City breaks

Brits looking for a city break often overlook this city, but it can be a great budget option offering plenty of historic sites and culture, as well as cheap beer and lively nightlife

Budget airline Ryanair has revealed its top destinations for 2026, and at number one is a historic European city that’s often overlooked by tourists despite cheap food and drink and a number of breathtaking historic landmarks.

Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, welcomes about one million tourists annually, compared to nearby Prague’s six million visitors, and the nearly nine million who visit Vienna. However, its numbers are expected to rise in 2026, with new Ryanair routes from European cities and tourists seeking cities with fewer crowds.

At the heart of the city is Bratislava Castle, which sits atop a hill overlooking the medieval old town. This baroque-style fortress dates back to the 13th century, where its strategic position 80-metres above the River Danube helped keep the city safe. It’s worth visiting to see its spectacular interiors trimmed with gold leaf, wander round the Baroque Garden full of statues, or climb the Crown Tower for amazing views across Bratislava.

The old town is also home to Michael’s Gate (Michalská brána), a 14th-century medieval gate, and the pretty Old Town Hall, which dates back to around the same time and has been turned into a local museum. St. Martin’s Cathedral (Dóm svätého Martina) is also popular with tourists thanks to its gothic interiors with dramatic high ceilings.

Bratislava is a compact, walkable city, and the old town in particular is a pleasant place to explore its winding streets. You’ll find many charming cafes and rustic restaurants serving Slovakian cuisine. A favourite with visitors is the Bratislava Flagship, which is set in a renovated old theatre with dark wooden walls and sparkling chandeliers. It’s a great place to try local cuisine such as Bryndzové Halušky, potato dumplings with sheep cheese topped with crispy fried bacon.

Many local restaurants either brew their own beer, or serve Slovakian brews. A large beer will generally set you back between €2-3 in the touristy areas, which is around £1.70-2.60. Beer is extremely cheap in supermarkets, with many travellers claiming that it’s cheaper to buy a beer than a bottle of water.

A distinctive building you may come across in the east of the old town is the Blue Church. Its facade, mosaic, and roof are a beautiful shade of blue, and attracts visitors due to its unique Hungarian Art Nouveau style, which makes it a popular sight on Instagram feeds.

If you’d like to see a more modern side to the city, visit the UFO Observation Deck. a 95-metre high tower topped by a flying saucer shaped structure. Zip to the top in an elevator and you can enjoy 360-degree panoramic views, and there’s even a cocktail bar that opens late into the night so you can see the sun go down across Bratislava.

Not quite ready for bed yet? Bratislava is well-known as a party destination, and the old town is the hotspot for nightlife with clubs that open until the small hours. There’s a mix of traditional pubs where you can simply get a pint in cosy surroundings, and chic cocktail bars with DJs and dancing. The music scene is also diverse, from small venues offering live music to large clubs playing EDM and techno until dawn.

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Ryanair flies from Edinburgh, London-Stansted, and Manchester to Bratislava with a seasonal route from Leeds-Bradford, or there’s a Wizz Air route from London-Luton that runs year-round. Flights start at two hours 20 minutes from London, with fares from Stansted from £37 one-way.

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Escape the cold with these hidden European gems perfect for a winter sun getaway, with budget flights for £150 or less from the UK.

As the chilly weather and shorter days persist, you might be yearning for a dose of winter sun. More and more Brits are opting to escape abroad in the early months of the year.

Data from ONS1 shows that UK residents took 18.7 million overseas trips from January to March 2025, a significant increase from the 16.7 million recorded in 2024.

While well-known destinations like Tenerife and Corfu are undoubtedly favoured during this season, Europe also boasts a plethora of lesser-known treasures ideal for a winter retreat.

With this in mind, the travel experts at Eurochange have compiled a list of top winter sun spots that won’t break the bank, with flights from the UK costing £150 or less.

