Guests looking for a unique experience of the Christmas Markets of Europe are in for a delicious and visually enchanting treat.
Our small group departure (6 guests) is a chance for you to justify last-minute holiday shopping. And there is nothing wrong with that! Ambling through the markets while sipping a mug of piping-hot mulled wine is one of the great joys of the season. Typically taking over the main squares in front of cathedrals, these festive outdoor markets are replete with handmade ornaments, local crafts, and indulgent holiday treats such as marzipan and gingerbread. Experience the fairy-tale magic and traditions of centuries-old towns of Germany and Austria. We take you on a discovery of lesser-known European Christmas markets, as well as more famous ones.
There is nothing quite like the festive season in Europe! Picture charming wooden chalets in 13th-century towns, snow-capped cathedrals, and market stalls filling medieval town squares. In addition to having several dinners and tours included throughout the journey, our host and shopping expert will point out hidden gems and advise you on finding the perfect gifts.
Christmas Markets are as much part of Europe’s history as their royals or castles. Seeing these sites in winter is an absolute delight, with culture showcased in the form of traditional displays, performances, and outfits. Join us in exploring a winter wonderland filled with charm, festivity, and the most exclusive shopping opportunities.
Today, after a private transfer from the airport, we invite you to unwind and settle in what will be your home for the next three nights before joining us for a private guided tour of Stuttgart city. We complete our first (and light) day with a browse through Stuttgart's Christmas market - one of Germany’s oldest, largest, and most impressive markets. With approximately 300 wooden huts decorated with opulent winter decorations and lights, your Christmas spirit will certainly be ignited! A traditional Bavarian welcome dinner will be served thereafter.
After breakfast, time will be set aside for you to discover more of the cobblestone streets and shops of Stuttgart, at your own pace. Thereafter, we depart for the town of Ludwigsburg (30 minutes away) where a leisurely lunch will be had before the rest of the eventful day. A local guide will then meet us and lead us on a private tour of two of the most famous palaces in Ludwigsburg. As the night falls, we discover the beautifully lit-up markets and medieval streets of the town. Shopping and dinner (at leisure) are on the agenda.
An early departure for Baden Baden starts our day. On arrival, a hot beverage will be suggested before setting off to discover this beautiful town, which is followed by a luxury spa experience and a superb lunch. Re-energized, we then make our way to Esslingen. The concert of medieval music in St. Paul's Cathedral and the atmospheric backdrop of timbered houses and romantic alleyways are what make Esslingen's Christmas and Medieval Market an experience second to none! Dinner at leisure in town before a 25-minute drive home.
Bags packed, breakfast devoured, and we're off to Rothenburg - a pitstop en route to Nuremberg. A local historian awaits for a private guided tour of the town. Today, it's the country's most exciting medieval town, achieving tremendous popularity without losing its charm. There are a thousand years of history packed between its cobbles. After lunch at leisure, we regroup with our host, Karen, for an afternoon of shopping. We then depart for Nuremberg where we check into our new property and hold a dinner at one of our favorite eateries near the castle.
After a traditional breakfast, a private guide awaits for a 2-hour guided tour of Nuremberg. For centuries, Nuremberg was the undeclared capital of the Holy Roman Empire and the preferred residence of most German kings. Rich and stuffed with architectural wonders, it was also a magnet for renowned artists - the most famous of all, Albrecht Dürer, who was born there. The town also holds what is constantly rated as THE best Christmas Market Town of Europe, which you can explore this afternoon and evening, followed by a leisurely dinner.
This morning, we make our way to the beautiful city of Salzburg, across the Austrian border. We reach the city in 4 hours, driving through the breathtaking Bavarian countryside and its famous castles. On the way, we stop for lunch on the riverbanks of Lake Chiemsee. In Salzburg, we are likely to be met with snow on the ground, giving the city its incredible holiday look and vibe. After settling down at our property, we head to the center of the old town to uncover the traditional Christmas markets. Dinner is at leisure with our recommendations.
Upgrade option available at Hotel Sacher
A tour of Salzburg city led by our private guide starts off today, taking us from its fortress to its "Sound of Music" sites, of course. We will also take on DomQuartier (Salzburg Residenz, the North Oratory, the Cathedral Museum, the Long Gallery, and St Peter´s Museum) as well as Mozart's birthplace turned museum. The rest of the day is at leisure. Allow us to assist in booking exclusive tours or experiences, or simply stroll the streets of Salzburg and its Christmas market stalls. Tonight, we regroup for a farewell dinner in a unique location, paired with lovely wines.
This morning, our hosts and local partners transfer you to Salzburg airport or train station (Munich and Vienna airports are available for a small supplement)...or how about extending your journey for a few more days with our assistance. Wherever your journey may take you next, the whole team wishes you happy holidays.
This modern five-star hotel is a welcoming and luxurious place to stay, with a refreshingly informal vibe and a peaceful spot overlooking the Stuttgart's main park. This city center location makes it convenient for all the major sights. Inside the 10-story tower, the foyer’s soft browns and golds provide a soothing backdrop to the bustle of guests coming and going. The 106 bedrooms fall into six categories, from Executive through to several suites. Attention to detail is evident: bathrobes and slippers; a bottle opener and glass for the free bedside bottle of water; proper padded, skirt and trouser hangers; safes; windows that...
The lustrous flair of a classic grand hotel, enhanced with state-of-the-art technology and all of the convenient features you expect from a hotel of this standard – all this and more is offered at Le Méridien Grand Hotel, against the stunning backdrop of Nuremberg's ancient city.
Just a short stroll away, visitors will find museums, shops, the city's famous market and the Imperial Castle.
This Salzburg cultural site has been very specially renovated in such a way that it has managed to retain its absolute exclusivity and luxury standard while at the same time has lost none of the flair that makes this historic place so unique. The foundation stone of the present Hotel Bristol was laid by Archbishop Paris Lodron in 1619. In the following centuries, the building served as the seat of various noble families. It has been repeatedly extended and remodeled before being given its present form in the late 19th century.In 1892, the city of Salzburg, into whose possession the property...
Overlooking the magical scenery of Salzburg’s old town and the Fortress Hohensalzburg, the Hotel Sacher Salzburg is the only grand hotel in Mozart’s hometown. The privately-owned hotel has awaited its guests with living traditions, charming local flavors, and stunning views since 1866. Gently renovated in recent years and inspired by local aristocratic country residences, the rooms and suites offer unique ambiance with all the modern technical amenities.
The property boasts two restaurants, both ran by award-winning chef Manfred Stüfler who offers authentic Austrian cuisine. Each of the hotel’s restaurants has a terrace located on the wonderful Salzach promenade, immersing diners in...
All listed retreats (hotels, villas and barges) are, at times, subject to changes. If replaced, similar or higher standards will be upheld.
In case of a cancelation at more than 90 days prior to departure, your deposit will be returned minus a $150 per person administrative fee.
NEW! Find a replacement at least 30 days prior to departure and your journey will be fully refunded, minus a $150 per person administrative fee.
