You can fly direct to Vienna from Cardiff Airport to the Austrian city and then savour the festive magic of browsing among the stalls of its Christkindlmarkt.

OF all the many Yuletide markets that spring up throughout Europe in the run up to the festive season, few enjoy a grander or more romantic setting than those of Austria's wonderful capital.

Thanks to Newmarket Holidays' direct flight from Cardiff this December, readers can join us for an unforgettable five-day break in the glorious surrounds of this great imperial city, where some of Europe's biggest and best Christkindlmarkts celebrate the magic of Advent against a truly splendid backdrop!

Vienna, magnificent seat of the Hapsburg Empire, and cosmopolitan birthplace of coffee shop and cafe culture, is a perfect choice for a pre-Christmas break.

With its baroque palaces, its cathedral, churches and museums, as well as its elegant shopping arcades, Vienna, once home to Mozart and Wagner, is an absolute delight, and is especially magical at this time of year, when the markets warm and welcome visitors from across the globe.

The city's main Christkindlmarkt, with its gaily decorated wooden stalls offering a whole host of original festive treats and decorations, takes place against the stunning backdrop of the City Hall, the trees of the surrounding Rathauspark hung with lanterns.

Wander around, perhaps sipping a warming glass of mulled gluhwein, and soak up the unique atmosphere of a city in which the festive season really does come alive.

Elsewhere in the city, the world-famous Hofburg Palace - home to the Spanish Riding School, the Vienna Boys' Choir, several museums and the Austrian President - is one of Europe's greatest buildings, while the maze of streets in the Old Town buzzes with life.

During your stay there'll also be an opportunity to join an optional excursion to the wonderful Schunbrunn Palace, one of Austria's greatest treasures.

As well as its great apartments, which once rang with the sound of the young Mozart's music, there is another wonderful Christkindlmarkt, held in the great courtyard, to enjoy.

As well as the return flights direct from Cardiff, the break includes four nights' half-board accommodation in a choice of more-than-comfortable hotels, airport transfers and the services of friendly representatives who'll ensure that you'll enjoy every moment of your stay in this magnificent, wonderful city.

Vienna's Christmas Markets trip departing on December 13, costs from just £299 a person.

* For full details on this great value offer just call Newmarket Air Holidays on 0845 226 7766.