Cadiz, Spain

• Return flights: From £34 from London Stansted to Seville in January
• Accommodation price: Starting from £51 per person, per night
• Average January-March temperature: Highs of 17°C

The seaside town of Cadiz, just a brief train journey from Seville, is brimming with remarkable landmarks to explore, including the Castle of Santa Catalina and the Torre Tavira, which offers breathtaking views of the city. Nestled in one of Spain’s warmest regions, temperatures in Cadiz seldom dip below 10°C, even during the winter.

Formentera, Spain

• Return flights: From £57 from London Stansted to Ibiza in March
• Accommodation price: Starting from £62 per person, per night
• Average January temperature: Highs of 16°C

If you’re an Ibiza enthusiast seeking a quieter, more affordable, yet equally stunning alternative, Formentera could be your perfect match. Once a ‘hippie’ commune, the island retains a laid-back atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for those seeking tranquillity during their holiday.

Karpas Peninsula, Cyprus

• Return flights: From £62 from London Gatwick to Larnaca in March
• Accommodation price: Starting from £55 per person, per night
• Average Jan-March temperature: Highs of 16°C

Highlighting the Karpas Peninsula, also known simply as Karpass, the travel specialists said: “This much less densely populated area of Northern Cyprus stretches 80km to the northernmost tip of the island, and is a great winter sun destination that also offers seclusion.

“It is considered one of the most unspoiled places anywhere in the Mediterranean, with beautiful deserted beaches and natural beauty in the Dipkarpaz National Park. In terms of where to stay, there are lots of beautiful farmhouses in Iskele. But if you prefer to stay in a town, Rizokarpaso is a good option – a quaint beach town with plenty of ancient landmarks to explore and a beautiful marina.”

São Vicente, Madeira, Portugal

• Return flights: From £37 from London Stansted to Madeira Airport in January
• Accommodation price: Starting from £25 per person, per night
• Average January temperature: Highs of 19°C

Famous for its breathtaking landscapes, spectacular coastlines and superb wines, Madeira makes an ideal choice for those seeking to escape Britain’s chilly winter months. São Vicente, situated in the extensive Laurissilva region, is celebrated for its valleys and vineyards, and also boasts numerous hidden beaches waiting to be discovered.

Valletta, Malta

• Return flights: From £38 from London Gatwick to Valletta in March
• Accommodation price: Starting from £31 per person, per night
• Average January temperature: Highs of 16°C

Valletta, Malta’s capital, is an underappreciated European treasure, which the specialists have described as a “little oasis in the heart of the Mediterranean.” Dubbed the ‘sunny city’, Valletta enjoys an average of 2,957 hours of sunshine annually, making it an excellent winter sun escape.

Palermo, Sicily

• Return flights: From £35 from London Stansted to Palermo
• Accommodation price: Starting from £40 per person, per night
• Average January temperature: Highs of 15°C

“For those who want to sample an Italian city break with fewer crowds in January, Palermo should be top of the list,” say the experts. “Situated on the North-west coast of Sicily, the southernmost island in Italy, it’s a perfect winter sun destination.

“Palermo offers both city break and beach holiday vibes, with plenty of gorgeous beaches and cute seaside towns just a short drive from the city centre. Spend your days meandering the cobbled streets, exploring the stunning Gothic architecture and the many churches and cathedrals. No Italian city break is complete without sampling the local cuisine of course, and in Palermo, the Arancini is a must-try.”

Many people book a January holiday to feel refreshed and recharged, but it could be a mistake if you don’t do your research – here’s what to look for

As the UK looks set to be covered in snow over the next few days, many Brits will be looking to book a holiday somewhere warmer.

January is the most popular month for British people to book holidays as the cold sets in, but if you’re one of them then it’s a wise idea to exercise caution, as travel experts warn that some hotels may subtly cut corners during the quieter winter months.

Experts warn that booking hotels in January can be fraught with risk if travellers aren’t aware of what to look out for as some hotels alter their operations once the festive season is over.

But the good news is it’s still possible to bag a bargain holiday and save money, as long as you know the red flags to look out for, according to Ski Vertigo.

