Christmas Magic Among Europe’s Best Markets — “Christmas Magic Among Europe’s Best Markets”
Twinkling lights and timeless traditions, a festive journey through fairytale towns with gingerbread wonders
Holy Kris Kringle! If you really want to spend time at an enchanted Christmas fairyland, join us on this storybook tour of Europe’s most epic Christmas markets. Germany and France in December are indescribably magical. Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit as we discover the charm of
markets, large and small, in two fabulously festive countries. Think twinkling lights, the scent of spiced wine, and enough handmade crafts to fill every stocking on your Christmas gift list.
This is off the charts, even for Saint Nicholas, as we visit many towns and six UNESCO sites in Berlin, Nuremberg, Strausberg, Colmar, Alsace Village, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, and Paris in one glorious trip seamlessly put together! You’ll love our first-class hotels in the city centers, giving us easy access to the festivities. High-speed trains will help whisk us along to save time.
Each city, each market is oh, so different and special, offering regional crafts and scrumptious local holiday delicacies to sample. Walk along the aisle after ailse of stalls filled with handmade ornaments, gifts, and traditional foods, from sweets and sausages to gingerbread and mulled wine. Many markets provide entertainment, including live music, nativity plays, and parades with carousels. You may even spot Saint Claus along the way.
We start in storied Berlin (where one can spend a week) with the centuries old this is Charlottenburg Palace Christmas market before moving on to Strausberg, in the Alsace region of France, featuring the most colorful and original festive markets from medieval times. Colmar, Alsace Village, and Rothenburg ob der Tauber are straight off the pages of a fairytale and even more so during the wonderland that is Christmas Market time.
Highlights include: Our own gingerbread workshop, original night watchmen tour, Kris Kringle market, wine cellars tour of Rothenburg, Alsace wine tasting, along with cathedrals and castles. In Paris, we include Musée de l’Orangerie and a farewell dinner on the Seine River.
But it won’t work it just won’t workParis is a magical city year-round, but you must visit during the holiday season when the streets are filled with sparkling lights and decorations. Christmas markets pop up all over the city, and you can eat your fill of the finest festive French foods. The City of Light truly lives up to its name during December with gorgeous displays from the Notre Dame Cathedral to Place Vendôme. The fashion houses try to out decorate one another with stunning Christmas window displays at Hermès, Dior, Chanel, and the best of all, Galeries Lafayette.
Book your overnight flight from the U.S. to Berlin. You’ll land the next day, ready to kick off your magical holiday market adventure and soak up the festive spirit of this iconic city. (I know many of you will want to fly in early to explore on your own. We’ll connect you later on the private group page. Dozens of airlines fly into Berlin and out of Paris. Details coming and trip tips.)
After landing, make your way to our hotel, NH Berlin Alexanderplatz, tucked away in Friedrichshain—Berlin’s coolest arts district and prepare to kick off your festive adventure. Take a breather, freshen up, or wander around the charming streets nearby to catch your very first glimpse of Berlin’s sparkling holiday spirit.
Imagine stepping out into a peaceful neighborhood dotted with quaint parks, bustling coffee shops, and lively beer gardens. Plus, you’re just minutes from iconic spots like the Mercedes-Benz Arena and Umweltforum, with Alexanderplatz only a quick tram ride away. As the city lights start to twinkle, we’ll all come together for a friendly group meet-up, followed by a delicious Welcome Dinner at Zollpackhof—a traditional German gem where authentic flavors and cozy vibes set the perfect tone for your festive journey.
NH Berlin Alexanderplatz is a favorite among tourists due to its strategic location, modern amenities, and exceptional service. Positioned in the heart of Berlin, guests can enjoy easy access to iconic attractions such as the Berlin TV Tower and Museum Island, making it an ideal base for exploring the city. The hotel’s contemporary design features spacious rooms equipped with stylish decor and comfortable furnishings, ensuring a relaxing stay. Guests also appreciate the on-site dining options, fitness center, and business facilities, catering to both leisure and business travelers alike. With its blend of convenience and comfort, NH Berlin Alexanderplatz stands out as a top choice for those looking to experience the vibrant culture of Berlin.
Kickstart our day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel before embarking on an unforgettable guided city tour of Berlin — a journey through the city’s rich history and stunning architecture designed especially for those craving both culture and adventure. Our morning begins at the iconic Brandenburg Gate, a timeless emblem of unity and resilience. Next, we marvel at the impressive Reichstag building, home to the German Parliament, admired from the outside for its striking design.
As we roll down the elegant Unter den Linden boulevard, soak in breathtaking views of the majestic Berlin Cathedral and the historic Museum Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that promises stories around every corner. Feel the past come alive with a visit to Checkpoint Charlie, where the Cold War era’s tension and drama still echo, giving us a powerful glimpse into Berlin’s divided history.
