Christmas markets are very popular on mainland Europe, particularly in Germany, France and Belgium. The carnival atmosphere, a wide range of unusual crafts and gifts at bargain prices can make Christmas shopping trips fun, rather than a chore. With some markets less than an hours flying time from Shoreham, it's entirely possible that this particular European treat can be enjoyed by British shoppers on a day-trip. Ostend, Lille and Le Touquet all hold Christmas markets that can be done in a day. 

With its many boutiques, Ostend in Belgium is already a great shopping destination and, during December, Wapenplein Square is transformed into a wonderland with an open-air skating rink and many market stalls. Everything from jewellery to Christmas decorations can be bought whilst the cold is kept at bay by a nice mug of mulled wine!

Place Rihour in the centre of Lille is the location of a very popular Christmas market. Arts and crafts are a speciality here and a fairground keeps children (large and small!) entertained.

Although an attractive place to visit  all-year round, Le Touquet is especially nice at Christmas. Billed as "an amazing spectacle for young and old in a fairy-tale setting" a variety of events take place between 26th November and the 2nd January, including a Christmas parade on December 5th and a covered market on 11th and 12th. Throughout the period, visitors can skate at the ice rink and along Santa's trail. Pony rides, horse-drawn carriage rides and concerts also feature.  

AERO ALLIANCE fly from Shoreham Airport in Sussex to Ostend, Lille and Le Touquet. The cost of a day trip for three persons to Le Touquet starts at £950*. For a group of seven travelling on the same route, prices start at £1450.

*Conditions apply, please call for details.