Visit the best European Christmas markets with DFDS

This festive season DFDS Seaways are offering an extensive range of specially tailored trips to the Christmas markets across Europe including Hamelin, Cologne and Copenhagen. Combined with a relaxing journey across the sea onboard one of the cruise ferries you can choose your cabin to suit your style- opt for the luxurious Commodore Deluxe with private lounge and enjoy a five star break.

Sailings depart from Harwich or Newcastle and prices start from just £197 per person. Onboard there is plenty to keep you amused including bars, restaurants, live entertainment, children¹s clubs, shopping, cinema on route to Amsterdam and much more. So choose from one of these Christmas Markets and start your festive shopping early and really get in the mood for Christmas 08.

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 city¹s 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 town¹s 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.

For more information and bookings, visit Dfdsseaways.com.