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Here are five red flags to watch out for:

1. Significant discounts with ambiguous descriptions.

While substantial price reductions can be enticing in January, experts caution that vague listings often indicate a change. This could encompass closed amenities, restricted services or rooms that aren’t typically available during peak periods.

2. Lack of winter facilities information.

Hotels which don’t explicitly outline their winter operations should raise eyebrows. Factors such as heating, transport accessibility and food options can all be impacted during the colder months. If a hotel fails to clarify this, travellers may find themselves faced with limited services upon arrival.

3. Negative or outdated reviews from winter stays.

Travel gurus suggest that holidaymakers often only consider reviews from summer holidays. Those planning a January getaway are advised to sift through recent winter stay reviews. Complaints about chilly rooms, poor food or closed facilities should raise red flags.

4. Reduced staff or services.

January is a period when many hotels cut back on their workforce. This can result in slower check-in times, limited housekeeping and fewer dining options. If a hotel fails to clearly outline what services are on offer, experts recommend erring on the side of caution.

5. Promising luxury at bargain prices.

Hotels offering spa access, gourmet dining and premium extras at surprisingly low prices in January may not live up to guests’ expectations. Amenities may operate on reduced hours or incur additional charges. ABTA’s industry guidance advises travellers to always verify what’s included in off-peak stays and to confirm facilities directly with accommodation providers prior to booking.

Travel pundits assert that January isn’t a poor time to travel, but it’s a month where meticulous planning is more crucial than ever. A spokesperson from Ski Vertigo highlights that travellers often presume all hotels operate the same way throughout the year, which is seldom the case once the peak season concludes.

Rather than hunting for bargains, specialists recommend prioritising clear communication, recent reviews, and accommodation tailored for winter travel.

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Wizz Air’s new flight opens up a whole new city break destination for Brits, and not only is it less expensive than spots such as Poland, it’s full of history, walkable, and has plenty to do

Budget airline Wizz Air recently announced six new routes from its London Luton Airport base, and one city in particular is an up-and-coming destination for Brits in 2026 thanks to its rich history and inexpensive pints.

From June 12, 2026, Brits will be able to fly from Luton to Yerevan, the capital of Armenia. In addition to connecting the two cities, the new route represents the first direct flights from the UK to Armenia, adding a potential new city break to many people’s lists. Flights on Wizz Air will take just over five hours, and start at just £51.99 one way.

While technically Armenia is in West Asia, it’s often considered to be part of Eastern Europe due to its culture and history. Yerevan is already a popular city break destination among Europeans, but it is rarely visited by Brits, with only 11,000 people from the UK visiting in 2025. However, the new route may see the numbers rise in 2026.

For history fans, Yerevan is a must-visit, as it’s one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities. Its rich history is encapsulated in the many different types of architecture from across the eras, including a mix of newer Soviet and contemporary designs.

Etchmiadzin Cathedral is considered the oldest cathedral in the world, with the original church dating back to the early fourth century. It was built over a Pagan temple, as the country adopted Christianity as the state religion. Over the years has been rebuilt and reconstructed, with a range of different art and architecture styles.

The Kond District is the city’s oldest quarter, with narrow streets, stone houses, and even areas with unpaved roads. Large areas were destroyed during the Soviet era, with residents moved into modern apartment blocks, although there are attempts to reconstruct this historic area.

Yerevan is often called the Pink City, as many of the buildings have a light pink hue, which you’ll notice more in certain lights. This is because many of its older buildings were built in a local volcanic stone that has a pink tint to it. To really appreciate these buildings, head to Republic Square. It’s also home to the popular dancing fountains, which light up and play music in the evenings.

With prices going up in many European cities, Yerevan remains an inexpensive city break. According to Numbeo, which compares costs between cities, Yerevan is about 20% cheaper than Warsaw, with meals out and alcohol tending to be much cheaper than Poland. Pints in local pubs cost between £1.50 and £2, especially for Armenian beers, while a mid-range bottle of wine is about £7.

