CHRISTMAS MARKETS OF BAVARIA, BLACK FOREST, AND ALSACE

Following breakfast, enjoy a guided city tour of Munich, discovering its historic squares, royal heritage, and famous landmarks. Lunch is served in a traditional Bavarian beer house, where guests can experience local hospitality and regional cuisine. The remainder of the afternoon and evening is free for further exploration of Munich’s Christmas markets. Beyond the main Christkindlmarkt, visitors may discover charming themed markets throughout the city, from medieval-style stalls to festive artisan markets offering seasonal specialties and handcrafted gifts. Overnight in Munich. (B,L)

After breakfast, depart for Strasbourg. Along the journey, a comfort stop is made in Esslingen am Neckar, renowned for its enchanting medieval Christmas market. Here, visitors are transported back in time as traders dressed in historical costumes fill the cobbled streets with traditional crafts, music, fire shows, and festive delicacies. The medieval atmosphere makes Esslingen one of Germany’s most unique Advent experiences. Continue onward to Strasbourg and check in at the hotel. The evening is free to enjoy Strasbourg’s celebrated Christmas markets, among the oldest and most famous in Europe. The city’s halftimbered houses, illuminated streets, and magnificent Christmas tree create an unforgettable festive atmosphere throughout the historic center. Overnight in Strasbourg. (B)

This morning, enjoy a guided city tour of Strasbourg, exploring its picturesque canals, Gothic cathedral, and charming Alsatian architecture. The remainder of the afternoon is free for lunch and independent exploration of Strasbourg’s Christmas markets. Spread across several squares, the markets offer traditional Alsatian decorations, festive treats, handmade crafts, and warm seasonal drinks in a truly magical setting. Later in the day, travel to Gengenbach to witness its famous Advent calendar spectacle. Every evening during Advent, the windows of the town hall transform into a giant illuminated Advent calendar, creating one of the Black Forest’s most beloved Christmas traditions. Return in the evening with leisure time to further enjoy the festive ambiance. Overnight in Strasbourg. (B)

After breakfast, depart for a guided visit to Baden-Baden, a refined spa town renowned for its elegant Christmas market set beneath illuminated trees and surrounded by historic architecture. The journey continues into the Black Forest with a brewery visit in Alpirsbach, including tasting of their own beer and traditional Bratwurst. Guests will also visit Dorotheenhütte, where a live glass-blowing demonstration showcases traditional craftsmanship. A scenic drive through Triberg offers views of charming Black Forest villages and winter landscapes before continuing to Freiburg im Breisgau. The evening is free to explore Freiburg’s atmospheric Christmas market, known for regional handicrafts, local culinary specialties, and its beautiful setting around the historic cathedral square. Overnight in Freiburg im Breisgau. (B,L)

Following breakfast, enjoy a guided tour of Freiburg im Breisgau before crossing into the Alsace region of France. Lunch is served in the picturesque wine village of Riquewihr and includes a regional wine tasting. Surrounded by vineyards and half-timbered houses, Riquewihr appears like a fairytale village during Advent. Continue to Colmar for a guided tour followed by free time to explore its famous Christmas markets. Colmar’s festive decorations, canals, illuminated facades, and themed market squares create one of the most magical Christmas settings in Europe. Return to Freiburg in the evening. Overnight in Freiburg im Breisgau. (B,L)

After breakfast, depart toward Zürich with several scenic stops along the way. Enjoy free time in Titisee-Neustadt, followed by traditional Black Forest cake and coffee. Continue to Schaffhausen for leisure time before visiting the spectacular Rhine Falls, Europe’s largest waterfall. Upon arrival in Zürich, the evening is free to discover the city’s elegant Christmas markets. Highlights include beautifully decorated shopping streets, festive lakeside scenery, and the famous indoor Christmas market at the main station featuring a sparkling Swarovski Christmas tree. Overnight in Zürich. (B)

Following breakfast, enjoy a guided city tour of Zürich, discovering the city’s lakeside setting, historic old town, and cosmopolitan atmosphere. After free time for lunch, visit the renowned Lindt Home of Chocolate, where guests can learn about Swiss chocolate-making traditions and enjoy the sweet aromas of one of Switzerland’s most famous exports. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Overnight in Zürich. (B)

After breakfast it’s time for departure, bringing this festive winter journey through Germany, France, and Switzerland to a memorable close. (B)