Last winter, foreign travel was firmly off the menu as Covid restrictions left flights cancelled and holiday resorts empty.
But this year we are once again free to travel and the departures board at Edinburgh Airport is filled with attractive destinations for a week-long holiday or long weekend away.
For those of us comfortable with boarding a plane again, we thought we’d look at what options are available when it comes to places with a suitably festive atmosphere – without the hassle of connecting flights or transfers.
While some countries have scaled back celebrations due to rising Covid cases – notably Germany, Holland and Austria – others are planning a relatively normal festive season.
Expect Christmas markets and attractions, colourful Christmas decorations, and a decent chance of a covering of snow.
It goes without saying that you should check the Covid restictions for your destination of choice with the Scottish Government before you go.
Here are ten top options for a Christmassy break.
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5. Prague
With one of its main squares named after Good King Wenceslas, it's no wonder that Prague does Christmas well. Wander the warren of Old Town streets to do some present shopping and visit one of several Christmas markets, including one by the atmospheric Prague Castle. Ryanair and easyJet both fly to the capital of the Czech Republic from Edinburgh over winter. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
6. Reykjavik
The pretty Icelandic capital of Reykjavik is covered in snow, lights and decorations in December - making for a real winter wonderland. You also have a good chance of spotting the stunning Northern Lights if the skies remain clear. easyJet fly there a couple of times a week from Edinburgh over the winter. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
7. Krakow
Krakow's stunning main square is taken over by a colourful Christmas market every December - and it's back this year. easyJet and Ryanair both fly direct to the Polish city from Edinburgh. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
8. Budapest
There's plenty of festive fun to be found in Budapest this year - make sure to try a traditional chimney cake at the Basilica Christmas Market and enjoy mulled wine at Vörösmarty Square. Wizzair and Ryanair both fly from Edinburgh to the Hungarian capital over the winter months. Photo: Canva/Getty Images