Prague, Berlin and Bruges Hotels: Explore the Christmas Markets

There are some great prices on Prague hotels this season, making the Czech capital an excellent choice for a pre-Christmas shopping break. Prague has a long tradition of Christmas celebrations and festivals. It is the most important festival in the Czech calendar and lengthy public holidays result in many people taking to the streets to celebrate. Old Town Square is the most popular of the city's markets due to the attractive location and giant Christmas tree, which stands proud at the square's centre. The Christmas markets start on 29th November and run daily until 1st January. Prague is also an excellent place to spend New Year's Eve, with fireworks displays taking place around the city and celebrations planned this year at Prague Castle and Vyšehrad.

Alternatively, take advantage of the great deals to be found on Berlin hotels this month and head to the German capital where you can find a wide variety of different markets spread across the city. This year, for the second time ever, a market will be held in front of Charlottenburg Castle on Luisenplatz. The market will be themed around the Biedermeier period, offering an experience of the Christmas market that you are unlikely to experience anywhere else. Visitors can see exhibits within the palace to learn the local history or even catch a horse-drawn carriage ride around the grounds. Make sure you watch the stunning projected lighting show, which will tell the story of the fascinating era between 1815 and 1848.

The Christmas market on the Sony Centre's vast events square (near the Potsdamer Platz train station) is a good choice for those who are taking kids. The Legoland Discovery Centre next door will keep the children entertained for hours, or if they're old enough you could take them to Boccia On Ice for some ice-skating. The highlight of Postdamer Platz, however, is without a doubt the Winterwelt (Winter Wonderland) where you can find ice-skating, ski slopes and Europe's largest mobile toboggan run. Full of the sounds, sights and smells of Christmas, nothing will put you in the mood for mirth and merriment more than a visit to Berlin's markets.

Another popular destination for Christmas shopping is Bruges where markets take place amidst the striking medieval surroundings. Head to Simon Stevinplein Square where you can find an array of chocolates and handmade crafts alongside a special Christmas Hobby and Toy Fair. After working up an appetite shopping try the freshly made Belgian waffles, which are sold on the square. Bruges is a gorgeous setting for any winter break; take a stroll through the historic canal system to find out why it is known at the' Venice of the north'. Markets are held from 24th November to 31st December. A day exploring this picturesque city is the perfect way to get you in the Christmas spirit before retiring to any of the lovely Bruges hotels nearby.