Strasbourg in northeastern France has become known as the Capital of Christmas due to its merry atmosphere and charming Christmas markets.

Tickets to the festive town start at £250 and it takes only four hours and 38 minutes to get there from London St Pancras.

The Christmas market in Place Broglie spans across a vibrant square with over 300 stalls selling local delicacies, gold-dipped bookmarks and handmade nutcrackers.

Dating back to 1570, the market boasts four centuries of festive celebrations and remains free to enter. Traditions of the city are kept to create a timeless atmosphere, but new ornaments and illuminations are introduced every year.

With over 7km of Christmas lights strung across the city, Strasbourg Cathedral becomes a dazzling centrepiece as visitors admire the illuminations.

The cathedral offers an immersive experience on the inside with a lights and sound show as visitors explore the heritage site.

The Great Christmas Tree in Place Kléber is the heart of the magic and stands over 30 metres tall, making it the highest decorated Christmas tree in Europe.

Strasbourg was the founding place of the Christmas tree after the first decorated indoor tree was recorded there in 1605.

Riviera Travel revealed the ultimate festive travel destinations, with other top locations including Vienna in Austria and Budapest in Hungary.