Enchanting Christmas Markets of Germany, France and Switzerland

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

Welcome to Regensburg, located in the heart of Bavaria and alive with yuletide celebration. This charming old city transforms into a festive wonderland during Christmastime. As arrival times will vary, there is no scheduled sightseeing today. Spend the day at leisure, exploring the city independently. This evening, join your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner and soak in 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 embrace the warm feeling of gemütlichkeit. Or, choose to join an optional excursion to experience the beauty and magic of the Romantic Christmas Market at Thurn and Taxis Palace.

This morning, journey into the past in the heart of Franconia, with a visit to 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.** Explore the exhibitions dedicated to Christmas traditions with glittering glass ornaments, Santas, nutcrackers, and Christmas pyramids. Later this afternoon, settle into your hotel in Freiburg, 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, ride a streetcar*** to Freiburg’s Old Town, where it’s your choice of locally guided tours! Discover stories of Freiburg’s past on a historic city tour through medieval streets, iconic landmarks, and hidden corners -OR- explore Freiburg’s heritage of Christmas celebrations on a festive tour through the historic center. As the tour concludes around noon, the remainder of the day is yours to explore the city’s Christmas markets and discover its unique cultural blend shaped by neighboring France and Switzerland.

Travel to Strasbourg this morning, where centuries of Roman, French and German influences come together. Enjoy a guided tour of the Old Quarter, “Petite France,” including the Cathedral of Notre Dame. The rest of the day is free to soak in the magical atmosphere of the “Capital of Christmas.” Later, indulge in classic Alsace cuisine during dinner at a local restaurant.

Today, step into the festive fairytale of Colmar, aglow with dazzling lights, charming decorations, and enchanting holiday markets. Wander past half-timbered houses and along cobblestone streets lined with cozy cafés and boutiques — a storybook setting you’ll long to return to. Then, continue to Lucerne, nestled between breathtaking mountains and a shimmering lake, ready to be explored.

Winter’s chill blends with the aroma of cinnamon and mulled wine as you explore Lucerne’s Old Town with a local guide and learn about its cherished Christmas traditions. This afternoon is yours to discover the city’s glow at your own pace in one of Switzerland’s most romantic destinations. Later, enjoy a cruise on Lake Lucerne surrounded by the winter landscape. This evening, gather with your fellow travelers for a farewell dinner featuring Swiss cuisine.

Your festive journey ends today.