At midday, after a delicious lunch, we pause at Gendarmenmarkt — one of the city’s most charming squares and a dream during the festive season. Nestled between the French and German Cathedrals and the Berlin Concert Hall, this enchanting Christmas market is filled with artisan stalls brimming with handmade treasures. Indulge in warm bratwurst or roasted almonds, and cozy up with a glass of mulled wine while live classical music fills the air.
As evening falls, get ready to be swept away by the magical Charlottenburg Palace Christmas Market. Set against the glowing backdrop of the baroque palace, this market feels like stepping into a holiday storybook—wooden stalls adorned with twinkling lights, the scent of cinnamon and roasted chestnuts in the air, and endless opportunities to discover traditional sweets and handcrafted gifts perfect for your travel keepsakes. We’ll enjoy some free time to explore the market at our own pace, grab dinner from tempting local vendors, and maybe snag a few festive souvenirs before heading back to our hotel to rest and recharge for tomorrow’s adventures.
We make our way to Berlin’s train station in the morning to catch the train to Nuremberg — a city that’s as rich in history as it is in festive charm. Upon arriving, we’ll head to Hotel Novotel Nuernberg Centre Ville. As the name implies, it is at the heart of this captivating city with easy access to both the subway and tram—making it the perfect base for our Franconian adventure.
If early check-in is available, we’ll settle in right away. Otherwise, we dive straight into our walking tour of Nuremberg’s Old Town. We’ll visit iconic spots like the imposing Imperial Castle, the artist Albrecht Dürer’s House, the quaint Weißgerbergasse street, the stunning St. Sebaldus Church, and the bustling Main Market Square. Don’t miss the ornate Schöner Brunnen (Beautiful Fountain), the beautiful Frauenkirche church, and the cozy Handwerkerhof—a craftsman’s village tucked inside the old city walls where tradition still thrives.
Then, we get hands-on with a Gingerbread Making Workshop where we’ll master the art of crafting Nuremberg’s famous Lebkuchen—an aromatic, spiced gingerbread that’s been a holiday favorite for centuries.
In the early evening, we step into the enchanting Christkindlesmarkt, one of the world’s oldest and most beloved Christmas markets. Set against the stunning medieval Hauptmarkt, the market sparkles with over 180 wooden stalls decked out in festive lights, filling the air with the scent of Glühwein and grilled sausages. Dinner is on us tonight, so we can choose to make the vender samplings our dinner or duck into one of Nuremberg’s cozy traditional restaurants
Hotel Novotel Nürnberg Centre Ville is a popular choice among tourists for its unbeatable location, contemporary design, and family-friendly atmosphere. Situated just a short walk from Nuremberg’s historic Old Town, guests enjoy easy access to renowned attractions such as Nuremberg Castle and the Hauptmarkt. The hotel boasts modern, well-appointed rooms that provide a comfortable retreat after a day of sightseeing. Visitors appreciate the range of amenities, including an indoor pool, fitness center, and a delicious breakfast buffet that caters to diverse tastes. With its combination of convenience, comfort, and excellent service, Hotel Novotel Nürnberg Centre Ville is a top destination for travelers looking to immerse themselves in the rich history and culture of Nuremberg.
After breakfast, hit the road for an adventure to Rothenburg ob der Tauber—a living, breathing fairytale just an hour and a half away. Step through the city gates and you’ll swear you’ve slipped into a storybook: ancient stone walls, cobbled lanes, and crooked half-timbered homes all frozen in time. When the holidays roll around, Rothenburg goes all in, reinventing itself as a Christmas wonderland overflowing with twinkling lights and festive cheer.
Once you arrive, you’ll meet your guide for a tour you won’t forget: deep below the town, massive medieval wine cellars wait to be explored. Here, you’ll learn how winemaking has been woven into Rothenburg’s DNA for centuries—plus, you’ll get to sample the region’s best pours. It’s a dream-come-true for anyone who loves wine, history, or both.
By afternoon, the magic cranks up another notch at the Reiterlesmarkt, one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in all of Germany. Lose yourself among wooden stalls selling one-of-a-kind gifts and steaming mugs of mulled wine. The air is thick with cinnamon, toasted nuts, and laughter. Don’t miss a stop at the legendary Käthe Wohlfahrt Christmas Village, where you’ll wander aisles bursting with sparkling ornaments, hand-carved nutcrackers, and everything merry—the spirit of Christmas, packed into one unforgettable shop.
Before you leave, soak in sweeping views of the town and countryside on a walk along the medieval walls—snow-dusted rooftops stretching out below you, the whole town glowing with holiday spirit.
With a little time left to wander as you please, you’ll eventually make your way back to Nuremberg, carrying the magic and memories of Rothenburg with you.
