Travel challenge: European Christmas markets

Every week we invite competing companies to give us their best deal for a specific holiday. Today: short break in Europe to visit a Christmas market. Prices are per person, based on two people travelling together on 10 December.

Railbookers

£249: Brussels and Cologne

Includes all train travel from London St Pancras (Eurostar and Deutsche Bahn); and four-star hotel accommodation with breakfast in Brussels (one night) and Cologne (one night). "This is a great opportunity to see two different Christmas markets on one short break. Brussels and Cologne have two of the largest Christmas markets in Europe and are both easily reachable by comfortable high-speed trains from London," says Christian Sutton, at Railbookers (020 3327 0869; railbookers.com).

Dertour

£295: Stuttgart

Includes flights from Heathrow and two nights' accommodation at the four-star Maritim Hotel. "One of the oldest and largest markets, with the Schlossplatz as a impressive backdrop. Visit the nearby town of Ludwigsburg for a beautiful Baroque market setting," says Charlotte Wray at Dertour (020-7290 1111; dertour.co.uk).

Travelsphere

£249: Aachen & Valkenburg

Includes executive coach travel with cross-Channel ferry, three nights' half board in Valkenburg (Holland) and a visit to Bruges and Aachen Christmas market (Germany). "This tour is perfect for those who want to shop amid the sparkle and history of Aachen and enjoy the attractions to be found in the popular resort of Valkenburg in southern Holland," says Caroline Jack, at Travelsphere (0800 112 3313; travelsphere.co.uk).