SCOTS can swap the department stores of Glasgow for the market stalls of Cologne with the launch of a special Christmas shopping flight to Germany.

Return tickets went on sale today as airline chiefs at Jet2.com began gearing up for their first one-off festive flight between the cities later this year.

Jet2 already operates a Christmas special from Glasgow to New York –this year will be the airline's third Transatlantic Yuletide trip –and airline chiefs are hoping the festive flight to Cologne will also be a big draw.

Cologne's Christmas markets are world famous and Steve Heapy, chief executive of Jet2.com and Jet2holidays, reckons they could be just the ticket for Scots who want to grab festive gifts in the city on the Rhine.

Cologne has seven Christmas markets. The most popular is a gigantic one held beneath Cologne Cathedral.

The flight departs Glasgow on Saturday, November 30, with return tickets – including taxes – priced from £169. Sister firm Jet2holidays is also offering a package of tickets and overnight accommodation in a three star hotel from £229.

Mr Heapy said: "We're thrilled to add the magical city of Cologne for our Glasgow customers to enjoy our fabulous European Christmas market package breaks.

"All our festive getaways are timed to allow travellers to really maximise their break, with our early flights ensuring they can immerse themselves in the Christmas spirit as soon as they arrive.

"Whether its soaking up the aroma of roasting chestnuts and mulled wine against the backdrop of snow-capped landscapes or exploring the labyrinth of stalls and ornate displays to pick up an unusual gift, our Christmas trip to Cologne will provide something for everyone."

Jet2 already flies thousands of holidaymakers out of Glasgow to a number of European hotspots and the Cologne Christmas special has been welcomed by the airport's commercial director Francois Bourienne.

He said: "The decision to add another European city is yet more fantastic news from Jet2.com and it demonstrates the airline's strong commitment to Glasgow Airport.

"Cologne is renowned for having some of the best Christmas markets in the world."

Shoppers can book their tickets with a £60 deposit.

Mr Heapy said: "With places limited, we're urging customers to book early."

gordon.thomson@eveningtimes.co.uk