The top Christmas break locations in Europe

With Christmas markets, festivals, concerts and various other events taking place all over Europe, taking an overseas break can provide the perfect way to mark the festive season. Modern ferry links mean that it has never been easier to see how Christmas is celebrated in some of Europe's top cities.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam's historic architecture, quaint squares and scenic canals make it a charming destination to visit at Christmas time. Festive lights are illuminated in the Dutch capital as early as mid-November, meaning tourists and locals alike are given plenty of time to get into the spirit of the season. Visitors hoping to get some Christmas shopping done during their break can head to the area between Leidsestraat and Raadhuisstraat known as The 9 Streets. Stores in the district sell everything from men's and women's fashion to electronic gadgets and handmade gifts. There will also be plenty of events to attend in Amsterdam this Christmas, including the Winterparade at the Westergasfabriek complex. Due to run from December 16th to 26th, the cultural celebration features theatre performances, dance, art displays and plenty of good food.

People based in northern England can travel directly to the Dutch capital on the Newcastle to Amsterdam ferry route, which is served by DFDS Seaways. The city is also easily reached via P&O Ferries' Hull to Rotterdam ferry service, while Stena Line offers ferries to Hook of Holland from Harwich.

Strasbourg

Strasbourg is famous for its historic city centre and the well-preserved buildings gathered there, which look even more impressive beneath the glow of Christmas lights. Architectural highlights to look out for include Notre Dame Cathedral, which has a history stretching back to the 11th century, and St Thomas' Church. Undoubtedly one of the most popular aspects of the festive season in Strasbourg is the 'Christkindelsmarik' - markets that have been held since the 16th century. One of the biggest fairs is the Bredle Market in Place de la Gare, which sells a variety of gifts and handicrafts. Visitors can also sample traditional butter biscuits made on the spot. Other festive events and celebrations, including nativity displays and street theatre performances, take place in the city centre at Christmas.

Strasbourg is located in eastern France on the border with Germany. Travellers can take ferries to Dunkerque from Dover with Norfolkline or use LD Lines' Dover to Boulogne ferry service and drive south along the border to reach the city. The Dover to Calais ferry route, which is served by P&O Ferries and Seafrance, is another option. Those based in northern England might find it easier to take ferries to Zeebrugge from Hull with P&O Ferries and drive through Belgium.

Brussels

Every year, the centre of Brussels turns into a hub of festive celebration when it hosts Winter Wonders. The event sees a giant Christmas market, an illuminated big wheel, a skating rink and other attractions opened around the Bourse, Place Sainte Catherine and the Marche aux Poissons. There will be plenty of other experiences on offer in Brussels during the month of December, including late openings at some of the city's museums and festive celebrations at various bars and restaurants. 'Must-see' attractions in the Belgian capital include the Grand Place, the Palais Royal and the Hotel de Ville, which boasts a striking Gothic facade and a history stretching back to the 13th century.

Ferries to Zeebrugge, which is within driving distance of Brussels, are available from Hull with P&O Ferries and from Rosyth with Norfolkline. TransEuropa Ferries offers an alternative with its Ramsgate to Ostend ferry route.

Belfast

Belfast ferry breaks could provide an ideal option for families looking to get away for Christmas this year. Northern Ireland's capital will offer a variety of family-friendly attractions over the coming weeks, including a giant pop-up storybook version of Tchaikovsky's The Nutcracker, which will be open at the Odyssey's W5 centre until January 10th 2010. Pantomime fans will be able to choose from a number of shows, including Aladdin at the Grand Opera House and Cinderella at the Waterfront. Visitors who have left their Christmas shopping to the last minute can head to the continental market at City Hall to buy seasonal snacks, decorations, gifts and more.

Direct ferries to Belfast are provided by Norfolkline Irish Sea from Liverpool and by Stena Line from Stranraer. Those based on the Isle of Man can use the Douglas to Belfast ferry service operated by the Steam Packet Company.

Stena Line also offers ferries to Larne in Northern Ireland from Fleetwood, while P&O Ferries sails to the port from Cairnryan in Scotland.

Glasgow

Glasgow's 'style mile' is at the heart of the city's Christmas celebrations. A canopy of lights is illuminated over the area's shops, cafes and restaurants, many of which will be offering discounts and promotions during the festive season. Every Thursday evening, style mile shoppers will be able to enjoy street entertainment, outdoor theatre shows, light projections and other special events. Another reason to visit the Scottish city at Christmas is Winterfest Glasgow, a giant seasonal celebration based in George Square. Visitors can have some fun on the ice rink, test out the fairground attractions or enjoy the live entertainment that will be presented on the Big Stage throughout the festive period. Winterfest will continue until January 3rd.

People coming from Northern Ireland can reach Glasgow by taking ferries to Stranraer from Belfast with Stena Line and driving north-east. P&O Ferries also offers a Larne to Cairnryan ferry route that provides access to south-west Scotland.

Travellers might also be interested in seeing how the country's Northern Isles celebrate Christmas by taking ferries to Kirkwall or Lerwick from Aberdeen with NorthLink Ferries.

Posted by Andrew Smith