Eurostar Markets

Otherwise know as Marchés de Noël,Christmas markets in France provide an excellent opportunity for a winter break. Hosting one of the largest Christmas markets in France, Lille has always been a popular destination for a yuletide break and a tradition for centuries. The month long market is held on the Place Rihour in the centre of town. The whole place is taken over by the inviting smell of hot roast chestnuts and chocolate, and little wooden huts selling arts, crafts and local cuisine.

At Christmas time the cosmopolitan Belgian capital becomes a winter wonderland. And, with a journey time of the less than two hours from central London by Eurostar, Brussels makes for the perfect festive short break. Chalets around Bourse and the Marché aux Poissons sell interesting original gifts and Christmas decorations, with a backdrop of brass bands and choirs. For those looking to fully embrace the seasonal spirit, why not try skating on the award-winning open-air ice rink, accommodating up to 300 skaters at any one time.

There can’t be a more magical setting at Christmas than medieval Bruges. The Christmas markets are set out at Simon Stevinplein and in Grote Marktsquare around an open air ice rink. What could be better than wandering along the canals and the cobbled streets, amongst the illuminated festive stalls crammed with Christmas goodies? Look out for the specialities of Bruges; elegantly packaged chocolates and unusual handmade decorations.

Belgium's city of diamonds, Antwerp, holds its Christmas market with some 90 stalls open for business on the impressive Groenplaats. Beautiful Ghent is an undiscovered gem, with a pretty waterfront and a skyline punctuated with Gothic towers. In Antwerp, enjoy ice skating at the open-air ice rink in Steenplein, and be sure to watch out for the fireworks by the river Scheldt. Ghent holds its Christmas market at Sint-Baafsplein and features a large array of stalls selling food, wine and lots of traditional gifts and decorations, with live jazz and folk music.

"From" prices are per person based on 2 adults sharing a standard room on a Bed and Breakfast basis, and represent the lowest prices available on selected dates and on selected flights, typically at off peak times of the year. Christmas Market dates vary - please check the individual market details for information on specific destinations. Prices include all applicable savings. Offer correct as at 25 August 2011.