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Christmas Markets of Central Europe- Budapest to Munich

Discover Central Europe's famous Christmas Markets

Experience the magic of the Austrian Alps and festive season with our expertly curated itinerary. Indulge in sensory delights with Golden Eagle Luxury Trains, including a Viennese Christmas concert, a horse-drawn carriage ride through Vienna, and a tasting of traditional Pirker gingerbread by St Stephen’s Cathedral. Travel in style this holiday season.

Tour highlights:

  • Champagne reception on departure
  • Extended visits to the Christmas Markets of Budapest, Vienna, Salzburg and Munich
  • See Vienna’s stunning Old Town by horse-drawn carriage
  • Tasting experience of the traditional Pirker gingerbread in front of the iconic St Stephen’s Cathedral, Vienna
Budapest Christmas Market

Day 1- Budapest

Experience an unforgettable arrival in Budapest as you are greeted and taken to the luxurious Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace for a two-night stay. Join us for a welcome reception dinner at this stunning art nouveau landmark, where you’ll mingle with fellow travelers before embarking on our exciting adventure together.

Meals: Dinner

Overnight: Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace

Day 2- Budapest

Explore Budapest’s unique charm on a panoramic city tour! Discover the old city of Buda, dominated by the Royal Palace, offering breathtaking views over the Danube to Pest. Visit iconic landmarks like St. Mathias Church and Fishermen’s Bastion, as well as the Parliament, Opera House, and more.

Afterwards, enjoy the day at your leisure wandering through Christmas Markets or tasting delicious foods at the historic Great Market Hall. Indulge in a rejuvenating Christmas dip at one of Budapest’s famous thermal baths. Experience the magic of this vibrant city during the holiday season!

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Overnight: Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace

Vienna winter

Day 3- Vienna

Experience the journey of a lifetime aboard the luxurious Golden Eagle Danube Express. Begin with a drinks reception in the Royal Waiting Room at Nyugati station, serenaded by our private brass band as you board. Our attentive staff will escort you to your private en-suite cabin.

Settle in for a delectable lunch as the train departs Budapest, meandering through Hungary’s picturesque winter landscapes on route to Vienna. Explore this stunning city with a panoramic tour, followed by a charming horse-drawn carriage ride through historic streets and a taste of traditional Pirker gingerbread in front of St Stephen’s Cathedral.

Return to the train for an indulgent dinner featuring locally sourced ingredients and delicacies. Sit back, relax, and savor every moment of this extraordinary journey.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Overnight: Golden Eagle Danube Express

Day 4- Vienna

Today, you will experience the magic of wintertime in Vienna with its enchanting Christmas markets and illuminated squares. Explore the largest art museum in Austria, the Museum of Fine Arts, and immerse yourself in the rich history of Hofburg Palace. Enjoy traditional Viennese Christmas folk songs at both locations. Indulge in a tour of Schönbrunn Palace, surrounded by a charming Christmas Market offering handmade crafts, decorations, and delectable treats. Vienna awaits with festive delights at every turn.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Overnight: Golden Eagle Danube Express

Vienna Carriage
Christmas Market, Salzburg

Day 5- Salzburg

Experience the magical charm of Salzburg during the festive season, where the city nestled in the northern Alps boasts snow-capped peaks and the gentle flow of the Salzach River. Explore UNESCO-listed Mirabell Palace and stroll through historic Market Square to see Mozart’s former residence turned museum. Walk along the famous Getreidegasse street, birthplace of Mozart, before immersing yourself in the enchanting Salzburger Christkindlmarkt on Domplatz and Residenzplatz. Indulge in a one-of-a-kind holiday atmosphere with traditional stalls, aromatic mulled wine, and stunning views of Old Town Salzburg. Cherish every moment as bells chime from ancient churches and festive cheer fills the air at one of the world’s oldest Christmas markets.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Golden Eagle Danube Express

Day 6- Salzburg & Munich

Join us for a delightful morning on our private train followed by a visit to the DomQuartier, a cultural gem in Salzburg. Experience the rich history of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing the baroque beauty created by prince archbishops over 400 years ago. Explore the Residenz, cathedral, and St. Peter’s monastery on a captivating tour. Don’t miss the breathtaking views from the Cathedral Arches terrace. After lunch onboard, we journey through stunning Bavarian landscapes en route to our final destination in Munich.

Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

Overnight: Golden Eagle Danube Express

Salzburg Christmas
Munich Christmas Market

Day 7- Munich

Experience the enchanting magic of Christmas in Munich at the iconic Marienplatz market. Delight in a mix of old Bavarian traditions and modern delights, from Brätwurst to decadent sweets and captivating electric creations. Admire the glow of a majestic Christmas tree as it illuminates the bustling square, adding to the festive atmosphere. Join us for a memorable Farewell Dinner as we reflect on our winter adventure through Central Europe.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Overnight: Golden Eagle Danube Express

Day 8: Munich

Following breakfast in the hotel you will be transferred to the airport for onward departures.

Meals: Breakfast

Our process is high-touch, and extremely personalized. Let us walk you through the steps when you decide to travel with Exeter.