From dazzling light displays and lively artisan markets to sumptuous seasonal stays and friendly reindeer, read on to discover some of our favourite festive coastal breaks this year

Christmas on the Danube 8 days/7 nights from £2,399pp December 2025 and December 2026 Celebrate the season with seven festive tours that include Vienna, Budapest, Bratislava, and either Salzburg or Li

A change of scenery can be restorative at any time of year, but it can be particularly uplifting during the dreary winter months. Come Christmas, decadent hotels exude warmth on even the frostiest of

ELF THE MUSICAL A joyous stage version of the beloved film, with Buddy’s journey to New York full of laughs, singing and festive magic. ✣ Tickets from £39.50; elflondon.com. 28 October 2025-3 January

14 November to 4 January (selected evenings) London’s most enchanting after-dark walk returns: a mile-long trail through the Royal Botanic Gardens that shimmers with light tunnels (right), fire garden

Visiting a festive market while on a cruise is the perfect way to celebrate the season. With plenty of time left to book, here’s a guide to our favourites