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Winter Wonderland in Europe with our European Christmas Market Tour
Embrace the festive spirit with a journey through three of Europe’s most captivating Christmas market destinations. Our 8-day rail adventure takes you from the Swiss charm of Zurich to the Bavarian warmth of Munich, and finally to the imperial splendor of Vienna.
You’ll kick off in Zurich, where traditional markets blend seamlessly with the city’s cosmopolitan vibe. Next, it’s off to Munich, the heart of Bavaria, where age-old traditions come to life in bustling marketplaces. Your journey culminates in Vienna, where the aroma of sachertorte and the sounds of classical music create a truly magical holiday Christmas atmosphere.
We’ve taken care of the logistics – comfortable hotels and smooth train connections – so you can immerse yourself in the local culture. Sip glühwein with friendly locals, hunt for handcrafted ornaments, and indulge in regional specialties at each stop in every Christmas market.
This isn’t a typical tour. It’s a carefully curated experience that gives you the freedom to explore these winter wonderlands at your own pace. Whether you’re drawn to Zurich’s lakeside markets, Munich’s traditional Bavarian celebrations, or Vienna’s regal Christmas villages, you’ll have ample time to discover what makes each city during Christmas time unique.
Ready to trade the stress of holiday planning for a relaxed rail journey through some of Europe’s most enchanting cities? Join us for a Christmas market adventure that combines old-world charm with modern comfort. Let’s make this holiday season unforgettable!
What you will discover:
- Day 1: Arrive in Zurich
- Day 2: Explore Zurich's Christmas Markets
- Day 3: Day Trip to Einsiedeln
- Day 4: Travel to Munich
- Day 5: Munich Christmas Market Tour
- Day 6: Travel to Vienna
- Day 7: Vienna Christmas Markets
- Day 8: Depart Vienna
Itinerary with Flexible Activities: You can follow our recommended itinerary to experience the highlights of each destination, or customize it to suit your personal preferences.
Itineraries
Day 1
Arrive in Zurich
Welcome to Zurich! After checking into your hotel for a three-night stay, take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Bahnhofstrasse, Zurich's main shopping street, beautifully decorated for the holidays. In the evening, visit the enchanting Christkindlimarkt at Zurich Main Station, one of Europe's largest indoor Christmas markets. Enjoy the festive atmosphere, try some Swiss delicacies, and admire the giant Christmas tree adorned with thousands of Swarovski crystals. [Night in Zurich]
Day 2
Explore Zurich's Christmas Markets
Start with a visit to the Dörfli Christmas Market in the Old Town, where charming stalls offer handmade crafts and local treats. In the afternoon, you can explore the Wienachtsdorf Christmas Village at Sechseläutenplatz, enjoy ice skating, or simply relax at your hotel. If you wish, end the day at the Singing Christmas Tree market with its unique choir performances. The day is yours to enjoy at your own pace. [Night in Zurich]
Day 3
Day Trip to Einsiedeln
Take a short train ride to the town of Einsiedeln, famous for its Baroque monastery and charming Christmas market. Explore the market set against the stunning backdrop of the abbey, sample local specialties, and perhaps take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the snow-covered landscape. Return to Zurich in the evening for a final night in the city. [Night in Zurich]
Day 4
Travel to Munich
After breakfast, check out of your Zurich hotel and catch a train to Munich. Upon arrival, check into your hotel for a two-night stay. Begin your Munich Christmas market experience at the famous Marienplatz Christmas Market in the heart of the city. Marvel at the towering Christmas tree in front of the New Town Hall and enjoy the festive sounds of alpine Christmas music. [Night in Munich]
Day 5
Munich Christmas Market Tour
Enjoy today exploring Munich's Christmas markets. You should start at the Medieval Christmas Market in Wittelsbacher Platz and then visit the prominent Residenz Christmas Village. In the afternoon, consider the international and eco-friendly Tollwood Winter Festival at Theresienwiese. You are free to choose between taking a break and enjoy your hotel or explore the city at your own pace but make sure to end the day at the magical Christmas Village in the Kaiserhof of the Residenz. [Night in Munich]
Day 6
Travel to Vienna
Check out of your Munich hotel and board a train to Vienna. Upon arrival, settle into your hotel for a two-night stay. Begin your Vienna Christmas market experience at the Viennese Dream Christmas Market in front of the City Hall (Rathausplatz). Admire the beautifully decorated City Hall park and enjoy ice skating on the romantic Ice Dream rink. [Night in Vienna]
Day 7
Vienna Christmas Markets
Start your day at the charming Spittelberg Christmas Market, known for its bohemian atmosphere and unique handicrafts. You can then visit the opulent Christmas Village at Belvedere Palace, where you can enjoy stunning views of the baroque palace. In the afternoon, you might want to explore the Christmas Village at Maria-Theresien-Platz, set between the Museum of Natural History and the Museum of Art History. Make sure to end your tour at the magical Christmas Market at Schönbrunn Palace, enjoying the imperial backdrop and festive concerts. [Night in Vienna]
Day 8
Depart Vienna
On your final morning, take a last stroll through Vienna's historic center, perhaps visiting the Advent Market at St. Stephen's Cathedral for some last-minute shopping. Bid farewell to the enchanting Christmas markets of Central Europe as you flight back home.
