Prague’s Christmas markets are some of the best known in Europe (photo: Czech Tourism)

Even if you don’t choose any presents, you certainly won’t be able to resist the refreshments on offer. Hot punch, aromatic mead, roast chestnuts and corn on the cob, old Bohemian baked ‘trdlo’ (a funny-sounding word in Czech) and grilled sausages are a well-deserved reward for enduring the yuletide crowds. Beneath the illuminated

Christmas tree on the Old Town Square you will discover a live nativity scene complete with a baby Jesus and assorted animals (a donkey, goats and sheep) which is constantly surrounded by groups of kids.

Choirs and children’s performances can be watched on the stage.  Smaller Christmas markets will take place in December on Míru Square, Republic Square, the Exhibition Grounds in Holešovice and on Kampa Island.

You’ll find slightly more fashionable items in boutiques on Na Příkopech and PařížskáStreet, the best known shopping thoroughfares in the capital.

Where to go: The Christmas fair in Mělník promises to be a more intimate affair. On December 6 you can grab an ideal gift or two and on December 12 & 13 you can try some goodies from the Advent cookbook of our grandmothers and great-grandmothers