What better way to chase away the winter blues than a holiday to one of Europe’s magical Christmas Markets? Our short breaks by rail include Germany’s oldest Christmas Market in Dresden dating back to 1434. Here the historic Striezelmarkt, with its romantic and festive charm, is an inspiration in itself, a real treasure trove for traditional handmade crafts. In Berlin you can experience the incomparable excitement of “WinterMagic” in the capital city of the German Christmas Markets. Set amidst some of Europe’s most beautiful squares and renowned buildings, with scrumptious treats and pretty fairy lights, are Germany’s largest selection of over 60 markets. Montreux’s charming market sits cosily alongside the stunning backdrop of Lake Geneva and tempts visitors with handmade crafts from local artisans. We also give you the opportunity to explore these fascinating cities and their attractive surrounding areas during the festive season.

The beauty of these Christmas fairs and markets is that they still convey a real traditional Christmas feel and many gifts are not mass-produced, instead they are craftwork of real quality. Each market has its own character, developed over the centuries and built around regional specialities or local customs. Here you can find all kinds of Christmas goodies and presents, especially traditional items such as crib figurines, toys, wood carvings, marionettes, candles and lambskin shoes. Many are difficult to resist - as are the warming glass of delicious mulled wine, the sizzling sausages or hot chestnuts with their evocative aromas that are so welcome on crisp winter days.