Be a sky explorer who chase the greens, pinks, purples and oranges of the aurora. Watch the live artwork of swirls, waves and streaks across the dark skies. Dimmed lights, wraparound windows, drinks in hand. Nights will never be the same again.

Pair mulled wine with scrumptious schneeballes (a local specialty pastry with a 300-year old legacy). Live out your childhood fantasies at Kathe Wohlfahrt Christmas store, buying glittery ornaments, trimmed trees, giant teddies and gummy bears. Only in Rothenberg ob der Tauber.

Escape the crowds of Mykonos and Santorini and find real Greece in the smaller, unspoilt islands. Slow down the pace in true Mediterranean style in the whitewashed hillside towns. Eat in rustic tavernas, swim in hidden coves and meet wrinkly old men gossiping by the fishing boats.

Leisurely is the rule of the game along a river cruise on one of Europe’s longest rivers, the Danube. Spot eye-candy buildings and everyday scenes across Germany, Austria and Hungary. Enjoy day-trips at the many scheduled stops. Not all cruises are noisy and crowded.

Time travel in elegance in one of the grand suites of the Orient-Express. Scenic meals, sumptuous furnishings and service to make you make feel like royalty. This is the best-loved luxury train experience that money can buy. Splurge.

Take the famous Glacier Express, a train route along the top of the Alpine range with some of the most beautiful scenery. Zermatt to St Moritz, 291 bridges, 91 tunnels and a 1000 pictures. Classic red train against pure white snow…a forever fave.

Ferry on the Bosphorus to Istanbul’s little-known islands that are stuck in a time warp. Spend a few hours at Büyükada island to ride horse-drawn carriages, admire grand mansions and shop for local craft at colourful markets. Hikers should head to Yücetepe peak for the views alone.