Nothing beats wandering around a Christmas market with a spiced mulled wine for some festive merriment – and there’s one unsuspecting, yet charming spot just a short flight away
There’s a lesser-known Christmas market nestled in Naples, Italy(Image: Getty Images)
Some of the most magical and charming Christmas markets are scattered across Europe, but many often go unnoticed.
The likes of Berlin, Vienna, Bruges, and Copenhagen are renowned for their annual festivities, as their streets are transformed into a spectacular winter wonderland. However, there’s one lesser-known city that offers just as much jollity.
Italy might not spring to mind when you think of Christmas markets, but in fact, it has one of the most spectacular ones, nestled in Naples. While the Italian city is famed as the birthplace of pizza and its iconic landmarks like Pompeii, it welcomes festive merriment every year.
From November 29 to January 6, wooden cabins filled with artisans, restaurateurs and wine producers will adorn the streets of Naples for its annual Christmas market. Twinkling lights will decorate the streets while local artists and bands are set to fill the atmosphere with merry melodies.
Those fed up of paying £8 for a mulled wine in the UK will be delighted to hear that the warming spiced drink starts from just £2.50 at this Christmas market, according to research from easyJet. And that’s not all, as you can feast on sausages from one of the stalls from £3.
In addition, there are shows, cabarets, theatrical performances and live concerts to enjoy after stocking up on festive gifts. There is even a full list of activities for kids to enjoy, from writing a letter to Santa Claus and meeting him at his workshop, to gazing upon the locomotives that famously towed the Polar Express.
But the magic doesn’t end there, as visitors will feel at the heart of the movie and its journey to the North Pole, as the market is located at the National Railway Museum of Pietrarsa. Stalls are lined up outside, adjacent to an old railway line that runs through the cobbled streets of Naples, for a scenic scene like never before.
The Naples Christmas market is said to welcome everyone, “combining culture and tradition with the magic of Christmas.” It’s one to be missed if you’re looking for somewhere away from the typical tourist hotspots, and what’s more, flights start from just £20.99 with easyJet.
And there’s plenty more to see and do in Naples if you’re looking to extend your stay away from the Christmas market. You can explore the ancient sites of Pompeii and Herculaneum, or visit the historic landmarks of Castel dell’Ovo, Castel Sant’Elmo, and the Piazza del Plebiscito.
But a visit to Naples wouldn’t be complete without indulging in their authentic pizza – a must on everyone’s list. Even if it’s far from a Christmas tradition, you can certainly make it one! If you’re looking to soak up even more festivities, you’ll also find another Christmas market at Via San Gregorio Armeno, featuring nativity workshops by local artisans.
You can also take a trip to Santa Claus Village in Piazza del Plebiscito, just a 30-minute walk or 20-minute drive away from Via San Gregorio Armeno, which is perfect for young families. It’s free to explore and will run from December 8 to 21.
The town is a haven for those who enjoy a countryside walk as well as fans of this famous sitcom and it’s easy to see why – with stunning views of Yorkshire
08:00, 13 Nov 2025Updated 08:40, 13 Nov 2025
The town draws in walkers due to its close proximity to the Peak District (Image: Photos by R A Kearton via Getty Images)
If autumn leaves you yearning for a countryside stroll whilst getting up close with nature, this charming town nestled in the Holme Valley provides the ideal getaway.
Famous for its breathtaking panoramic views stretching across Yorkshire, Holmfirth brims with year-round festivities and endless discoveries waiting to be made. Those unfamiliar with this picturesque spot may have actually glimpsed it from their own living rooms whilst tuning into the beloved sitcom Last of the Summer Wine.
This delightful town served as the setting for the characters’ adventures and continues to attract devoted fans of the series, eager to step into what feels like a make-believe world. Yet it’s wonderfully authentic, enveloped by verdant landscapes and positioned merely six miles south of Huddersfield and 14 miles west of Barnsley.
Holmfirth actually houses a dedicated exhibition celebrating the much-loved programme. One visitor shared their experience on TripAdvisor, writing: “The building itself is Compo’s house from the series, which is extra special; there are lots of memories, pictures and extras from episodes from the show.
“The visit brought back many childhood memories of something I used to enjoy watching. Well worth a visit, and you have Nora Batty’s house above to grab a photo on the steps.”
The boundary of the Peak District National Park sits merely two miles distant, making Holmfirth a natural pit stop for enthusiastic ramblers and hiking enthusiasts passing through the area. The renowned Holmfirth Circular trail begins in the town centre, winding through the picturesque Hope Valley before returning visitors to the charming cobbled streets where they started.
The stunning circular route takes approximately two to two and a half hours to finish and boasts an excellent 4.6 rating from experienced walkers. Spanning roughly 7.2km in total, the path is considered suitable for people of all fitness levels and walking abilities.
The town’s very own vineyard proves a major attraction, offering visitors hours of wine tasting and sampling premium local vintages. Holmfirth Vineyard provides guests with comprehensive guided tours explaining the wine-making process, culminating in tastings of varieties produced on-site.
