. There are brightly decorated wooden huts selling a variety of traditional Czech products from handicrafts and hot food (corn on the cob, sausages and local specialties), to Czech beers and warm drinks. The markets sell nice Christmas stocking fillers, such as Bohemian Crystal, wooden toys, scented candles, hand-made jewellery, ceramic mugs, hats, scarves, traditional puppets and Christmas tree ornaments. There is also a giant Christmas tree and a beautiful Bethlehem scene to admire.
Hotel Moran, Prague (3* superior)
3 night break from only £296 per person
Includes flights from Heathrow with British Airways and 3 nights acommodation with breakfast.
Valid for stays up to 28 Dec 2009
COPENHAGEN - STARTS 20 NOV
The Christmas market in the Tivoli Gardens is a wonderful prelude to the Christmas holidays. The time-honoured amusement park is transformed into a Yuletide paradise of sparkling lights and beautifully decorated Christmas stalls offering all manner of sweetmeats, Danish specialities, handicrafts and seasonal gifts.
Hotel Opera, Copenhagen (3*)
4 night break from only £386 per person
Includes flights from Heathrow with British Airways and 4 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast.
Valid for stays up until 27 December.
BRUGES - STARTS 20 NOV
Every year on Bruges market square an ice-rink is built - the focal point for Christmas activity. There will be lots of little shops where you can buy anything from Christmas gifts to clothing as well as any type of food, snacks and drinks. Very tasty and warming ghluwein will be served. The atmosphere is truly magical!
Hotel Prinsenhof, Bruges, 4*
From £432pp for a 4 night break
Includes flights from Heathrow with British Airways to Bruges and 4 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast.
Valid for stays up to 21 December.
Osprey Holidays also offer flights with low cost airlines from all UK airports. All prices are subject to availability.
For more information or to book call us on 0131 243 8098