If you love a good Christmas market, then there’s one European city which will have you spoiled for choice.

Even better, it’s just two hours from the UK. Berlin is known for partying, as well as its rich history – but it’s also famous for its festive spirit.

There are more than 100 Christmas markets scattered across the city according to the Times’ list of the most affordable Christmas markets in Europe – and all of them offer fabulous Christmas fun. 

Gendarmenmarkt is probably Berlin’s most famous market, it’s known for its beautiful location, the large Christmas tree at the centre of the market, mulled wine and German food.

There’s also a New Year’s Eve celebration with live music and fireworks.

If you’re the thrill-seeking type, why not spend a couple of euros to speed down the 12m toboggan run in Potsdamer Platz’s Winter World and take in views of the Brandenburg Gate?

For a slightly more sedentary experience you can ride the Ferris Wheel or one of the other more traditional rides at the Christmas market at Alexanderplatz.

Meanwhile, Red City Hall has a market with stalls, an ice rink, a Ferris wheel, a petting zoo, and pony rides. Santa Claus visits three times a day. 

A more contemporary market is Holzmarkt on the Spree riverbank with bars, cafes, shops, and a marketplace. There are DJs, film screenings, and vegetarian and vegan options. 

Of course, no market is complete without a Christmas themed feast – and Berlin has plenty.

You can fill up on bratwurst, gingerbread and glühwein as well as teas and coffee, all while doing your Christmas shopping – just make sure you can pack all your spoils in your bag home.

As there are so many choices in Berlin it’s hard to say exactly what dates everything is on, but now is a safe bet as the season opens on November 1 and runs through till 5 January.

Berlin is also extremely easy to get to from London, Manchester or any other major UK airport.

The flight time is around 2 hours and direct flights are currently selling for around £268 return from Manchester and £97 return from London according to  Skyscanner.