European Christmas Markets

Set out on a grand holiday adventure through the winter wonderland of the Imperial Cities of Central Europe – Prague, Vienna and Budapest. Along the way, immerse yourself in festive Christmas markets, enjoy traditional entertainment, sample local cuisine, and glimpse this region’s rich history.

Arrive in Prague, the "City of 100 Spires." Behold ancient landmarks and medieval architecture. This evening, join your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant.

Feel the magic and wonder of Prague dressed up for the holiday season. Your introduction to this fairy-tale city begins with a panoramic tour. Explore the "Castle District," including the gothic St. Vitus Cathedral and the majestic Prague Castle. Next, take in the iconic, statue-lined Charles Bridge, a picturesque structure stretching over the Vltava River. You decide how to further explore Prague because it's your choice! Learn more about the city's Jewish heritage and visit Europe's oldest active Synagogue* on a heritage tour -OR- let a boat reveal a different side of Prague on a Vltava river cruise. The remainder of your afternoon and evening is at leisure for you to take in the best Prague has to offer independently – don't miss the famous Christmas market in Prague's Old Town Square where brightly decorated wooden huts are filled with the work of local artisans, and traditional food and drink is prepared right in front of you. Today breakfast will be included.

*Prague Synagogue is closed on Saturdays (due to Shabbat) and on Jewish holidays.

This morning travel to Dresden, Germany, known as “Florence on the Elbe.” Meet a local guide for a tour highlighting its’ baroque splendor and architectural treasures such as Frauenkirche, the Cathedral of our Lady and the Royal Palace. Visit the world’s oldest Christmas market – the Striezelmarkt – which has been delighting travelers and locals alike since 1434. Take time to explore the stalls overflowing with ornaments, sample local sweets and have time for lunch on your own before returning to Prague later in the afternoon.

Depart Prague and travel through the scenic countryside on your way to Vienna, Austria. En route, make a stop in the medieval town of Cesky-Krumlov. Lined with towering Baroque architecture, explore the quaint-preserved streets independently and have time for lunch on your own. Continue to the one-of-a-kind Marchfelderhof Restaurant, a favorite since the 1800s of locals, visitors and the famous alike. Indulge in dinner at this iconic spot rich with Viennese tradition. Arrive in the grand city of Vienna, capital of Austria, aglow with holiday lights.

This morning, meet your local guide and visit the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace, the summer retreat of the Habsburg dynasty for more than 200 years. Continue on to Vienna’s city center and behold the beautiful architecture, scenic parks, and gothic spires that fill the city. Learn more about Vienna’s sweet confectionary history when you visit a candy workshop where candies are still being made according to traditional recipes dating back over 150 years. An afternoon at leisure allows time to visit the Christkindlmarkt, perhaps the biggest and most famous in the city, at the neo-gothic Rathaus City Hall. Tonight, you may choose an option to hear Vienna’s past come alive and experience a classical music performance featuring the works of Mozart and Strauss.

Hop aboard a train to Bratislava, the former Imperial capital of the Habsburg Empire. Enjoy free time to have lunch and explore some of the city’s 4,000-year-old history independently - don’t miss the charming Christmas markets! Continue to the most famous Neszmély wine region. Spend the afternoon in one of the most beautiful Hungarian wineries. Located on the top of the hill, it offers the most beautiful views over the Danube. Learn how to make traditional strudel before enjoying dinner. Later this evening, arrive in Budapest, the "Queen of the Danube" and your home for the next 2 nights. Enjoy the evening on your own.

Join a local expert for a panoramic tour of the city, where you’ll discover the incredible neo-gothic marvel of Matthias Church atop Buda Castle Hill, the Fisherman’s Bastion, the historic Old Buda and Gellert Hill, and the Parliament House. This afternoon, enjoy some free time to explore Budapest on your own. Perhaps you will visit the cozy Christmas market at St. Stephen’s Basilica with its ice rink and gorgeous tree, or head to the city’s largest market at Vörösmarty Square brimming with food and crafts stalls where local musicians often perform. This evening join your fellow travelers to toast the end of a festive trip at a farewell dinner.

Say goodbye to these regal cities as your tour comes to a close today. Today breakfast will be included.