There's nothing quite like Europe in the weeks before Christmas. Most of the traditional markets open in late November and run through December, and each city has its own character.

Where to begin

Vienna is elegant and classical, with markets set against palaces and concert halls. Germany is the heart of the tradition — Nuremberg, Dresden and Cologne each have historic markets well worth the journey. Strasbourg in France calls itself the Capital of Christmas, and the old town lives up to the name.

How to plan it

A slow river cruise along the Rhine or Danube is one of my favourite ways to see several markets in a single week — you unpack once and wake up somewhere new each morning. Alternatively, a rail journey between two or three cities pairs beautifully with a few nights in a grand hotel.

Lena's tips

• Visit on a weekday afternoon and stay into the evening, when the lights come on.

• Book December accommodation early — the best rooms go quickly.

• Pack warm layers, gloves and comfortable boots for cobblestones.

Market dates are set by each city every year, so I'll always confirm the details when we plan your trip.