There are some great hotel deals to be found. The five-star Grand Hotel Yerevan, which has a central location near to tourist spots and a seasonal outdoor pool, has rooms from just £101 per night. Or if you’re looking for somewhere more budget-friendly, try the centrally located Erebuni Hotel Yerevan. Clean and modern, it has basic rooms for £47 a night including breakfast, and it’s set on a side street just off Republic Square.

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The city has lots of traditional Armenian restaurants serving hearty local cuisine. Try flatbreads like lavash, or dolma, which are stuffed vine leaves. If you like barbecue, look out for restaurants offering khorovats, which is meat grilled on a skewer, usually pork, beef, or lamb.

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Europe’s warmest capital city in January has been revealed, offering a blissful winter sunshine escape for those in need of a vitamin D boost – and it’s only a 4-hour flight from the UK

As the British weather turns dreary and the Christmas frenzy sets in, the idea of escaping to a sunnier climate is undoubtedly enticing. There’s a European destination just four hours away from the UK that boasts a pleasant 16C in January.

Valletta, situated on the island of Malta between Sicily and the North African coast, has been unveiled as the warmest European capital to visit in January. The global booking platform, Omio, analysed temperature data across all of Europe’s capital cities to identify those predicted to offer a sizzling winter getaway, with Valletta taking the top spot.

With temperatures reaching 16C in January, Valletta provides an idyllic escape to start the year for those craving a dose of vitamin D, complete with clear blue skies and stunning views of the Mediterranean sea. The fortified city of Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to just over 5,000 residents, offering a unique charm that’s hard to come by elsewhere.

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Despite its small size, it draws in countless tourists each year with its golden Baroque architecture lining its quaint streets. Visitors can wander through the peaceful Upper Barrakka Gardens before marvelling at the breathtaking sea views from its military structures.

Popular attractions include the Valletta Waterfront, Grand Master’s Palace, and Barrakka Lift, each boasting its own unique appeal and considered a must-see for tourists. While Republic Street is a hub for shopping, dining, and culture, Strait Street is renowned for its narrow lanes and lively nightlife.

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Valletta boasts numerous attractions, with St. John’s Co-Cathedral standing out as a spectacular edifice from the 16th century. The capital’s naval and military heritage forms a crucial part of both Valletta’s and Malta’s character, with captivating historical tales at every turn.

Those keen to explore further can visit the Lascaris War Rooms, Saluting Battery, and the National War Museum. Outside Valletta’s boundaries, the wider Maltese archipelago, covering just 122 square miles, presents additional gems waiting to be discovered.

While the capital doesn’t feature its own beaches, there’s a wealth of popular coastal spots within easy reach across Malta. These include the renowned Blue Lagoon, Mellieha Beach, St Peter’s Pool, Ramla Bay, Golden Bay, Golden Sands Beach and Armier Bay Beach.

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Tourists have sung the praises of Malta’s capital, with one visitor writing on TripAdvisor: “Beautiful city. Wonderful monuments, beautiful weather. Good footwear for walking around aimlessly. Superb war museum worth visiting, very well done.”

Another traveller remarked: “Visiting it is even more beautiful than it appears from photos, videos and reviews. An incredible concentration of historical, artistic and cultural sites and riches makes it resemble a small Italy. Beautiful and very much alive, Valletta! Definitely worth a visit!” A third traveller shared: “Valletta, the smallest capital, but rich in history with its knights and its UNESCO heritage monuments. You enter from the square where the fountain of the newts stands out. Continue along the ancient walls on the right the parliament building designed by Renzo Piano and on the left a long staircase on top of which you can enjoy a spectacular view.

“City full of partly Arab styles, with narrow streets that go down and up! Characteristics are the closed balconies and their coloured doors, the terraces of the bars with small tables on the steps or on the small steps… a real treat! English phone booths and corners all to photograph! The Cathedral with the largest dome in Europe, but the real surprise is the co-cathedral. To visit in a day, at least.”

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These are big savings.

