New York, the Big Apple, the City That Never Sleeps. Whatever you call it, it's fair to say that NYC is one of the most popular destinations on the planet. Thousands of travellers flock here throughout the year, but December is most definitely one of our favourite times to visit. With Christmas decorations, twinkling lights, Broadway shows and shopping galore, New York is the perfect place to start your Christmas celebrations early. Plus, if you're lucky you'll have snow too which will make it even more magical!

While you'll definitely want to wrap up warm for a winter break in Berlin, you shouldn't be put off by the chilly December temperatures as this all adds to the experience. With sprawling Christmas Markets, ice skating and light shows at the Berlin Botanical Gardens and incredible New Year celebrations, December is an excellent time to discover the German capital. Plus, there are plenty of indoor museums to explore when the weather’s at its worst, so you’ll have loads to keep you busy.

Budapest is a picture-perfect destination year-round but it's arguably at its most beautiful when the glistening Christmas lights adorn the city and the heat of the thermal baths contrasts with the cool outdoor temperatures making you want to soak in Széchenyi all day long. Discover Buda Castle coated in snow, wander round the Basilica Christmas Market, take a Christmassy street car covered in fairy lights or snuggle up in a cosy cafe with a warming cup of coffee and an indulgent slice of cake.