Alternatively, many travellers simply call in for a delightful breakfast whilst taking in views across the Yorkshire countryside. One visitor wrote on TripAdvisor: “Spent the day at Holmfirth Vineyard and Restaurant, and what an experience!
“We were treated to a fascinating insight into the history of the business; it’s amazing to see the passion and dedication that goes into every bottle. The wine tasting was a treat, and it all wrapped up beautifully with a delicious Sunday dinner!”
Another visitor said: “The view on arriving was spectacular, and afternoon tea was delightful and filling. The wine tour and tasting were interesting, knowledgeable and entertaining; we all enjoyed it.”
Holmfirth thrives on festivities, hosting the annual Holmfirth Film Festival each year – a celebration featuring an extensive range of films from neighbourhood creators to global cinema, all within this compact town. The area also stages a yearly Arts Festival alongside a community market that presently operates on both Thursdays and Sundays.
Halloween is over and Bonfire Night has been and gone so there’s only one thing helping us all through the cold, dark winter – and that’s the thought of Christmas.
Sparkling lights, cosy pubs, nights out with friends and family – it’s all to look forward to in the run up to the festive season.
However, I have to admit the thought of being packed into hot and sweaty pubs with hundreds of other people, all equally as full of Christmas cheer is starting to lose its shine somewhat.
And with that in mind, I’ve found the perfect festive fun for an alternative night out filled with all the cosy and candlelit feels which will also give you a rare moment of tranquility and peace amongst all the present buying and Christmas menu planning.
Skuna Boats, based in Canary Wharf in east London and Bristol, offers a night out with a difference. Instead of fighting your way to the bar while Last Christmas blares out for the 895th time, you could be floating serenely around the docks in Canary Wharf in your own, private igloo.
Lit by (fake) candlelit – let’s be sensible people we don’t want any fire hazards here – and decorated like an alpine dream, each Skuna igloo boat comes with the option of either cheese or chocolate fondue with you able to pre-order your drinks from the bar.
We gave it a whirl and it was a cosy lovers dream. The experience starts with a leisurely meal – we opted for cheese fondue, which came with delicious garlic potatoes, loads of bread, crudites and meats and was absolutely fantastic. One of the best things is the igloos all come with their own smart speaker so you can pick your own playlist – no tired and old festive tunes for us.
Then, your own personal driver takes you around Canary Wharf while you chat, drink, finish off the delicious fondue and gaze in amazement at the glittering lights of the sky scrappers as you calmly float past.
Once docked back at the pontoon, you’re given more time to happily soak in your surroundings while chatting, drinking and giggling with your friends in candle-lit gorgeousness. It really felt like something out of a fairy tale and when we all hopped out of our igloo at the end of the experience, we felt refreshed, cosy and ready for the festive season.
If you’re looking for a festive night out with a difference, run don’t walk to book your igloo boat now.
The newly opened coffee shop-cum-arboretum Creature’s was created to provide a place where one could “be a creature amongst other creatures.” To that effect, the establishment filled with native plants and succulents hosts events that promote compassion for all — there’s been a free clothing swap, local makers fairs, a nature sketching gathering and a presentation in tandem with Citizens for Los Angeles Wildlife (otherwise known as CLAW) about peacefully coexisting with L.A.’s native animals.
Owned by Hope Creature, the business sells plants, gifts and garden supplies in one building and organic drinks and pastries in another. A 50-foot greenhouse shelters indoor tropicals, organic edibles, drought-tolerant native plants and small potted succulents, which go for less than $2. The outdoor seating area is outfitted with plants available for purchase.
“A lot went into making this space architecturally stunning as well, with every design detail considered,” Creature says. “The space also serves as a platform for our ongoing community programming, which showcases what the space is all about — bringing people together to explore, learn and connect.”
The queer-owned-and-run cafe offers standard coffee fare including matcha, espresso, cortado, cold brew and drip options from local roaster Unity, as well as a selection of teas and pastries.
From gorgeous Getxo to the City of Love, you won’t want to come home from these mint mini-breaks
Find foodie heaven near BilbaoCredit: Supplied by PR
SPAIN – Palacio Arriluce Hotel, Getxo
Commissioning Editor Martha Cliff and fiancée Lauren found foodie heaven near Bilbao.
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THE PAD
Check in and zone out at the Palacio Arriluce
Perched on a striking cliffside overlooking the Bay of Abra in Getxo and with a beauty of an outdoor pool, this 18th-century boutique gem sits in a palatial setting and offers the perfect blend of historical charm and contemporary elegance.
Craving vistas of the rolling Basque mountains? You’ve got it. Want to gaze at boats bobbing in the harbour? No problem. A city view more your vibe? It’s got that, too.
Be sure to eat breakfast – think other-worldly Spanish tortilla and Iberico ham – on the terrace to take full advantage.
Meanwhile, come dinner at Delaunay, try local specialities such as grilled kokotxas (hake chin) on stewed spider crab, £35, and Iberian pork shoulder with passionfruit, £31.
Make sure you’re there on a Thursday to join locals in Getxo for “pintxo pote”, a foodie’s dream bar crawl and Basque country tradition.