It’s never too early to start planning your 2026 getaway and it might be the best time yet as Jet2 has launched a huge sale, offering up to £400 off on all holidays. In a bid to help holidaymakers secure their getaway for next year, Jet2holidays has launched a sale just in time for Christmas. The UK’s biggest tour operator is offering travellers £100 off per person on all holidays, and a generous 20% discount on all Jet2.com flights, including one-way journeys.

This means a family of four could save a hefty £400 on a holiday to Spain or Italy, even during the school holidays. Additionally, hundreds of hotels and resorts offer free stays for children, providing the chance for even further savings.

But it’s not just families who can benefit. Couples booking a getaway with Jet2holidays during the sale can also enjoy a £200 discount on trips to destinations such as Greece or Cyprus.

The sale applies to all holidays, across all seasons booked through Jet2holidays, Jet2CityBreaks, VIBE by Jet2holidays, Indulgent Escapes and Jet2Villas. There are a bundle of holiday options available to suit everyone, from private villas nestled in Majorca near the Mediterranean coast, to an all-inclusive resort in Egypt with excursions to the sprawling desert.

However, there’s more. Holiday-goers can also secure their 2026 summer holiday for a low deposit of £25 per person.

Jet2 flies to more than 75 destinations across Europe from 14 UK airports so there’s a destination to suit everyone. However, if you’re hoping to take advantage of these savings you don’t have long as the sale runs until Monday, January 12, 2026.

Steve Heapy, CEO of Jet2.com and Jet2holidays, said: “Nothing beats the joy of booking a holiday and we are spreading that joy far and wide through the launch of this fantastic sale, making it easier for customers to getaway for less.

“Launched in time for the busy holiday booking season, Jet2 is offering holidaymakers fantastic savings on their holidays and flights, and we know that this, alongside our industry-leading customer service, will be a huge hit.

“With so much value and choice available, we look forward to welcoming even more new and existing customers, whilst showcasing what makes us the UK’s favourite tour operator and airline.”

For more information or to book your next getaway, you can visit the Jet2.com and Jet2holidays websites.

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A study has identified the European cities with the highest ratio of tourists to residents, and the top spot didn’t go to London, Barcelona or Paris.

Europe boasts a diverse array of holiday destinations, from sun-drenched beaches and snowy ski resorts to vibrant city breaks in the spring.

Many of these locations have become tourist magnets, drawing millions of international visitors annually. As a result, even some spots once deemed ‘hidden gems’ are now grappling with overtourism.

Albania, a small Balkan nation, exemplifies this trend among European countries experiencing an unprecedented surge in tourism. Last year, Albania welcomed over 7.5 million tourists, with more than 10 million expected next year.

However, it’s not just the lesser-known destinations that are feeling the strain of overcrowding. A study carried out by the Holidu team earlier this year identified cities with the highest ratio of tourists to residents.

While one might expect London, Barcelona or Paris to feature, these renowned capitals didn’t make the list. Instead, a rather unexpected destination claimed the top spot, reports the Express.

10. Tallinn

Estonia’s capital city isn’t on everyone’s travel bucket list, but those who have visited it would say it’s a must-see.

With a beautiful old town branded by some visitors as one of the best in Europe, it makes for a charming summer city break.

Tallinn also boasts a unique Nordic-Eastern European fusion culture and is well-known for being a cruise ship destination. But its popularity, thanks to major sights like the Lahemaa National Park, means it’s become overrun with 10 tourists for every resident, according to Holidu. Those looking for a quieter Estonian break will find plenty to explore beyond Tallinn.

9. Dublin

Unsurprisingly, another major city has snagged a spot in the ranking, this time in the Republic of Ireland. Dublin ranks just inside the top 10, with 11 tourists for every resident, claims Holidu.

Temple Bar is one of the city’s most crowded spots, attracting approximately 3.5 million visits annually. The Guinness Storehouse is another renowned Dublin attraction, but visitors say it’s like a well-oiled machine, and you can beat the queues by booking tickets in advance.

8. Amsterdam

As one of Europe’s top tourist hotspots, Amsterdam has 12 tourists for every resident, which is straining the city’s housing market, local neighbourhoods, and character.

