27020 European Christmas Markets

Day 1

Day 1 | Friday, December 10, 2027
Your European Christmas Adventure Begins!
Your magical holiday journey begins today as you depart for Europe on your overnight transatlantic flight.
Ahead lies an enchanting adventure through five countries, each with its own fascinating history, distinctive holiday traditions, and festive celebrations.
Picture the glow of Christmas lights reflecting off historic buildings, charming market stalls filled with handmade treasures, and spectacular European cities beautifully decorated for the season.
Get ready to experience the kind of Christmas magic that has delighted generations of travelers!

Day 2

Day 2 | Saturday, December 11, 2027
Welcome to Prague, Czech Republic:
The City of 100 Spires
Welcome to Prague, one of Europe’s most beautiful and romantic capital cities! Often called the “City of 100 Spires,” Prague is celebrated for its magnificent Gothic churches, grand Baroque palaces, colorful historic buildings, and remarkably preserved medieval architecture.
Situated along the picturesque Vltava River, this beautiful city feels especially enchanting during the Christmas season. Festive decorations adorn its winding streets, and historic squares come alive with holiday music, twinkling lights, and traditional Christmas markets.

After arriving and settling into your hotel, enjoy time to relax or begin discovering this fascinating city independently. Perhaps take a leisurely walk through the surrounding neighborhood, admire the city’s historic architecture, or visit a welcoming café to sample a traditional Czech pastry.
This evening, gather with your fellow travelers for a special welcome dinner at a local restaurant. Enjoy the opportunity to become acquainted with your traveling companions and celebrate the beginning of your European holiday adventure.

Day 3

Day 3 | Sunday, December 12, 2027
Fairytale Prague, Magnificent Castles
& Christmas Markets
Today, discover why Prague is considered one of Europe’s most enchanting cities!
Your sightseeing begins with a panoramic introduction to this magnificent capital, where centuries of history are reflected in breathtaking architecture and beautifully preserved landmarks.
Explore Prague’s famous Castle District, home to the imposing Prague Castle complex, one of the largest ancient castle complexes in the world. Discover the magnificent Gothic architecture of St. Vitus Cathedral, with its towering spires, soaring arches, and beautiful stained-glass windows.
Another unforgettable sight is the historic Charles Bridge, which has connected Prague’s neighborhoods across the Vltava River for more than 600 years. Lined with impressive statues and offering wonderful views of the city, this iconic landmark is one of Prague’s most photographed locations.
After your guided introduction, the remainder of the day is yours to enjoy.
Don’t miss Prague’s celebrated Christmas market in Old Town Square! Surrounded by spectacular historic buildings, the square is transformed into a festive wonderland filled with beautifully decorated wooden stalls, sparkling Christmas trees, and seasonal delights.
Browse handcrafted wooden toys, traditional ornaments, glass decorations, and unique Czech gifts. Perhaps treat yourself to a warm drink, roasted chestnuts, or a freshly prepared holiday pastry as you soak up the wonderful atmosphere.
As evening approaches and the Christmas lights begin to glow, Prague becomes even more magical.

Day 4

Day 4 | Monday, December 13, 2027
Dresden, Germany:
The World’s Oldest Christmas Market!
Today, cross the border into Germany for an unforgettable visit to Dresden, a city renowned for its magnificent architecture, rich cultural heritage, and extraordinary Christmas traditions.
Situated along the Elbe River, Dresden is often called the “Florence on the Elbe” because of its impressive Baroque buildings, grand public squares, and remarkable artistic treasures.
Join a knowledgeable local guide for an introduction to the city’s historic landmarks. Admire the beautiful Frauenkirche, or Church of Our Lady, a magnificent Baroque church that was painstakingly reconstructed after its destruction during World War II. You’ll also learn about Dresden’s royal heritage and view the impressive architecture associated with its historic Royal Palace.
But the highlight of today’s visit is something truly special: Dresden’s legendary Striezelmarkt Christmas Market!
First held in 1434, this historic market is widely recognized as the world’s oldest Christmas market. For nearly six centuries, generations of visitors have gathered here to celebrate the holiday season.
Today, the market offers a wonderful collection of festive wooden stalls overflowing with handcrafted ornaments, traditional German nutcrackers, beautiful holiday decorations, and local treasures.

