Enchanting Christmas Markets of Germany, Switzerland and France

You’re on your way to step into a wonderful world of holiday cheer and experience the incredible Christmas markets of Germany, Switzerland, and France.

Welcome to the city of Regensburg in the heart of Bavaria, buzzing with yuletide celebration. This charming old city transforms into a festive wonderland during Christmastime. Tonight, join your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner and enjoy the holiday spirit all around.

With a local guide, discover Regensburg, one of Germany’s best preserved medieval cities. See the Old Stone Bridge, the first stone bridge built over the Danube, and the Porta Praetoria, a Roman gate built in A.D. 179. Stroll through the Old Town amid the bustling holiday scene and stop for a tasting of Bavarian staples! The afternoon is yours to explore the Old Town’s Christmas markets* and let the friendly feeling of gemütlichkeit surround you. Or perhaps you’ll join an optional excursion and experience the beauty and magic of the Romantic Christmas Market at Thurn and Taxis Palace.

This morning, come along on a journey into the past in the heart of Franconia, in the picturesque town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Step by step, let the magic of Christmases past enchant you while visiting the German Christmas Museum.** It’s a feast for the eyes and ears among the exhibitions dedicated to Christmas traditions with glittering glass balls, Santas, nutcrackers, and Christmas pyramids. Later this afternoon, settle into your hotel in Freiburg, a town situated on the western foothills of the Black Forest and your home for the next three nights. Enjoy a cozy dinner at the hotel restaurant.

This morning, hop on a streetcar*** to Freiburg’s Old Town, where it’s your choice of locally guided tours! Delve into stories of Freiburg’s past on a historic city tour through medieval streets, from iconic sites to hidden corners -OR- discover Freiburg’s heritage of Christmas celebrations on a tour through the historic center. Spend the rest day of the day as you please, experiencing the city’s Christmas markets and getting to know the unique blend of culture influenced by neighboring France and Switzerland.

This morning, travel to Strasbourg where centuries of Roman, French and German influences blend. Enjoy a guided tour of the Old Quarter, “Petite France,” featuring the Cathedral of Notre Dame. The remainder of the day is yours to soak in the magical atmosphere of the “Capital of Christmas.” And later, indulge in famous Alsace cuisine during an early dinner at a local restaurant.

Today, experience the festive fairytale atmosphere of Colmar with dazzling lights, decorations, and jolly markets. With its half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, charming cafés and shops, Colmar is one of those places you’ll remember and long to return, so make the most of this chance! This afternoon, the “City of Lights” waits for you. Nestled among breathtaking mountains and a picturesque lake, Lucerne is yours to explore.

Winter’s chill mixes with the aroma of cinnamon and mulled wine as you walk and discover the stories of Lucerne’s Old Town with a local guide. This afternoon, enjoy time on your own to discover the Christmas glow in this romantic city, considered a top destination in Switzerland. Later, take a cruise on Lake Lucerne surrounded by the winter landscape. Tonight, gather with your fellow travelers for a farewell dinner featuring Swiss cuisine.

Your festive journey ends today.