I’m a self-confessed romantic and love everything about the festive season. There’s nothing better than curling up fireside to watch Love Actually, Serendipity, or It’s a Wonderful Life.

Say the words Christmas Market and it has the very same effect. A weekend or day trip with the one you love on your arm and you’re starring in your very own holiday romance.

Here’s the pick of the most romantic destinations ideal for putting the sparkle into any festive season date.

Strasbourg

Forget the dreary and arduous schlep to the airport and taxi direct to the Eurostar for the much more civilised 5 hours 43 minutes via Paris direct to the centre of town.

Book premier class for extra room while enjoying the meal service and wines, and a comfortable armchair ride to your romantic winter wonderland.

The Strasbourg Christkindelsmärik is the oldest Christmas market in France, dating back to 1570. Spread across the centre of town around the Cathedral Square and Place Broglie, it’s a veritable Christmas treasure trove.

The very stylish and eclectic Le Moon is the place to stay and just a 350m stroll to the market itself. Make sure you have dinner reservations at 1741 or the fabulous La Brasserie des Haras.

If you’re going to do Christmas market you may as well start at the top right?