Be sure to look for Dresden’s famous Christstollen, a traditional German Christmas fruitbread dusted with powdered sugar. The market takes its name from an early word associated with this cherished holiday treat!
Enjoy time to browse the market, sample seasonal specialties, purchase souvenirs, and enjoy lunch independently.
Later this afternoon, return to Prague, carrying wonderful memories of a truly authentic German Christmas celebration.

Day 5

Day 5 | Tuesday, December 14, 2027
A Medieval Fairytale in Cesky Krumlov
& Imperial Vienna
Bid farewell to Prague this morning as your journey continues through the beautiful Czech countryside toward Austria.
Along the way, stop in the extraordinary medieval town of eský Krumlov, one of the Czech Republic’s most picturesque destinations and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Nestled along a winding bend of the Vltava River, this beautifully preserved town looks as though it belongs in the pages of a storybook.
Colorful Renaissance and Baroque buildings line its narrow cobblestone streets, while the magnificent eský Krumlov Castle rises high above the rooftops. Dating back to the 13th century, the castle complex creates an unforgettable backdrop for this enchanting historic town.
Enjoy time to explore independently, wander through charming streets and squares, browse local shops, and enjoy lunch at your leisure. The town’s historic atmosphere makes it a wonderful stop during the holiday season.
Continue your journey into Austria, where an exceptional dining experience awaits at the famous Marchfelderhof Restaurant.
This legendary establishment has welcomed visitors since the 19th century and is celebrated for its colorful décor, fascinating memorabilia, and rich Viennese traditions. Every room seems to tell a story, with photographs, antiques, and decorations celebrating Austria’s colorful cultural past.
Enjoy a memorable dinner surrounded by this extraordinary atmosphere before arriving in Vienna, Austria’s magnificent capital.
Known as the “City of Music,” Vienna has long been associated with imperial elegance, grand palaces, famous composers, and charming coffeehouses.
During the Christmas season, Vienna’s elegant streets and historic squares sparkle with holiday decorations, creating a truly unforgettable welcome.

Day 6

Day 6 | Wednesday, December 15, 2027
Imperial Vienna: Christmas Traditions,
Sweet Treats & Holiday Splendor
Today, immerse yourself in the elegance and festive traditions of Vienna, one of Europe’s most beautiful capital cities.
Accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, enjoy a combination of scenic motorcoach sightseeing and walking exploration through Vienna’s magnificent historic center.
Discover a city renowned for its imperial architecture, beautiful parks, elegant boulevards, and magnificent Gothic and Baroque landmarks. Vienna’s grand buildings recall the days when this remarkable city stood at the center of the powerful Habsburg Empire.
One of today’s special experiences introduces you to a delicious part of Vienna’s history!
Visit a family-owned candy workshop, where traditional sweets are still prepared using recipes and techniques passed down through generations. Learn about the city’s confectionery traditions and discover how delicious handmade candies have delighted Viennese families for more than 150 years.
This afternoon, enjoy free time to discover Vienna’s wonderful Christmas markets.
One of the city’s most celebrated holiday destinations is the Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz, set against the magnificent neo-Gothic Vienna City Hall.
Here, hundreds of sparkling lights illuminate festive wooden market stalls filled with handmade ornaments, traditional Austrian gifts, beautiful decorations, and irresistible seasonal treats.
Wander beneath dazzling holiday displays as you browse the colorful stalls. Perhaps warm your hands around a mug of traditional Austrian punch or sample a freshly baked pastry while taking in the enchanting surroundings.
For those wishing to enjoy an additional special experience, Collette offers an optional evening excursion to magnificent Schönbrunn Palace, once the summer residence of the Habsburg emperors.
This optional experience features the palace’s Christmas market, an after-hours visit to the beautifully decorated palace interiors, and a classical music performance featuring the melodies of Mozart and Johann Strauss.
Whether you choose the optional excursion or spend your evening exploring Vienna independently, today’s experiences offer a wonderful glimpse into the city’s unforgettable Christmas traditions