Your rail adventure and hotel package includes:
- Welcome Package: Receive a personalized welcome package upon arrival, including travel essentials and detailed itinerary information to ensure a seamless start to your journey.
- First-Class Rail Travel: Experience the ultimate in comfort and style with first-class rail travel throughout your itinerary. Please note that some regional trains may only offer second-class seating.
- 4-Star Plus Hotel Accommodation: Enjoy luxurious 4-star-plus accommodations in all cities, conveniently located near train stations for easy access and maximum convenience.
- Daily Breakfast: Start each day with a delicious full breakfast, provided at all hotel accommodations, offering a variety of local and international options.
- Airport Transfers: Enjoy hassle-free airport transfers upon arrival and departure, ensuring a smooth and stress-free travel experience.
Your rail adventure and hotel package does not include:
- International Airfare: Flights to and from Europe are not included in the package price. Rail Escape can offer an additional reservation of flights.
- Excursions Activities and Entrance Fees: Any tours, excursions, or activities are not included and may incur additional costs.
- Meals Beyond Breakfast: While a full breakfast is provided daily, lunch, dinner, and any additional meals or snacks are not included and are the guest’s responsibility.
- Local taxes or fees: The packages do not include additional local taxes or fees, such as hotel tourism taxes.
- Personal Expenses: Personal shopping, souvenirs, and additional hotel services (e.g., minibar, laundry, room service) are not covered.
- Tips and Gratuities: Gratuities for hotel staff, guides, and drivers are not included and are at the guest’s discretion.
- Local Transportation: Transportation within cities, such as taxis, buses, and subways, is not included.
Important Notes
- Customs Fees and Duties: Any – if applicable - customs fees or duties for goods purchased while traveling are the responsibility of the traveler.
- Extra Nights: Any additional hotel nights or early check-ins and late check-outs outside the scheduled itinerary will incur extra charges.
- Visa and Passport Fees: Guests are responsible for securing their own visas and any associated costs. Please ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates.
- Travel Insurance: We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance for your trip. Please arrange this separately, as it is not included in the package.
All our hotel options have been carefully selected, conveniently located near the train station for your comfort.
Zurich
Our Included Favourite
Hotel Glockenhof
2 on site restaurants
Impeccable cleanliness
Popular Alternative
Townhouse Boutique Hotel
Small boutique hotel
Brand new Bar & Restaurant
Luxe Alternative
Central Plaza Hotel
Modern lifestyle and excellent service
3 on site restaurants
Munich
Our Included Favourite
25 hours the royal bavarian
Walking distance from the city center
Offers bike rentals
Popular Alternative
Courtyard by Marriott Munich City Center
Family friendly
Fitness center
Luxe Alternative
Sofitel Munich Bayerpost
Munich’s former Bavarian Royal Post Office
Luxury spa
Vienna
Our Included Favourite
Hotel Imlauer Vienna
Wellness area
Hotel bar in a glass covered inner courtyard
Luxe Alternative
Andaz Vienna Am Belvedere - a concept by Hyatt
Rooftop bar
Health and Wellness area