Restaurante Ixta Bide offers four pintxos (small savoury snacks) – our fave was pintxo de txaka, akin to a mini crab sandwich – and two vinos for a mere £9.
Just don’t expect to bag a seat! Wind your way up the steps of Algorta to reach Arrantzale and finish on its perfectly salted pork belly (Arrantzale.com).
While day-tripping, step into one of Bilbao’s oldest bars, Café Iruña, just a hop from Arbando metro station.
Dating back to 1903, the beautiful tiling is reason enough to visit, but coffee for just £1.75, is a big pull, too.
Or opt for a glass of the local txakoli white wine, £2.70, instead (Cafeirunabilbao.com).
DON’T MISS
The works inside Bilbao’s Guggenheim Museum are, of course, breathtaking, but the building itself and its surrounding sculptures – including Puppy, a massive dog made of flowers by American artist Jeff Koons – are worth the trip alone.
Fly to Bilbao from London Gatwick and Heathrow with Vueling from £56 return (Vueling.com).
FRANCE – Hôtel Dame des Arts, Paris
Creative Director Mark Hayman and wife Margaret fell for cocktails and culture in the French capital.
Fall for cocktails and culture in the French capitalCredit: Getty Images
THE PAD
Rest easy at Hôtel Dame des ArtsCredit: LUDOVIC BALAY
This sleek bolt-hole in the city’s Latin Quarter has shaken off its Holiday Inn past to channel full Hollywood glamour.
Think rich woods, bamboo accents and pretty palms, with rooms that feel like film sets, thanks to glass dividers, velvet finishes and luxe bathrooms made for long soaks.
Downstairs, Pimpan serves up bold Franco-Mexican fusions on a leafy terrace – highlights include beef tartare with piquillos, £12.50, lamb shoulder with harissa, £25, and hibiscus-poached pear, £11.
But the real scene-stealer is the rooftop bar, where 360-degree skyline views stretch from the Eiffel Tower to Sacré Cœur – even locals come here for the vistas.
Order a Spritz del Arte (Aperol, mango liqueur, rum and prosecco), £17, or the punchy Uno Mas margarita, £14, pop on your biggest sunglasses and watch the city turn blush at sunset.
There’s also a sauna and a gym kitted out with sculptural wooden equipment for those partial to a designer workout.
EXPLORE
Explore the history of Notre-DameCredit: Getty Images
First time in Paris? Glide down the Seine aboard the Batobus – this hop-on-hop-off riverboat is a relaxing (and photogenic) way to tick off major sights like the Musée d’Orsay and the Louvre.
For more treasure-hunting, swing by the flea market off Rue du Faubourg Saint-Antoine – a weekend haven of vintage mirrors, mid-century ceramics and nostalgic postcards.
There’s no entry fee, just bring cash and your best haggling game.
Then head to the Panthéon, a neoclassical gem where Voltaire, Rousseau and Marie Curie lie in dramatic crypts beneath a rooftop dome offering jaw-dropping views.
Lively, retro-chic Brasserie Dubillot’s espresso martinis, £10.50, are a must, but equally good is the sausage and mash with truffle sauce, £16, steak-frites, £21, and the perfect crème brûlée, £8 (Lanouvellegarde.com/brasserie-dubillot).
Craving something casual? PNY serves next-level burgers with aged beef, brioche buns and toppings like smoked cheddar and pickled jalapeños, from £11.50 (Pnyburger.com).
Or just nab a pavement perch at Café Saint-André for a croque monsieur, £10.50, a glass of sancerre, £7, and some world-class people-watching.
Double rooms at Hôtel Dame des Arts cost from £226 per night (Damedesarts.com).
Psst…
Fancy something a little more party? Rixos Premium Dubai JBR sits in one of the UAE city’s buzziest neighbourhoods, with captivating views of Ain Dubai, the world’s biggest ferris wheel.
Suave rooms come with huge tubs, rain showers and espresso machines, from £304 per night (Rixos.com).
Rixos Premium Dubai JBR sits in one of the UAE city’s buzziest neighbourhoodsCredit: SuppliedThe suave rooms have captivating views of Ain Dubai, the world’s biggest ferris wheelCredit: SuppliedHead to Aussie beach club Byron Bathers for great foodCredit: Byron Bathers Club/Instagram
Downstairs is Azure Beach Club with its large pool, pumping soundtrack, outdoor gym and private beach (Azure-beach.com/dubai).
The breakfast buffet is, in true Dubai style, eye-poppingly big – you can even blend your own fresh peanut butter.
Plus, you’re half an hour’s cab ride from the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, for that classic Dubai selfie – viewing platform visits cost from £37 per person (Burjkhalifa.ae).
When you’re craving a chilled day, head to Aussie beach club Byron Bathers for lobster linguine, £37, and burrata pizza, £17, with excellent Whitsunday spritzes – an exquisite blend of grapefruit bitters, strawberry shrub, pink grapefruit, citrus vodka, Aperol and prosecco, £14 (Byronbathers.com).
