See what Europe’s Christmas markets have to offer

Get right into the Christmas spirit this festive season and visit one of Europe’s magical Christmas markets, with DFDS Seaways. Sailing overnight from Newcastle or Harwich, these breaks include two nights onboard in a comfortable en suite cabin, with plenty of time to relax, unwind and enjoy the facilities onboard before reaching your destination. Also included with each trip is either one or two nights’ hotel accommodation and coach transfers from the ship to your chosen hotel.

HAMELIN – from £207 per person – 4 nights

Visit the Christmas markets of medieval Hamelin, home of the legendary Pied Piper. Explore this fairytale town where you will find wooden stalls selling gifts - pick up some truly unique German Christmas gifts or sample the delightful local food.

Two nights bed and breakfast accommodation at the 4* Mercure Hotel (which offers a selection of bars, restaurants and a wellness centre). Departure Newcastle – Amsterdam 28 November and 10 December 2008.

BRUGES – from £197 per person – 4 nights

Stroll through the charming cobbled streets, take a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride or visit the chocolate factory during your time in the historical Belgian city of Bruges. The city’s atmospheric magic and pleasant surroundings mean there is plenty to do during your three day stay.

Two nights bed and breakfast accommodation at the 3* Novotel Brugge Centrum Hotel (in the heart of the city and offers a poolside food square). Departure Newcastle – Amsterdam 7 and 13 December 2008.

COLOGNE – from £221 per person – 4 nights

Visit Cologne, a major cultural centre of the Rhineland, with a vibrant arts scene. Take in all eight Christmas markets, the numerous concerts and the nativity set.
Two nights bed and breakfast at the Marriot Cologne Hotel. Departure Newcastle - Amsterdam 29 November and 13 December 2008.

MAASTRICHT & VALKENBURG – from £269 per person – 4 nights

For a true Christmas fairytale experience, stay in Maastricht’s old city centre, where you can spot reindeers or try out the outdoor ice rink. While in nearby Valkenburg you can explore the unique underground Christmas market, located in the town’s caves. Here you will meet Santa and be amazed by the festive scenes and impressive mural carvings and sculptures.

Two nights bed and breakfast accommodation at the Eden Design Hotel. Departure from Newcastle-Amsterdam 6 December 2008.

COPENHAGEN – from £251 per person – 4 nights

It is in winter that Tivoli Gardens are at their most magical. Visit the outdoor ice rink and the beautifully decorated Christmas stalls offering seasonal gifts for your loved ones as well as Danish specialities including mulled wine. This yuletide paradise is visited by almost a million people each year.

Two nights bed and breakfast accommodation in the 4* Square Hotel. Departure Harwich – Esbjerg 17 December 2008.

AARHUS – from £211 per person – 3 nights

Step back in time and feel, smell and taste Christmas of the past with Christmas bazaars and period shops or visit the open air museum which is made up of 75 different period houses. During the Christmas period, the quaint streets of Aarhus are beautifully decorated with festive-themed exhibitions. This romantic city boasts small town charm with a touch of cosmopolitan.

One night bed and breakfast at the Scandic Plaza Aarhus Hotel. Departure Harwich- Esbjerg- 30 November and 14 December 2008.

DFDS Seaways’ cruise ferries offer numerous bars and restaurants, live entertainment, children’s clubs, shopping and much more, meaning your holiday really does start the moment you step onboard.

For more information, log on to Dfds.co.uk/festive.