Day 7

Day 7 | Thursday, December 16, 2027
Bratislava, Slovakia & Hungarian Holiday Traditions
Another country awaits today as your festive European adventure continues!
Depart Vienna aboard a train bound for Bratislava, the charming capital of Slovakia, situated along the Danube River near the borders of Austria and Hungary.
With a history stretching back thousands of years, Bratislava is a fascinating blend of medieval charm, impressive architecture, and Central European traditions.
Its historic Old Town is filled with colorful buildings, picturesque squares, winding pedestrian streets, and inviting cafés.
Enjoy free time to explore independently, discover the city’s charming Christmas markets, and enjoy lunch at your leisure.
Perhaps wander through the historic center, admire the beautiful architecture, or browse market stalls offering traditional Slovak decorations, handcrafted items, and regional holiday specialties.
Afterward, continue through the Hungarian countryside toward Budapest.
Along the way, enjoy an authentic Hungarian culinary experience at a rustic local restaurant celebrating the country’s rich cultural and architectural traditions.
Here, you’ll discover the art of preparing traditional Hungarian strudel, a beloved pastry made with delicate layers of dough and delicious fillings.
Learn about this treasured culinary tradition before enjoying dinner featuring typical Hungarian fare in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Later this evening, arrive in magnificent Budapest, often called the “Queen of the Danube.”
Divided by the beautiful Danube River, Budapest is famous for its spectacular architecture, historic bridges, grand monuments, and beautifully illuminated skyline.
After settling into your hotel, enjoy the evening independently or join your Tour Manager for a walk to begin discovering this remarkable city.

Day 8

Day 8 | Friday, December 17, 2027
Beautiful Budapest:
Historic Treasures & Sparkling Christmas Markets
Your final full day in Europe brings a wonderful opportunity to discover the magnificent Hungarian capital of Budapest.
Situated along the Danube River, Budapest is a city of remarkable contrasts, where centuries-old castles and historic churches share the skyline with elegant boulevards, beautiful bridges, and impressive public squares.
This morning, enjoy the opportunity to personalize your sightseeing with a choice of two fascinating experiences.

Option 1: Classic Budapest City Tour
Join a local guide to discover some of Budapest’s most celebrated historic sights.
Visit the magnificent Fisherman’s Bastion, a striking collection of white stone towers and terraces offering breathtaking views across the Danube River toward the spectacular Hungarian Parliament Building.
Discover the historic Buda side of the city and learn about the royal traditions and fascinating history that shaped Hungary’s capital.
The nearby Matthias Church, with its colorful tiled roof and magnificent Gothic architecture, is one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks.

Option 2: Budapest’s Musical Heritage
Explore Budapest’s fascinating musical traditions as your local guide introduces you to the city’s rich cultural history.
Discover the important role Hungary has played in European music before visiting the remarkable House of Music Hungary, a distinctive modern cultural attraction dedicated to the power, beauty, and history of music.
Following your chosen sightseeing experience, enjoy the afternoon at leisure.
Budapest is especially enchanting during the Christmas season, when its beautiful public squares and historic streets glow beneath festive decorations.
Perhaps visit the Christmas market near St. Stephen’s Basilica, where beautifully decorated stalls, a towering Christmas tree, and magnificent architecture create a spectacular holiday setting.
Another wonderful destination is the celebrated Christmas market at Vörösmarty Square, where local vendors offer handmade gifts, seasonal decorations, traditional Hungarian foods, and delicious holiday pastries.
Look for kürtskalács, the famous Hungarian chimney cake, a sweet pastry baked until golden and traditionally rolled in sugar. Its irresistible aroma is part of the joy of visiting a Hungarian Christmas market!
Take time to browse the markets, discover special gifts, savor a warm seasonal drink, or simply relax and enjoy the festive atmosphere surrounding you.
This evening, gather with your fellow travelers for a special farewell dinner. Share stories, favorite memories, and perhaps a few of the wonderful treasures you’ve collected along the way.
It’s the perfect ending to an extraordinary Christmas adventure!

Day 9

Day 9 | Saturday, December 18, 2027
Farewell to Europe:
Bringing the Christmas Magic Home!
Enjoy your final breakfast as your unforgettable European Christmas adventure comes to a close.
From the breathtaking medieval streets of Prague and the historic German Christmas markets of Dresden to imperial Vienna’s sparkling holiday traditions, charming Bratislava, and magnificent Budapest, you’ve experienced the Christmas season in five remarkable European countries.
As you begin your homeward journey according to your flight arrangements, take with you much more than the beautiful ornaments and gifts tucked into your suitcase.
You’ll return home with wonderful memories, new friendships, fascinating stories, and perhaps a few new holiday traditions of your own.