After enjoying breakfast and checking out of your hotel in Nuremberg, set out on a scenic drive to Strasbourg, the lively capital of France’s Alsace region. The journey spans roughly 330 kilometers and typically takes about 4 to 4.5 hours, leading you through picturesque scenery along the German-French border. As you travel, you’ll pass by rolling hills, charming villages, and peaceful countryside views that provide a gentle introduction to the day ahead.
Upon arrival in Strasbourg, embark on a half-day guided walking tour of its enchanting Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its unique combination of French and German architecture. Start your exploration in La Petite France, a district straight out of a fairy tale with cobbled streets, timber-framed houses, and romantic canals. Once home to tanners, millers, and fishermen, this area still buzzes with medieval charm.
Continue on to Place Kléber, Strasbourg’s vibrant central square surrounded by a mix of classical and contemporary buildings. Here, locals gather for shopping and lively events. The next highlight is the breathtaking Strasbourg Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece. Marvel at its intricately carved façade and discover the story behind its famed astronomical clock. If you’re feeling adventurous, you might choose to climb the tower for sweeping views over the Rhine River and the Black Forest, especially on clear days.
As the festive season casts its spell, dive into Strasbourg’s renowned Christkindelsmärik—one of Europe’s oldest Christmas markets, dating back to 1570. Known as the “Capital of Christmas,” Strasbourg dazzles with vibrant lights, holiday decorations, and an infectious warmth that envelops the city this time of year.
Your exploration of the markets will take you through several renowned locations:
After breakfast, prepare to step into the pages of a storybook as we take a short drive to the enchanting town of Colmar, a postcard-perfect town so charming it might just make you question if you’ve wandered into a fairytale. With its pastel-colored façades, winding cobbled streets, and a holiday spirit that’s nothing short of magical, Colmar perfectly captures the heart of Alsace in a way few places can.
Our walking tour through Colmar’s beautifully preserved Old Town meanders its narrow lanes of iconic half-timbered houses. Soak in the stories that reveal Colmar’s rich blend of French and German cultural heritage. Highlights include Little Venice, a picturesque district adorned with canals and flower-filled houses, and the historic Koïfhus, or Old Customs House, dating back to the 15th century—a powerful reminder of the town’s bustling trading past.
In the afternoon, we leave Colmar behind for the traditional village of Eguisheim. Nestled among vineyards, this small town enchants with its concentric streets lined by lovingly flower-decorated half-timbered houses, showcasing Alsace’s architectural charm at its best.
Our journey continues to the fortified town of Riquewihr, passing through Turckheim, where we’ll see rows of traditional Alsatian houses bursting with floral beauty. In Riquewihr, we stroll through narrow streets framed by houses that have retained their 16th-century splendor, immersing ourselves in history at every turn.
The day concludes with a visit to a local vineyard for a wine tasting experience. Discover the art of Alsace winemaking as we savor the unique aromas and flavors that have made this region famous. After the tasting, we return for a free evening in Strasbourg
We start our day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a swift, scenic high-speed train ride that whisks us from the charm of Strasbourg straight into the heart of Paris (Approx. 2.5 hours).
Our adventure in the City of Light kicks off with a guided half-day tour that takes us past some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. We’ll cruise by the majestic Arc de Triomphe, the vibrant Champs-Élysées, the historic Place de la Concorde, and the legendary Louvre Museum.
To add an extra layer of magic, the day includes a visit to the Musée de l’Orangerie, a true hidden gem nestled in the Tuileries Garden. This elegant museum is home to Claude Monet’s mesmerizing Water Lilies series—massive, immersive panels that wrap around oval rooms, creating a meditative encounter with French Impressionism. We’ll also find masterpieces by Cézanne, Renoir, Picasso, and Matisse, making it a must-see for art lovers.
As evening falls, we board a Seine River dinner cruise. Drift past Paris’s illuminated landmarks—from the soaring Notre- Dame Cathedral to the graceful Musée d’Orsay—while the city reveals its most romantic glow.
Savor a refined French dinner onboard, where gourmet cuisine pairs perfectly with stunning views, shimmering lights, gentle water, and soft music. After this magical experience, we head back to the trendy Pullman Paris Centre-Bercy, located in the lively Bercy district.
After breakfast, it’s time to bid adieu to Paris and head to the airport and our flights home.
Deposit $500
Land Price $3998 per person twin share based on 25 to 29 participants.. $95 added to invoice for gratuties for licensed guides and drivers.
Please note – We were just informed that European trains are filling up, and train fares are rising. To secure your reservation, we have purchased 22 train tickets from Berlin to Strasbourg and Nuremberg to Paris. Thus your deposit will be nonrefundable as of July 1.
For 20 to 25 participants, price is $4195. Hotels were booked a year in advance for 10 twins +4 singles. (Single supplement is an additional $1395).
