Click Here to View Your Vacation
Christmas Markets and Castles of Europe with Germany and France
Celebrate the magic of the holiday season on a festive journey through Germany and France. Explore Heidelberg's romantic castle perched above the Neckar River, wander Strasbourg's charming "Petite France" district, and experience the glow of Europe's most beloved Christmas markets. Discover the Gothic grandeur of Ulm Minster, visit Ludwigsburg's Baroque palace, and tour Nymphenburg Palace in Munich. Along the way, savor regional specialties, stroll historic old towns adorned with twinkling lights, and embrace centuries-old traditions. Blending grand architecture, cultural heritage, and joyful seasonal celebrations, this winter escape captures the warmth and wonder of Christmas in Europe.
Additional Information
Overnight Flight
Your journey begins as you step into the magic of Europe's most enchanting Christmas markets, where medieval castles, twinkling lights, and centuries-old traditions await.
Heidelberg, Germany
Arrive in Heidelberg, one of Germany's most picturesque towns, set along the Neckar River and crowned by a hilltop castle. As arrival times will vary, there is no included sightseeing today. Spend your time as you wish, exploring the city independently. Tonight, join your fellow travelers for a welcome briefing and cocktail reception before enjoying dinner at a local restaurant.
Heidelberg
This morning, discover the storybook charm of Heidelberg on a guided walking tour. Visit the iconic Heidelberg Castle,* offering sweeping views of the river and red-roofed city below, and stroll through the Old Town to learn about local Christmas traditions. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure perhaps wander the Christmas markets, browse festive stalls, or enjoy lunch at a cozy cafe. If available, you may choose to explore the Christmas markets in Schwetzingen independently; they're known for their intimate atmosphere and seasonal charm.
Heidelberg - Strasbourg, France - Heidelberg
Travel to Strasbourg, where French elegance meets German tradition. Enjoy a Tour Manager-led walk as you leisurely explore the historic Old Quarter, "Petite France," and admire the magnificent cathedral that anchors the city, followed by free time to soak in the festive atmosphere of one of Europe's most celebrated Christmas market cities. Later, return to Heidelberg for an evening at leisure.
Heidelberg - Ludwigsburg - Ulm
Depart Heidelberg and travel toward Ulm, with a stop along the way to experience the Baroque splendor of Ludwigsburg. Enjoy time exploring the Ludwigsburg Baroque Christmas Market, where grand architecture provides a dramatic backdrop to festive stalls. Continue onward to Ulm, your home for the next two nights. This evening, join your Tour Manager for a leisurely-paced stroll in the historic center and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
Ulm
This morning, with a local guide, discover Ulm, a city known for its impressive Gothic cathedral and medieval roots, and the birthplace of Albert Einstein. The remainder of the afternoon is yours to explore Ulm at your own pace, perhaps enjoying seasonal treats at local markets and cafes or visiting "The Einsteins - Museum of an Ulm Family," which tells the story of the 19th-century Jewish community into which Albert Einstein was born.
Ulm - Munich
Travel to Munich, Bavaria's lively capital, with a visit to Nymphenburg Palace, the former summer residence of Bavarian royalty. Explore its elegant halls with a local guide before continuing to Munich city center. After settling into your hotel, enjoy time on your own or join your Tour Manager to experience Munich's festive atmosphere, including its Christmas markets.
Munich
Today, it's your choice! You may step into royal history with a visit to the Treasury of the Munich Residence, where centuries of Bavarian splendor are displayed in dazzling crowns and priceless artifacts. Then, wander through the festive courtyards of the Munich Royal Palace Christmas markets, browsing handcrafted treasures and enjoying seasonal local specialties amid twinkling lights and holiday cheer -OR- savor Munich through its flavors on a guided food experience. Discover beloved Bavarian specialties while exploring local markets and traditional eateries. Continue to Marienplatz, the city's vibrant central square, and witness the charming Rathaus-Glockenspiel performance as its colorful figures reenact historic Bavarian events. Enjoy lunch on your own and spend the afternoon discovering Munich at your own pace. This evening, gather with your fellow travelers to enjoy dinner featuring regional cuisine.
Munich - Tour Ends
Your tour ends today.
Departure Dates
|
Start: November 27, 2027 End: December 5, 2027 Price: $3,499 pp | Land Only Price My Trip |
|
Start: November 29, 2027 End: December 7, 2027 Price: $3,499 pp | Land Only Price My Trip |
|
Start: December 1, 2027 End: December 9, 2027 Price: $3,499 pp | Land Only Price My Trip |
|
Start: December 3, 2027 End: December 11, 2027 Price: $3,499 pp | Land Only Price My Trip |
|
Start: December 5, 2027 End: December 13, 2027 Price: $3,499 pp | Land Only Price My Trip |
|
Start: December 7, 2027 End: December 15, 2027 Price: $3,499 pp | Land Only Price My Trip |
|
Start: December 9, 2027 End: December 17, 2027 Price: $3,499 pp | Land Only Price My Trip |
|
Start: December 11, 2027 End: December 19, 2027 Price: $3,499 pp | Land Only Price My Trip |
|
Start: December 13, 2027 End: December 21, 2027 Price: $3,499 pp | Land Only Price My Trip |
|
Start: December 15, 2027 End: December 23, 2027 Price: $3,499 pp | Land Only Price My Trip |
Price My Trip
Product Code: Member Choice Vacations-749