Similar to Prague in the Czech Republic, the city has grown frustrated by the influx of drunken stag parties. A campaign to discourage young Britons, particularly groups of men aged 18-35 from visiting was launched in Dutch capital. Additionally, Amsterdam has implemented one of the world’s highest tourist taxes, which might deter travellers in the future.

7. Heraklion

Crete is the largest island in Greece and the fifth largest in the Mediterranean Sea. While it is home to some incredible remote beaches like Balos, the island’s capital, Heraklion is quite the tourist attraction.

It’s been named one of Europe’s most overcrowded destinations, with 13 tourists for every resident. The city’s archaeological sites are a major attraction, but those seeking tranquillity can find quieter spots elsewhere on the island, particularly in the west near Chania.

6. Florence

This romantic Italian city ranks just outside the top five, with 13 tourists for every resident. Home to several cultural treasures, including Michelangelo’s iconic David statue, Botticelli’s Birth of Venus and Brunelleschi’s dome, Florence is popular among global visitors.

However, concerns over over-tourism have sparked frustration among locals, with some workshop owners reporting that they’ve had to close due to the overwhelming number of visitors.

5. Reykjavik

Reykjavik is another European city impacted by over-tourism, with 16 tourists visiting for every resident. Once considered an unexpected tourist destination, the city now has around 140,000 inhabitants and has around two million visitors yearly.

Reykjavik is Iceland’s capital and has taken steps to combat tourism by reinstating its tourist tax in January after it was paused during the pandemic.

4. Rhodes

A second Greek island on the list proves the appeal of a Mediterranean beach holiday, and Rhodes is even more popular than Crete. Rhodes hosts 21 tourists for every resident but faces a crisis affecting its population and visitors.

Wildfires in 2023 saw the island experience the largest evacuation in Greece’s history, while a surge in tourism has triggered overdevelopment and the accompanying pollution.

3. Bruges

The Belgian city of Bruges has 21 tourists for every resident, making it feel very crowded in the peak summer season and during the Christmas period.

Some locals are frustrated with the high volume of visitors, and tourism officials recommend visiting outside peak times to experience Bruges in a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere. In 2023, more than 8.3 million people visited Bruges, but the city has implemented measures to address over-tourism, including a ban on new hotels in the historic centre and new holiday home permits across the city.

2. Venice

The iconic Italian city hosts 21 tourists for every resident, so it’s no surprise that it’s landed second place on the list. Venice has attracted attention with its daytripper tax and a ban on cruise ships entering its lagoon, but the Italian hotspot remains severely overcrowded-so much so that UNESCO has included it on its list of endangered cities.

As for the local population, Venice has seen numbers decrease dramatically since the 1950s, going from 170,000 residents to less than 50,000 in just 75 years. The exodus has primarily impacted lower- and middle-class residents, youth demographics, and people who rent, according to travel guides at Adventure.com.

1. Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is crowned Europe’s most overcrowded holiday destination, with 36 tourists for every resident. Known as Croatia’s historic coastal gem, its once quaint cobblestone streets have become plagued by the noise of suitcases being wheeled across them, and the limestone surface has been buffed by thousands of flip-flops and sandals to a marble-like finish.

The Old Town, surrounded by its famous walls, is the busiest part of the city and has become increasingly expensive as it grows in popularity. This means Croatian residents have been priced out of the city at prices far higher than anywhere else.

Amsterdam’s iconic Christmas market serves glühwein, raclette and festive treats just one hour from the UK – it needs to be on your radar this winter.

There’s only so much time to soak up the Christmas spirit before the big day, and despite work and life becoming more hectic than usual, I managed to swap the hustle and bustle of London for Amsterdam. It was my first trip back to the Dutch capital in a decade, with my arrival coinciding with the start of one of the city’s most iconic Christmas markets, reports the Express.

Christmas markets in the UK can be hit or miss, and I must admit, the ones I’ve visited over the years have never quite matched those on the continent. The first time I realised our markets didn’t measure up was just a few years ago when I visited Vienna, which can only be described as Christmas on steroids.

