HO-HO-HOP ON BOARD

During festive season, Zurich shines in a new light. Spend cozy Advent evenings in the city's illuminated main squares, drinking mulled wine and tasting Swiss specialties. Our recommendation for a perfect stay in Zurich during Advent: "Wienachtsdorf" at the opera house or "Christkindlimarkt" – one of the largest covered Christmas market in Europe.
 

Although Winter Wonderland in London is strong competitor, England's second city has a surprise in store. Thanks to being the twin city of Frankfurt, buzzing Birmingham hosts the largest authentic German Christmas market outside of Germany or Austria. Chris, the singing moose, throws some British humour into the mix.
 

The Hungarian capital doesn't play around when it comes to festive season: The Vörösmarty Square hosts the Budapest Christmas Fair, filled with traditional foods and gift ideas. A special sight to see: The renowned Gerbeaud Coffee House is converted into a giant calendar which opens a new magical window every day until Christmas.
 

Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen's renowned theme park, offers an unforgettable experience for the entire family. Besides the usual stalls, visitors are entertained with light shows, fireworks and live bands. On December 13, you're in for a special treat: 100 girls carrying candles pass through the gardens, singing to mark St Lucia's Day.

The world's oldest open-air museum Skansen hosts a traditional Christmas market with Swedish craftmanship, "Glögg" punch, candles, smoked turkey and much more. You can even watch the craftsmen at work. Our highlight: Part of the Skansen experience is a small zoo with reindeers and other Nordic animals. Can you spot Dasher, Cupid or Rudolph?
 

When the scent of roasted nuts and punch fills the air in front of Vienna's Town Hall, and people gather around the city's Christmas lights like fireflies, the festive season has officially begun. Christmas markets with beautiful backdrops include the "Adventmarkt" at Karlsplatz and the "Weihnachtsdorf" at Belvedere Castle.

Brussels is a sight to see all year round. Yet festive season makes the Belgian capital shine even brighter. Enjoy light animations at Grand Place and across the old town, while indulging in hot chocolate and Belgian waffles. The "Winter Wonders" market prolongs your Christmas spirit, as it runs until early January.
 

Advent is the most atmospheric time of the year in Salzburg, Austria. Where else can you enjoy the sight of snow-covered mountain tops while shopping on idyllic Christmas markets and sipping some mulled wine? Our tip: Visit the Advent choral concert at Salzburg's Festspielhaus – a festive experience for everyone.
 

Basel's Christmas market at Barfüsserplatz and Müsterplatz is a treat for the whole family. For over 40 years, merchants have sold their crafts and specialties from all over Switzerland in the rustic wooden huts. A small enchanted forest at Münsterplatz offers lots of fun activities for children, such as gingerbread decorating and crafting.
 

Prague's main Christmas markets at the Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square are a must-visit for all foodies wanting to discover authentic Czech food. Until the beginning of January, you'll get to try delicious "klobása" (sausage) and other delicacies while watching as the main tree on Old Town Square is lit up. Experience Advent in Prague – it's unforgettable. 
 

The traditional "Fira de Santa Llúcia" market can be found in front of the Barcelona Cathedral, and goes back to 1786. Apart from festive stands selling craftmanship and other nibbles, you'll be able to experience a truly Catalan tradition called "caga tiò". It consists of a huge piñata-style Christmas log being hit with a stick until the sweets spill out.
 

If you're dreaming of a White Christmas, Krakow in Poland is the place to go. In December, the Christmas market on main square Rynek Glowny is usually covered in a fluffy layer of snow – Christmas spirit guaranteed. The market's offer ranges from hand-painted Christmas baubles and spiced nuts to antiques. Bring a warm coat and see for yourself!