Our classical Christmas tour will take you to some of the best Christmas markets in Central Europe. Explore one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, Budapest, visit Vienna where the tradition of celebrating ´Advent´ is present in every corner, continue to the Salzkammergut area to see some of the most picturesque villages of Europe, later visit the glorious city of Munich, the christmassy town of Nuremberg and, finally, the amazing Prague.
Arrival at the Budapest airport and start of Christmas tour. Meet and greet with your private guide/driver, transfer to the hotel and free time. Overnight in Budapest.
We start with a full day to explore the spectacular town of Budapest at Christmas time. We visit the main attractions such as Buda Castle, Parliament, Citadel, Andrássy Avenue, etc. In the afternoon, stroll down the main Christmas market at Vorosmarty Square. The stalls offer a variety of Hungarian foods, mulled wine and shots of traditional Hungarian palinka. Overnight in Budapest.
Morning departure from Budapest towards Vienna with a stop in Bratislava to visit the old town and to explore the Christmas market between the City Hall and St. Martins Cathedral in the Slovakian capital. In the late afternoon we continue to Vienna with evening arrival in the Austrian capital. Overnight in Vienna.
Full day dedicated to exploring the imperial city of Europe. Vienna is famous for having one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in the world. Walk around St. Stephen’s Cathedral towards Graben street and through Hofburg towards City Hall where the Viennese Christmas market is held. Overnight in Vienna.
We start the day driving towards the Benedictine Melk Abbey. The abbey contains the tomb of Saint Coloman of Stockerau and the remains of several members of the House of Babenberg. We then continue to Linz. Its baroque scenery adds to the magic of the Christmas markets where you can try the traditional Linzer Torte or do some Christmas shopping. Overnight in Linz.
In the morning we continue to the Salzkammergut region. It is known for its numerous lakes, surrounded by mountains. The main must-sees are definitely Hallstatt, the oldest and the most photographed village in Austria, and St. Wolfgang, known for an amazing Christmas market by the lake where visitors can experience some fascinating traditions. Overnight in St. Wolfgang.
After breakfast we drive to Salzburg, today fully under UNESCO protection. Visit of Mirabell Palace and its gardens, Salzburg Residenz, fortress above the old town and birthplace of W.A. Mozart. Salzburg is another location with plentiful of Christmas markets. Overnight in Salzburg.
In the morning we continue our tour and drive to Munich. Upon arrival, check-in to the hotel and, later, a walk through the town and explore its christmas markets: the largest and oldest is the Munich Christmas Market at Marienplatz. Nearby, you’ll find the Christmas Village in the courtyard of the Munich Residenz. Go back in time at the Middle Ages Christmas Market in Wittelsbacherplatz. For a unique spin on at beer garden, check out the Chinese Tower Christmas Market in the English Garden. Overnight in Munich.
We continue to the Bavaria’s second largest city, Nuremberg, located on the Pegnitz River. As one of Bavaria’s biggest draws it is alive with visitors year-round, but especially during the spectacular Christmas market. Let yourself be enchanted by the special and festive atmosphere of the city and don´t forget to try some Glühwein and the traditional gingerbread. Overnight in Nuremberg.
In the morning we head towards the popular spa town of Karlovy Vary (Carlsbad) which was founded around 1350 by Charles IV. Time to walk through the town, enjoy some fresh spa wafers, and, of course, shop for Christmas goods and goodies. In the evening drive towards Prague for an overnight.
Full day to explore Prague. We visit Hradčany Castle, former residence of the Bohemian kings, the St. Vitus Cathedral, the old town square with its Astronomical Clock and admire the many spires and bridges from the Castle Hill. At leisure you can take a romantic walk across the illuminated Charles Bridge, shop for crystal, try Czech beer or soak up the Christmas atmosphere. Overnight in Prague.
After breakfast, drive to the airport in Prague and end of our services.