The largest Christmas market in Amsterdam springs up in the shadow of the Rijksmuseum on Museumplein, where you can blend the festive spirit with a visit to some of the city’s most renowned museums and galleries.

We arrived on its opening day, and even though we visited in the evening, we managed to dodge the wall-to-wall crowds. This was something I never experienced in Vienna, and on this occasion, I was extremely grateful for it.

Entry to the market is free, but you’ll have to fork out €16 for the joy of skating on its ice rink. Much like other European markets, Amsterdam’s was adorned with wooden chalets offering everything from knick-knacks to treats, piping hot cups of glühwein and food from all around the world.

There was even a cabin flying the Union Jack selling fudge. Who would have thought that British fudge was such a hit overseas?

No visit to a Christmas market would be complete without trying some of the local specialities. A Dutch wurst is a robust cured pork sausage typically served with stamppot, a blend of mashed potatoes and kale. However, it seemed we had arrived too late. No wursts for us.

So we settled for the next best thing: barbeque jumbo sausages served on toasted slices of bread with pickled onions and gherkins, topped with crispy onions and mayo. This isn’t your average sausage sandwich. Trying to tackle every bite is a mouthful, overflowing with chunks of smoky sausage and crumbly onions.

It was evidently a popular choice, with crowds gathering around the open flame grill right in the heart of the action, with sausages sizzling and emitting a tantalising aroma. A barbeque might not be what you expect in the depths of winter, but blimey, was it needed.

Sadly, the warmth emanating from the grill wasn’t enough to heat our bones while we waited, so two cups of glühwein were called for. Glühwein is traditional German mulled wine, delicately spiced with cinnamon, cloves, star anise.

I’m not entirely certain what the secret is, but somehow the Germans manage to perfectly balance the red wine and spices in a way that all the mulled wine I’ve sampled at UK Christmas markets always seem far too acidic. Glühwein is the ideal beverage to warm you to your core, particularly in a freezing city in December, even if the city is renowned for its beer.

When our sausages finally turned up, they were heaped with pickled onions and gherkins. Much like a Scandi open sandwich, it was bursting with diverse flavours, so unlike any festive fare you’d find back home.

You received an entire jumbo sausage on one slice of bread, quartered to actually fit into your mouth. The smoky pork was wonderfully offset by the sharp tang from the pickles, with a different texture provided by crispy onions. This isn’t your typical Christmas market grub, but it was delightful to sample some local specialities.

However, no Christmas is complete without a generous helping of cheese. A classic choice at European Christmas markets is bubbling, ooey, gooey raclette.

We opted for the traditional pairing of raclette and potatoes. What could be more perfect? The humble new potato smothered in smoky melted cheese.

The cheesy spuds were served with some more crispy onions and a fresh coleslaw. Now this is what Christmas is truly about. I would devour a bucketful of raclette if they’d offered one.

Sausages, glühwein and raclette: the holy trinity of Christmas market food.

Even though it was late at night and the crowds were thinning, there was still a buzz among the youngsters and families huddled around the electric heaters trying to stay warm, sipping from steaming cups, welcoming the festive season. Compared to Vienna, Amsterdam’s markets offer a more tranquil start to the Christmas season.

Is this the best Christmas market I’ve ever visited? Probably not, but I’m always fascinated to see how other countries embrace the festive season.

Amsterdam is one of those cities where you can spend hours just wandering around, and we certainly did plenty of that. You can meander from spot to spot with ease, particularly if navigating foreign public transport baffles you. That being said, Amsterdam’s public transport runs like clockwork.

From the moment you step out of Amsterdam Centraal, you can sense the Christmas spirit in the air. I returned to the city for the first time in ten years, and up until this point, I hadn’t felt all that festive.

Amsterdam served as a stepping stone into Christmas for me before I head back to Vienna again for round two of Christmas on steroids. If there’s anywhere you should flee to in December, it’s Amsterdam. It’s only a train journey away.

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