Dreaming of being at a real German Christmas market?

Well now visitors can be transported to Germany’s fashion capital, Düsseldorf or the magnificent cathedral city of Cologne in ultimate comfort and efficiency, for some unique festive present buying.

Or plan ahead for trips next year to these vibrant cities and add to your visit with an exciting musical or cultural literary festival.

Germanwings connections to Düsseldorf and Cologne/Bonn from two of London’s most popular airports: Heathrow and Stansted are successful new routes for Germanwings.

In fact, Germanwings has been named the market leader for connections between North Rhine-Westphalia and London owning the market share of 37 per cent with its nearest competitor lagging behind with a market share of just 23 per cent.

There are many great reasons to visit Düsseldorf and Cologne, just a few hours away on Germanwings - elegant and exciting cities which are justifiably famous for fashion, shopping, culture and of course for their Christmas markets.

Voted the German city with the best quality of life for the last two years running, Düsseldorf is a beautiful European city, which boasts a fascinating historical old town and the upmarket shopping district of Königsalle, as well as amazing architectural highlights, many museums and theatres.

In the run up to Christmas, until December 23rd 2014, Düsseldorf hosts its very own magical Christmas market, set in the heart of the city centre, regarded as one of the most beautiful markets in Germany.

Düsseldorf is also home to a vibrant carnival by the banks of the Rhine, which runs from now until February 18th 2015.

From May 21st-24th 2015, there will also be the famous Düsseldorf Jazz Rally, Germany’s biggest jazz festival.

The event showcases around 80 concerts, with 500 musicians who transform Düsseldorf into a music venue.

Cologne offers an exciting choice of culture, arts and architecture; from the beauty and grace of its Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to the city’s amazing masterpieces of art and fine literature - there is so much to enjoy.

Heinz Joachim Schöttes, senior vice president, corporate communications for Germanwings, said: “It’s great to have the biggest market share for routes between North Rhine-Westphalia and the UK capital London.

“We are pleased that we can make the fantastic cities of Düsseldorf and Cologne more accessible to UK travellers.

“The Christmas markets in these two locations are absolutely amazing and very welcoming to UK tourists; providing a fun alternative way to buy Christmas presents.”