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From this point onwards, Christmas markets have never returned to the UK with the same enthusiasm.
Although there are increasing numbers taking place in towns every year in the UK, they are much smaller than the festive markets found elsewhere in the world.
Why experience an inferior imitator when the real thing can be enjoyed thanks to an increasing number of cheap flights? Lining the trendy St Germain area in Paris is another stylish offering.
Visiting the magical market here is increasingly possible, through the many cheap flights going to the city.
Clothes, crafts, food, and other curiosities surround the old church, and make an interesting contrast to the designer stores nearby.
In front of Strasbourg Cathedral is France's oldest Christmas market, which has welcomed visitors for hundreds of years.
Here you can still see the traditions of the market in the unique wooden decorations and nativity scenes.
Local specialties are also on offer, from both French and German influences.
One cannot think of Christmas markets without thinking of Germany.
Streizelmarkt in Dresden was established in the fifteenth century, and still comprises of over two hundred stalls selling ceramics, crafts and blown glass, amongst other treats.
All of the stalls are arranged around a three ton fruit cake, which goes on to parade through the city.
Nuremberg's market, dating from the 17th century is probably the best known, attracting over two million visitors a year.
Buildings steeped in history are illuminated by thousands upon thousands of fairy lights, while the aroma of gingerbread wafts through the air.
There is also a curious prune puppet contest, which should entertain the kids.
Copenhagen's Jul market takes place in its famous amusement park Tivoli Gardens.
It is at this time of year that the gardens are at their most magical, with a colourful market and an outdoor ice rink.
Lights are organised across the trees which line stalls for four miles.
The 150 year-old fairground rides draw up to a million travellers a year, opting to take advantage of cheap flights to Denmark, and spending their festive holidays in the home country of Hans Christian Andersen.
Unable to choose between markets? Believe it or not, there are several winter cruises available that wind down historic rivers and stop in ports with famous Christmas markets.
Their appeal is timeless and a wonderful way to get some Christmas spirit in traditional surroundings.
There are so many Christmas markets to explore and enjoy.
Choose from flights to any of these European destinations and begin a transcontinental Christmas adventure.
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