Fancy doing something different this December? If Christmas and New Year are starting to feel a bit samey, why not spend it somewhere different? Think a dazzling capital city that’s draped in twinkling lights or a sun-speckled beach resort that serves cocktails on the sand.

Not sure where to jet off to this Christmas and New Year? We’ve got you covered with these festive favourites…

Budapest, Hungary

For a brilliant break this December, why not head to Budapest, Hungary’s cool capital, and get your city fix? From Danube cruising to bathhouse bathing, there’s all sorts going on in this city to keep you busy.

If you can’t get enough of Christmas, then you’ve come to the right place as this city is home to one of Europe’s biggest Christmas markets! In Vörösmarty Square, you can watch the daily advent calendar opening, listen to local carol singers and sample all those delicious Hungarian street food dishes. Handmade treasures and intricate trinkets can also be bought from the wooden stalls that are dotted throughout. You can also try your hand at ice skating at Budapest City Park.

Costa Blanca, Spain

Want to spend your Christmas or New Year in the sunshine? Of course you do! And when the Costa Blanca’s average temperature for December is 18 degrees, it’s the ideal choice. Soak up that sunshine as you enjoy festive markets, ice rinks and outdoor shows.

Although summer’s been and gone, buzzy Benidorm is still very much alive and kicking throughout the festive season. You can ring in the new year by Levante Beach where a traditional celebration takes place at midnight to the sound of Spanish chimes. Then, it’s time for the real party to begin as you hit the bars and clubs of English Square and dance until the early hours.

Staying for an extra couple of days? You’ll not want to miss the renowned Three Kings Parade that passes through Benidorm on January 5.

The Algarve, Portugal

Take your pick from Albufeira, Lagos or Alvor for a slice of the Algarve this December. You can expect sunshine all year round with fewer crowds, which is why it’s a great location for sport enthusiasts! Whether golfing, biking or hiking is your thing, you’ll be all set to go. Maybe you just want to spend your days on the beach or by the pool… We don’t blame you. It is holiday season after all, and you get to choose which kind!

And the best part is, you don’t have to miss out on the festivities. Christmas Eve is usually the star of the show in Portugal, and Loulé Castle Christmas lights are a feast for the eyes.

Canary Islands, Spain

Swap a mug of mulled wine for a sweet sangria on the sand this December as you head to the Canaries for a well-deserved break. Tenerife, Lanzarote, Gran Canaria or Fuerteventura – take your pick from this quartet of year-round islands.

With many Brits flocking here over the festive period, plenty of bars and restaurants go all out to provide that traditional Christmas experience. So you can still enjoy all your fave festive food and drink. We’re talking Christmas dinner, Christmas pudding and even a delicious glass of Baileys to top it all off.

Temperatures here are still up in the high teens throughout December, so in between all that feasting and celebrating, you can still head down to the beach for a day of sunbathing!

Geneva, Switzerland

Want to get a piste of the action this Christmas and New Year? Then bag some of our ski flights to Geneva and you'll have access to Europe’s most sought-after skiing spots! It acts as the gateway to the Swiss and French Alps and you’ll have the mighty Mont Blanc and the top resort of Verbier right on your doorstep.

Ski or snowboard on the fresh morning powder and challenge yourself to a whole variety of runs. Once you’re all worn out and in need of some refreshments, it’s time for après-ski! Get ready for everything from cosy evenings in a wooden chalet with an Aperol Spritz to full-blown parties with live DJs. And come New Year’s Eve, you can really soak up the party atmosphere.

Grenoble, France

Fly into Grenoble and spend your Christmas or New Year somewhere spectacular and snowy. The fabulous French Alps will be at your fingertips to explore and there’s a whole host of festive fun and frolics to be had. Beginner or pro, skier or snowboarder, you can take to the slopes and burn off those excess Christmas calories. Chamonix, Morzine and Avoriaz are three of the most popular resorts.

Salzburg, Austria

Nestled in north-west Austria, close to the German border, this stunning region’s where mountains, lakes and alpine forests come together to form a postcard-perfect setting. You’ll find all kinds of ski runs and trails suited to all abilities in the resorts near here, so bag one of our Jet2.com ski flights and find your favourite slope.