The Netherlands has topped the list of the country most visited by Brits after Christmas market breaks.
The orange loving nation may not have as strong a reputation for festive fairs as Germany or Poland, but UK travellers are heading there in big numbers this year, according to Loveholidays.
As well as being a short flight or Eurostar away from the UK, the Netherlands actually boasts an extensive Christmas market scene.
One of the most intriguing the country has to offer is the Valkenburg, which is close to Maastricht and is rumoured to be the real home of Father Christmas.
The southern town is transformed into a cosy and enchanting place to be during the festive period, with a paradise of twinkling lights and beautifully decorated Christmas trees setting the mood.
During the Christmas Season, the residents of the town transform the extraordinary caves under the city into spectacular Christmas markets where you can shop for decorations and gifts from more than 50 shops.
Those who aren't tempted by a subterranean yule experience have been flocking to France, where towns and villages across the country have embraced the festive tradition.
One of the most enchanting can be found in the Medieval city of Montbliard, where 140 stalls sell local crafts and treats in a German style.
Guests can also dance to the music and the sound of choral songs that ring out across the street.
The Czech Republic is, perhaps unsurprisingly given its pedigree for festive knick-knacks, third on the list.
In Prague markets are a key ingredient in the city's heady concoction of seasonal magic, in which the sounds and smells bring the Capital alive.
Among the traditional wares on display are ceramics, jewellery, glassware, embroidered lace, wooden toys, candles, Christmas tree ornaments, winter hats and gloves, and puppets and dolls dressed in Czech costume.
New data from loveholidays shows bookings to Christmas market destinations in Europe are up 29% in December 2022 compared to December 2019, with tourists rushing back after two years of scuppered Christmas getaway plans.
Poland and Hungary rounded out the top five, home to the well-known Krakow and Budapest markets, with bookings to these destinations for December up 5% and 66% on 2019, respectively.
If you're looking for a Christmas market a little closer to the home, then there are plenty across the UK which are currently in full swing.
Alternatively there are plenty of other festive events, such as ice skating and special days at theme parks, which will help you get into the spirit of things.
Loveholidays' most popular Christmas market destinations in Europe for 2022
1. The Netherlands
2. France
3. Czech Republic
4.Poland
5. Hungary
6. Germany
7. Austria
8. Denmark
9. Latvia
10. Belgium
